Answer
$x^2=600y$
Work Step by Step
Step 1. Set up a general equation for the parabola: let the vertex of the cable be at the origin and its focus on the +y-axis, the general equation can be written as $x^2=4py$.
Step 2. Identify the given conditions: the coordinates of one end of the cable is given as $(300, 150)$ as shown in the figure of the Exercise.
Step 3. Plug the coordinates in the general equation: $300^2=4p×150$ and we get $p=150ft$.
Step 4. Conclusion: the equation of the cable can be modeled as $x^2=600y$
