Parabola Help! (1 Viewer)

Maddy

Damien Martyn Rocks!
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Ok, This is a simple question but i don't understand it, so i need help!!
How do I find the coordinates of the vertex and the focus???

I learnt it but now it doesn't make much sense!!
Please help me!!! :)
 

Chand

Reflect the lights
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You make the equation into the form

(x-h)^2 = 4a (y-k)

vertex: (h, k)
focus: (h, k+a)

Directix: y=k-a
Axis of symmetry: x=h
 

Chand

Reflect the lights
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The above is for a parabola who's vertex is not the origin.^

When the vertex is the origin...:

x^2 = 4ay

Vertex: (0,0)
Focus: (0, a)
Directix: y=-a
Axis of symmetry: x=0
 

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