Understanding Parabola Equations
This page introduces the fundamental components of parabolas and their equations. It covers both vertically and horizontally oriented parabolas, emphasizing the relationship between the equation form and the parabola's orientation.
For vertically oriented parabolas y−axissymmetry, the standard form is x² = 4py, where p determines the distance from the vertex to the focus and directrix. The focus is located at (0, p) and the directrix at y = -p.
For horizontally oriented parabolas x−axissymmetry, the equation takes the form y² = 4px. Here, the focus is at (p, 0) and the directrix is x = -p.
Vocabulary: Vertex - The point where a parabola changes direction, often the highest or lowest point.
Definition: Directrix - A line perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of a parabola, used in defining the parabola.
Highlight: The value of p in the equation determines whether the parabola opens upward/rightward (p > 0) or downward/leftward (p < 0).
The page also presents variations of these equations for parabolas with different orientations and openings, providing a comprehensive overview of parabola equation forms.