Question

A curve is describe by the following parametric equations:

x=3+t, y=t^2-4
Which statement best describes the curve?
A. The curve is a parabola with a vertex at (3,-4) and is traced from left to right for increasing values of t.
B. The curve is a parabola with a vertex at (3,-4) and is traced from right to left for increasing values of t.
C. The curve is a parabola with a vertex at (-3,4) and is traced from left to right for increasing values of t.
D. The curve is a parabola with a vertex at (-3,4) and is traced from right to left for increasing values of t.

Answer 1

A. The curve is a parabola with a vertex at (3,-4) and is traced from left to right for increasing values of t.

Explanation:

x = 3 + t

y = t² − 4

Eliminating the parameter:

t = x − 3

y = (x − 3)² − 4

This is an upwards parabola with a vertex at (3, -4).

x = 3 + t, so as t increases, x increases.

So the curve is traced from left to right.