S1 Q1 Pre-Calculus

Unit 1: Analytic Geometry

Lesson 1.1
INTRODUCTION TO CONIC SECTIONS
■ Conic sections (or conics) are plane curves
that can be formed by cutting a double right
circular cone with a plane at various angles.
■ Conic sections are classified into four groups:
1. Circle
2. Parabola Ellipse
3. Ellipse
4. Hyperbola ● An ellipse is formed when an inclined plane
intersects and cuts through a right cylindrical
Double Right Circular Cone (BAAEB) cone.
● An ellipse is formed when the plane intersects
one cone and is NOT perpendicular to the axis.
● The graph and illustration of an ellipse is
shown below:

Circle
● A circle is formed by cutting a circular cone
with a plane perpendicular to the symmetry
axis of the cone.
● A circle is formed when the plane intersects
one cone and is perpendicular to the axis. Hyperbola
● The graph and illustration of a circle is shown ● A hyperbola is formed when a plane intersects
below: and cuts through both halves of the right
cylindrical cone surface.
● A hyperbola is formed when the plane
intersects both cones.
● The graph and illustration of a hyperbola is
shown below:

Parabola
● A parabola is the curve formed by the
intersection of a plane and a cone, when the
plane is at the same slant as the side of the
cone.
● A parabola is formed when the plane intersects
one cone and is parallel to the edge of the
cone.
● The graph and illustration of a parabola is
shown below:
Lesson 1.2 Lesson 2
DEGENERATE CONIC SECTIONS Circles
■ Degenerate conic sections are formed when ■ A circle is defined as a set or locus of points on
the intersecting plane cuts through the vertex a plane equidistant from a fixed point within
of the right cylindrical cone. called the center.
■ Degenerate conic sections are classified into ■ The fixed distance is called the radius of the
three groups: circle and is denoted by r.
1. Point ■ The locus of a point that moves so that it
2. Line remains constant distance from a fixed point.
3. Two Intersecting Lines
Standard Equation Pythagorean Theorem

2 2 2
𝑥 +𝑦 =𝑟
In any right triangle,
Point the square of the
hypotenuse is equal
● A point is formed when the plane intersects the to the sum of the
right cylindrical cone through its vertex only. squares of the other
two legs.
Line
● A single line is formed when the plane Standard Equation of a Circle
intersects the vertex and is tangent to a cone. The standard equation of a
circle centered at
2 2 2
Two Intersecting Lines (0, 0) is 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 𝑟
● Two intersecting lines are formed when the
plane intersects through the vertex and cuts When the center of the circle
through the right cylindrical cone. is at (h, k) its standard
equation is given by
2 2 2
(𝑥 − ℎ) + (𝑦 − 𝑘) =𝑟

General Form of an Equation

If the equation of a circle is given in the general
form,
2 2
𝐴𝑥 + 𝐴𝑦 + 𝐶𝑥 + 𝐷𝑦 + 𝐸 = 0, 𝐴 ≠ 0

or
2 2
𝑥 + 𝑦 + 𝐶𝑥 + 𝐷𝑦 + 𝐸
we can determine the standard form by
completing the square in both variables.

Determining the Center and Radius of a Circle

Examples:
Identify the center and radius of the circle with
the given equation in each item. Sketch its graph,
and indicate the center.
2 2
1. 𝑥 + 𝑦 − 6𝑥 = 7
2 2
2. 𝑥 + 𝑦 − 14𝑥 + 2𝑦 =− 14
2 2
3. 16𝑥 + 16𝑦 − 96𝑥 − 40𝑦 = 315
Solution. The first step is to rewrite each equation 2 2
16𝑥 + 16𝑦 − 96𝑥 − 40𝑦 = 315
in standard form by completing the square in x 2 2
and in y. From the standard equation, we can 16𝑥 − 96𝑥 + 16𝑦 − 40𝑦 = 315
2 2 5
determine the center and radius. 16(𝑥 + 6𝑥) + 16(𝑦 − 𝑦) = 315
2
(1)
2 2 5 25
𝑆𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑑𝑎𝑟𝑑 𝐸𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 16(𝑥 + 6𝑥 + 9) + 16(𝑦 − 𝑦 + )
2 2 2 16
𝑥 + 𝑦 − 6𝑥 = 7 25
2 2 = 315 + 16(9) + 16( 16
)
𝑥 − 6𝑥 + 𝑦 = 7
*rearrange* *don’t forget to also put to the other side what you
factored out*
2 2
𝑥 − 6𝑥 + 9 + 𝑦 = 7 + 9 2 5 2
𝑏 2 16(𝑥 + 3) + 16(𝑦 − 4
) = 484
*complete the square using ( 2 ) ; b as the 2nd term;
2 5 2 484 121 11 2
remember to add the new number to the other side as (𝑥 + 3) + (𝑦 − ) = = =( )
well* 4 16 4 2
2 5 2 11 2
2 2 (𝑥 + 3) + (𝑦 − 4
) =( 2
)
(𝑥 − 3) + 𝑦 = 16
5
𝐶𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟 (− 3, 4 )
𝐶𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟 (3, 0) 𝑥 + 3 =0
2
(𝑥 − 3) = 0 𝑥 =− 3
𝑥 − 3 =0
5
𝑥 = 3 𝑦 − 4
=0
5
2 𝑦 = 4
𝑦 =0
𝑦 = 0
𝑅𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑢𝑠 = 5. 5
𝑅𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑢𝑠 = 4 2 11 2
𝑟 =( 2
)
2
𝑟 = 16
*16 from the right side of the equation* 2 11 2
𝑟 = ( 2 )
2
𝑟 = 5. 5
𝑟 = 16
*square root both sides to eliminate the square in r* Graphs:
𝑟 =4

(2)
𝑆𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑑𝑎𝑟𝑑 𝐸𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
2 2
𝑥 + 𝑦 − 14𝑥 + 2𝑦 =− 14
2 2
𝑥 − 14𝑥 + 𝑦 + 2𝑦 =− 14
2 2
𝑥 − 14𝑥 + 49 + 𝑦 + 2𝑦 + 1 =− 14 + 49 + 1 Standard Equation to General Equation
After expanding, the standard equation, for
𝑏 2 example:
*complete the square using ( 2
) ; b as the 2nd term;
remember to add the new number to the other side as
well* 3 2 2 29
2 2
(𝑥 − 2
) + (𝑦 − 3) = 4
(𝑥 − 7) + (𝑦 + 1) = 36
Can be written as:
𝐶𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟 (7, − 1)
𝑥 − 7 =0 2 2
𝑥 = 7 𝑥 + 𝑦 − 3𝑥 − 6𝑦 + 4 = 0

𝑦 + 1 =0 An equation of the circle in general form.

𝑦 =− 1

𝑅𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑢𝑠 = 6
2
𝑟 = 36
2
𝑟 = 36
𝑟 =6

(3)
𝑆𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑑𝑎𝑟𝑑 𝐸𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛
Situational Problems Involving Circles Lesson 3

A street with two lanes, each 10 ft wide, goes

through a semicircular tunnel with radius 12 ft.
PARABOLA
How high is the tunnel at the edge of each lane? ■ A parabola is the set of all points 𝑃(𝑥,𝑦) in a
Round off to 2 decimal places. plane equidistant from a fixed point, the focus
and a fixed line, called the directrix.
■ By definition:

Solution.
We draw a coordinate system with origin at the
middle of the highway, as shown. Because of the
given radius, the tunnel’s boundary is on the
2 2 2
circle 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 12 . Parts of a Parabola
Point P is the point on the arc just above the Parts Definition
edge of a lane, so its x-coordinate is 10.
- Sharpest turn point of the parabola
We need its y-coordinate. Vertex (represented by V).
- If the parabola opens upward, the
2 2 2
We then solve 10 + 𝑦 = 12 . for y > 0, giving us origin vertex is the lowest point.
𝑦 = 2 11 ≈ 6. 63 𝑓𝑡. V(0,0) - If the parabola opens downward, the
vertex is the highest point.

Sample Problems: - A point which is used to determine

Determine the center and radius of the circle or define the parabola (represented
2 2 by F).
𝑥 + 𝑦 − 4𝑥 + 2𝑦 + 1 = 0. Then draw its
graph. - The distance of focus to the vertex is
Focus
always determined by p.
- The focus is c units above or below
F(0, ±c)
the vertex.
- Any point on the parabola has the
same distance from the focus as it
has from the directrix.
- A line passing through the focus,
perpendicular to the axis of
Latus symmetry, and it has two endpoints.
Rectum - The distance of endpoints of the
Determine the center and radius of the circle latus rectum is always determined
2 2 by 4p.
𝑥 + 𝑦 − 2𝑥 − 39 = 0. Then draw its graph.
Axis of
Symmetry - This line divides the parabola into
two parts which are mirror images of
x=0 each other
(the y-axis)
Directrix - A line perpendicular to the axis of
symmetry (represented by D).
the line - The directrix is c units below or
y = ±c above the vertex.
Properties of a Parabola
Standard Equation

Property Definition Vertex at the

Opening Vertex at (h, k)
Origin
- The axis of symmetry or simply axis 2 2
Axis of of a parabola is the line containing Upward 𝑥 = 4𝑎𝑦 (𝑥 − ℎ) = 4𝑎(𝑦 − 𝑘)
Symmetry the focus and perpendicular to the Downward 2
𝑥 = − 4𝑎𝑦 (𝑥 − ℎ) =
2
− 4𝑎(𝑦 − 𝑘)
directrix, the fixed line.
2 2
Right 𝑦 = 4𝑎𝑥 (𝑦 − 𝑘) = 4𝑎(𝑥 − ℎ)
- The vertex denoted by V, is the 2 2
intersection of the parabola and its Left 𝑦 = − 4𝑎𝑥 (𝑦 − 𝑘) = − 4𝑎(𝑥 − ℎ)
Vertex axis of symmetry and the point
midway between the focus and Formula Card
directrix.
Standard Form Vertex Axis Directrix Focus
- The focus or focal point denoted by
Focus/ 2
F, is the fixed point located a units 𝑥 = 4𝑎𝑦 (0, 0) y-axis y=-p (0, p)
Focal Point
away from the vertex. 2
𝑦 = 4𝑎𝑥 (0, 0) x-axis x=-p (p, 0)
- The latus rectum or focal chord is a 2
(𝑥 − ℎ) = 4𝑎(𝑦 − 𝑘) (h, k) x=h y=k-p (h, k+p)
Latus segment passing through the focus, 2
Rectum parallel to the directrix, and has a (𝑦 − 𝑘) = 4𝑎(𝑥 − ℎ) (h, k) y=k x=h-p (h+p, k)
constant length of |4a| units,
Formula Card with a Vertex at (h, k)
➢ The parabolas we considered so far are
“vertical” and have their vertices at the origin.
➢ Some parabolas open instead horizontally (to
the left or right), and some have vertices not
at the origin.
➢ Their standard equations and properties are
given in the box. The corresponding
computations are more involved, but are
similar to the one above, and so are not
shown anymore.

Definition of a Parabola ➢ The equations are in terms of x − h and y − k:

the vertex coordinates are subtracted from the
corresponding variable. Thus, replacing both
h and k with 0 would yield the case where the
vertex is the origin. For instance, this
2
replacement applied to (𝑥 − ℎ) = 4𝑐(𝑦 − 𝑘)
(parabola opening upward) would yield
2
𝑥 = 4𝑐𝑦, the first standard equation we
encountered (parabola opening upward,
vertex at the origin).
➢ If the x-part is squared, the parabola is
“vertical”; if the y-part is squared, the parabola
is “horizontal.” In a horizontal parabola, the
focus is on the left or right of the vertex, and
the directrix is vertical.
➢ If the coefficient of the linear (non-squared)
part is positive, the parabola opens upward to
the right; if negative, downward or to the left.

Illustrations

(2)

The vertex is V (0, 0) and the parabola opens

3 3
downward. From 4c = 6, c = 2 . The focus, c = 2
3
units below the vertex, is 𝐹(0, 2
). The directrix,
3 3
2
units above the vertex, is y = 2
. The axis of
symmetry is x=0.

Part 2

Determine the vertex, focus, directrix, and axis of

symmetry of the parabola with the given
equation. Sketch the parabola, and include these
points and lines.
2
3. 𝑦 − 5𝑥 + 12𝑦 =− 16
2
4. 5𝑥 + 30𝑥 + 24𝑦 = 51
Examples
Part 1 (3)

Determine the focus and directrix of the parabola *We complete the square on y, and move x to the other
with the given equation. Sketch the graph, and side.*
2
indicate the focus, directrix, vertex, and axis of 𝑦 − 5𝑥 + 12𝑦 =− 16
symmetry. 2
𝑦 + 12𝑦 = 5𝑥 − 16
2
1. 𝑥 = 12𝑦 2
𝑦 + 12𝑦 + 36 = 5𝑥 − 16 + 36
2
2. 𝑥 =− 6𝑦 𝑏 2
*complete the square using ( 2 ) ; b as the 2nd term;
(1) remember to add the new number to the other side as
well*
The vertex is V (0, 0) and the parabola opens
upward. From 4c = 12, c = 3. The focus, c = 3 2
𝑦 + 12𝑦 + 36 = 5𝑥 + 20
units above the vertex, is F(0, 3). The directrix, 3 2
units below the vertex, is y = −3. The axis of (𝑦 + 6) = 5(𝑥 + 4)
symmetry is x = 0.
Opening Opens to the right.
Vertex It has a vertex V(-4, -6).
5
From 4c = 5, we get c = 4
=
Focus 1.25.
The focus is c=1.25 units to
the right of V : F(−2.75, −6).
The (vertical) directrix is c =
Directrix 1.25 units to the left of
V: x = −5.25.
Axis of The (horizontal) axis is through
symmetry V: y = – 6.

Part 3

5. A parabola has focus F(7, 9) and directrix y=3.

Find its standard equation.

(5)

The directrix is horizontal, and the focus is above

it. The parabola then opens upward and its
standard equation has the form
2
(𝑥 − ℎ) = − 4𝑎(𝑦 − 𝑘).

Since the distance from the focus to the directrix

is 2c = 9 − 3 = 6, then c = 3.

Thus, the vertex is V (7, 6), the point 3 units

(4) below F.
*We complete the square on y, and move x to the other The standard equation is then
side.* 2
(𝑥 − 7) = 12(𝑦 − 6).
2
5𝑥 + 30𝑥 + 24𝑦 = 51 Standard Equation to General Equation
2
5𝑥 + 30𝑥 =− 24𝑦 + 51 After expanding, the standard equation, for
2 example:
5(𝑥 + 6𝑥) =− 24𝑦 + 51
2
5(𝑥 + 6𝑥 + 9) =− 24𝑦 + 51 + 5(9) 2
2 (𝑦 + 4) =− 8(𝑥 − 5)
5(𝑥 + 3) =− 24𝑦 + 96
2
5(𝑥 + 3) =− 24(𝑦 − 4) Can be written as:
*divide both sides by 5 to get the final value of a*
2 24 2
(𝑥 + 3) =− 5
(𝑦 − 4) 𝑦 + 8𝑥 + 8𝑦 − 24 = 0

In the last line, we divided by 5 for the squared An equation of the parabola in general form.
part not to have any coefficient.

The parabola opens

Opening
downward.
Vertex It has a vertex V(-3, 4).
25 6
From 4c = 4
, we get c = 4
=
Focus 1.2.
The focus is c = 1.2 units
below V : F(−3, −2.8).
The (horizontal) directrix is c =
Directrix 1.2 units above
V: y = 5.2.
Axis of The (vertical) axis is through
symmetry V: x = – 3.
2
𝑥 = 𝑎(𝑦 − 30)
Situational Problems Involving Parabola 2
200 = 𝑎(150 − 30)
2
Sample Problem 1: 𝑎=
200
=
1000
A satellite dish has a shape called a paraboloid, 120 3
where each cross-section is a parabola. Since
2
radio signals (parallel to the axis) will bounce off The parabola has equation 𝑥 =
1000
(𝑦 − 30)
3
the surface of the dish to the focus, the receiver
should be placed at the focus. How far should the or equivalently, 𝑦 = 0. 003𝑥 + 30. For the two
receiver be from the vertex, if the dish is 12 ft points on the parabola 50 ft away from the
across, and 4.5 ft deep at the vertex? towers, 𝑥 = 150 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 =− 150. If 𝑥 = 150, then
2
𝑦 = 0. 003(150 ) + 30 = 97. 5

Thus, the cable is 97.5 ft high 50 ft away from

either tower. (As expected, we get the same
answer from x = −150.)

Solution.
The second figure above shows a cross-section
of the satellite dish drawn on a rectangular
coordinate system, with the vertex at the origin.
From the problem, we deduce that (6, 4.5) is a
point on the parabola. We need the distance of
the focus from the vertex, i.e., the value of c in
2
𝑥 = 4𝑐𝑦.
2
𝑥 = 4𝑐𝑦
2
6 = 4𝑐(4. 5)
2
6
𝑐= 4×4.5
=2

Thus, the receiver should be 2 ft away from the

vertex.

Sample Problem 2:
The cable of the suspension bridge hangs in the
shape of a parabola. The towers supporting the
cable are 400 ft apart and 150 ft high. If the
cable, at its lowest, is 30 ft above the bridge at its
midpoint, how high is the cable 50 ft away
(horizontally) from either tower?

Solution.
Refer to the figure above, where the parabolic
cable is drawn with its vertex on the y-axis 30 ft
above the origin. We may write its equation as
2
(𝑥 − 0) = 𝑎(𝑦 − 30); since we don’t need the
focal distance, we use the simpler variable a in
place of 4c. Since the towers are 150 ft high and
400 ft apart, we deduce from the figure that (200,
150) is a point on the parabola.

To find the value of a,

Lesson 4
(Focal 2𝑏
2

ellipse Chords) each has a fixed length of 𝑎

.

Coordinate-free Definition: Note:

■ An ellipse is formed when a ○ Each focus is c units from the center.
plane cuts one cone and the ○ Each vertex is a units from the center.
plane is not perpendicular to ○ Each co-vertex is b units from the center.
the axis.
■ The figure shows that the Since the major axis is longer than the minor
tilted plane intersected one axis, then it follows that 2a > 2b or a > b.
cone. The curve formed is In the standard equation, if the x-part has the
an ellipse. bigger denominator, the ellipse is horizontal. If
the y-part has the bigger denominator, the ellipse
By definition: is vertical.

■ An ellipse is the set of all points 𝑃(𝑥,𝑦) in a

plane the sum of whose distances from two
fixed points, called the foci is constant.

Properties of an Ellipse

Standard Equation of an Ellipse

Property Definition
- The intersection point between the
Center
major and minor axis of an ellipse.
- The line containing the foci 𝐹1 𝐹2 and
divides the ellipse into two congruent
Major Axis parts. The major axis has a fixed
length of 2a and whose endpoints Standard Equations
are the vertices 𝑉1 𝑉2 of the ellipse.
C (0, 0) C (h, k)
- The line perpendicular to the major
2 2 2 2
axis the endpoints of which are called Horizontal 𝑥 𝑦 (𝑥−ℎ) (𝑦−𝑘)
Ellipse
+ =1 + =1
the co vertices 𝑊1 𝑊2 of the ellipse 𝑎
2 2
𝑏 𝑎
2
𝑏
2

and has a fixed length of 2b. 2 2 2 2

Minor Axis - Since a > b, the major axis is longer Vertical 𝑥 𝑦 (𝑥−ℎ) (𝑦−𝑘)
Ellipse 2 + 2 =1 2 + 2 =1
than the minor axis 𝑏 𝑎 𝑏 𝑎
- It meets the ellipse at the co vertices. In either 2 2 2
- It divides the ellipse into two case 𝑎 =𝑏 +𝑐
congruent parts.
Latera - The lines containing the focus,
Recta perpendicular to the major axis and
Graphs Examples
Part 1

1. Give the coordinates of the foci, vertices, and

co vertices of the ellipse with equation
2 2
𝑥 𝑦
25
+ 9
= 1
Sketch the graph, and include these points.

Solution.
Get the values of a, b, and c.
2
𝑎 = 25
2
𝑎 = 25
𝑎 = 5
2
𝑏 =9
2
𝑏 = 9
𝑏 = 3

2 2
𝑐 = 𝑎 −𝑏
𝑐 = 25 − 9
𝑐 = 16
𝑐 =4

Foci 𝐹1(− 4, 0), 𝐹2(4, 0)

Formula Card Major Axis 𝑉1(− 5, 0), 𝑉2(5, 0)

Minor Axis 𝑊1(0, − 3), 𝑊2(0, 3)

2. Find the (standard) equation of the ellipse

whose foci are 𝐹1(− 3, 0) 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐹2(3, 0), such that
for any point on it, the sum of its distances from
the foci is 10.

Solution.
We have 2a = 10 and c = 3, so a = 5 and b =
2 2
𝑎 − 𝑐 = 4. The equation is
2 2
𝑥 𝑦
25
+ 16
= 1
Part 2 (4)

Give the coordinates of the center, foci, vertices, 𝑥

2
𝑦
2

and co vertices of the ellipse with the given 2 + 2 =1

equation. Sketch the graph, and include these 𝑎 𝑏
points.
(𝑥+3)
2
(𝑦−5)
2 Change the given equation to standard form.
3. 24
+ 49
=1 2 2
9𝑥 + 16𝑦 − 126𝑥 + 64𝑦 = 71
2 2 2 2
4. 9𝑥 + 16𝑦 − 126𝑥 + 64𝑦 = 71 9𝑥 − 126𝑥 + 16𝑦 + 64𝑦 = 71
2 2
9(𝑥 − 14𝑥) + 16(𝑦 + 4𝑦) = 71
(3) 2 2
Get the values of a, b, and c. 9(𝑥 − 14𝑥 + 49) + 16(𝑦 + 4𝑦 + 4)
2 = 71 + 9(49) + 16(4)
𝑎 = 49
𝑏 2
2
𝑎 = 49 *complete the square using ( 2 ) ; b as the 2nd term;
𝑎 = 7 remember to add the new number to the other side as
well*
2 2
2 9(𝑥 − 7) + 16(𝑦 + 2) = 576
𝑏 = 24 2 2
9(𝑥−7) 16(𝑦+2) 576
2
𝑏 = 24 576
+ 576
= 576
𝑏 = 4× 6 *divide both sides by 576 to make the right side 1*
𝑏 = 2 6 2 2
(𝑥−7) (𝑦+2)
𝑏 ≈ 4. 9
64
+ 36
=1
2 2
𝑐 = 𝑎 −𝑏 Get the values of a, b, and c.
2
𝑐 = 49 − 24 𝑎 = 64
𝑐 = 25 2
𝑎 = 64
𝑐 =5 𝑎 = 8

Orientation Vertical 2
𝑏 = 36
Center (− 3, 5) 2
𝑏 = 36
Foci 𝐹1(− 3, 0), 𝐹2(− 3, 0) 𝑏 = 6
Major Axis 𝑉1(− 3, − 2), 𝑉2(− 3, 12)
2 2
𝑐 = 𝑎 −𝑏
𝑊1(− 3 − 2 6, 5) ≈ (− 7. 9, 5)
𝑐 = 64 − 36
Minor Axis
𝑊2(− 3 + 2 6, 5) ≈ (1. 9, 5) 𝑐 = 28
𝑐 = 4× 7
𝑐 =2 7
𝑐 ≈ 5. 3

Orientation Horizontal
Center (7, − 2)
𝐹1(7 − 2 7, − 2) ≈ (1. 7, − 2)
Foci
𝐹2(7 + 2 7, − 2) ≈ (12. 3, − 2)

Major Axis 𝑉1(− 1, − 2), 𝑉2(15, − 2)

Minor Axis 𝑊1(7, − 8), 𝑊2(7, 4)

Sample Problem 1:
A tunnel has the shape of a semi ellipse that is
15 ft high at the center, and 36 ft across at the
base. At most, how high should a passing truck
be, if it is 12 ft wide, for it to be able to fit through
the tunnel? Round off your answer to two decimal
places.

Part 3

5. The foci of an ellipse are (−3, −6) and (−3, 2).

For any point on the ellipse, the sum of its
distances from the foci is 14. Find the standard Solution.
equation of the ellipse Refer to the figure above. If we draw the semi
ellipse on a rectangular coordinate system, with
(5) its center at the origin, an equation of the ellipse
which contains it, is
The midpoint (−3, −2) of the foci is the center of 2 2
𝑥 𝑦
the ellipse. 2 + 2 = 1
18 15
The ellipse is vertical (because the foci are
vertically aligned) and c = 4. To maximize its height, the corners of the truck,
as shown in the figure, would have to just touch
From the given sum, 2a = 14 so a = 7. Also, b = the ellipse. Since the truck is 12 ft wide, let the
2 2 point (6, n) be the corner of the truck in the first
𝑎 − 𝑐 = 33 quadrant, where n > 0, is the (maximum) height
of the truck. Since this point is on the ellipse, it
The equation is should fit the equation. Thus, we have
2 2
(𝑥+3) (𝑦+2)
33
+ 49
=1 2 2
6 𝑛
2 + 2 = 1
18 15
An ellipse has vertices (2 − 61, − 5) and 𝑛 = 10 2 ≈ 14. 14 𝑓𝑡
(2 + 61, − 5), and its minor axis is 12 units
long. Find its standard equation and its foci. Sample Problem 2:
The orbit of a planet has the shape of an ellipse,
(6) and on one of the foci is the star around which it
revolves. The planet is closest to the star when it
The midpoint (2, −5) of the vertices is the center is at one vertex. It is farthest from the star when it
of the ellipse, which is horizontal. is at the other vertex. Suppose the closest and
farthest distances of the planet from this star are
Each vertex is a = √ 61 units away from the 420 million kilometers and 580 million kilometers,
center. respectively. Find the equation of the ellipse, in
standard form, with center at the origin and the
From the length of the minor axis, 2b = 12 so b = star at the x-axis. Assume all units are in millions
6. of kilometers.

The standard equation is

2 2
(𝑥−2) (𝑦+5)
61
+ 36
=1

2 2
Each focus is 𝑐 = 𝑎 + 𝑏 units away from
(2, −5), so their coordinates are (−3, −5) and
(7, −5).

Situational Problems Involving Ellipse

Lesson 4

HYPERBOLA
Coordinate-free Definition:
■ A hyperbola is formed when a
plane cuts both cones of the
double-right circular cone.
■ The figure shows that the plane
cuts both cones. The curve
formed on the plane is a
hyperbola.

By definition:

Solution.
In the figure above, the orbit is drawn as a
horizontal ellipse with a center at the origin. From
the planet’s distances from the star, as its closest ■ A hyperbola is the set of all points P(x, y) in a
and farthest points, it follows that the major axis plane such that the absolute value of the
is 2a = 420 + 580 = 1000 (million km), so a = difference of the distance of each point from
500. If we place the star at the positive x-axis, two fixed points, the foci is constant 2a.
then it is c = 500-420 = 80 units away from the
center. Therefore, we get
2 2 2 2 2
𝑏 = 𝑎 − 𝑐 = 500 − 80 = 243600.

The equation then is

2 2
𝑥 𝑦
250, 000
+ 243, 600
= 1

The star could have been placed on the negative

x-axis, and the answer would still be the same

Property Definition
- The intersection point between the
Center transverse and conjugate axis of a
hyperbola.
- The line joining the vertices 𝑉1 𝑉2 of
Transverse
Axis a hyperbola. It has a fixed length of
2a.
- The line perpendicular to the
Conjugate transverse axis with endpoints
Axis 𝐵1 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐵2 . It has a fixed length of
2b.
Latera
- A line which possess through the
Recta 2
2𝑏
(Focal focus and has a fixed length of .
𝑎
Chords)
- Lines passing through the center
where the branches of hyperbola
get closer to.
- The asymptotes of the hyperbola
are two lines passing through the
center which serve as a guide in
graphing the hyperbola: each
branch of the hyperbola gets closer
and closer to the asymptotes, in the
direction towards which the branch
extends. (We need the concept of
limits from calculus to explain this.)
- An aid in determining the equations
of the asymptotes: in the standard
equation, replace 1 by 0, and in the
2 2
𝑥 𝑦
Asymptotes resulting equation 2 − 2 =0
𝑎 𝑏
solve for y.
- To help us sketch the asymptotes,
we point out that the asymptotes
𝑙1 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑙2 are the extended diagonals
of the auxiliary rectangle.
- This rectangle has sides 2a and 2b
with its diagonals intersecting at the
center C. Two sides are congruent Standard Equations
and parallel to the transverse axis
𝑉1 𝑉2. The other two sides are C (0, 0) C (h, k)
congruent and parallel to the 2 2 2 2
conjugate axis, the segment shown Horizontal 𝑥 𝑦 (𝑥−ℎ) (𝑦−𝑘)
Hyperbola 2 − 2 =1 2 − 2 =1
which is perpendicular to the 𝑎 𝑏 𝑎 𝑏
transverse axis at the center, and 2 2 2 2
has length 2b. Vertical 𝑦 𝑥 (𝑦−𝑘) (𝑥−ℎ)
Hyperbola 2 − 2 =1 2 − 2 =1
𝑎 𝑏 𝑎 𝑏

Note: In either 2 2 2
○ Each focus is c units from the center. case 𝑐 =𝑎 +𝑏
○ Each vertex is a units from the center.
○ Each co-vertex is b units from the center.
Graphs
Derivation of the Standard Equation of Hyperbola
Horizontal Hyperbola
Center: (0, 0)

Vertical Hyperbola
Center: (0, 0)
Vertices 𝑉1: (0, 𝑎) & 𝑉2 : 0, − 𝑎) 𝑉1: (ℎ, 𝑘 + 𝑎) & 𝑉2 : ℎ, 𝑘 − 𝑎)

Endpoints of
Conjugate 𝑊1: (𝑏, 0) & 𝑊2 : − 𝑏, 0) 𝑊1: (ℎ + 𝑏, 𝑘) & 𝑊2 : ℎ − 𝑏, 𝑘)
Axis
Foci 𝐹1: (0, 𝑐) & 𝐹2 : 0, − 𝑐) 𝐹1: (ℎ, 𝑘 + 𝑐) & 𝐹2 : ℎ, 𝑘 − 𝑐)

Equation of 𝑎 𝑎
Asymptotes
𝑦 =± 𝑏
𝑥 𝑦 = 𝑘 ± 𝑏
(𝑥 − ℎ)

Examples
Part 1: Graphing

1. Determine the coordinates of the foci, vertices

and asymptotes of the hyperbola with the
Horizontal Hyperbola equation.
Center: C(h, k) 𝑥
2
𝑦
2

16
− 9
=1

Sketch the graph and include these points and

lines, the transverse and conjugate axes, and the
auxiliary rectangle.

Step 1. Determine the type of hyperbola.

The x-term comes first in the subtraction so it is a
horizontal hyperbola and takes the form
2 2
𝑥 𝑦
2 − 2 =1
𝑎 𝑏

Step 2. Evaluate a, b, and c from the equation.

Vertical Hyperbola
Center: C(h, k)

Step 3. Locate the vertices, ends of the conjugate

axis and later recta or focal chords.
● From the center, each vertex point is 4 units to
the right and 4 units to the left.
● The endpoints of the conjugate axis are 3 units
up and 3 units down.
● Each focus is 5 units from the center
9
● Each endpoint of a latus rectum 4 is units up
and down from the focus.

Step 4. Draw an auxiliary rectangle.

Patterns in Finding Parts of an Ellipse Draw a dotted rectangle through the four points
you have found.
ORIENTATION – HORIZONTAL
Step 5. Draw the asymptotes.
Parts Vertex at the Origin Vertex at (h, k) Draw the asymptotes as dotted lines that pass
Center 𝐶: (0, 0) 𝐶: (ℎ, 𝑘) diagonally through the rectangle. Write each
Vertices 𝑉1: (𝑎, 0) & 𝑉2 : − 𝑎, 0) 𝑉1: (ℎ + 𝑎, 𝑘) & 𝑉2 : ℎ − 𝑎, 𝑘) equation using the appropriate formulas.
Endpoints of Step 6. Draw the hyperbola.
Conjugate 𝑊1: (0, 𝑏) & 𝑊2 : 0, − 𝑏) 𝑊1: (ℎ, 𝑘 + 𝑏) & 𝑊2 : 0, 𝑘 − 𝑏) Connect the endpoints of the latera recta with the
Axis
vertex on each branch with a smooth curve.
Foci 𝐹1: (𝑐, 0) & 𝐹2 : − 𝑐, 0) 𝐹1: (ℎ + 𝑐, 𝑘) & 𝐹2 : ℎ − 𝑐, 𝑘)

Equation of 𝑏 𝑏
Asymptotes
𝑦 =± 𝑎
𝑥 𝑦 = 𝑘 ± 𝑎
(𝑥 − ℎ)

ORIENTATION – VERTICAL
Parts Vertex at the Origin Vertex at (h, k)
Center 𝐶: (0, 0) 𝐶: (ℎ, 𝑘)
Steps 4 & 5. Draw an auxiliary rectangle
(containing the endpoints of the transverse and
conjugate axis) and its asymptotes (extending the
diagonals of the auxiliary rectangle).

2. Determine the coordinates of the foci, vertices

and asymptotes of the hyperbola with the Step 6. Draw the branches of hyperbola by
equation. connecting the endpoints of a latus rectum and
(𝑥−1)
2
(𝑦+2)
2 the vertex with a smooth curve.
9
− 4
= 1
Sketch the graph and include these points and
lines, the transverse and conjugate axes, and the
auxiliary rectangle.

Step 1. Determine the type of hyperbola.

The x-term comes first in the subtraction so it is a
horizontal hyperbola and takes the form
2 2
(𝑥−ℎ) (𝑦−𝑘)
2 − 2 =1
𝑎 𝑏

Step 2. Evaluate a, b, and c from the equation.

Step 3. Locate the vertices, ends of the conjugate

axis and later recta or focal chords.
● From the center (1, -2), each vertex is 3 units
left and right.
● Each focus is approx. 3.61 left and right.
● Each endpoint of the conjugate axis is 2 units
up and down.
● From the focus, each endpoint of a latus
4
rectum 3 is units up and down.

Part 2
3. Determine the foci, vertices, and asymptotes of
the hyperbola with equation
2 2
𝑥 𝑦
9
− 7
=1

Sketch the graph, and include these points and

lines, the transverse and conjugate axes, and the
auxiliary rectangle.
(3) 2
𝑏 =9
2
Get the values of a, b, and c. 𝑏 = 9
2
𝑎 =9 𝑏 = 3
2
𝑎 = 9 2 2
𝑎 = 3 𝑐 = 𝑎 +𝑏
𝑐 = 25 + 9
2
𝑏 =7 𝑐 = 34
2 𝑐 ≈ 5. 8
𝑏 = 7
𝑏 = 7 Orientation Vertical
2 2
Center 𝐶(7, − 2)
𝑐 = 𝑎 +𝑏
𝐹1(7, − 2 − 34) ≈ (7, − 7. 8)
𝑐 = 9 +7 Foci
𝑐 = 16 𝐹2(7, − 2 + 34) ≈ (7, 3. 8)
𝑐 =4
Vertices 𝑉1(7, − 7), 𝑉2(7, 3)
2 2
Foci 𝐹1(− 4, 0), 𝐹2(4, 0) (𝑦+2) (𝑥−7)
25
− 9
=0
Vertices 𝑉1(− 3, 0), 𝑉2(3, 0) 5
𝑦 + 2 =± 3
(𝑥 − 7)
7 Asymptotes
Asymptotes 𝑦 =± 𝑥 5 41
3 𝑦= 3
𝑥− 3
and
5 41
The graph is shown at the right. The conjugate 𝑦 =− 3
𝑥+ 3
axis drawn has its endpoints 𝑏 = 7 ≈ 2. 7 units The conjugate axis drawn has its
above and below the center. Conjugate
endpoints b = 3 units to the left and
Axis
4. Find the (standard) equation of the hyperbola right of the center.
whose foci are F1(−5, 0) and F2(5, 0), such that
for any point on it, the absolute value of the
difference of its distances from the foci is 6.

(4)

We have 2a = 6 and c = 5, so a = 3 and

2 2
𝑏 = 𝑐 − 𝑎 = 4.

The hyperbola then has equation

2 2
𝑥 𝑦
9
− 16
=1

Part 3
Give the coordinates of the center, foci, vertices,
and asymptotes of the hyperbola with the given
equation. Sketch the graph, and include these
points and lines, the transverse and conjugate
axes, and the auxiliary rectangle.

(𝑦+2)
2
(𝑥−7)
2 (6)
5. 25
− 9
=1
2 2
2 2 4𝑥 − 5𝑦 + 32𝑥 + 30𝑦 = 1
6. 4𝑥 − 5𝑦 + 32𝑥 + 30𝑦 = 1
Change the given equation to standard form.
2 2
(5) 4𝑥 + 32𝑥 − 5𝑦 + 30𝑦 = 1
2 2
4(𝑥 + 8𝑥) − 5(𝑦 − 6𝑦) = 1
Get the values of a, b, and c. *-5 (NEGATIVE) is factored out so the sign of the 2nd
2 term should be the opposite; when you distribute -5 to
𝑎 = 25
the parenthesis, it should equate to the 1st equation; in
2 accordance to the standard equation of hyperbola, it
𝑎 = 25
must be the DIFFERENCE so subtraction is always the
𝑎 = 5 operation between the factored terms*
2
4(𝑥 + 8𝑥 + 16) − 5(𝑦 − 6𝑦 + 9)
2 Part 4
= 1 + 4(16) − 5(9)
2 2 7. The foci of a hyperbola are (−5, −3) and (9,
4(𝑥 + 4) − 5(𝑦 − 3) = 20 −3). For any point on the hyperbola, the absolute
2 2
value of the difference of its distances from the
4(𝑥+4)
+
5(𝑦−3)
=
20 foci is 10. Find the standard equation of the
20 20 20 hyperbola.
*divide both sides by 576 to make the right side 1*
2 2
(𝑥+4) (𝑦−3) Solution.
5
+ 4
=1 The midpoint (2, −3) of the foci is the center of
the hyperbola. Each focus is c = 7 units away
Get the values of a, b, and c. from the center. From the given difference, 2a =
2 2 2 2
𝑎 =5 10 so a = 5. Also, 𝑏 = 𝑐 − 𝑎 = 24. The
2 hyperbola is horizontal (because the foci are
𝑎 = 5 horizontally aligned), so the equation is
𝑎 = 5
2 2
𝑎 ≈ 2. 2 (𝑥−2) (𝑦+3)
25
− 24
=1
2
𝑏 =4
2 Situational Problems Involving Hyperbolas
𝑏 = 4
𝑏 = 2 Sample Problem 1:
An explosion was heard by two stations 1200 m
2 2 apart, located at 𝐹1(−600, 0) and 𝐹2(600, 0). If the
𝑐 = 𝑎 +𝑏
𝑐 = 5 +4 explosion was heard in 𝐹1 two seconds before it
𝑐 = 9 was heard in 𝐹2, identify the possible locations of
𝑐 =3 the explosion. Use 340 m/s as the speed of
sound
Orientation Horizontal
Solution.
Center 𝐶(− 4, 3) Using the given speed of sound, we can deduce
Foci 𝐹1(− 7, 3) 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐹2(− 1, 3) that the sound traveled 340(2) = 680 m farther in
reaching 𝐹2 than in reaching 𝐹1. This is then the
𝑉1(− 4 − 5, 3) ≈ (− 6. 2, 3) difference of the distances of the explosion from
Vertices the two stations. Thus, the explosion is on a
𝑉2(− 4 + 5, 3) ≈ (− 1. 8, 3)
hyperbola with foci are 𝐹1 and 𝐹2, on the branch
2 2
(𝑥+4) (𝑦−3) closer to 𝐹1.
5
+ 4
=0
2
𝑦 − 3 =± (𝑥 + 4)
5
Asymptotes 2 8
𝑦= 𝑥+ + 3 and
5 5
2 8
𝑦 =− 𝑥− +3
5 5
The conjugate axis drawn has its
Conjugate
endpoints b = 2 units above and
Axis
below the center.

We have c = 600 and 2a = 680, so a = 340 and

2 2 2
𝑏 = 𝑐 − 𝑎 = 244, 400. The explosion could
therefore be anywhere on the left branch of the
hyperbola
2 2
𝑥 𝑦
115, 600
− 244, 400
=1
Summary of Conic Sections (ℎ𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑧𝑜𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑠𝑒 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠)

2 2 2 2
Both 𝑥 and 𝑦 appear, and their − 4𝑥 + 𝑦 + 24𝑥 + 4𝑦 − 36 = 0
coefficients are the same. (𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑠𝑒 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠)
Circle
Degenerate
2
𝐴𝑥 + 𝐴𝑦 + 𝐶𝑥 + 𝐷𝑦 + 𝐸 = 0
2 Two intersecting lines.
Case

Equation (𝑥 − ℎ) + (𝑦 − 𝑘)
2 2 2
=𝑟
2 2
Example 18𝑥 + 18𝑦 − 24𝑥 + 48𝑦 − 5 = 0
Degenerate
A point, and the empty set.
Cases
2 2
Exactly one of 𝑥 or 𝑦 appears.
2
𝐴𝑥 + 𝐶𝑥 + 𝐷𝑦 + 𝐸 = 0
Parabola 𝐷 ≠ 0, 𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑛𝑠 𝑢𝑝𝑤𝑎𝑟𝑑/𝑑𝑜𝑤𝑛𝑤𝑎𝑟𝑑
2
𝐵𝑦 + 𝐶𝑥 + 𝐷𝑦 + 𝐸 = 0
𝐶 ≠ 0, 𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑛𝑠 𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡/𝑙𝑒𝑓𝑡
2
𝑥 = 4𝑎𝑦
Equations 2
(𝑥 − ℎ) = 4𝑎(𝑦 − 𝑘) etc.
2
3𝑥 − 12𝑥 + 2𝑦 + 26 = 0
(𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑛𝑠 𝑢𝑝𝑤𝑎𝑟𝑑)
Examples
2
− 2𝑦 + 3𝑥 + 12𝑦 − 15 = 0
(𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑛𝑠 𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡)
2 2 Identifying a Conic Section by Its General
Both 𝑥 and 𝑦 appear, and their Equation
Ellipse coefficients A and B have the same
sign and are unequal. 2 2
a) 4𝑥 − 8𝑥 − 49𝑦 + 196𝑦 − 388 = 0
2 2 2 2
𝑥 𝑦 b) 𝑥 + 5𝑥 + 𝑦 − 𝑦 + 7 = 0
2 + 2 =1 2
Equation
𝑎 𝑏 c) 𝑦 − 48𝑥 + 6𝑦 =− 729
2 2 2 2
(𝑥−ℎ) (𝑦−𝑘) d) 49𝑥 + 196𝑥 + 100𝑦 + 1400𝑦 + 196 = 0
2 + 2 = 1 etc.
𝑎 𝑏 2 2
e) 36𝑥 + 360𝑥 + 64𝑦 − 512𝑦 + 1924 = 0
2 2
2
2𝑥 + 5𝑦 + 8𝑥 − 10𝑦 − 7 = 0
2 f) 𝑥 + 𝑦 − 18𝑦 − 19 = 0
2 2
(ℎ𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑧𝑜𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑚𝑎𝑗𝑜𝑟 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠) g) − 5𝑥 + 60𝑥 + 7𝑦 + 84𝑦 + 72 = 0
2
Examples h) 𝑥 − 16𝑥 + 20𝑦 = 136
2 2
4𝑥 + 𝑦 − 16𝑥 − 6𝑦 + 21 = 0
(𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝑚𝑎𝑗𝑜𝑟 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠) (a)

Degenerate 2 2
Since the coefficients of 𝑥 and 𝑦 have opposite
A point, and the empty set.
Case signs, the graph is a hyperbola or a pair of
2 2
intersecting lines.
Both 𝑥 and 𝑦 appear, and their
Hyperbola coefficients A and B have different Completing the squares, we get
2 2
signs. 4𝑥 − 8𝑥 − 49𝑦 + 196𝑦 − 388 = 0
2 2
𝑥
2
𝑦
2 4(𝑥 − 2𝑥) − 49(𝑦 − 4𝑦) = 388
2 − 2 =1 *-49 (NEGATIVE) is factored out so the sign of the 2nd
𝑎 𝑏 term should be the opposite; when you distribute -49 to
Equations 2 2
the parenthesis, it should equate to the 1st equation; in
(𝑥−ℎ) (𝑦−𝑘)
2 − 2 = 1 etc. accordance to the standard equation of hyperbola, it
𝑎 𝑏 must be the DIFFERENCE so subtraction is always the
2 2
operation between the factored terms*
Examples 5𝑥 − 3𝑦 − 20𝑥 − 18𝑦 − 22 = 0 2 2
4(𝑥 − 2𝑥 + 1) − 49(𝑦 − 4𝑦 + 4)
= 388 + 4(1) − 49(4) Unit 2: Mathematical Induction
2 2
4(𝑥 − 1) − 49(𝑦 − 2) = 196
Lesson 5

ARITHMETIC SEQUENCE
2 2
4(𝑥−1) 49(𝑦−2) 196
196
− 196 = 196
2 2
(𝑥−1) (𝑦−2)
49
− 4
=1

Thus, the graph is a hyperbola.

(b)
2 2
Since the coefficients of 𝑥 and 𝑦 have equal
coefficients, the graph is a circle, a point, or the
empty set.

Completing the squares, we get

2 2
𝑥 + 5𝑥 + 𝑦 − 𝑦 + 7 = 0
2 2
𝑥 + 5𝑥 + 𝑦 − 𝑦 =− 7
2 25 2 1 25 1
𝑥 + 5𝑥 + 4 + 𝑦 − 𝑦 + 4 =− 7 + 4 + 4
5 2 1 2 1
(𝑥 + 2
) + (𝑦 − 2
) =− 2

Since the right hand side is negative, the graph is

the empty set.

(c)

By inspection, the graph is a parabola since

2 2
exactly one of 𝑥 or 𝑦 appears.

(d)
2 2
Since the coefficients of 𝑥 and 𝑦 are not equal
coefficients but have the same sign, the graph
is an ellipse, a point, or the empty set.

Completing the squares, we get

2 2
49𝑥 + 196𝑥 + 100𝑦 + 1400𝑦 + 196 = 0
2 2
49(𝑥 + 4𝑥) + 100(𝑦 + 14𝑦) =− 196
2 2
49(𝑥 + 4𝑥 + 4) + 100(𝑦 + 14𝑦 + 49)
=− 196 + 49(4) + 100(49)
2 2
4(𝑥 + 2) + 100(𝑦 + 7) = 4, 900
2 2
4(𝑥+2) 100(𝑦+7) 4,900
4,900
− 4,900
= 4,900