Write the equation in vertex form for the parabola with focus \( (0,10) \) and directrix \( y=6 \). Simplify any fractions.
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To find the vertex form of the parabola, we first identify the vertex, which is located at the midpoint between the focus and the directrix. The focus is at \( (0, 10) \) and the directrix is \( y = 6 \). Calculating the vertex: \[ \text{Vertex} = \left(0, \frac{10 + 6}{2}\right) = \left(0, 8\right) \] Next, we determine the distance \( p \) from the vertex to the focus (or to the directrix). From the vertex \( y = 8 \) to the focus \( y = 10 \): \[ p = 10 - 8 = 2 \] Since the focus is above the directrix, the parabola opens upwards. The standard vertex form for a parabola that opens upwards is: \[ y = a(x - h)^2 + k \] where \( (h, k) \) is the vertex and \( a = \frac{1}{4p} \). Substituting \( h = 0 \), \( k = 8 \), and \( p = 2 \): \[ a = \frac{1}{4 \cdot 2} = \frac{1}{8} \] Thus, the vertex form of the parabola is: \[ y = \frac{1}{8}(x - 0)^2 + 8 \] In simplified form, the equation of the parabola is: \[ y = \frac{1}{8}x^2 + 8 \]