parametric equations
What parametric equations means in Mathematics A-Level, as defined for AQA, WJEC.
Definitions of parametric equations
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Reference: WJEC
Equations that express the Cartesian coordinates x and y independently as functions of a third variable or parameter t, so x = f(t) and y = g(t).
Equations that describe a curve by expressing x and y separately in terms of a third variable, often time t.
Topics that use parametric equations
- C: Coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane (AQA A-Level)
- Coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane (A2 Unit 3: Pure Mathematics B) (WJEC A-Level)
Related terms
- Completing the square
- curve sketching
- Eliminating the parameter
- Gradients and intercepts
- Mathematical modelling
- motion in a plane
- Parallel and perpendicular lines
- Parameter
Using parametric equations in the exam
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