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The Parabola: Shape and GraphThe graph, shape and equation of a parabolaParabolas are a type of quadratic function. they always have one and only one squared term (either x2 or y2).
The vertex of a parabola is the highest or lowest point of the parabola.
The equation of a parabola is expressed either in vertex form or standard form.
Related Pages: Parabola--graph, equation and formula |Axis of Symmetry |Standard and Vertex Forms of Equation| real world applications | Converting between Standard and Vertex Forms | Interactive Parabola(click and drag) | area of parabola | Solving Quadratic Equations | The Quadratic Formula | factoring quadratic equations|completing the square in math| interactive parabola | Quadratic Formula Calculator | formula for sum and product of roots 
On the left is the graph of a parabola. Below are examples of equations of parabolas.
Interactive Parabola
A parabola is actually a locus of a point and a line known. The point is called the focus and the line is called the directrix.
Since a parabola is a locus between this point and line, all the points on a parabola are equidistant from the focus and the line.
To change the equation and the graph of the interactive parabola below just click and drag either the point A, which is the focus, or
point B, which controls the directrix.
Full size Interactive Parabola Plot Points to Create Graph
In order to find the general shape of a parabola and be able to graph it, try plotting points by substituting in values for one variable, usually x, then solving for the other variable, the y value. Top
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