# Math Help - parametric to cartesian equations

1. ## parametric to cartesian equations

Find the equivalent Cartesian equation for the parametric equations given below. Which curve does this represent?

$
x = 2 + 4\cos t
$

$
y = 4 + 6\sin t
$

So far all I've done is isolate x and y by itself (not sure if this is the write course of action).
$
\cos t = \frac {x}{8}
$

$
\sin t = \frac {y}{24}
$

Any help would be appreciated!

2. Originally Posted by kevin11
Find the equivalent Cartesian equation for the parametric equations given below. Which curve does this represent?

$
x = 2 + 4\cos t
$

$
y = 4 + 6\sin t
$

So far all I've done is isolate x and y by itself (not sure if this is the write course of action).
$
\cos t = \frac {x}{8}
$

$
\sin t = \frac {y}{24}
$

Any help would be appreciated!
No. Your simplification is not correct. It should be

$\cos(t) = \frac{x-2}{4}$

$\sin(t) = \frac{y-4}{6}$

Now use identity $\cos^2(t) + \sin^2(t) = 1$

.

3. Originally Posted by kevin11
Find the equivalent Cartesian equation for the parametric equations given below. Which curve does this represent?

$
x = 2 + 4\cos t
$

$
y = 4 + 6\sin t
$

So far all I've done is isolate x and y by itself (not sure if this is the write course of action).
$
\cos t = \frac {x}{8}
$

$
\sin t = \frac {y}{24}
$

Any help would be appreciated!
Dear kevin11,

Your method of isolation of sine and cosine terms was incorrect.

You should get, $sint=\frac{y-4}{6}$ and $cost=\frac{x-2}{4}$

Using the trignometric identity $sin^{2}t+cos^{2}t=1$ you can eliminate t to obtain the cartesian equation.