Subject: Parabolic Reflector Curve

From: [email-masked] (WHIPPERSNAPPER)
Date: 18 Jul 1995 03:09:13 GMT

A brief search having revealed nothing, I'll put the question to all and
sundry:  What is the mathematical formula of a parabola?

I'd like to produce an accurate template for each of several parabolic
reflectors with varying focal lengths.

I have no less than three separate applications for these things; a
small solar oven, an IR sensor (with a weak and distant source) and a
directional microphone.

Thanks in advance to the many I know will kindly respond.
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 þ OLX 2.1 TD þ Proofread carefully to see if you any words out.

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From: [email-masked] (Nick Pine)
Date: 18 Jul 1995 16:35:19 -0400

y^2 = 4 f x works, for a parabola aimed at the horizon with focal length f.

Nick