A parabolic dish is a reflective surface shaped like a parabola, which is a specific type of curve. This design allows it to focus incoming parallel rays of light or sound to a single point, known as the focus. Parabolic dishes are commonly used in applications like satellite dishes and radio telescopes, where they collect signals from space. In addition to communication, parabolic dishes can also be used for solar energy collection. By concentrating sunlight onto a receiver at the focus, they can generate heat or electricity. This makes them an important technology in renewable energy, particularly in solar power systems.