Question:

Find the equation of the parabola that satisfies the following conditions: Focus \((6, 0)\); directrix \(x = -6\).

Updated On: Oct 19, 2023
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Solution and Explanation

Given that 

Focus \( (6, 0)\);  directrix, \(x= -6 \)
Since the focus lies on the x-axis, the x-axis is the axis of the parabola. 
Therefore, the equation of the parabola is either of the form 


\(y^2= 4ax \) 

or \(y^2= - 4ax.\)
It is also seen that the directrix, \(x= -6\) is to the left of the y-axis, while the focus \((6, 0)\) \(\)is to the right of the y-axis.
Hence, the parabola is of the form \(y^2= 4ax. \)\(\)
Here, \(a = 6\)
Thus, the equation of the parabola is \(y^2= 24x.\)  (Ans)

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Concepts Used:

Parabola

Parabola is defined as the locus of points equidistant from a fixed point (called focus) and a fixed-line (called directrix).

Parabola


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Standard Equation of a Parabola

For horizontal parabola

  • Let us consider
  • Origin (0,0) as the parabola's vertex A,
  1. Two equidistant points S(a,0) as focus, and Z(- a,0) as a directrix point,
  2. P(x,y) as the moving point.
  • Let us now draw SZ perpendicular from S to the directrix. Then, SZ will be the axis of the parabola.
  • The centre point of SZ i.e. A will now lie on the locus of P, i.e. AS = AZ.
  • The x-axis will be along the line AS, and the y-axis will be along the perpendicular to AS at A, as in the figure.
  • By definition PM = PS

=> MP2 = PS2 

  • So, (a + x)2 = (x - a)2 + y2.
  • Hence, we can get the equation of horizontal parabola as y2 = 4ax.

For vertical parabola

  • Let us consider
  • Origin (0,0) as the parabola's vertex A
  1. Two equidistant points, S(0,b) as focus and Z(0, -b) as a directrix point
  2. P(x,y) as any moving point
  • Let us now draw a perpendicular SZ from S to the directrix.
  • Then SZ will be the axis of the parabola. Now, the midpoint of SZ i.e. A, will lie on P’s locus i.e. AS=AZ.
  • The y-axis will be along the line AS, and the x-axis will be perpendicular to AS at A, as shown in the figure.
  • By definition PM = PS

=> MP2 = PS2

So, (b + y)2 = (y - b)2 + x2

  • As a result, the vertical parabola equation is x2= 4by.