This graph represents the basic square root function reflected about the y-axis. Notice that the negative sign occurs inside the square root symbol.

The anchor points
(0,0) (1,1) (4,2)
become
(0,0) (-1,1) (-4,2).
The x component of each coordinate reflects to its opposite sign.

Click on "original function" above to compare this graph to the basic cube graph.

A negative sign in front of the square root symbol will result in a reflection about the x-axis. Unsure of reflection? Read about graphing using transformations.