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The Conic Sections in Polar Coordinates

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Visit this site: http://online.redwoods.cc.ca.us/instruct/darnold/MultCalc/PolarConics/conics.htm
Author:David Arnold; Mathematics Dept., College of the Redwoods, CA
Description: An interactive study of the polar form of the equation for a conic section, for readers familiar with polar coordinates and triangle trigonometry. This activity is also a vehicle for the introduction of the Geometer's Sketchpad, though no prior experience with the program is assumed. The focus-directrix definition of the conic section; how to create the basic sketch; finding the eccentricity; computing the radial length; transforming; dynamic geometry (see both branches of the hyperbola traced by dragging a point around the circumference of the circle); locus and animation; and further exploration.
Levels: High School (9-12), College
Languages: English
Resource Types: Lesson Plans and Activities, Tutorials, Geometer's Sketchpad
Math Topics: Conic Sections and Circles, Coordinate Plane Geometry

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