Parabolas are planar curves with the specific reflecting property.
The light, sound, or electromagnetic radiation emanating from the focus of a parabolic reflector is always reflected parallel to the axis of the parabola. Thus, if an intense source of light such as a carbon arc or an incandescent filament is placed at the focus of a parabolic mirror, the light is reflected and projected in a parallel beam.
The same principle is used in reverse in a reflecting telescope - parallel rays of light from a distant object are brought together at the focus of a parabolic mirror and in satelites.
Figure 1: Radiosatelite |
Trajecory of a falling object is also a parabola. Illustration of a vulcano eruption with visible parabolic trajectories of erupted roasting mineral fragments can be seen in the figure below.
Figure 2: Parabolic trajectories |
Some parts of aircrafts are due to their aerodynamic properties designed in the form of paraboloid.
Figure 3: Parabolic shape of aircraft parts |