Find the quadratic function that models the data

[heathershaw4785]

I am trying to find the quadratic function that models this data

Year 1980 1984 1988 1992 1996

Debt 82 108 172 254 444

My text book tells me to use the equation

f(x)= a(x-h)^2 + k

pluging (1980,82) in for the orgin.

f(x) = a(x-1980)^2 + k

This is the equation I came up with

then i am asked to solve

f(x) = 212

therefore

f(212) = a(212-1980)^2 +82

is this right or wrong because when I solve this equation the solution dosen't make any sense.

It is coming up

-82/3125824 = a

-.000026233. Im stumped and this is due in an hour.

PLEASE HELP!

 

[jonboy]

Re: Help! The quadratic function that models the data?

f(x)= a(x-h)^2 + k

pluging (1980,82) in for the orgin.

f(x) = a(x-1980)^2 + k

Where did you put the 82 at?

 

[heathershaw4785]

I'm sorry f(x) = a(x-1980)^2 + 82.

82 = k