The parabolic reflector plate of a flashlight has its bulb located at the focus of the parabola that opens to the right. The distance between the vertex and the focus is 1.8 centimeters. Write an equation to represent the cross-section of the reflector plate then graph it completely.

Here is the graph of the parabola \( y^2 = 7.2x \), which represents the cross-section of the reflector plate.

### Summary:
- **Equation of the Parabola**: \( y^2 = 7.2x \)
- **Focus**: \( (1.8, 0) \)
- **Directrix**: \( x = -1.8 \)
- **Axis of Symmetry**: \( y = 0 \) (the x-axis)

The graph shows a parabola opening to the right, with the focus and directrix properly positioned relative to the vertex at the origin.

Do you want more details or have any questions? Here are some related questions:

1. What is the significance of placing the bulb at the focus in a flashlight?
2. How would the equation change if the parabola opened to the left instead?
3. Can you find the length of the parabola's chord perpendicular to the axis of symmetry at a given distance from the vertex?
4. What is the relationship between the distance \( p \) and the width of the parabola at a specific \( x \) value?
5. How would the equation change if the vertex was not at the origin?

**Tip**: For parabolas opening horizontally, the squared term is the one involving \( y \), while the linear term involves \( x \). This helps in setting up the equation correctly.

Explore the equation y^2 = 7.2x that represents the cross-section of a parabolic reflector plate with its bulb located at the focus. Understand the geometric properties, including the focus, directrix, and axis of symmetry. Suitable for advanced high school students.

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