Some Interesting Applications of Mathematical Concepts

Reflective Properties of Parabolas

One of the chief applications of parabolas is their use as reflectors of light and radio waves. Rays originating

from the focus of a parabola will be reflected in a beam parallel to the axis. Conversely, all the rays in a beam striking a parabola parallel to its axis will reflect through the focus.

This property is the reason why telescopes and spotlights use parabolic mirrors and radio telescopes and microwave antennas are parabolic in shape.