Question

Quadratic function help?

Answer 1

12 units

Explanation:

Let the equation of the parabola is
`y = (1)/(48) x^(2)`

So,
`x^(2)  = 48y` ........... (1)

Now, the general form of a parabola having vertex at origin and axis parallel to positive y-axis is given by

`x^(2)  = 4ay` ........ (2)

Now, comparing equation (1) and equation (2) we get, a = 12

We know that the focal length of the parabola
`x^(2)  = 4ay` i.e. distance between the vertex and the focus is a.

Therefore, the focal length of the parabola (1) is 12 units. (Answer)