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
Parabolas
5:59 minutes
Textbook Question
Textbook QuestionFind the vertex, focus, and directrix of the parabola with the given equation. Then graph the parabola. x^2 - 4x - 2y = 0
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Parabola Properties
A parabola is a symmetric curve defined by a quadratic equation. Its key features include the vertex, which is the highest or lowest point, the focus, a point from which distances to the parabola are measured, and the directrix, a line that is perpendicular to the axis of symmetry. Understanding these properties is essential for graphing and analyzing parabolas.
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Completing the Square
Completing the square is a method used to transform a quadratic equation into vertex form, which makes it easier to identify the vertex of the parabola. This technique involves rearranging the equation to isolate the quadratic term and then adding and subtracting a constant to create a perfect square trinomial. This step is crucial for finding the vertex and subsequently the focus and directrix.
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Graphing Quadratic Functions
Graphing quadratic functions involves plotting the parabola based on its vertex, focus, and directrix. The vertex indicates the turning point, while the focus helps determine the direction the parabola opens. The directrix serves as a reference line for the distances to the points on the parabola, allowing for accurate representation of the curve on a coordinate plane.
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