Graphing Parabolas that are not parallel to the y-axis

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  • Thread starter Thread starter EuroNerd77
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    Graphing Parallel
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Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on how to graph parabolas that are not aligned with the standard vertical or horizontal orientations, specifically those tilted at various angles. Participants explore methods for manipulating equations to achieve this rotation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to graph parabolas with axes of symmetry at arbitrary angles, indicating a limitation in their current understanding of parabolas in Algebra II.
  • Another participant suggests that one can graph a standard vertical or horizontal parabola and then rotate it to achieve the desired orientation.
  • A request for a specific equation to facilitate the rotation of the parabola is made, highlighting a need for clarity on the mathematical process involved.
  • A participant mentions manipulating coefficients of the general conic equation as a method for rotation, providing a link for further reference.
  • Another response outlines a matrix transformation approach, indicating that points can be transformed using a rotation matrix based on the desired angle.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple approaches to the problem, and while some methods are proposed, there is no consensus on a single solution or equation for rotating the parabola.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes references to mathematical concepts such as conic sections and matrix transformations, but lacks detailed explanations of the underlying assumptions or specific steps in the rotation process.

EuroNerd77
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I have gone over parabolas for a while in my Algebra II class and we are limited to just horizontal and vertical parabolas. I want to figure out how to graph a parabola that is titled at an angle. An equation that let's me graph a parabola whose axis of symmetry is let's say at 43° or 312.45° or whatever degree non parallel to an axis.
 
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You can always graph it as a vertical or horizontal parabola and then rotate it so the axis is what you want.
 
What would you do to the equation in order to rotate it? I need an equation to do this.
 
EuroNerd77 said:
What would you do to the equation in order to rotate it? I need an equation to do this.

Essentially you set a matrix with elements (cosx, sinx) for the first row and (-sinx, cosx) for the second row (x is the rotation angle). Each point (x,y) is transformed by mutiplying by the matrix.
 

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