CCGPS AG 6.1.2 Example 2

Author:
Walch Education
Derive the standard equation of the parabola with focus and directrix from the definition of a parabola. Then write the equation by substituting the vertex coordinates and the value of directly into the standard form.
GeoGebra Applet
  1. To derive the equation, begin by plotting the focus. Label it . Graph the directrix and label it . Sketch the parabola. Label the vertex .
  2. Let be any point on the parabola.
  3. Apply the definition of a parabola to derive the standard equation using the distance formula.
  4. Write the equation using standard form.
  5. Use the results found in step 4 to write the equation.
This applet is provided by Walch Education as supplemental material for the CCGPS Analytic Geometry program. Visit www.walch.com for more information on our resources.

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