Each conic section has its own equation in standard form and is a form of the general equation for conic sections. You will study those specific equations in a different lesson. The general form of the equation for conic sections is:

Ax² + Bxy + Cy² + Dx + Ey + F = 0

General form is the same for all of the conic sections. The values of the coefficients determine the type of conic section. For this section, we will let B = 0.

Interpreting the Parameters A and C

Below is a screen shot and link to an online applet. Click on the image to launch a new window/tab and follow the directions below. When you are done with this exercise, close the window/tab to return to this lesson.

1. Use the slider to set the value for B to zero.
2. Use the sliders to set the values for A and C as shown in the table below.
3. Use a word processing document, a spreadsheet, or a sheet of paper to create and complete a table like the one shown below. The first one is done for you.
4. After you complete your table, mouse over the table above to check your answers.

Follow this link to find a Quadratic Relation Applet for further practice.