Final answer:
The general conic form equation for a parabola with a given vertex and focus can be determined using the formula (x-h)² = 4a(y-k). The value of a determines the shape and orientation of the parabola.
Step-by-step explanation:
The general conic form equation for a parabola with vertex at (2, 2) and focus at (0.5, 2) is (x-2)² = 4a(y-2). In this equation, the value of a determines the shape and orientation of the parabola. If a is positive, the parabola opens upward, and if a is negative, the parabola opens downward.