A [i]quadric surface[/i] is the graph in space of a second-degree equation in [math]x[/math], [math]y[/math], and [math]z[/math]. This interactive figure is limited to quadric surfaces for equations of the form [math]Ax^2+By^2+Cz^2+Dz=E[/math].[br][br]As you slide the sliders to change the parameter values, pay attention to how different parameters impact the shape of the surface.[br][br]As you click on the "[math]x[/math] cross sections" button, the caption on the button will change to "[math]y[/math] cross sections" then to "[math]z[/math] cross sections" as you cycle through cross sections where [math]x[/math] = constant, [math]y[/math] = constant, and [math]z[/math] = constant. Slide the slider below this button to explore the various cross sections.

[i]Developed for use with Thomas' Calculus, published by Pearson.[/i]