Question: Question 6
The function $f$ is defined for all real values of $x$ as $f(x) = c + 8x - x^2$, where
Given that the range of $f$ is $f(x) \leq 19$, find the value of $c$.
Graph: a downward-opening parabola for $f(x) = c + 8x - x^2$ with vertex at $(4, c + 16)$; position_hint = center
User: Solve
1. **State the problem:**
We have a quadratic function defined as $$f(x) = c + 8x - x^2$$ and we know the range is $$f(x) \leq 19$$. We need to find the value of the constant $$c$$.
2. **Identify the vertex form and vertex:**
The quadratic can be rewritten to find the vertex. The coefficient of $$x^2$$ is $$-1$$, so the parabola opens downward.
The vertex $$x$$-coordinate is given by $$x = -\frac{b}{2a}$$ where $$a = -1$$ and $$b = 8$$.
Calculate:
$$x = -\frac{8}{2 \times (-1)} = -\frac{8}{-2} = 4$$
3. **Find the vertex $$y$$-coordinate:**
Substitute $$x=4$$ into $$f(x)$$:
$$f(4) = c + 8(4) - (4)^2 = c + 32 - 16 = c + 16$$
4. **Use the range condition:**
Since the parabola opens downward, the vertex represents the maximum value of $$f(x)$$.
Given the range $$f(x) \leq 19$$, the maximum value is 19, so:
$$c + 16 = 19$$
5. **Solve for $$c$$:**
$$c = 19 - 16 = 3$$
**Final answer:**
$$\boxed{3}$$