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What are the vertex, focus, and directrix of the parabola whose equation is y-5= 1/12 (x-3)^2

User Kitofr
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Answer:

Vertex: (3,5)

Focus: (3,8)

Directrix: y = 2

Explanation:

Get y by itself by adding 5 over to the other side. The equation is now y = 1/12(x-3)^2 + 5.

The value inside of the parentheses is -3. Since it's within the parentheses, switch the signs for the x value of the vertex. The "+ 5" represents the y value. Therefore the vertex is (3,5).

The value "a" on the parabola is 1/12. To find the distance from the vertex to the focus/directrix, use the equation a = 1/4p. 1/12 = 1/4p. p = 3. This parabola opens up, so "p" must be added onto the y value of the vertex for the focus. The focus is therefore (3,8).

For the directrix, subtract "p" from the y value of the vertex. The directrix is a horizontal line at y = 2.

User Slier
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