What is a parametric equation?

A parametric equation is one that is defined in terms of a single parameter, usually called t.
This means that, instead of the standard geometric equation, where y and x are defined by each other, e.g. y=3x, they are defined by this other parameter, e.g. y=t, x=t/3, where t is the input.
Both of the examples given are the same, merely in a different format, it's important to understand how to rearrange a parametric equation into a geometric equation.
All you have to do is rearrange to find t on it's own, and then equate the two:
y=t,
x=t/3, 3x=t=y, y=3x.

JB
Answered by James B. Maths tutor

4781 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Differentiate y = x(x+3)^4


Solve the inequality x^2 – 5x – 14 > 0.


How do you differentiate y=cox(x)/sin(x)?


Differentiate y=(4x - 5)^5 by using the chain rule.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences