Paraboloid
In mathematics, a paraboloid is a quadric, a type of surface in three dimensions, described by the equation:
 (elliptic paraboloid),
or
 (hyperbolic paraboloid).
With a=b an elliptic paraboloid is a paraboloid of revolution: a surface obtained by revolving a parabola around its axis. It the shape used by the parabolic reflectors used in mirrors, antenna dishes, and the like.
A point light source at the focal point produces a parallel light beam. This also works the other way around: a parallel beam of light incident on the paraboloid is concentrated at the focal point. This applies also for other waves, hence parabolic antennas.
Referenced By
List of geometry topics | List of mathematical topics (P-R) | Parabolic dish | Parabolic mirror | Parabolic reflector
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