What is the focal diameter of: y^2 = −32x

Answer 1

Focal diameter is 4p of the independent variable, which is x in this case.

General Equation for focal diameter is

y² = 4px or x² = 4py

The equation you have is

y² = -32x

which follows

y² = 4px

4p = -32

Therefore, your focal diameter is -32. However, solving for p is important because it will tell you your focal endpoints, directrix, and focus.