Parabola Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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parabola
[pəˈræbələ ]
Definition
mathematics shape
A parabola is a symmetrical, open plane curve formed by the intersection of a cone with a plane parallel to its side. It is defined mathematically as the set of all points in a plane that are equidistant from a fixed point called the focus and a fixed line called the directrix.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The path of a thrown ball is a parabola.
- In geometry, the parabola is described using a quadratic equation.
- Parabolas arise in physics when calculating projectile motion.
Translations
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Origin of 'parabola'
The term 'parabola' comes from the Greek word 'parabole,' which means 'to place side by side.' It was initially used in the context of geometric figures and later adapted into mathematics. The concept of the parabola has been studied since ancient times, with early contributions from mathematicians like Apollonius of Perga, who systematically described the properties of conic sections, including parabolas. The study of parabolas was further developed during the Renaissance, where the connection between algebra and geometry was formalized. Today, parabolas are key elements in various fields, including physics, engineering, and computer graphics, showcasing their significance beyond pure mathematics.