For the function $y = x^2$, which statement accurately describes its behavior as $x$ increases from negative to positive values?

The function decreases, then increases.

The function increases, then decreases.

A graph of a company's stock price shows a steady decline followed by a sharp rise. The lowest point on the graph represents what?

The minimum price during that period.

The maximum price during that period.

The starting price of the stock.

The average price of the stock.

It increases to a maximum value, then decreases.

It decreases to a minimum value, then increases.

It is a straight line with a negative slope.

It is a constant horizontal line.