Simple Quadratic Equations

When $a$ is positive, the parabola opens upward.

When $a$ is negative, the parabola opens downward. The width of the parabola depends on the absolute value of $a$. Without knowing the exact value of $a$, we cannot determine if the parabola is wide or narrow.

When $a=4$, the parabola opens upward because $a$ is positive. Since the absolute value of $a$ is greater than 1, the parabola becomes narrower compared to when $a=1$.

When $a=0.5$, the parabola opens upward because $a$ is positive. Since the absolute value of $a$ is less than 1, the parabola is wider compared to when $a=1$.

When $a=-2$, the parabola opens downward because $a$ is negative. Since the absolute value of $a$ is greater than 1, the parabola is narrower compared to when $a=1$.

When $a=-0.5$, the parabola opens downward because $a$ is negative. Since the absolute value of $a$ is less than 1, the parabola is wider compared to when $a=1$.