Jac V.

asked • 05/31/19

I can’t find the equation for a parabola with vertex at (0,0); axis of symmetry the x-axis; containing the point (8,7). Answer is in the details.

I know how to do this, but I’m doing something wrong because I’m not getting the correct answer, which is:

y^2 = 49/8x


The final answer I am getting:

f(x) = 7/64(X^2)


Can you please break down the steps for me in how you get the correct answer? I really understand it well when it’s broken down. Thanks so much.

1 Expert Answer

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Tom K. answered • 05/31/19

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Jac V.

Wow, this was so much easier than the way I was doing it. Lol. But yes, I was using the wrong axis of symmetry. I also was not using the simple formula you used! I was using y=a(x-h)^2+k, and then when you pointed out I was using the wrong axis of symmetry, I used x=(y-h)^2+k, but still didn’t get the right answer (I was getting a= 8/49).
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05/31/19

Jac V.

Question: If the axis of symmetry was on the y-axis, I would have solved for: x^2 = ay ??
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05/31/19

Stephen K.

tutor
your answer is correct the equation is x= (8/49)y^2. Graph it and you will see it fits the parameters given. The graph of y^2 = 49/8x is not a parabola and does not contain the point (8,7) Graph it and you will see
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05/31/19

Stephen K.

tutor
your answer is correct the equation is x= (8/49)y^2. Graph it and you will see it fits the parameters given. The graph of y^2 = 49/8x is not a parabola and does not contain the point (8,7) Graph it and you will see
Report

05/31/19

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