- #1
Parametric equations are a set of equations that express the coordinates of a point on a curve or surface in terms of one or more parameters.
In parametric equations, the coordinates of a point are expressed in terms of parameters, while in Cartesian equations, the coordinates are expressed in terms of x and y.
Parametric equations allow for more flexibility and can represent more complex curves and surfaces. They are also useful in applications such as computer graphics and physics.
To graph parametric equations, plot points by substituting different values for the parameters and connecting them with a smooth curve. It is also helpful to use a graphing calculator or software.
Yes, parametric equations can be converted to Cartesian equations by eliminating the parameters and solving for x and y. However, this may result in more complex equations and the graph may lose some of its flexibility.