Parameterize part of a Parabola

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving a parametric equation for a segment of the parabola defined by the equation y = -2x², with specified initial and terminal points at (-2, -8) and (1, -2), respectively. The parametric equations proposed are x(t) = 3t - 2 and y(t) = 6t - 8. The user expresses uncertainty about substituting x(t) into the original parabola equation to find y(t), indicating a need for clarification on the relationship between parametric and Cartesian forms.

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Homework Statement


Find a parametric equation for a part of a parabola.

Given:
y=-2x2
initial point: (-2,-8)
terminal point: (1,-2)



Homework Equations


x(t)=a+t(c-a)
y(t)=b+t(d-b)


The Attempt at a Solution


x(t)=-2+t(1-(-2))
=3t-2
y(t)=-8+t(-2-(-8))
=6t-8

I'm not sure where to go from there.
 
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dont you need to plug the x(t) into the y=-2x^2 to get y(t)
 

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