Since they all share the same highest degree of two and the same shape, we can group them as one family of function. The graph above shows four graphs that exhibit the U-shaped graph we call the parabola. A family of functions is a group of functions that share the same highest degree and, consequently, the same shape for their graphs. Parent functions are the simplest form of a given family of functions. Now that we understand how important it is for us to master the different types of parent functions let’s first start to understand what parent functions are and how their families of functions are affected by their properties. Learn how to identify the parent function that a function belongs to.īeing able to identify and graph functions using their parent functions can help us understand functions more, so what are we waiting for? What is a parent function?.

Review all the unique parent functions (you might have already encountered some before).

We use parent functions to guide us in graphing functions that are found in the same family. This definition perfectly summarizes what parent functions are. That’s because functions sharing the same degree will follow a similar curve and share the same parent functions.Ī parent function represents a family of functions’ simplest form. When working with functions and their graphs, you’ll notice how most functions’ graphs look alike and follow similar patterns. Parent Functions – Types, Properties & Examples

Quadratic functions origin graphing