The display shows the graph of y = (x-a)(x-b)(x-c) , where a, b and c are constants. Graphs like these are called cubic graphs.
Investigate the effect of changing a, b and c.
Make sure that you are clear about these aspects of a cubic graph:
Investigate the effect of changing a, b and c.
Make sure that you are clear about these aspects of a cubic graph:
- its basic shape
- its symmetry
- the number of places where the curve crosses the x-axis
Software/Applets used on this page

This page uses JSXGraph
JSXGraph is a cross-browser library for interactive geometry, function plotting, charting, and data visualization in a web browser. It is implemented completely in JavaScript, does not rely on any other library. It uses SVG and VML and is fully HTML5 compliant.
JSXGraph is a cross-browser library for interactive geometry, function plotting, charting, and data visualization in a web browser. It is implemented completely in JavaScript, does not rely on any other library. It uses SVG and VML and is fully HTML5 compliant.
Glossary
cubic
A mathematical expression of the 3rd degree; having a x³ term but no higher one.
function
A rule that connects one value in one set with one and only one value in another set.
graph
A diagram showing a relationship between two variables.
The diagram shows a vertical y axis and a horizontal x axis.
The diagram shows a vertical y axis and a horizontal x axis.
plot
To mark a point on a graph accurately by using its coordinates.