Question

(With a TI-89 calculator)

Graph x(t) = 3t^2 and y(t)=2-2t on [0,1]. Write a Cartesian equation that models this graph. Identify the initial and terminal points.

I graphed both equations, but I didn't really get what [0,1] meant. I think it's an interval. Also, with the Cartesian equation, I tried doing it algebraically:

y(t) = 2-2t
y-2 = -2t
t=(y-2)/-2

x=3[(y-2)/-2] ?

I'm also not sure about the terminal and initial point. Help please?

Thank you!

Answer 1

[0,1] means that you only need to graph the equation from t=0 to t=1

The initial point can be found by (x(0), y(0)); the terminal point is (x(1), y(1))

Answer 2

Thanks! That really helps.

However, what about the Cartesian equation? Am I on the right track with that?