Stage 30 · Analytic Geometry

30.7.1 Where the Parabola Comes From: Equal Distance to Point and Line

30.7 The Parabola and a Unified View of Conic Sections

Point 1 of 6

30.7.1 Where the Parabola Comes From: Equal Distance to Point and Line

Core idea

Every point as far from one focus as from a fixed directrix joins into an open arc, like the arc of a fountain's water.

Module goal. Introduce the parabola and, through equal point-line distance and eccentricity, thread all three curves into one system, wrapping up the coordinate method.
eastmath.com · 30.7 The Parabola and a Unified View of Conic Sections · 30.7.1 Where the Parabola Comes From: Equal Distance to Point and Line