Convert y=x^2-1 & y=1-x^2 to Polar Functions?

[Bendelson]

Can y=x^2-1 or y=1-x^2 be converted to polar functions? I was attempting it and kept running into problems. If it's not possible, why not?

 

[lurflurf]

Just substitute
x=r*cos(t)
x=r*Sin(t)

This gives an implicit polar equation. If you like, solve for r to get an explicit polar equation.

 

[Bendelson]

I was having trouble expressing it explicitly and solving for r or t

 

[lurflurf]

whate have you tried? It is quadratic in r, either use the quadratic formula or complete the square.