How can I plot a vector-valued function? [closed]

Question

I have a vector

$\qquad R(t) = (-5t^{2} + 4)\,\hat{i} + (4t - 1)\,\hat{j}$

which can be written

R[t_] := {-5t^2 + 4, 4t - 1}

in Mathematica. How can I plot that in just one $xy$-plot?

I have searched in Implicit Functions of Mathematica, but I have found nothing that works for my purpose.

Look up study and the examples of ParametricPlot and review the syntax of vectors (a.k.a. List) (this guide is one starting point). — Michael E2
– Michael E2, Commented Oct 9, 2018 at 11:46
BTW, I call your sort of function a parametrized curve, a parametrization, or a vector-valued function of a single variable. An implicit function is something else. — Michael E2
– Michael E2, Commented Oct 9, 2018 at 11:51

m_goldberg · Accepted Answer · 2018-10-09 13:30:53Z

5

Does this work for you?

R[t_] := {-5 t^2 + 4, 4 t - 1} ParametricPlot[R[t], {t, 0, 1}]

answered Oct 9, 2018 at 13:30

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