I'm asked to graph each parametric equation. I am using a graphing calculator and having trouble...
example:
x=3 sin^3t
y=3 cos^3t
How do I go about graphing that

Question

I'm asked to graph each parametric equation. I am using a graphing calculator and having trouble...
example:
x=3 sin^3t
y=3 cos^3t
How do I go about graphing that

holsteremission · Answer

Depends on the calculator you're using. If you have a TI-83, you can switch from plotting regular functions of the form $y=f(x)$ by going to the `MODE` menu and selecting the `Par` option. Now when you view the plotting interface by pressing `Y=` each "function" slot consists of a pair of parametric function $x(t)$ and $y(t)$. From here you're free to specify the functions you want to use. You can adjust the domain of the parameter by making the appropriate changes in the `WINDOW` menu. But that's assuming quite a bit. Alternatively, you can always refer to a free service like Wolfram|Alpha. Try an input like "parametric plot (x=3sin^3t, y=3cos^3t) over 0 http://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?dataset=&i=parametric+plot+(x%3D3sin%5E3t,+y%3D3cos%5E3t)+over+0%3Ct%3Cpi