Chapter 10: Problem 14
Name the conic or limiting form represented by the given equation. Usually you will need to use the process of completing the square. $$ 4 x^{2}-24 x+35=0 $$
Short Answer
Expert verified
The given equation represents a parabola.
Step by step solution
01
Identify the Conic Equation
The given equation is a quadratic equation in the form of \( ax^{2} + bx + c = 0 \). Our equation is \( 4x^{2} - 24x + 35 = 0 \). This equation is that of a parabola because it is a quadratic equation with no other variables involved (like \( y \)).
02
Group and Factor Coefficient of x²
First, rewrite the equation as \( 4(x^{2} - 6x) + 35 = 0 \). This groups the quadratic and linear terms together for ease in completing the square.
03
Complete the Square
To complete the square, take the coefficient of \( x \), which is \( -6 \), halve it to get \( -3 \), and then square it to ( 9 \ . Add and subtract \( 9 \) inside the parentheses: \[ 4(x^{2} - 6x + 9 - 9) + 35 = 0 \] Re-arrange to: \[ 4((x-3)^{2} - 9) + 35 = 0 \]
04
Simplify the Equation
Distribute the \( 4 \) and simplify the equation: \[ 4(x-3)^2 - 36 + 35 = 0 \] becomes \[ 4(x-3)^2 - 1 = 0 \].
05
Set Equation to Standard Form of a Parabola
Solve for \( 4(x-3)^2 \) by moving \( -1 \) to the other side to obtain \( 4(x-3)^2 = 1 \). This confirms the equation represents a parabola because it's a squared term equal to a constant.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Parabola
A parabola is a U-shaped curve that can open upwards, downwards, or sideways, although in the situation of the equation given, it opens upwards or downwards. Parabolas are a specific type of conic section, which are curves obtained by slicing a cone with a plane.
- They can be represented by quadratic equations of the form \( ax^2 + bx + c = 0 \).
- The vertex of the parabola is its highest or lowest point, depending on its orientation.
- Parabolas can model numerous real-life situations such as the path of a projectile.
Completing the Square
Completing the square is a technique used to transform a quadratic equation into a perfect square trinomial. This process is extremely useful for solving quadratic equations, integrating functions, and analyzing the properties of parabolas. The basic steps in completing the square involve:
- Taking the coefficient of the linear term (\( x \)), halve it, and then square the result.
- Adding and subtracting this squared value inside the quadratic expression.
- Simplifying the expression to form a perfect square trinomial.
Quadratic Equation
The quadratic equation is a foundational concept in algebra and conic sections. It represents a second-degree polynomial and has the general form:\[ ax^2 + bx + c = 0 \]Here are some key elements:
- \(a\), \(b\), and \(c\) are coefficients where \(a eq 0\).
- It can be solved using different methods: factoring, completing the square, or using the quadratic formula.
- The solutions of a quadratic equation are called its roots, which can be real or complex numbers.