A general formula for a parabola is x² = 4py. What is the value of p in the equation x² = 12y?

Solution:

Given general formula for a parabola is x² = 4py ………….(a)

Also given that x² = 12y …………..(b)

Equating (a) and (b), we get

x2 = 4py ≅ x 2 = 12y

⇒ 4py = 12y

Canceling the 'y' on either sides, we get

⇒ 4p= 12 p= 3

A general formula for a parabola is x² = 4py. What is the value of p in the equation x² = 12y?

Summary:

When the general formula for a parabola is x² = 4py. The value of p in the equation x² = 12y is 3.