Learn how to write the equation of a parabola given vertex and directrix

The video tutorial guides students through solving a problem involving plotting a vertex and understanding the properties of a parabola. The teacher explains how to determine the direction of the parabola and which variable should be squared. The tutorial concludes with writing the final equation of the parabola, emphasizing the importance of understanding the relationship between the vertex, directrix, and focus.

What is the first step in solving the problem as described in the video?

• Find the midpoint

• Calculate the slope

• Plot the information given

• Graph the information given

What does the vertex at (0,0) and y = 4 produce?

• A horizontal line at y = 4

• A circle

• A vertical line at x = 4

• A diagonal line

Why does the parabola open downwards?

• Because it opens towards the directrix

• Because it opens to the right

• Because it opens to the left

• Because it opens away from the directrix

Which variable should be squared in the equation of the parabola?

• Y should be squared

• Both X and Y should be squared

• X should be squared

• Neither should be squared

What is the final equation of the parabola?

• Y^2 = -16X

• Y^2 = 16X

• X^2 = -16Y

• X^2 = 16Y