How to graph a parabola with a horizontal axis of symmetry

The video tutorial explains how to graph a parabola using its definition. It covers identifying the axis of symmetry, vertex, focus, and directrix. The tutorial demonstrates how to determine if the parabola opens to the right or left by calculating the value of P and locating the focus. The directrix is found by creating a perpendicular line at an equal distance from the vertex as the focus.

What is the first step in graphing a parabola using its definition?

• Determine the axis of symmetry

• Find the y-intercept

• Calculate the slope

• Identify the directrix

When the axis of symmetry is horizontal, which variable is squared in the equation of a parabola?

• z

• x

• w

• y

How is the vertex of a parabola with a horizontal axis of symmetry represented in its equation?

• (x, y)

• (k, h)

• (y, x)

• (h, k)

What is the value of P if the equation is -12 = 4P?

• 3

• -3

• -4

• 4

How is the directrix of a parabola related to its axis of symmetry?

• It is perpendicular to the axis of symmetry

• It is parallel to the axis of symmetry

• It is the same as the axis of symmetry

• It is opposite to the axis of symmetry