SOLUTION: Hello, I would like to know if it's possible to calculate the equation {{{a*x^2-b*x-c}}} of a parabola from more than 3 coordinates (x;y). I have done the equation for 3 coor

Algebra ->  Quadratic Equations and Parabolas -> SOLUTION: Hello, I would like to know if it's possible to calculate the equation {{{a*x^2-b*x-c}}} of a parabola from more than 3 coordinates (x;y). I have done the equation for 3 coor      Log On


   

Question 1090588: Hello,
I would like to know if it's possible to calculate the equation a%2Ax%5E2-b%2Ax-c of a parabola from more than 3 coordinates (x;y).
I have done the equation for 3 coordinates:

b+=+%28%28y1+-+y2%29+-+a%2A%28x1%5E2+-+x2%5E2%29%29+%2F+%28x1+-+x2%29
c+=+y1+-+a%2Ax1%5E2+-+b%2Ax1
Thanks in advance
Answer by Alan3354(69443) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
I would like to know if it's possible to calculate the equation a%2Ax%5E2-b%2Ax-c of a parabola from more than 3 coordinates (x;y).
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If it's known to be a parabola, 3 points define it.
The 4th point may not be on the parabola.
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If all 4 points are on it, use any 3 of them.
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A similar question:
Can you use 3 (or more) points to find the equation of a straight line?