How are number patterns related to algebra

For problems 29 - 31 the graph of a quadratic function y=ax^2 + bx + c is shown. tell whether the discriminant of ax^2 + bx + c = 0 is positive, negative, or zero.

What is the interquartile range of this data set? 2, 5, 9, 11, 18, 30, 42, 48, 55, 73, 81

The expression 1.01*1.005(^t) gives the amount of money, in thousands of dollars, in carter's savings account (t) years after he opens it. what does 1.01 represent in this expression?