Math Problem Statement

determine whether the given equation is a parabola. If so, rewrite the equation in standard form.

y=4x2

If the equation does not represent a parabola, enter NA

Solution

The given equation is:

y=4x2y = 4x^2

Step 1: Check if it represents a parabola

An equation represents a parabola if it is in the form:

y=ax2+bx+corx=ay2+by+cy = ax^2 + bx + c \quad \text{or} \quad x = ay^2 + by + c

Here, y=4x2y = 4x^2 matches the form y=ax2+bx+cy = ax^2 + bx + c, with a=4a = 4, b=0b = 0, and c=0c = 0. Therefore, it does represent a parabola.


Step 2: Rewrite in standard form

The standard form of a parabola (when it opens vertically) is:

yk=a(xh)2y - k = a(x - h)^2

Here:

  • h=0h = 0, k=0k = 0, and a=4a = 4.

Thus, the equation in standard form is:

y=4(x0)2+0or simplyy=4x2y = 4(x - 0)^2 + 0 \quad \text{or simply} \quad y = 4x^2


Final Answer:

The equation represents a parabola, and it is already in standard form:

y=4x2y = 4x^2


Do you want details or have any questions?


  1. What are the key characteristics of a parabola based on its equation?
  2. How can you identify the vertex of a parabola from its standard form?
  3. What determines the direction of opening of a parabola?
  4. How does the coefficient aa affect the shape of the parabola?
  5. Can a parabola ever represent a horizontal line?

Tip: Always compare the given equation to the general forms of parabolas to quickly identify their characteristics.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Parabolas
Quadratic Equations

Formulas

Standard form of a parabola: y - k = a(x - h)^2
General form of a quadratic equation: y = ax^2 + bx + c

Theorems

A quadratic equation represents a parabola if it can be written in the form y = ax^2 + bx + c or x = ay^2 + by + c.

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12