Brian is solving an equation where both sides are quadratic expressions. He sets the expressions equal to y. Then he graphs the system finding that the two graphs share a common vertex, but one graph opens upward and the other opens downward. How should Brian interpret this outcome?
Answer
A
There is exactly one intersection point.
B
There are exactly two intersection points.
C
There are exactly three intersection points.
D
There are infinitely many intersection points.
Explanation
Both parabolas pass through their shared vertex, so that point is an intersection. Since one opens upward and the other downward, their graphs lie on opposite sides of the vertex’s horizontal level, meeting only at the vertex. Therefore, there is exactly one intersection point: choice A.
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