Parabola is Mechanical Curve

Theorem

The parabola is a mechanical curve.

That is, it cannot be constructed using a compass and straightedge.

However, as many points as is desired can be so constructed that lie on any given parabola.

Proof

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Sources

• 1937: Eric Temple Bell: Men of Mathematics ... (previous) ... (next): Chapter $\text{II}$: Modern Minds in Ancient Bodies