Eliminate the parameter to find a Cartesian equation of the curve.

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on eliminating the parameter from the parametric equations x = 1 - t² and y = t - 3 to derive a Cartesian equation for the curve. The correct approach involves solving for x in terms of y, resulting in the equation x = 1 - (y + 3)². This method effectively captures both halves of the parabola, addressing the initial oversight of only deriving one half. The solution is valid for the range -5 ≤ y ≤ -1.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of parametric equations
  • Knowledge of Cartesian coordinates
  • Familiarity with quadratic functions
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic expressions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the process of converting parametric equations to Cartesian form
  • Learn about the properties of parabolas and their equations
  • Explore the implications of domain and range in parametric equations
  • Investigate the use of ± signs in mathematical expressions and their significance
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Students studying algebra, particularly those focusing on parametric equations and their conversion to Cartesian forms, as well as educators seeking to clarify these concepts in a classroom setting.

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EDIT: Figured it out. Stupid me. I should have solved in terms of x, giving me x=1-(y+3)^2 as my answer.

Homework Statement


x= 1−[itex]t^{2}[/itex], y= t−3, −2 ≤ t ≤ 2

Eliminate the parameter to find a Cartesian equation of the curve for
−5 ≤ y ≤ −1

Homework Equations



N/A

The Attempt at a Solution



I solved for t and got [itex]\sqrt{1-x}[/itex]. Then I plugged it into y=t-3 and got y=[itex]\sqrt{1-x}[/itex]-3. However, that only gives me half of the parabola when I graph it. I know I need y=-[itex]\sqrt{1-x}[/itex]-3 to get the other half, but how do I make that one equation. I don't think I can use a ± sign in my answer.

Thanks in advance!
 
Last edited:
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instead of solving t from x, try solving t from y and sub into x.
 

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