What Is This Module About?

The Precalculus course bridges basic mathematics and calculus. This course completes
your foundational knowledge on algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. It provides you with
conceptual understanding and computational skills that are prerequisites for Basic Calculus and
future STEM courses.
Based on the Most Essential Curriculum Competencies (MELC) for Precalculus of the
Department of Education, the primary aim of the modules is to give you an adequate stand-alone
material that can be used for the Grade 11 Precalculus course.
In the first five modules, we shall present the conic sections, a particular class of curves
which sometimes appear in nature and which have applications in other fields. In this lesson, we
will discuss the next kind of conic section, parabolas. The other conic sections will be covered in
detail in the next modules.
Throughout this module, more examples are given reinforce the ideas and skills being
developed in the lesson, and step-by-step procedures for problem solving are explained. You
have the opportunity to check your understanding of the lesson by solving the supplementary
problems.

1 |Precalculus Module 2 – Parabolas

 What Will You Learn?
The lessons are arranged to follow the standard sequence of the course. The
module is divided into four lessons, namely:
• Lesson 1 – Understanding the General and Standard Equations of a Parabola
• Lesson 2 – Sketching the Graph of a Parabola in a Rectangular Coordinate System
• Lesson 3 – Finding the Equation of a Parabola
• Lesson 4 – Solving Applied Problems Involving Parabolas

After going through this module, you are expected to:

• define a parabola;
• determine the standard form and general form of equation of a parabola;
• transform the standard form of equation into general form, and vice versa;
• graph a parabola in a rectangular coordinate system; and
• solve situational problems involving parabolas.

Flow of Instruction
Lesson Focus Topics
1. Understanding the • Define a parabola • General and Standard Equations of a
General and Parabola
Standard Equations • Transforming the Equations of a Parabola
of a Parabola from General Form to Standard Form
• Transforming the Equations of a Parabola
from Standard Form to General Form
2. Sketching the • Graph a parabola in • How to Sketch the Graph of a Parabola in a
Graph of a a rectangular Rectangular Coordinate System
Parabola in a coordinate system
Rectangular
Coordinate System
3. Finding the • Determine the • Finding the Equation of a Parabola
Equation of a standard form and
Parabola general form of
equation of a
parabola
4. Solving Applied • Solve situational • Solving Applied Problems Involving
Problems Involving problems involving Parabolas
Parabolas parabolas

2 |Precalculus Module 2 – Parabolas

 What Do You Already Know?
To find out how much you already know about the concepts to be discussed in this module,
answer the following items by choosing the letter of the correct answer.
1. What is the line that passes through the focus and is perpendicular to the directrix?
a. Latus rectum c. Asymptote
b. Axis of symmetry d. Vertex
2. Which of the following refers to the intersection of the parabola and its axis of symmetry?
a. vertex c. center
b. focus d. directrix
3. If p represents the focus of the parabola, which of the following expressions is used to
represent the focal width?
a. p c. 2p
b. 4p d. 4px
4. Which of the following equations of parabola is written in standard form?
a. x2 + 6x – 12 y + 21 = 0 c. (𝑥 − 7)2 + (𝑦 + 11)2 = 20
b. y2 – 4x + 6y + 17 = 0 d. (𝑥 − 7)2 + 𝑦2 = 0
5. Which parabola has its vertex at (3, 5) and a focal length of 12 units?
a. (x – 3)2 = -12(y – 5) c. (𝑥 + 3)2 = 36(y – 5)
b. (x + 3)2 = -24(y – 5) d. (𝑥 – 3)2 = 48(y – 5)
6. A parabola with an equation -5y2 – 20x = 0 has its center at the origin. Where is the axis
and opening?
a. Vertical, upward c. Horizontal, right
b. Vertical, downward d. Horizontal, left
7. How long is the latus rectum of the parabola with an equation y2 – 8x – 4y + 20 = 0?
a. 2 units c. 8 units
b. 4 units d. 16 units
8. Given the equation (x – 6)2 = 24(y + 1), how far is the vertex of this parabola from its
focus?
a. 3 units c. 9 units
b. 6 units d. 12 units
9. Which of the following equations represents a parabola that opens upward and has a
focal width that is 30 units long?
a. x2 = 120y c. y2 = 120x
b. x2 = 30y d. y2 = 30x
10. Which of the following parabolas has a directrix that passes through y = -7?
a. x2 = -28y c. y2 = -28x
b. x2 = 28y d. y2 = 28x

3 |Precalculus Module 2 – Parabolas

 Feedback

Check if your answers are the same with those in your Key to Correction to be sent to you
by your teacher. If you got a perfect score, that’s great! You are already familiar with the contents
of this module. However, you may still need to study this module to refresh your memory and
learn new concepts. If your score is 6-8, you already have an idea with the content of this module.
If your score is 5 and below, please read the module carefully. This way, you can familiarize
yourself with the topics to be discussed.

How Do You Rate Yourself?

SELF-RATING COMPETENCY CHECKLIST

I can do this,
I cannot
I can do this but I need to I am learning
do this
Learning Competency very well learn more and how to do this
yet
(Expert) improve (Apprentice)
(Novice)
(Practitioner)
Define a parabola

Determine the standard form

and general form of equation
of a parabola

Transform the standard form

of equation into general
form, and vice versa

Graph a parabola in a
rectangular coordinate
system

Solve situational problems

involving parabolas

4 |Precalculus Module 2 – Parabolas

 Lesson Understanding the General and
1 Standard Equations of a Parabola

Lesson Objectives:
At the end of this
lesson, you should be
able to:
1. define a parabola
2. determine the
standard form and
general form of
equation of a
parabola

Have you ever tried playing the video game, Angry Birds? This is about the birds that are
angry towards the culprits who steal their eggs. To retrieve their eggs, they sling themselves
through the air to hit the culprits. To do this, we can observe that the motion they go through
creates a curve path as shown in the illustration.
The broken curve lines indicate the motion path that the red angry bird must pass through
so he can hit the enemy! The curve that is formed is called a parabola.
When you were in Grade 9, the parabolas have been discussed as the graph of quadratic
functions. In the lessons in Module 2, you will find out the other characteristics of the parabola
— its parts, forms, openings, and properties as one of the conic sections.

5 |Precalculus Module 2 – Parabolas

 The second module focuses on exploring the concept of parabola.
Given a double-napped cone and a plane parallel to the side of the cone
and intersects one of the two cones, a curve called parabola is formed.

Let’s Study

Parabolas
A parabola is a set of all points on the coordinate plane that are of equal distance from a
fixed point and a fixed line.
Just like the circle, the equation of a parabola can also be expressed and written in general
or standard form.
A. The general form of the equation is where D, E, and F are constants:
1. y2 + Dx + Ey + F = 0
example: y2 – 4x + 6y + 17 = 0
2. x2 + Dx + Ey + F = 0
example: x2 + 6x – 12y + 21 = 0

B. The standard form or the vertex form of the equation is where h and k the
coordinates of the vertex, and P is the length of the focus.
1. (y – k)2 = 4p(x – h)
example: (y – 3)2 = 4(x – 2)
2. (x – h)2 = 4p(y – k)
example: (x + 5)2 = -8(y – 1)
3. y2 = ±4px
example: y2 = 16x
4. x2 = ±4py
example: x2 = -56y

6 |Precalculus Module 2 – Parabolas

Transforming the Equations of a Parabola from the General Form to
Standard Form/Vertex Form
It is very essential to learn how to transform a general form of equation to its standard
form, especially in cases of graphing a curve on the rectangular coordinate system. Below are the
suggested steps when changing the equation of a parabola from general form to standard form.
Steps:
1. Group the terms with same variables.
2. Move the remaining terms to the right side of the equation.
3. Create a perfect square trinomial by completing the squares. Whatever terms you
have added to the left side should also be added to the right side to keep the
equation true.
4. Simplify both sides of the equation.
5. Express the perfect square trinomials as square of binomials to make the equation
in the vertex form.

EXAMPLE 1
Transform the equation of a parabola y2 – 4x – 12y + 28 = 0 to standard form.

Step 1. Group the terms with same variables.

y2 – 4x – 12y + 28 = 0
(y2 – 12y) – 4x + 28 = 0
Step 2. Move the remaining terms to the right side of the equation.
(y2 – 12y) = 4x – 28
Step 3. Create a perfect square trinomial by completing the squares. Whatever terms you
have added to the left side should also be added to the right side to keep the
equation true.
(y2 – 12y) + 36 = 4x – 28 + 36
Step 4. Simplify both sides of the equation.
y2 – 12y + 36 = 4x + 8
Step 5. Express the perfect square trinomials as square of binomials to make the equation
in the vertex form.
(y2 – 6) = 4x + 8
(y2 – 6) = 4(x + 2)

Therefore, the standard form of y2 – 4x – 12y + 28 = 0 is (y2 – 6) = 4(x + 2).

7 |Precalculus Module 2 – Parabolas

Transforming the Equations of a Parabola from Standard Form to
General Form
When transforming a general form of equation to standard form, use the completing the
square method. It means that you have to reverse the process when you changed the equation
from standard form to general form. The steps are enumerated below.
1. Square the binomial and expand.
2. Place all the terms to the left side of the equation.
3. Simplify the equation by combining all like terms.
4. Write the equation in general form: x2 + Dx + Ey+ F = 0 or y2 + Dx + Ey + F = 0.
EXAMPLE 2
Transform the equation of a parabola (y + 5)2 = -2(x – 7) to general form.

Step 1. Square the binomial and expand.

(y + 5)2 = -2(x – 7)
y2 + 10y + 25 = -2x + 14
Step 2. Place all the terms to the left side of the equation.
y2 + 10y + 25 + 2x – 14 = 0
Step 3. Simplify the equation by combining all like terms.
y2 + 10y + 2x + 25 – 14 = 0
y2 + 10y + 2x + 11 = 0
Step 4. Write the equation in general form.
y2 + 10y + 2x + 11 = 0
Therefore, the general form of the given parabola is y2 + 10y + 2x + 11 = 0.

Let’s Try This

Activity 1. TRANSFORMING EQUATIONS

A. Transform each equation to vertex form.

1. x2 + 4x – 8y + 4 = 0
2. y2 – 8x + 5y – 13 = 0
B. Transform each equation to general form.
3. (x – 7)2 = 24(y + 1)
4. (y + 4)2 = -32(x – 5)

8 |Precalculus Module 2 – Parabolas

 Let’s Remember!

To change the general form of equation into standard form, the following steps can be applied:
1. Group the terms with same variables.
2. Move the constant term to the right side of the equation. When moving the term to
the other side, its sign must be changed.
3. Create two Perfect Square Trinomials by completing the square. Balance the equation.
Whatever terms you have added to the left side must also be added to the right.
4. Simplify both sides of the equation.
5. Transform the perfect square trinomials into square of binomials to make the equation
look like the vertex form.

To change the standard form of equation to general form, the following steps can be applied:
1. Square the two binomials.
2. Place all terms to the left side of the equation.
3. Simplify the equation by combining all like terms.
4. Follow the general form: y2 + Dx + Ey + F = 0 or x2 + Dx + Ey + F = 0

9 |Precalculus Module 2 – Parabolas

 Lesson Sketching the Graph of a Parabola
2 in a Rectangular Coordinate System

Lesson Objectives:
At the end of this
lesson, you should be
able to:
1. Graph a
parabola in a
rectangular
coordinate
system

In Lesson 1, you learned about Parabola as one of the Conic Sections that is formed when
there is a double-napped cone and a plane parallel to the side of the cone and intersects one of
the two cones. The equation of a circle can be represented in general form or in standard form
(vertex form).
In this lesson, you will learn how to construct the graph of a parabola in a rectangular
coordinate system.

10 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
 Let’s Study

Parts and Characteristics of a Parabola

A parabola is the set of all points plane that are
equidistant from a fixed line called directrix and a
fixed point called its focus. It has four openings –
upward, downward, to the right, and to the left. The
lines that passes through the focus and is
perpendicular to the directrix is called the axis of
symmetry, while the point where the parabola
intersects axis of symmetry is called the vertex. It is
the point midway between the latus rectum and the
directrix. To determine the width of a parabola's opening, find/determine the length of its latus
rectum. Latus rectum is the line segment that passes through the focus of a parabola and is
perpendicular to the axis of symmetry. It is also sometimes called the focal width.

The 4 openings of parabolas with their respective equations in standard form.

11 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
Sketching the Graph of Parabola on a Rectangular Coordinate System
To graph a parabola given its equation, we have to determine its axis of symmetry and its
opening. A parabola can have a vertical or horizontal axis of symmetry. If the variable x of a given
equation is of the second-degree, then the parabola has a vertical axis of symmetry which means
that the parabola may be opening upward or downward. Meanwhile, if the variable y of a given
equation is of the second-degree, then the parabola has a horizontal axis of symmetry; thus, it
may be opening to the right or to the left.
Observe that the standard form of equations always contain the term 4p. This is a
constant term which represents the length of the parabola's latus rectum. Dividing this length by
four gives the length of the focus of a parabola (p). The value of p is actually the distance of the
vertex from its focus and is used to determine the direction of the parabola. If p > 0, then the
parabola may be opening upward or to the right. If p < 0, then the parabola may be opening
downward or to the left.

CASE 1. Characteristics of a Parabola with Vertex at the Origin (0, 0)

Axis of
Parabola Opening Focus Latus rectum Directrix
Symmetry
Length: 4p
Equation:
Right, if p > 0 Equation:
y2 = 4px Horizontal (p, 0) x = ±p
Left, if p < 0 x = -p
Endpoints:
(p, ±2p)
Length: 4p
Upward,
Equation:
if p > 0 Equation:
x2 = 4py Vertical (0, p) y = ±p
Downward, y = -p
Endpoints:
if p < 0
(p, ±2p)

Study the following examples.

EXAMPLE 1
Graph the parabola with an equation x2 = 20y.

Step 1. Locate the vertex of the parabola.

Since x2 = 20y belongs to Case 1, its vertex is at the origin (0, 0).
Step 2. Determine its axis of symmetry by considering the variable with the second
degree.
In the equation x2 = 20y, the variable x has the second degree which implies that
the given parabola has a vertical axis of symmetry.

12 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
Step 3. Identify the opening of the parabola by examining the value of its focus (p).

x2 = 20y 4py = 20y p=5

x2 = 4py 4p = 20

Since p > 0, then the parabola opens upward.

Step 4. Locate the focus of the parabola.
Since p = 5, the focus of the parabola is 5 units above the vertex. Thus, the focus
is at (0, 5).
Step 5. Locate the endpoints of the latus rectum.
To locate the endpoints of the latus rectum, we use ±2p = ±10. This means that
from the focus (0, 5), we move 10 units to the right and another 10 units to the
left. Therefore, the endpoints of the latus rectum are located at (-10, 5) and (10,
5).
Also, the length of the latus rectum is 20 units, which is actually the value of 4p
(the coefficient of x in the given example).
Step 6. The directrix can be located by using the value of p, but in the opposite direction
of the focus. So if we move 5 units upward from the vertex to locate the focus, we
have to move 5 units down from the vertex to locate the directrix. Since directrix
is a line, we can label it using an equation.

The graph of x2 = 20y is shown in the figure.

13 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
EXAMPLE 2
Graph the parabola with an equation x2 = -12y.
Step 1. Locate the vertex of the parabola.
Since = -12y belongs to Case 1, its vertex is at the origin (0, 0).
Step 2. Determine its axis of symmetry by considering the variable of the second degree.
In the equation x2 = -12y, the variable x has the second degree which implies that
the given parabola has a vertical axis of symmetry.
Step 3. Identify the opening of the parabola by examining the value of its focus (p).

x2 = -12y 4py = -12y p = -3

x2 = 4py 4p = -12

Since p < 0, then the parabola opens downward.

Step 4. Locate the focus of the parabola.
Since p = -3, the focus of the parabola is 3 units below the vertex. Thus, the focus
is at (0,-3).
Step 5. Locate the endpoints of the latus rectum.
To locate the endpoints of the latus rectum, we use ±2p = ±6. This means that
from the focus (0,-3), we move 6 units to the right and another 6 units to the left.
Therefore, the endpoints of the latus rectum are located at (-6, -3) and (6, -3).
Also, the length of the Iatus rectum is 12 units.
Step 6. Plot the directrix.
The directrix can be located by using the value
of p, but in the opposite direction of the focus.
So if we move 3 units down from the vertex to
locate the focus, we have to move 3 units
upward from the vertex to locate the directrix.
Since directrix is a line, we can label it using an
equation.

The graph of x2 = -12y is shown in the figure at

the right.

14 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
EXAMPLE 3
Graph the parabola with an equation x2 = -12y.
Step 1. Locate the vertex of the parabola.
The vertex of = -4x is at the origin (0, 0).
Step 2. Determine its axis of symmetry by considering the variable of the second degree.
In the equation y2 = -4x, the variable y has the second degree so it has a horizontal
axis of symmetry.
Step 3. Identify the opening of the parabola by examining the value of its focus (p).
y2 = -4y 4px= -4x p = -1
y2 = 4px 4p = -4

Since p < 0, then the parabola opens to the left.

Step 4. Locate the focus of the parabola.
Since p = -1, the focus of the parabola is 1 unit to the left of the vertex. Thus, the
focus is at (-1, 0).
Step 5. Locate the endpoints of the latus rectum.
To locate the endpoints of the latus rectum, we use ±2p = ±2. This means that
from the focus (-1, 0), we move 2 units upward and another 2 units downward.
Therefore, the endpoints of the latus rectum are located at (-1, 2) and (-1, -2).
Also, the length of the latus rectum is 4 units.
Step 6. Plot the directrix.
The directrix can be located by using the
value of p, but in the opposite direction of
the focus. So if we move 1 unit from the
vertex to the left to locate the focus; then,
we have to move 1 unit from the vertex to
the right to locate the directrix. Since
directrix is a line, we can label it using an
equation.

The graph of y2 = -4x is shown in the figure

at the right.

15 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
EXAMPLE 4
Graph the parabola with an equation y2 = 32y.
Step 1. Locate the vertex of the parabola.
The vertex of y2 = 32x is at the origin (0, 0).
Step 2. Determine its axis of symmetry by considering the variable of the second degree.
In the equation y2 = 32x, the variable y has the second degree, so it has a
horizontal axis of symmetry.
Step 3. Identify the opening of the parabola by examining the value of its focus (p).
y2 = -4y 4px= -4x p = -1
y2 = 4px 4p = -4

Since p > 0, then the parabola opens to the right.

Step 4. Locate the focus of the parabola.
Since p = 8, the focus of the parabola is 8 units to the right of the vertex. Thus, the
focus is at (8, 0).
Step 5. Locate the endpoints of the latus rectum.
To locate the endpoints of the latus rectum, we use ±2p = ±16. This means that
from the focus (8, 0), we move 16 units upward and another 16 units downward.
Therefore, the endpoints of the latus rectum are located at (8, 16) and (8, -16).
Also, the length of the latus rectum is 32 units.
Step 6. Plot the directrix.
The directrix can be located by using the value
of p, but in the opposite direction of the focus.
So if we move 8 units from the vertex to the
right to locate the focus, then we have to move
8 units from the vertex to the left, to locate the
directrix. Since directrix is a line, we can label
it using an equation.

The graph of y2 = 32x is shown in the figure at

the right.

16 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
CASE 2. Characteristics of a Parabola with Vertex at Point (h, k)
It is also possible to have a parabola whose vertex is not at the origin. The procedure when
plotting the vertex, focus, endpoints of latus rectum, and directrix will be the same. We need to
be careful in determining the coordinates of every point as well as the equation of its directrix.
The standard form of equations for these parabolas are as follows:
a. Vertical Axis of Symmetry: (y – k)2 = 4p(x – h)
b. Horizontal Axis of Symmetry: (x – h)2 = 4p(y – k)
where (h, k) represent the coordinates of the vertex of the parabola and 4p indicates the length
of the latus rectum.

Axis of
Parabola Opening Focus Latus rectum Directrix
Symmetry
Length: 4p
Equation:
Right, if p > 0 Equation:
(y – k)2 = 4p(x – h) Horizontal (h + p, k) x=h+p
Left, if p < 0 x=h–p
Endpoints:
(h + p, k ± 2p)
Length: 4p
Upward,
Equation:
if p > 0 Equation:
(x – h)2 = 4p(y – k) Vertical (h, k + p) y=k+p
Downward, y=k–p
Endpoints:
if p < 0
(h ± 2p, k + p)

Study the following examples.

EXAMPLE 5
Sketch the graph the parabola that has an equation (y + 3)2 = 4(x – 2).

Step 1. Locate the vertex of the parabola.

Since (y + 3)2 = 4(x – 2) belongs to Case 2, its vertex is determined by the values of
h and k.

(y + 3)2 = 4(x – 2) → (y – k)2 = 4p(x – h)

→ [y – (-3)]2 = 4[x – (2)]

Here, k = -3 and h = 2
Thus, the vertex of the parabola is at (2, -3).

Step 2. Determine its axis of symmetry by considering the variable of the second degree.

17 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
 In the equation (y + 3)2 = 4(x – 2), the variable y has the second degree which
implies that the given parabola has a horizontal axis of symmetry.
Step 3. Identify the opening of the parabola by examining the value of its focus (p).

(y + 3)2 = 4(x – 2)
(y – k)2 = 4p(x – h)
4p = 4
p=1
Since p > 0, then the parabola opens to the right.
Step 4. Locate the focus of the parabola.
Since p = 1, the focus of the parabola is 1 unit to the right of the vertex. Thus, the
focus is at (3,-3).
Step 5. Locate the endpoints of the latus rectum.
To locate the endpoints of the latus rectum, we use ±2p = ±2. This means that
from the focus (3,-3), we move 2 units upward and another 2 units downward.
Therefore, the endpoints of the latus rectum are located at (3, -1) and (3, -5).
Also, its length is 4 units, which is actually the value of 4p [the coefficient of (x –
h) on the given example].
Step 6. Plot the directrix.
The directrix can be located by using the value
of p, but in the opposite direction of the focus.
So if we move 1 unit from the vertex to the right
to locate the focus, then we have to move 1 unit
from the vertex to the left, to locate the
directrix. Since directrix is a line, we can label it
using an equation.

The graph of (y + 3)2= 4(x – 2) is shown in the

figure at the right.

18 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
EXAMPLE 6
Sketch the graph of the parabola that has an equation (x – 2)2 = 8y + 8.

Step 1. Transform the equation into standard form (vertex form).

(x – 2)2 = 8y + 8 → (x – 2)2 = 8(y + 1)
Step 2. Locate the vertex of the parabola using the vertex form of equation.

(x – 2)2 = 8(y + 1) → (x – h)2 = 4p(y – k)

→ (x – 2)2 = 8(y + 1)
→ (x – 2)2 = 8[y – (-1)]
Here, h = 2 and k = -1
Thus, the vertex of the parabola is at (2, -1).
Step 3. Determine its axis of symmetry by considering the variable of the second degree.
In the equation (x – 2)2 = 8(y + 1), the variable x has the second degree which
implies that the given parabola has a vertical axis of symmetry.
Step 4. Identify the opening of the parabola by examining the value of its focus (p).

(x – 2)2 = 8(y + 1)
(x – h)2 = 4p(y – k)
4p = 8
p=2

Since p > 0, then the parabola opens upward.

Step 5. Locate the focus of the parabola.
Since p = 2, the focus of the parabola is 2 units above the vertex. Thus, the focus
is at (2, 1).
Step 6. Locate the endpoints of the latus rectum.
To locate the endpoints of the latus rectum, we use ±2p = ±4. This means that
from the focus (2, 1), we move 4 units to the right and another 4 units to the left.
Therefore, the endpoints of the latus rectum are located at (6, 1) and (-2, 1).
Also, the length of the latus rectum is 8 units.
Step 7. Plot the directrix.
The directrix can be located by using the value of p, but in the opposite direction
of the focus. So if we move 2 units from 1 the vertex moving upward to locate the
focus, then we have to move 2 units from the vertex moving downward to locate
the directrix. Since directrix is a line, we can label it using an equation.

19 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
 The graph of (x – 2)2 = 8(y + 1) is shown -2 at
the right.

EXAMPLE 7
Sketch the graph of the parabola with an equation y2 – 12y – 4x + 28 = 0.

Step 1. Transform the equation into standard form (vertex form) by completing the
square method.

y2 – 12y – 4x + 28 = 0
(y2 – 12y) = 4x – 28
2
(y – 12y) + 36 = 4x – 28 + 36
y2 – 12y + 36 = 4x + 8
(y – 6)2 = 4x + 8
Thus, the standard form is (y – 6)2 = 4(x + 2).

Step 2. Locate the vertex of the parabola using the vertex form of equation.
(y – 6)2 = 4(x + 2) → (y – k)2 = 4(x – h)
→ (y – 6)2 = 4[x – (-2)]
Here, k = 6 and h= -2.

Thus, the vertex of the parabola is at (-2, 6).

Step 3. Determine its axis of symmetry by considering the variable of the second degree.
In the equation (y – 6)2 = 4(x + 2), the variable y has the second degree which
implies that the given parabola has a horizontal axis of symmetry.

20 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
Step 4. Identify the opening of the parabola by examining the value of its focus (p).
(y – 6)2 = 4(x + 2)
(y – k)2 = 4p(x – h)
4p = 4
p=1

Since p > 0, then the parabola opens to the right.

Step 5. Locate the focus of the parabola.
Since p = 1, the focus of the parabola is 1 unit to the right of the vertex. Thus, the
focus is at (-1, 6).
Step 6. Locate the endpoints of the latus rectum.
To locate the endpoints of the latus rectum, we use ±2p = ±2. This means that
from the focus (-1, 6), we move 2 units upward and another 2 units downward.
Therefore, the endpoints of the Iatus rectum are located at (-1, 8) and (-1, 4).
Also, the length of the latus rectum is 4 units.
Step 7. Plot the directrix.
The directrix can be located by using the value of p, but in the opposite direction
of the focus. So if we moved 2 units from the vertex moving upward to locate the
focus, then we have to move 2 units from the vertex moving downward to locate
the directrix. Since directrix is a line, we label it using an equation.

Let’s Try This

Activity 2. GRAPHING PARABOLAS

Sketch the graph of each parabola and label all its parts. Use a graphing paper to show your
answers.

Equation: (y – 0)2 = 4x – 4 Equation: (x + 3)2 = 16(y – 9)

Vertex: Vertex:
Axis of symmetry: Axis of symmetry:
Opening: Opening:
Focus: Focus:
Endpoints of latus rectum: Endpoints of latus rectum:
Length of latus rectum: Length of latus rectum:
Equation of directrix: Equation of directrix:

21 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
 Let’s Remember!

The following steps are followed in graphing a parabola in a rectangular coordinate system:
1. Write the equation in standard form (vertex form).
2. Locate the vertex of the parabola, using the vertex form of equation.
3. Determine its axis of symmetry by considering the variable with the second degree.
4. Identify the opening of the parabola by examining the value of its focus (p).
5. Locate the focus of the parabola.
6. Locate the endpoints of the latus rectum.
7. Plot the directrix.
8. Label all the parts of the parabola.

22 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
 Lesson Finding the Equation of a Parabola,
3 Given Certain Conditions

Lesson Objectives:
At the end of this
lesson, you should be
able to:
1. determine the
standard form
and general
form of
equation of a
parabola

From the previous lessons, you have learned how to transform the equation of a
parabola from general form to standard form, and vice versa. We have also discussed how
to sketch the graph of a parabola given its equation, whether in standard or general form.
In this lesson, you will learn to find the equation of a parabola given certain
conditions.

23 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
 Let’s Study

Study the following examples on how you can find the equations of a parabola, given its
vertex, focal length, axis of symmetry, and opening.
EXAMPLE 1
Write the standard form of equation of a parabola whose vertex is at the origin, has a focal length
of 5, has a horizontal axis of symmetry, and opens to the right.

Step 1. Identify the given information.

The vertex is at the origin, which means that the coordinates of the vertex
are (0, 0). Thus, h = 0 and k = 0.
The focal length is 5 which means that p = ±5. However, it is also given that
the parabola opens to the right, thus, p = 5.
The parabola has a horizontal axis of symmetry which implies that the
variable y is of the second degree.
Step 2. Determine what is asked.
The problem asks us to write the equation of a parabola in standard form.
Based from the given information, the variable y has the second degree;
therefore, we shall use the form (y – k)2 = 4p(x – h).
In this problem, (y – k)2 = 4p(x – h) will be the working equation.
Step 3. Substitute the given information in the working equation.
(y – k)2 = 4p(x – h)
(y – 0)2 = 4(5)(x – 0)
Step 4. Express the equation in its simplest form.

(y – 0)2 = 4(5)(x – 0)
y2 = 4(5)(x)
y2 = 20x
Therefore, the equation of the parabola in standard form is y2 = 20x.

24 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
EXAMPLE 2
Find the general form of equation of a parabola whose vertex is at the origin, has a focal length
of 7, has a vertical axis of symmetry, and opens downward.
Step 1. Identify the given information.
The vertex of the parabola is at the origin, thus, h = 0 and k = 0.
The focal length is 7 which means that p = ±7. But since it is also given that
the parabola opens downward, it indicates that p = -7.
The parabola has a vertical axis of symmetry which implies that the
variable x has the second degree.
Step 2. Determine what is asked.
The problem asks us to write the equation of a parabola in general form.
Based from the given information, the variable x has the second degree;
therefore, the equation must be in the form x2 + Dx + Ey + F = 0.
However, there are no values for D, E, and F yet; so, we have to derive
these by using the standard form (x – h)2 = 4p(y – k).
In this problem, (x – h)2 = 4p(y – k) will be the working equation.
Step 3. Substitute the given information in the working equation.
(x – h)2 = 4p(y – k)
(x – 0)2 = 4(-7)(y – 0)

Step 4. Express the equation in its simplest form.

(x – 0)2 = 4(-7)(y – 0)
x2 = -28y
Step 5. Transform the equation to general form.
x2 = -28y
x2 + 28y = 0

Therefore, the equation of the parabola in general form is x2 + 28y = 0.

25 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
 This time, study how you can find the equation of a parabola, given the vertex and the
directrix.

EXAMPLE 3
Find the equation of Circle S in standard form whose center is at the origin and has a diameter of
14 units.
Step 1. Identify the given information.
The vertex is at the (2, 3) which means that h = 2 and k = 3.
The focal length is unknown but the equation of the directrix is given. If the
directrix is x = 5, then it is 3 units far from the vertex, which implies that
the focal length of the parabola is also 3 units.
The directrix x = 5 also implies that the parabola has a horizontal axis of
symmetry and it opens to the left. Thus, p = -3.
Step 2. Determine what is asked.
The problem asks us to write the equation of a parabola in standard form.
Based from the given information, the variable y has the second degree;
therefore, we shall use the form (y – k)2 = 4p(x – h).
In this problem, (y – k)2 = 4p(x – h) will be the working equation.
Step 3. Substitute the given information in the working equation.

(y – k)2 = 4p(x – h)
(y – 3)2 = 4(-3)(x – 2)
Step 4. Express the equation in its simplest form.
(y – 3)2 = 4(-3)(x – 2)
(y – 3)2 = -12(x – 2)
Therefore, the equation of the parabola in standard form is
(y – 3)2 = -12(x – 2).

26 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
 In the following examples, see how you will find the equation of a parabola, given the
vertex, directrix, and focal width.
EXAMPLE 4
Write the standard form of equation of a parabola whose vertex is at the origin, hasa focal width
of 16 units, and has a directrix at x = -4.
Step 1. Identify the given information.
The vertex is at the origin. Thus, h = 0 and k = 0.
The focal width (length of latus rectum, 4p) is 16 units which means that p
= ±4.
The directrix of the parabola is at x = -4 which implies that it has a
horizontal axis of symmetry and it opens to the right. Therefore, p = 4.
Step 2. Determine what is asked.
The problem asks us to write the equation of a parabola in standard form.
Based from the given information, the variable y has the second degree;
therefore, we shall use the form (y – k)2 = 4p(x – h).
In this problem, (y – k)2 = 4p(x – h) will be the working equation.
Step 3. Substitute the given information in the working equation.

(y – k)2 = 4p(x – h)
(y – 0)2 = 4(4)(x – 0)
Step 4. Express the equation in its simplest form
(y – 0)2 = 4(4)(x – 0)
y2 = 16x
Therefore, the equation of the parabola in standard form is y2 = 16x.
______________________________________________________________________________
EXAMPLE 5
Find the standard form of equation of a parabola whose vertex is at (5, -1), has a focal width of
12 units, and has a directrix at y = 2.
Step 1. Identify the given information.
The vertex is at (5, -1). Thus, h = 5 and k = -1.
The focal width (length of latus rectum, 4p) is 12 units which means that p
is equal to ±3.

27 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
 The directrix of the parabola is at y = 2 which implies that it has a horizontal
axis of symmetry and it opens to the right. Therefore, p = -3.
Step 2. Determine what is asked.
The problem asks us to write the equation of a parabola i n standard form.
Based from the given information, the variable x has the second degree;
therefore, we shall use the form (x – h)2 = 4p(y – k).
In this problem, (x – h)2 = 4p(y – k) will be the working equation
Step 3. Substitute the given information in the working equation.
(x – h)2 = 4p(y – k)
(x – 5)2 = 4(-3)[y – (-1)]
Step 4. Express the equation in its simplest form

(x – 5)2 = 4(-3)[y – (-1)]

(x – 5)2 = 4(-3)(y + 1)
(x – 5)2 = -12(y + 1)
Therefore, the equation of the parabola in standard form is (x – 5)2 = -12(y + 1).

Let’s Try This

Activity 3. FINDING THE EQUATION OF A PARABOLA

A. Write the equation of the parabola being described in each item. Express your answers in
standard form.
1. The vertex of a parabola is at the origin and its focus is at (0, -4).
2. The latus rectum of a parabola has its endpoints at (-6, 3) and (6, 3) and its directrix is y
= -3.
B. Write the equation of the parabola using the given details. Express your answers in general
form.
5
1. vertex at (0,0) ; p = ; axis of symmetry is horizontal
2

28 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
 Let’s Remember!

1. The following are needed to find the equation of a parabola:

a. Coordinates of its vertex (h, k)
b. Focal length (p)
2. The focal length is equal to the distance of the vertex from the directrix.
3. The focal width or length of the latus rectum is four times the focal length.

29 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
 Lesson Solving Applied Problems
4 Involving Parabolas

Lesson
Objectives:
At the end of this
lesson, you
should be able to:
1. solve
situational
problems
involving
parabolas.

In the previous lesson, you learned about finding the equation of a circle, in which the
basic requirements are the coordinates of its vertex (h, k), and the focal length (p). In this lesson,
we shall discuss some real-life applications of parabolas in the coordinate plane.

30 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
 Let’s Study

Study the following examples:

EXAMPLE 1
A satellite dish is a parabola used to retrieve sounds or
other waves. Assuming the vertex is at (0,0), where would the
focus be on a satellite dish that is 12 feet wide and 2 feet
deep? Consider a parabola that has an upward orientation.
Step 1. Read, analyze, and visualize the
situation.
Step 2. Identify what is asked.
The situation asks us to locate the focus of the satellite dish, given its width
and depth.
Step 3. Identify the given information.

The satellite dish is 12 feet wide and 2 feet deep.

Step 4. Identify the equation that will model the given situation.

We can make an assumption that the parabolic satellite dish has its vertex
at (0, 0) and we consider that it has an upward orientation. Thus, we can
use x2 = 4py as the working equation, where x is the distance of an
endpoint of the satellite's width from its vertex; p is the focal length; and
y is the depth of the satellite dish. Thus x = 6, y = 2; and p is unknown.
x2 = 4py
(6)2 = 4p(2)
36 = 8p
p = 4.5

Step 5. Simplify the answer and label it with correct units.

Therefore, the focus of the satellite dish must be 4.5 feet from its vertex.

31 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
EXAMPLE 2
A suspension bridge has twin towers that are 125 meters high above the road and are 500 meters
apart. The cable is parabolic in shape and it ends are suspended from the top of the towers. The
cable touches the road surface at the center of the bridge. Find the height of the cable at a point
50 meters from the center.
Step 1. Read, analyze, and visualize the situation.

Step 2. Identify what is asked.

The situation asks us to determine the height of the cable at a point 50
meters from the center of the suspension bridge.
Step 3. Identify the given information.

The towers supporting the cables are 125 meters high and 500 meters
apart. The cable is parabolic in shape and its ends are suspended from the
top of the tower.

Step 4. Identify the equation that will model the given situation.
Making an assumption that the vertex of the cable is at (0, 0) and it has an
upward orientation since the ends of the cable are suspended from the top
of the tower, then x2 = 4py can be used as our working equation, where x
is the distance of a tower from the center of the bridge; p is a constant
value; and y is the height of the cable at a certain point from the center.
To solve the problem, determine the value of p.
Consider the point (250, 125). This implies that at a distance 250 meters
away from the center of the bridge, the height of the cable is 125 meters.

x2 = 4py
(250)2 = 4p(125)
62 500 = 500p
p = 125

32 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
 After determining the value of p, plug this in the equation and consider the
point (50, y).
The point (50, y) represents the point that is 50 meters from the center of
the bridge with its height unknown yet.

x2 = 4py
(50)2 = 4(125)y
2 500 = 500y
y=5

Step 5. Simplify the answer and label it with correct units.

Therefore, the cable at a point 50 meters from the center of the bridge is
5 meters high.

Let’s Remember!

To solve problems that involve parabolas, it will be helpful to apply the steps below:
 Read, analyze, and visualize the situation.
 Identify what is asked.
 Identify the given information.
 Identify the equation that will model the given situation.
 Simplify the answer and label it with correct units.

33 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
 How Much Have You Learned?

Solve the following problem.

1
The equation 𝑥 2 models the cross sections of parabolic mirrors which are used for solar
100
energy. If there is a tube located at the focus of each parabola, then how high is this tube located
above the vertex of the parabola?

Let’s Apply What You’ve Learned

Solve the following problem:

A searchlight has a parabolic reflector. This reflector has a cross section that forms a "bowl." The
parabolic bowl is 16 inches wide from rim to rim and 12 inches deep. The filament of the light
bulb is located at the focus. What is the distance between the lightbulb's filament and the vertex
of the bowl?

Suggested Readings and Writings

 Parabola Equations
https://mathbitsnotebook.com/Geometry/Equations/EQParabola.html
 Khan Academy
https://www.khanacademy.org/math/geometry/xff63fac4:hs-geo-conic-
sections/xff63fac4:hs-geo-parabola/v/equation-for-parabola-from-focus-and-
directrix#:~:text=Given%20the%20focus%20(h%2Ck,y%20%2D%20k)%5E2.

34 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas
 Glossary
Axis of symmetry - the lines that passes through the focus and is perpendicular to the directrix
Conic sections – described as the curves which can be derived from taking slices of a double-
napped cone
Directrix – a fixed line of the parabola
Double-napped cone – the image of two cones which are placed “nose to nose” with one
balanced perfectly on the other
Focus – a fixed point of the parabola
Focal length – length from the focus to the vertex
Latus rectum - the line segment that passes through the focus of a parabola and is perpendicular
to the axis of symmetry. It is also sometimes called the focal width.
Parabola – It has four openings – upward, downward, to the right, and to the left.
Vertex – the point where the parabola intersects axis of symmetry. It is the point midway
between the latus rectum and the directrix.

References

Mateo, R. et al. (2018). Precalculus for Senior High School. C & E Publishing, Inc.
Most Essential Learning Competencies Matrix, 2020
Precalculus Quarter 1 – Module 2: Definition of a Circle, 2020
Tamayo, J. et al. (2017). Conceptual Math and Beyond: Pre-Calculus. Brilliant Creations
Publishing, Inc.

Images used:
https://canva.com/education
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parabola#/media/File:Parts_of_Parabola.svg
https://saylordotorg.github.io/text_elementary-algebra/s12-05-graphing-parabolas.html

35 | P r e c a l c u l u s Module 2 – Parabolas