parametric equations

shizzy

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Joined
Aug 10, 2005
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19
Trying to learn parametric equations. I have this problem that gives the following for x and y, and also gives 6 graphs and I'm suppose to figure out which graph it goes with. My question is whether or not the parameter can be eliminated or if I'm suppose to figure out which graph it is some other way? I have no idea how to get the graphs on here or I would. Here is the problem:

x = tcost
y = tsint

When I solve it the normal way I get x^2 + y^2 = t^2 and that just doesnt seem useful to me. How am I suppose to graph this parametric equation??
 
First a comment on notation: Please use parentheses!
It should be sin(t) and cos(t) because they are functions!
Having said that, I agree that you are not going to eliminate the parameter.
paragr2qk.gif
 
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