How to write the equation of a parabola in conic sections, given vertex and directrix

The video tutorial covers plotting a vertex and identifying the directrix of a parabola. It explains the orientation of a parabola relative to its directrix and introduces the formula for a vertical parabola. The tutorial also discusses calculating the value of P, which is the distance from the vertex to the focus, and concludes with understanding the distance from the vertex to the directrix.

What is the first step in plotting a parabola according to the teacher?

• Draw the axis of symmetry

• Calculate the focus

• Label the vertex

• Label the directrix

How does a parabola open in relation to its directrix?

• Away from the directrix

• Perpendicular to the directrix

• Parallel to the directrix

• Towards the directrix

What is the formula used for a vertical parabola?

• Y - K^2 = 4P(X - H)

• Y - K = 4P(X - H)^2

• X - H = 4P(Y - K)^2

• X - H^2 = 4P(Y - K)

What does 'P' represent in the context of a parabola?

• The distance from the vertex to the directrix

• The distance from the vertex to the focus

• The distance from the focus to the directrix

• The distance from the vertex to the axis of symmetry

If the distance from the vertex to the directrix is 2, what is the value of 'P'?

• 2

• -2

• 1

• -1