ABSTRACT
Some curves are easier to describe using a pair of parametric equations. Parametric equations are useful in defining three-dimensional curves and surfaces, such as determining the velocity or acceleration of a particle following a three-dimensional path. CAD systems use parametric versions of equations. Sometimes in engineering, differentiation of parametric equations is necessary, for example, when determining the radius of curvature of part of the surface when finding the surface tension of a liquid. Knowledge of standard differentials and the function of a function rule are needed to be able to differentiate parametric equations. The chapter describes parametric equations – ellipse, parabola, hyperbola, rectangular hyperbola, cardioids, asteroid and cycloid.
