Graphing 3D Parametric Equations on Nspire: Did I Do It Right?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the graphing of 3D parametric equations, specifically the equations x=t, y=t^2, and z=2, using the Nspire calculator. Participants explore the nature of the resulting graph and its dimensional characteristics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether the graph produced from the parametric equations is correct and expresses surprise at its appearance.
  • Another participant confirms that the graph represents the equation $y=x^2$ on a plane parallel to the $xy$-plane, positioned 2 units above it.
  • Some participants express confusion about the expected complexity of a 3D graph, suggesting it should have more depth or a hollow structure.
  • There is a discussion about whether the graph should be considered a flat 3D surface, with one participant questioning the relationship between the variables.
  • A later reply clarifies the relationship between the variables, asserting that given $x=t$ and $y=t^2$, it follows that $y=x^2$.
  • Another participant provides a hint regarding the dimensionality of the graph, indicating that one independent variable results in a curve, while two independent variables yield a surface.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of the graph, with some agreeing on the correctness of the representation while others question its dimensionality and expected characteristics. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the expectations of 3D graphs.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully resolved the assumptions about the dimensionality of the graph and the implications of the parametric equations. There is also ambiguity regarding the interpretation of the graph's features.

ineedhelpnow
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i graphed the parametric equations x=t y=t^2 and z=2 on my nspire in 3d and it came out looking like this

View attachment 3196View attachment 3195View attachment 3194View attachment 3197

(Blush) i have made them pretty so you can see the graph properly

anyways what my question is, is that ( :confused: "is is" ) is the graph supposed to look like that? on a 3d plane? did i do it right?
 

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Yes, you would have the graph of $y=x^2$ on a plane parallel to the $xy$-plane, and 2 units above it. :D
 
oh so its right?

honestly for a 3d graph...i thought it would have more to it, you know? i thought it would be 3d... with a hollow inside and everything...
 
ineedhelpnow said:
oh so its right?

honestly for a 3d graph...i thought it would have more to it, you know? i thought it would be 3d... with a hollow inside and everything...

Sometimes you get curves in 3-space, sometimes you get surfaces. :D
 
shouldnt it be like a flat 3d surface though?
 
how is y=x^2 though. shouldn't it be x=y^2
 
Given: $x=t$, $y=t^2$

$x^2=t^2$ and $y=t^2$

Therefore, $$y=x^2$$
 
Hint: if you have one independent variable, it'll be a path or curve in space. If you have two independent variables, it'll be a surface.
 

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