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On y²=4tx, P has x-coordinate 2t. Find PF.

Read the idea, work independently, then explain what changed.

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高二選擇性必修 第一册(A版).pdf · 3.3 · PDF 135 / printed page 130

Revisit first: Hyperbola

TOPIC 01

Parabola

Relate focus, directrix and vertex, and retain conditions in line-parabola intersections.

What you will be able to explain

  • Relate focus, directrix and vertex, and retain conditions in line-parabola intersections.
  • Justify the method and check the conditions in a new situation.

Try it. Leave your reasoning visible.

Use one hint at a time. A correction explains what changed, not just the final answer.

01 / Standard#Your turn

On y²=4tx, P has x-coordinate 2t. Find PF.

t=9t=9
  • a must be nonzero; a parabola has a vertex and no center of symmetry.
Skills and prerequisite lessons

Working and explanation

BUILD THE REASONING

Hint 1
Translate the geometric condition into a coordinate equation.
Hint 2
Use this intermediate relation.
PF=dist⁡(P,x=−t)PF=\operatorname{dist}(P,x=-t)
Worked solution
  1. Translate the geometric condition into a coordinate equation.

  2. Apply the stated relation and retain its conditions.

    PF=∣18+9∣=27PF=|18+9|=27
  3. Use equal distance to focus and directrix without solving y.

The requested value is 27.

Checks and common pitfalls: Use equal distance to focus and directrix without solving y.

Think first. Reveal a hint when the class is ready.

Focus on one question

Teacher preparation and assessment

Question sequence

  • Relate focus, directrix and vertex, and retain conditions in line-parabola intersections.
  • Which condition is essential in parabola?
  • How does changing the sign of a alter y²=4ax?

Board plan

  • Focus-directrix: y²=4ax has focus (a,0) and directrix x=−a.
  • Nondegeneracy: a must be nonzero; a parabola has a vertex and no center of symmetry.

Anticipated thinking

  • For y²=2px the focal coordinate is p/2, not p.

Assessment checklist

  • 1 mark: choose the correct representation and conditions.
  • 1 mark: establish the intermediate relation.
  • 1 mark: complete a connected calculation or proof.
  • 1 mark: interpret and check the conclusion.

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Curriculum and source notes ↗