For the quadratic function $$ f(x) = -\frac{1}{2}(x-3)^2 + 8...

Question Analysis
This question tests the student's understanding of the direction in which a parabola opens based on the coefficient in the vertex form of a quadratic function.

Key Concept Explanation
In the vertex form , the sign of determines the direction in which the parabola opens. If , the parabola opens upward; if , the parabola opens downward.

Step-by-step Solution
1. Identify the vertex form: