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Slicing the Cone to Create Parabolas

In other math classes, you learned about the parabola, but if you didn't pay attention, you better take this quick Parabola Refresher Course.
Below you will see how parabolas can be formed by slicing the double-napped cone.
In the following action figure, practice slicing the double-napped cone to explore when parabolas are formed.
When you are finished, answer the questions in the question box below to check your understanding of how the double-napped cone can be sliced to create parabolas.
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How does this applet work?
What do m and b represent?


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