WHAT I CAN DO

Task: In short bond paper, cite five examples that exhibit parabola and explain the properties on
how each part of the parabola works on the example.

Satellite Dish
When a beam hits the curved dish, the parabola shape
reflects the radio signal inward onto a particular point, just
like a concave mirror focuses light onto a particular point.
Signals that go directly to the satellite will reflect off and back
to the receiver after bouncing off the focus due to parabolas
reflective properties.

Parabola in Architecture
In structures, their curve represents an efficient method of
load, and so can be found in bridges and in architecture in a
variety of forms. Parabolas are often spun around a central axis
in order to create a concave shape used in building designs.
When a particular shape is created by spinning a parabola, this
shape is called parabolic.

Suspension Bridges
a parabola represents the profile of the cable of a suspended-
deck suspension bridge. The curve of the cable created by the
chains follows the curve of a parabola. The cable of a
suspension bridge is under tension from holding up the bridge.
Therefore, the cables of a suspension bridge is a parabola,
because the weight of the deck is equally distributed on the
curve.
 Parabolic Heaters
The defining characteristic of a parabolic heater is the
deflection plate that is able to spread the heat out in many
directions. This is an advantage over standard space heaters
that blow heat in one direction. One reason parabolic heater
are gaining in popularity is their efficiency.

Parabolic Solar Furnace

A solar furnace is a structure that uses concentrated solar
power to produce high temperatures from its focus, usually for
industry. Parabolic mirrors or heliostats concentrate light
(Insolation) onto a focal point. Its heat can be used to generate
electricity, melt steel, make hydrogen fuel or nanomaterials.
 WHAT I CAN DO
A satellite dish is 24 ft. in diameter at its opening and 4ft. deep in its center. Where
should the receiver be placed?

(-12,4) (12,4)
H
H

(0,4)
H

x^2= 4py
x=12
(12)^2= 4p(4)
y=4
144=16p
9=p

p=9
The receiver should be 9 ft. above the vertex.