Question

a general formula for a parabola is $y^2 = 4px$. what is the value of $p$ in the equation $y^2 = -4x$? $p = -4$ $p = -1$ $p = 1$ $p = 4$

Explanation:

Step1: Compare the given equations

We have the general formula \( y^2 = 4px \) and the given equation \( y^2=-4x \). We can rewrite the given equation to match the form of the general formula. So, \( y^2 = 4(-1)x \).

Step2: Identify the value of \( p \)

By comparing \( y^2 = 4(-1)x \) with \( y^2 = 4px \), we can see that \( p=-1 \).

Answer:

\( p = -1 \) (corresponding to the option: \( P=-1 \))