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Anonymous
Anonymous asked in Science & MathematicsMathematics · 1 decade ago

Calculus Question: How do I find the equation of a parabola?

I need to find the equation of a parabola.

There is a sketch that shows that the vertex is (1/2b,h) and passes through the point (b,0) and (0,0).

It should be in the form (x-h)^2=-4p(y-k) but I'm not sure how to get it there.

1 Answer

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  • 1 decade ago
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    In the form (x-h)^2=-4p(y-k) the vertex is at (h, k). If you want your vertex to be at (1/2b, h) then plug 1/2b in for h, and h in for k.

    That leaves only the parameter p unknown.

    You want it to pass through (0,0), so plug 0 in for x and y. You'll end up with an equation you can solve for p.

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