Question

Gabe is designing a flashlight that uses a parabolic reflecting mirror and a light source. The shape of the mirror can be modeled by a parabola that opens upward with a diameter of 4 in. and a depth of 1 in. The vertex of the parabola is at the the origin. Where should Gabe place the bulb to ensure a perfect beam of light?

(0,1)
(0,4)
(1,0)
(4,0)

Answer 1

C. (1,0)

Explanation:

If we make use of a parabolic reflecting mirror and a light source.

Given thar the equation of parabolic mirror is Y2 = 4ax

The given data in the problem is x = 1 and y = 2

So subject value is y2 = 4ax

4 = 4 a (1)

a = 1

So x = 1

thus focus is at (x, y) = (1,0)

Therefore, option C is correct answer.