Multivariable Calculus, 7th Edition

Published by Brooks Cole
ISBN 10: 0-53849-787-4
ISBN 13: 978-0-53849-787-9

Chapter 10 - Parametric Equations and Polar Coordinates - 10.6 Exercises - Page 708: 2

Answer

$$r = \frac{3}{1 - cos(\theta)}$$

Work Step by Step

1. Determine the equation that we are going to use: Since the directrix is defined by $x = -3$, we are going to use $cos(\theta)$ in the formula. Since $-3$ is negative, the equation will have "$-cos(\theta)$": $$r = \frac{ed}{1 - ecos(\theta)}$$ 2. Substitute the given values for $d$ (directrix) and e (eccentricity): ** Notice: For parabolas: $e = 1$. ** We use the absolute value for $d$, which is $3$. $$r = \frac{(1)(3)}{1 - (1)cos(\theta)} = \frac{3}{1 - cos(\theta)}$$
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