Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 16m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 19m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
8. Conic Sections
Introduction to Conic Sections
Problem 50
Textbook Question
Identify each equation without completing the square.
y2−4x−4y=0
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1
Start by rearranging the given equation \( y^2 - 4x - 4y = 0 \) to group the terms involving \( y \) together. This will help in identifying the type of conic section it represents.
Rewrite the equation as \( y^2 - 4y = 4x \). This form makes it easier to see the relationship between the variables.
Notice that the equation is in the form \( y^2 + By = Cx \), which is characteristic of a parabola. In this case, the equation is not in the standard form yet, but it suggests a parabolic shape.
To further confirm, recognize that a parabola can be expressed in the form \( (y - k)^2 = 4p(x - h) \) or \( (x - h)^2 = 4p(y - k) \). Here, the presence of \( y^2 \) and the absence of \( x^2 \) indicates a vertical parabola.
Thus, without completing the square, we can identify the equation \( y^2 - 4x - 4y = 0 \) as representing a parabola that opens horizontally, based on its structure and the terms involved.
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