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 - Review - Concept Check - Page 709: 6

Answer

a) A parabola is the set of all points in a plane such that the distance from a line called the directrix and the distance from a fixed point called focus are equal. In other words, a parabola is the set of all points that are equidistant from the directrix and the focus. b) The equation of a parabola with focus $(0,p)$ and directrix $y= -p$ is: $x^{2} = 4py$; if the focus is $(p,0)$, then the equation will be: $y^{2} = 4px$.

Work Step by Step

a) Definition of a plane. b) Definition of a parabola.
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