Question

Derive the equation of the parabola with a focus at (−5, 5) and a directrix of y = −1

Answer 1

have you any method to use for this question...?

Answer 2

not really no

Answer 3

so what methods do you know..

1. find the focal length and then find the vertex...


2. use the distance formula..

Answer 4

number 1

Answer 5

ok.... so start by plotting the given information



so this tells me the parabola is concave up... does that make sense...

Answer 6

yes

Answer 7

ok... so the line of symmetry is x = -5

and the vertex is a units below the focus...

where a = the focal length

so