Question

the equation below describes a parabola. if a is positive, which way does the parabola open?

x = ay²

a. down
b. right
c. left
d. up

Explanation:

Step1: Recall the standard form of a parabola

The standard form of a parabola is \(x = ay^{2}+by + c\). When \(a>0\), the parabola opens to the right. When \(a < 0\), the parabola opens to the left.

Step2: Analyze the given equation

In the equation \(x=ay^{2}\), \(b = 0\) and \(c = 0\). Since \(a\) is positive, by the property of the standard form of the parabola \(x = ay^{2}+by + c\), the parabola opens to the right.

Answer:

B. Right