Parametric equations define both x and y as functions of a third variable, usually t. To graph parametric equations, enter the x= and y= functions of t into the calculator's parametric mode. The graph will trace out as t increases from 0 to the specified upper bound, and can cross itself since the vertical line test does not apply. Other functions can be "parametrized" by setting x=t and substituting t for x in the original y equation to put it into standard parametric form.

1. Parametric Functions Unit 1 Lesson 4 E. Alexander Burt Potomac School

2. Parametrics come in pairs Or, more accurately, parametric equations come in sets. Instead of y = f(x), x and y are both functions of another variable, usually t.

3. So we have: x = f(t)

4. y = g(t)