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

4998 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Find dy/dx when y=(3x-1)^10


y = 2x^3 + 15x^2 + 24x + 10 Find the stationary points on this curve and determine their nature


Explain the Chain Rule


differentiate y=8x^3 - 4*x^(1/2) + (3x^2 + 2)/x


We're here to help

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

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning