Worksheet

Mastering Conic Sections: Parabola Worksheet Solutions

Mastering Conic Sections: Parabola Worksheet Solutions
Conic Sections Parabola Worksheet

In the world of geometry, conic sections play a pivotal role, introducing students to curves with unique properties derived from the intersection of a plane with a cone. Among these fascinating shapes is the parabola, which is not only essential for understanding mathematical concepts but also has real-world applications ranging from architectural designs to trajectory analysis in physics. This blog post delves into the intricacies of parabolas through various problems and solutions, providing a comprehensive guide to mastering this conic section.

What is a Parabola?

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A parabola is defined as the locus of points in a plane that are equidistant from a fixed point (the focus) and a fixed line (the directrix). Here are the key characteristics:

  • The standard equation of a parabola that opens either upwards or downwards is y = ax² + bx + c.
  • It has a single axis of symmetry passing through its vertex.
  • The vertex form of the parabola’s equation can be written as y = a(x - h)² + k, where (h, k) is the vertex of the parabola.
Illustration of a Parabola

Problem Set

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To solidify your understanding, let’s dive into some common problems associated with parabolas:

Problem 1: Finding the Vertex and Focus

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Question: Given the equation y = 3x² - 12x + 7, find the vertex, focus, and directrix of the parabola.

Solution:

  1. Convert the given equation to vertex form:
  2. y = 3(x² - 4x + 4 - 4) + 7 = 3(x - 2)² - 3 + 7 = 3(x - 2)² + 4
  3. The vertex is at (2, 4).
  4. Calculate the distance from the vertex to the focus using the formula: p = 1/(4a). Here, a = 3, so:
  5. p = 1/(4 * 3) = 112
  6. Focus is at (2, 4 + 112).
  7. Directrix is the line y = 4 - 112.

Problem 2: Axis of Symmetry

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Question: For the parabola x = y² + 2y - 1, find the axis of symmetry and sketch the graph.

Solution:

  • Rewrite the equation to standard form by completing the square:
  • x = (y + 1)² - 1 - 1 = (y + 1)² - 2
  • The vertex form now gives the vertex at (-2, -1).
  • The axis of symmetry for a horizontally opened parabola is a vertical line through the vertex. Here, it’s x = -2.
  • Sketch the parabola with this information.
Sketch of Parabola with Axis of Symmetry

Problem 3: Parabola’s Properties

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Question: Identify the directrix, focus, and axis of symmetry for the parabola given by x = 2y².

Solution:

  • This parabola opens to the left since the coefficient of is positive.
  • The vertex is at the origin, (0, 0).
  • Using p = 1/(4a), where a = 2:
  • p = 1/(4 * 2) = 18
  • Focus is at (-18, 0).
  • Directrix is x = 18.
  • Axis of symmetry is y = 0, or the x-axis.

📌 Note: Parabolas can open in any direction depending on their equations. Always consider the sign and coefficient of the squared term to determine the orientation.

Problem 4: Graphing from Vertex Form

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Question: Graph the parabola given by y = -(x - 3)² + 4.

Solution:

  • The vertex is at (3, 4).
  • The parabola opens downwards because the coefficient of the squared term is negative.
  • Find additional points by substituting values of x around the vertex.
Graph of Parabola Opening Downwards

Wrapping Up

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The journey through parabola problems not only fortifies understanding but also shows the versatility of parabolas in mathematics. From determining vertices, foci, and directrices to identifying symmetry axes, you’ve now equipped yourself with the tools to analyze and graph parabolas with confidence. The solutions offered here illustrate that each problem, while unique, follows a systematic approach, making parabolas a manageable topic.

What are real-world applications of parabolas?

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Parabolas are prevalent in architecture (parabolic arches), engineering (suspension bridges), optics (reflectors and satellite dishes), and physics (projectile motion).

How does the directrix relate to the focus in a parabola?

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The directrix is always perpendicular to the axis of symmetry, and the distance from the vertex to the focus is the same as the distance from the vertex to the directrix, defining the parabola’s reflective properties.

What is the significance of the axis of symmetry for a parabola?

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The axis of symmetry helps in locating the vertex and understanding the parabola’s orientation, making it a critical element in graphing and analyzing parabolas.

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