Telescope #2

Find the exact equation for a new telescope mirror with a given light-gathering power and focal length.

Subject: Algebra
Topics: Quadratic Equations and Functions
Grades: 8 - 12
Knowledge and Skills:
- Can graph a quadratic function
- Can relate the coefficients of a quadratic function to their influence on the shape and position of the parabolic graph of that function

Download Teacher Guide: Telescope #2 (PDF)
Download Student Activity: Telescope #2 (PDF)

Algebra in the Real World Movie:

Looking into TimeLooking into Time

The science of optics teaches us how to make "bigger eyes", and if you want to look at something very far away, or very faint, you're going to need a really huge eye--such as the one used at Kitt Peak by astronomers studying distant galaxies.
Running time 3:29 minutes.

Watch the Movie