Parametric equations can describe remarkably complicated abstract curves and they are also useful for describing practical real-world problems involving motion in two dimensions. In this module you will learn to graph and analyze parametric equations using the TI-89 and you will find slopes and arc lengths of parametric curves.

Lesson Index:

23.1 - Parametric Graphs

23.2 - Chain Rule for Parametric Equations

23.3 - Arc Length of Parametric Curves

After completing this module, you should be able to do the following:

• Define and graph parametric equations with your TI-89
• Graph functions and their inverses in parametric mode
• Use the Chain Rule to find first- and second- derivatives for parametric equations
• Use the "Derivatives" feature of the TI-89 to find derivatives of parametric equations
• Use the "Tangent" feature of the TI-89 to find tangent lines and their slopes
• Find lengths of parametric curves using the definition of arc length
• Find arc lengths with the "Arc" feature of the TI-89 Graph Math menu