A parabola is the curve formed by the intersection of a plane with a cone. It curves away from a line called the directrix and the vertex is halfway between the focus and the directrix. The equation of a parabola is y=a(x-h)2 + k with the vertex at (h,k) and the axis of symmetry being vertical, or x=a(y-k)2 + h with the vertex at (k,h) and the axis of symmetry being horizontal.

1. Conic Sections ©Mathworld

5. Conic Sections - Parabola The intersection of a plane with one nappe of the cone is a parabola.

6. Aim: What is a parabola? Do Now:

7. The line segment through the focus of a parabola and perpendicular to the axis of symmetry is called the latus rectum . The vertex is always halfway between the focus and the directrix, and the parabola always curves away from the directrix.

8. y=a(x-h) 2 + k Vertical Axis of symmetry Function x=a(y-k) 2 + h Horizontal Axis of symmetry Not a function

9. Do Now: