Parametrization of Implicitly Defined Functions

Olivia King
7 min read
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Study Guide Overview
This study guide covers parametrization of implicit functions, focusing on how to represent curves using parametric equations x(t) and y(t). It explains the general concept of parametrization and provides examples, including the unit circle. The guide details parametrization techniques for functions, inverse functions, parabolas, ellipses, and hyperbolas, emphasizing key formulas and potential pitfalls. It also includes practice questions and exam tips covering common question types, time management strategies, and important reminders for the final exam.
#AP Pre-Calculus: Parametrization of Implicit Functions - The Night Before 🌃
Hey, future AP Calc master! Let's make sure you're totally prepped for tomorrow's exam. We're diving into parametrizing implicitly defined functions, which sounds fancy but is totally doable. Think of it as giving curves a voice using a parameter, usually 't'. Let's get started!
#Parametrization: Giving Curves a Voice 🗣️
#What's Parametrization?
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Parametrization is like giving a curve a set of coordinates that depend on a single variable, 't'. Instead of just x and y, we have x(t) and y(t). These equations describe the curve as 't' changes.
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Think of it like a GPS: 't' tells you where you are on the curve at any given moment. 📍
The key idea is that when you plug x(t) and y(t) into the original equation of the curve, it should always be true for all values of 't' in the domain. This is how you know you have a valid parametrization.
#Example: The Unit Circle 🎯
- The equation x² + y² = 1 describes a circle. A parametrization is:
- x(t) = cos(t)
- y(t) = sin(t)
- Domain: 0 ≤ t < 2π
- Substitute these into the original equation:
- cos²(t) + sin²(t) = 1 (which is always true!)
#Parametrizing Functions: y = f(x) 📈
- If you have a function y = f(x), you can parametrize it as:
- x(t) = t
- y(t) = f(t)
- Imagine 't' moving along the x-axis, and f(t) gives you...

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