Find the smallest distance between the origin and a point on the parabola y = x^2 - 2.
+118609 Thanks Bloom, the graph was a very good place to start. Give yourself a point (I already have) 
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This question is a lot more involved than I first thought.
This is how I tacked it. There is more than one way and mine might not be the easiest.
Let a point on the parabola by \(K(k, k^2-2) \) Little k is a real constant.
Use pytharoras's theorem to find an expression for the square of the distance between the origin and K. Call it D
Now use calculus to find the minimum D
etc
Draw a pic to help you.
I will help more if you work with me towards the solution.
ie show what you can do so far and discuss your problems with me.
