CONIC SECTIONS Graphing Circles (Page 1 of 9)

Let's graph the circle (x+3)^2+(y-4)^2 = 36. Because a circle is not a function, it cannot be graphed in function mode as a single curve. We must first isolate y: y = 4+-sqrt(36-(x+3)^2). In doing so, we are representing the circle as the union of two functions. The function with the addition will be the upper semicircle, and the function with the subtraction will be the lower semicircle. Enter the functions separately as Y1 and Y2.

 Y= key. (Clear any previous functions)

 4 Plus key. 2nd Square root key. 36 Minus key. Left parenthesis key. X,T,theta,n key. Plus key. 3 Right parenthesis key. x-squared key.
 Right parenthesis key. ENTER key.
 4 Minus key. 2nd Square root key. 36 Minus key. Left parenthesis key. X,T,theta,n key. Plus key. 3 Right parenthesis key. x-squared key.
 Right parenthesis key.

 Calculator screen image.
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