An interactive applet that allows the user to graphically explore the properties of a quadratic equation. Specifically, it is designed to foster an intuitive understanding of the effects of changing the three coefficients in the function.

The applet shows a large graph of a quadratic (ax^2 + bx +c) and has three slider controls, one each for the coefficients a,b and c. As the sliders are moved, the graph is redrawn in real time illustrating the effects of these variations. The roots of the equation are shown both graphically and numerically, including the case where the roots are imaginary.

Applet can be enlarged to full screen size for use with a classroom projector. After use in the classroom, student can access it again from any web browser at home or in the library with no login required.

This resource is a currently available in the Math Open Reference Interactive Geometry textbook project at http://www.mathopenref.com.