Write the Equation of the parabola that has its vertex at (2,-2) and its focus at (-1,-2).

Question

tkhunny · Answer

Immediately find the Directrix.   Try x = 5

Where did that come from and what good does it do us?

anonymous · Answer

Well if the Directrix is X=5, then it puts the Vertex (2,-2) in the middle of the Focus and Directrix, where is should be. So I guess this tells me that my parabola will be opening to the left?

tkhunny · Answer

Super!!!!  Now what?

tkhunny · Answer

You can use the Focus-Directrix definition or use that distance we just talked about and the vertex.  Which way shall you go?

anonymous · Answer

I suppose I would just draw a rough sketch of the parabola opening up that way, right?