Let be a non-zero real constant

MATHEMATICS · Multi-part · CBSE · Mathematics · Conic Sections · Conic Sections

Problem

Let aa be a non-zero real constant. Consider the family of parabolas defined by y2=4axy^{2}=4ax. (i) Prove that the sign of aa determines whether the parabola opens to the right or to the left. (ii) For a=3a=3 and a=−3a=-3, write the equations of the directrices and calculate the distance between the corresponding foci. (iii) On a common set of axes, sketch the parabolas for a=3a=3 and a=−3a=-3, clearly marking their vertices, foci, and directrices.

Related theory

Browse the problem library