Ones own work
- 2. Real-life Examples of a Parabola Parabolas are a set of points in one plane that form a U-shaped curve, but the application of this curve is not restricted to the world of mathematics. It can also be seen in objects and things around us in our everyday life. Buzzle lists out some real- life examples and their importance, which will help you understand this curve better. A parabola is a two-dimensional, somewhat U-shaped figure. This curve can be described as a locus of points, where every point on the curve is at equal distance from the focus and the directrix. We cannot call any U-shaped curve as a parabola; it is essential that every point on this curve be equidistant from the focus and directrix. The equation of a parabolic curve can be given by a graph of a quadratic function, like y = x2. Here is a figure to help you understand the concept of a parabola better.
- 3. Real-life Applications Satellite Dish A satellite dish is a perfect example of the reflective properties of parabolas mention earlier. The signals that are received are directly sent to the focus, which are then correctly reflected to a receiver (signals are sent out parallel to the axis). These signals are then interpreted and are transmitted as channels on our TV. The same principle applies to radio frequencies too. Parabolic mirrors and heaters also work on the same principle. Headlight This is the same principle like the one used in a torch. The inner surface is smooth and made of glass which makes it a powerful reflector. The principle used here is that the light source is at the focus, and the light rays will be reflected parallel to the axis. This is the reason one can see a thick focused beam of light emitting from a headlight.
- 4. Suspension Bridge If one is to observe suspension bridges, the shape of the cables which suspend the bridge resemble a parabolic curve. There has been sufficient confusion about whether the cables are suspended in a parabola or a catenary. Studies show that the shape is nearer to a parabola. The cables would have been hyperbolic, but when a uniform load (the horizontal deck) is present, they get deformed like a parabola. Path of an Object in Air
- 5. Take the example of any object thrown up in the air. It goes up in the air till its highest attainable height or point and then comes down back to the ground. If one is to trace the path of the object, the resulting curve obtained is a parabola. Fountains Fountains spray water in the air, the water jet propels upwards reaching a specific altitude, and then comes back. Again the path traced by the stream of water is similar to a parabola.