What is the name of the line that is perpendicular to the axis of symmetry and is equidistant to the focus from the vertex?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about a geometric concept related to conics, specifically identifying a line that is defined as perpendicular to the axis of symmetry and equidistant from the focus and vertex. This indicates knowledge about conic sections, particularly parabolas.
Answer
Directrix
The line that is perpendicular to the axis of symmetry and equidistant to the focus from the vertex is called the directrix.
Answer for screen readers
The line that is perpendicular to the axis of symmetry and equidistant to the focus from the vertex is called the directrix.
More Information
In a parabola, the directrix is a line that, along with the focus, helps define the parabola's shape. Points on the parabola are equidistant from the directrix and the focus.
Tips
Confusing the terms can occur. The latus rectum is related to the parabola but specifically refers to the line segment through the focus.
Sources
- Parabola Equations - MathBitsNotebook(A2) - mathbitsnotebook.com
- Parabola - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
AI-generated content may contain errors. Please verify critical information
