Question

a general formula for a parabola is $y^{2}=4px$.
what is the value of $p$ in the equation $y^{2}=-4x$?
$p = - 4$
$p = - 1$
$p = 1$
$p = 4$

Explanation:

Step1: Compare the given equations

Compare \(y^{2} = 4px\) and \(y^{2}=-4x\).
Since \(4p=-4\).

Step2: Solve for \(p\)

Divide both sides of \(4p = - 4\) by \(4\), we get \(p=\frac{-4}{4}=-1\).

Answer:

\(P = - 1\) (the second option)