Key learning points

1. There are many different types of equations.
2. You can plot the graph of an equation if you have two variables (one for each axis).
3. Certain types of equation give rise to certain graph shapes.
4. Linear equations produce a straight line.
5. Quadratic equations produce a parabola.

Keywords

• Quadratic - A quadratic is an equation whereby the highest exponent of the variable is 2; the graph of which forms a parabola.

• Parabola - A parabola is a curve where any point on the curve is an equal distance from a fixed point (the focus) and a fixed straight line (a directrix).

Common misconception