UNIT 3

CONIC SECTIONS

The Cor Jesu Oratory in Sacred Heart School-

Ateneo de Cebu was shortlisted by the World
Architecture Festival 2019 for its design in religious
architecture.

The shape of the chapel is not just for aesthetic

value. It was also designed to make it more sturdy
and durable. Its exterior and interior are made of
bamboo, concrete, and steel. The particular shape
of the ceiling is called a parabola. It is one of the
conic sections that you will encounter in this
module. The other sections are the ellipse,
hyperbola, and circle. Each conic has its own
characteristics, graph, and equation that you will
learn and apply in real-life situations.

UNIT OUTLINE LEARNING COMPETENCIES

1. Circles 1. develop a solution on situational problems involving circles;

2. develop a solution on situational problems involving
parabolas;
2. Parabolas 3. develop a solution on situational problems involving ellipses;
and
3. Ellipses 4. develop a solution on situational problems involving
hyperbolas.
4. Hyperbolas
Lesson 1
Circles

Learning Targets

Given various learning activities, you will be able to:

(1) define a circle;

(2) determine the standard form of equation of a circle; and
(3) graph a circle in a rectangular coordinate system.

DEFINITION OF CIRCLE

A circle is a set of all coplanar points such that the distance from a fixed point is
constant. The fixed point is called the center of the circle and the constant distance
from the center is called the radius of the circle.

To derive the equation of a circle whose center 𝐶 is at the point (0, 0) and with radius
𝑟, let 𝑃(𝑥, 𝑦) be one of the points on the circle.

The distance from 𝐶(0,0) to 𝑃(𝑥, 𝑦) is equal to the radius 𝑟. By the distance formula,

𝑥−𝑜 ! + 𝑦−0 ! =𝑟
By squaring both sides,

𝑥 ! + 𝑦 ! = 𝑟 !.
 This equation is referred to as 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑑𝑎𝑟𝑑 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑚 (center-radius form) of equation of a
circle whose center is at the origin with radius 𝑟.

The equation of the circle whose center is at the point (ℎ, 𝑘) and with radius 𝑟

𝑥−ℎ ! + 𝑦−𝑘 ! = 𝑟!

is derived in similar manner.

To draw the graph of a circle, simply plot the center and draw the circle using a
pair of compasses with its opening length equal to the radius.

Example 1.1 Determining the Equation of a Circle Given Its Center and Radius

Find the equation of a circle with radius 5 and center at (2,-1).

Solution.

With a center of 2, −1 , we have ℎ = 2 𝑘 = −1, and 𝑟 = 5. Making the

corresponding substitutions into the standard form we obtain

. 𝑥−ℎ !+ 𝑦−𝑘 ! = 𝑟! standard form

𝑥−2 ! + 𝑦 − −1 ! = 5! substitute 2 for ℎ, -1 for 𝑘, and 5 for 𝑟

𝑥 − 2 !+ 𝑦 + 1 !
= 25 simplify

The equation of this circle is 𝒙 − 𝟐 𝟐 + 𝒚+𝟏 𝟐 = 𝟐𝟓.

Example 1.2: Completing a Square to Graph a Circle

Find the center and radius of the circle whose equation is in general form, then sketch
the graph: 𝑥 ! + 𝑦 ! − 6𝑥 + 4𝑦 − 3 = 0.

Solution.

Begin by completing the square in both 𝑥 and 𝑦.

(𝑥 ! − 6𝑥 + ___)+(𝑦 ! + 4𝑦 + ____)= 3 group x- and y- terms; add 3

(𝑥 ! − 6𝑥 + 9)+(𝑦 ! + 4𝑦 + 4)= 3 + 9 + 4 complete the square

adds 9 to left side adds 4 to left side adds 9+4 to right side

𝑥−3 ! + 𝑦+2 ! = 16 factor and simplify

The center at (3, −2), with radius 𝑟 = 16 = 4.

Circle

Center at (𝟑, −𝟐)

Radius: 𝒓 = 𝟒

Diameter: 𝟐𝒓 = 𝟖

Endpoints of horizontal diameter

(−𝟏, −𝟐) and (𝟕, −𝟐)

Endpoints of vertical diameter

𝟑, 𝟐 and (𝟑, −𝟔)
Apply the concepts of circles in answering the questions below. Solutions must be
posted in the General Channel as a reply to the Asynchronous Session post.

A. Determine the standard form of equation of the circle given its center and
radius. Draw its graph.

1. 𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝐶 0,0 , 𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑢𝑠: 5

2. 𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝐶 −2,7 , 𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑢𝑠: 4

3. 𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝐶 −8, −5 , 𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑢𝑠: 3

4. 𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝐶 5, 2 2 , radius: 10

B. Answer each item using the concept of circle.

5. Write the equation of a circle in general form with center at (−1, −6) and radius
8.

6. Determine the center and radius of each circle in general form. Then draw its
graph: 𝑥 ! + 𝑦 ! − 4𝑥 − 2𝑦 − 4 = 0.

Back to Previous Lesson

Lesson 2
Parabolas

Learning Targets

Given various learning activities, you will be able to:

(1) define a parabola;

(2) determine the standard form of equation of a parabola; and
(3) graph a parabola in a rectangular coordinate system.

In mathematics, a parabola is a conic section, created from the intersection of a

right circular conical surface and a plane parallel to a generating straight line of
that surface. In other words, the plane is at the same angle as the outside surface
of the cone.

Parabolic conic section: This diagram shows

how a parabola is generated by the
intersection of a plane with a right circular
cone. It also shows the 𝑥 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑦 𝑎𝑥𝑒𝑠 that would
be used to view the parabola on a
coordinate graph. The vertex of the parabola
here is point 𝑃, and the diagram shows the
radius 𝑟 between that point and the cone’s
central axis, as well as the angle 𝜃 between
the parabola’s axis of symmetry and the
cone’s central axis.
DEFINITION OF A PARABOLA

This definition is illustrated in

Figure 1. The vertex V of the
parabola lies halfway between
the focus and the directrix, and
the axis of symmetry is the line
that runs through the focus
perpendicular to the directrix.

In this section we restrict our

attention to parabolas that are
situated with the vertex at the origin
and that have a vertical or
horizontal axis of symmetry.
(Parabolas in more general positions
will be considered in the next Figure 1.
sections). If the focus of such a
parabola is the point 𝐹(0, 𝑝) , then
the axis of symmetry must be
vertical, and the directrix has the
equation 𝑦 = −𝑝. Figure 2 illustrates
the case 𝑝 > 0.

If 𝑃(𝑥, 𝑦) is any point on the

parabola, then the distance from P
to the focus F (using the Distance
Formula) is

𝑥! + 𝑦 − 𝑝 !

The distance from P to the directrix is

Figure 2.
𝑦 − −𝑝 = |𝑦 + 𝑝|
By the definition of a parabola these two distances must be equal:

If 𝑝 > 0, then the parabola open upward; but if 𝑝 < 0, it opens downward. When
𝑥 is replaced by −𝑥, the equation remains unchanged, so the graph is
symmetric about 𝑦 −axis.

Basic Features of a Parabola

All parabolas have the same set of basic

features.

Axis of Symmetry
The axis of symmetry is a line that is at the same
angle as the cone and divides the parabola in
half.

Vertex
The vertex is the point where the plane intersects
the exterior surface of the cone. It forms the
rounded end of the parabola. The vertex is
therefore also a point on the cone, and the
distance between that point and the cone’s
central axis is the radius of a circle.

Focus
In the diagram showing the parabolic conic
section, a red line is drawn from the center of
that circle to the axis of symmetry, so that a right
angle is formed. The point on the axis of
symmetry where the right angle is located is
called the focus. By doing this, a right triangle is
created.

Directrix
All parabolas have a directrix. The directrix is a Latus Rectum
straight line on the opposite side of the A line segment that is parallel to the
parabolic curve from the focus. The parabolic directrix and which passes through
curve itself is the set of all points that are the focus and whose endpoints are
equidistant (equal distances) from both the on the parabola. Its length is also
directrix line and the focus. referred to as the focal width.
EQUATIONS AND GRAPHS OF PARABOLAS

The following box summarizes the features of a parabola with a vertical axis or a
horizontal axis.

Vertical Axis Horizontal Axis

! !
Form of 𝑥−ℎ = ±4𝑝(𝑦 − 𝑘) 𝑦−𝑘 = ±4𝑝(𝑥 − ℎ)
Equation
Vertex (ℎ, 𝑘) (ℎ, 𝑘)
Axis of
𝑥=ℎ 𝑦=𝑘
symmetry
Direction of Upward: 4𝑝 > 0; Right: 4𝑝 > 0;
opening Downward: 4𝑝 < 0 Left: 4𝑝 < 0
Focus If above the vertex : (ℎ, 𝑘 + 𝑝) If right of vertex : (ℎ + 𝑝, 𝑘)
If below the vertex : (ℎ, 𝑘 − 𝑝) If left of vertex : (ℎ − 𝑝, 𝑘)
Directrix If below the vertex : 𝑦 = 𝑘 − 𝑝 If left of vertex : 𝑥 = ℎ − 𝑝
If above the vertex : 𝑦 = 𝑘 + 𝑝 If right of vertex :𝑥 = ℎ + 𝑝
Length of Latus ±4𝑝 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠 ±4𝑝 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠
Rectum

Example 2.1

Find all the features of the parabola having an equation 𝑥 ! = 8𝑦.

Solution.

The given parabola is with vertical axis.

(a) Vertex : (h,k) = (𝟎, 𝟎)

(b) Axis of symmetry : 𝑥=ℎ = 𝒙=𝟎

(c) Direction of the opening : 4𝑝 = 8 > 0 = upward

(d) 𝑝 : 4𝑝 = |8|
#$ %
#
= |#|
𝒑= 𝟐 =𝟐
Continuation of Example 2.1 (Solution)

(e) Focus : above the vertex since it opens upward,

(ℎ, 𝑘 + 𝑝) = 0, 0 + 2 = (𝟎, 𝟐)

(f) Directrix : below the vertex since the parabola opens upward,
𝑦 =𝑘−𝑝 = 𝑦 =0−2
𝒚 = −𝟐

(g) Length of the Latus Rectum: ±4𝑝 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠 = 4 2 = 𝟖 𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒔

(h) Graph of the Parabola :

Example 2.2

Find all the features of the parabola having an equation 𝑦 = −𝑥 ! , and sketch the graph.

Solution.

The given parabola is with vertical axis since the variable 𝑥 is being squared. Rewriting it in
focus-directrix form, 𝑥 ! = −𝑦

(a) Vertex : (h,k) = (𝟎, 𝟎)

(b) Axis of symmetry : 𝑥=ℎ = 𝒙=𝟎

(c) Direction of the opening : 4𝑝 = −1 < 0 = downward

(d) 𝑝 : 4𝑝 = | − 1|
#$ &'
#
=| # |
𝟏 𝟏
𝒑 = −𝟒 = 𝟒

(e) Focus : below the vertex since it opens downward,

' 𝟏
(ℎ, 𝑘 − 𝑝) = 0, 0 + = (𝟎, )
# 𝟒

(f) Directrix : above the vertex since the parabola opens downward,
'
𝑦 =𝑘+𝑝 = 𝑦 =0+#
𝟏
𝒚=𝟒

'
(g) Length of the Latus Rectum: ±4𝑝 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠 = 4 #
= 𝟏 𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒕

(h) Graph of the Parabola :

Example 2.3

!
Find all the features of the parabola having an equation 𝑦 + 3 = 8𝑥 + 16

Solution.

The given parabola is with horizontal axis. Rewrite the given equation in 𝑦 − 𝑘 ! = ±4𝑝(𝑥 − ℎ)

𝑦+3 ! = 8𝑥 + 16 Given
𝑦+3 ! = 8(𝑥 + 2) Factor out 8

(a) Vertex : (h,k) = (−𝟐, −𝟑)

(b) Axis of symmetry : y=𝑘 = 𝐲 = −𝟑

(c) Direction of the opening : 4𝑝 = 8 > 0 = going to the right

(d) 𝑝 : 4𝑝 = |8|
#$ %
#
= |#|
𝒑= 𝟐 =𝟐

(e) Focus : right of the vertex since it opens to the right,

(ℎ + 𝑝, 𝑘) = −2 + 2, −3 = (𝟎, −𝟑)

(f) Directrix : left of the vertex since the parabola opens to the right,
x=ℎ−𝑝 = 𝑥 = −2 − 2
𝒙 = −𝟒

(g) Length of the Latus Rectum: ±4𝑝 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠 = 4 2 = 𝟖 𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒔

Example 2.4

Find all the features of the parabola having an equation 𝑥 ! + 6𝑥 + 12𝑦 − 15 = 0.

Solution.

The given parabola is with vertical axis since x is being squared. Rewrite the given equation
in 𝑥 − ℎ ! = ±4𝑝(𝑦 − 𝑘) by completing the square.

𝑥 ! + 6𝑥 + 12𝑦 − 15 = 0 Given

* !
𝑥 ! + 6𝑥 + !
= −12𝑦 + 15+9 complete the square of the terms with variable x in the left side

𝑥 + 3 ! = −12𝑦 + 24 simplify

𝑥 + 3 ! = −12(𝑦 − 2) factor out -12

(a)Vertex : (h,k) = (−𝟑, 𝟐)

(b) Axis of symmetry : x=ℎ = 𝒙 = −𝟑

(c) Direction of the opening : 4𝑝 = −12 < 0 = downward

(d) 𝑝 : 4𝑝 = | − 12|
#$ &'!
#
=| # |
𝒑 = −𝟑 = 𝟑

(e) Focus : below the vertex since it opens downward,

(ℎ, 𝑘 − 𝑝) = (−3, 2 − 3) = (−𝟑, −𝟏)

(f) Directrix : above the vertex since the parabola opens downward,
y=𝑘+𝑝 = y= 2 + 3
𝒚=𝟓

(g) Length of the Latus Rectum: ±4𝑝 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠 = 4 3 = 𝟏𝟐 𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒔

Example 4.5

Determine the standard form (focus-directrix) of the equation of a parabola with vertex at
(−5, −1) and the focus is at −8, −1 .

Solution.

Plotting the vertex and focus in the cartesian plane will give us an idea that the direction of the
parabola opens to the left.

If the focus is at (-8,-1), then working backwards,

ℎ − 𝑝, 𝑘 = −5 − 𝑝, −1
We get the v𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑝 = 3.

Substitute the known values to the standard form:

. 𝑦−𝑘 != ±4𝑝(𝑥 − ℎ) Standard form

𝑦 − (−1) ! = −4(3)(𝑥 − (−5)) Substitute known values

. 𝒚+𝟏 𝟐= −𝟏𝟐(𝒙 + 𝟓) Simplify

A. Identify the vertex, axis of symmetry, direction of the opening, 𝒑, focus, and
directrix of each equation. Then sketch the graph.

1) 𝑦 =− 𝑥+3 ! −1
' !
2) 𝑥=−
#
𝑦+2

' !
3) −+ 𝑥 − 3 = 𝑦 + 5

4) − 𝑦+2 = 𝑥−2 !

5) −2𝑥 ! − 4𝑥 + 𝑦 + 70 = 0
6) 2𝑦 ! + 𝑥 + 20𝑦 + 51 = 0

B. Use the information provided to write the standard form (focus-directrix) of the
equation of each parabola.
'
7)Vertex at origin, focus: (0, − +!)

#,
8) Vertex: (−6, −9), directrix: 𝑥 = − %

9) Opens left or right, vertex: (7,6), passes through: (-11,9)

10)
Lesson 3
Ellipses

Learning Targets

Given various learning activities, you will be able to:

(1) define ellipse;

(2) determine the standard form of equation of an ellipse; and
(3) graph an ellipse in a rectangular coordinate system.

An ellipse is a closed figure in a plane that closely resembles an oval.

An image of an ellipse can be formed if a plane cuts a right circular cone and the
plane is not parallel to any generator.

Elliptic concepts are found in astronomy. Planets move in

elliptical orbits. The Earth orbits the Sun almost circular with
approximate eccentricity of 0.0167, while Pluto moves
around an elliptic path with approximate eccentricity of
0.2481.

The concept of ellipse is also used in engineering designs

such as elliptical roads; in architectural designs such as
ceilings of churches and galleries; in arts such as logo
designs; and in medicine such as medical equipment.

An example of a medical equipment is the lithotripter, a device used to treat

kidney and gall stones without open surgery.
DEFINITION OF AN ELLIPSE

An ellipse is a set of all coplanar points such that the sum of its distances from two
fixed points is constant. The fixed points are called the foci of the ellipse.

An ellipse has two axes of symmetry. Each of these axes contains an axis that is
important when dealing with ellipse. The longer axis is called the major axis, and
the shorter axis is called the minor axis.

The major axis contains the foci. Consequently, the foci are inside the ellipse.

The intersection of the two axes is called the center of the ellipse. The center is the
midpoint between the two foci, and also the midpoint between the two vertices.

The ellipse intersects the major axis in two points called the vertices of the ellipse.
These vertices are the endpoints od the ellipse.
EQUATIONS AND GRAPHS OF ELLIPSES

The following box summarizes the features of an ellipse with horizontal and vertical
orientations.
Example 3.1

-! /!
Determine all the features of the ellipse given the equation .
+ #
= 1.

Solution.

The given equation is with horizontal orientation since the denominator of 𝑥 is greater
(-&1)! (/&4)! ! !
that of 𝑦. It is in the form 3!
+ 5!
, where 𝑎 = 9 = 3; 𝑏 = 4 = 2; 𝑐 = 3 − 2 =
5.

(a)Center : (ℎ, 𝑘) = (0,0)

(b)Length of major axis : 2𝑎 = 2 3 = 6 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠

(c) Length of minor axis : 2𝑏 = 2 2 = 4 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠

(d)Foci : 𝑓' = ℎ + 𝑐, 𝑘 = 0 + 5, 0 = ( 5, 0)
𝑓! = (ℎ − 𝑐, 𝑘) = 0 − 5, 0 = (− 5, 0)

(e) Vertices : 𝑉' = ℎ + 𝑎, 𝑘 = 0 + 3, 0 = (3, 0)

𝑉! = (ℎ − 𝑎, 𝑘) = 0 − 3, 0 = (−3, 0)

(f) Co-vertices : 𝑊' = ℎ, 𝑘 + 𝑏 = 0, 0 + 2 = (0, 2)

𝑊! = (ℎ, 𝑘 − 𝑏) = 0, 0 − 2 = (0, −2)

(g) Graph of Ellipse :

Example 3.2

Determine all the features of the ellipse given the equation 4𝑥 ! + 9𝑦 ! − 16𝑥 − 54𝑦 +
61 = 0.

Solution.

First, reduce the equation in standard form. Apply completing the square.

4𝑥 ! + 9𝑦 ! − 16𝑥 − 54𝑦 + 61 = 0
4𝑥 ! − 16𝑥 + 9𝑦 ! − 54𝑦 = −61
4 𝑥 ! − 4𝑥 + −2 !
+ 9 𝑦 ! − 6𝑦 + −3 !
= −61 + 16 + 81
4 𝑥−2 ! +9 𝑦−3 ! = 36
! !
4 𝑥−2 9 𝑦−3 36
+ =
36 36 36
𝑥−2 ! 𝑦−3 !
+ =1
9 4
-&! ! /&+ ! (-&1)! (/&4)!
The equation + = 1 is of the form + , where 𝑎 = 9 = 3; 𝑏 = 4 =
. # 3! 5!
2; 𝑐 = 3 ! − !
2 = 5.

(a)Center : (ℎ, 𝑘) = (2, 3)

(b)Length of major axis : 2𝑎 = 2 3 = 6 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠

(c) Length of minor axis : 2𝑏 = 2 2 = 4 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠

(d)Foci : 𝑓' = ℎ + 𝑐, 𝑘 = 2 + 5, 3
𝑓! = (ℎ − 𝑐, 𝑘) = 2 − 5, 3

(e) Vertices : 𝑉' = ℎ + 𝑎, 𝑘 = 2 + 3, 3 = (5, 3)

𝑉! = (ℎ − 𝑎, 𝑘) = 2 − 3, 3 = (−1, 3)

(f) Co-vertices : 𝑊' = ℎ, 𝑘 + 𝑏 = 2, 3 + 2 = (2, 5)

𝑊! = (ℎ, 𝑘 − 𝑏) = 2, 3 − 2 = (2, 1)

(g) Graph of Ellipse :

Example 3

3.3 standard form equation of this ellipse: 𝑥 ! + 4𝑦 ! + 6𝑥 − 8𝑦 + 9 = 0.

Examplethe
Determine

Solution.
Determine the standard form equation of this ellipse: 𝑥 ! + 4𝑦 ! + 6𝑥 − 8𝑦 + 9 = 0.

Apply
Solution.
completing the square.

Apply completing the square.

𝑥 ! + 4𝑦 ! + 6𝑥 − 8𝑦 + 9 = 0
𝑥 ! + 6𝑥 + 4𝑦 ! − 8𝑦 = −9
𝑥 ! + 4𝑦 ! + 6𝑥 − 8𝑦 + 9 = 0
! ! ! !
𝑥 + 6𝑥 + 3 + 4𝑥 !𝑦+ −
6𝑥2𝑦++ 4𝑦 −1 = −9
! − 8𝑦 +9+4
= −9
! ! =4
𝑥 ! + 6𝑥 + 3 ! 𝑥++43𝑦 ! + −42𝑦𝑦 +
− 1−1 ! = −9 + 9 + 4

𝑥 + 3 ! !4 𝑦 − 1 ! ! 4
𝑥 + 3+ + 4 𝑦 − 1= = 4
4 4 4
𝑥 + 3𝟐 ! 4 𝑦 − 𝟐1 ! 4
𝒙+𝟑 +𝒚 − 𝟑 =
4 + 4 =𝟏 4
𝟒 𝟏
𝒙+𝟑 𝟐 𝒚−𝟑 𝟐
+ =𝟏
𝟒 𝟏

Example 4

3.4 standard form equation of this ellipse: 9𝑥 ! + 4𝑦 ! − 54𝑥 + 40𝑦 + 37 = 0.

Examplethe
Determine

Solution.
Determine the standard form equation of this ellipse: 9𝑥 ! + 4𝑦 ! − 54𝑥 + 40𝑦 + 37 = 0.

Apply
Solution.
completing the square.

Apply completing the square.

9𝑥 ! + 4𝑦 ! − 54𝑥 + 40𝑦 + 37 = 0
9𝑥 ! − 54𝑥 + 4𝑦 ! + 40𝑦 = −37
9𝑥 ! + 4𝑦 ! − 54𝑥 + 40𝑦 + 37 = 0
9 𝑥 ! − 6𝑥 + −3 !9𝑥+! 4 −𝑦
!
54𝑥+ 10𝑦 +! 5
+ 4𝑦
!
+ 40𝑦= −37 + 81 + 100
= −37
9 𝑥 − 3 ! + 4 𝑦 + 5 ! = 144
9 𝑥 ! − 6𝑥 + −3 ! + 4 𝑦 ! + 10𝑦 + 5 ! = −37 + 81 + 100
9 𝑥 − 3 ! !4 𝑦 + 5 ! ! 144
9 𝑥 − 3+ + 4 𝑦 + 5= = 144
144 144 144
9 𝑥 − 3𝟐 ! 4 𝑦 +𝟐5 ! 144
𝒙−𝟑 +𝒚 + 𝟓 =
144 + 144 = 𝟏 144
𝟏𝟔 𝟑𝟔
𝒙−𝟑 𝟐 𝒚+𝟓 𝟐
+ =𝟏
𝟏𝟔 𝟑𝟔
Example 5

Find the standard form equation of the ellipse that satisfies the following conditions:
a. endpoints of the major axis are 0, 4 𝑎𝑛𝑑 (0, −4); and
b. endpoints of the minor axis are 2, 0 𝑎𝑛𝑑 −2, 0 .

Solution.

First, plot the endpoints of the major and minor axes in a plane to know the center of
the ellipse.
Based on the graph, the ellipse is in vertical orientation
-&1 ! /&4 !
which means that it is of the form 5!
+ 3!
= 1.

It can be observed that the center (ℎ, 𝑘) of the equation is at

the origin (0,0). The length of the major axis, which is the
%
distance between 0, −4 𝑎𝑛𝑑 (0,4) is 8, it means that 𝑎 = ! =
4 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠. The length of the minor axis, which is the distance
#
between −2,0 𝑎𝑛𝑑 (2,0) is 4, it means that b= = 2 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠.
!

To find the standard form, substitute the values of h, k, a, and

-&1 ! /&4 !
b to the equation 5!
+ 3!
= 1.

! !
𝑥−ℎ 𝑦−𝑘
+ =1
𝑏! 𝑎!

𝑥−0 ! 𝑦−0 !
+ =1
2! 4!

𝒙𝟐 𝒚𝟐
+ = 𝟏. (Standard Form)
𝟒 𝟏𝟔

Example 6

Write the general form equation of the ellipse shown below.

Solution.

Based on the graph, the ellipse is in vertical orientation which

-&1 ! /&4 !
means that it is of the form 5!
+ 3!
= 1.

In finding its general form, we need to find first its standard

form.
The center (ℎ, 𝑘) is given which is (0,0). The value of 𝑎 can be computed by finding
the distance between points (0,0) and (0,6), which is 6. However, the value of 𝑏
cannot be determined directly. Foci are given, so we solve first the value of 𝑐 to
compute for 𝑏.

In solving 𝑐, we have to recall that the distance between the center and either of the
foci is 𝑐. In this problem the distance between the center and focus is 3.

To find 𝑏, let’s use the formula 𝑐 ! = 𝑎! − 𝑏 ! .

𝑐 " = 𝑎" − 𝑏 "

3 " = 6 " − 𝑏"
𝑏" = 36 − 9
𝒃 = 27 = 𝟑 𝟑

To find the standard form, substitute the values of h, k, a, and b to the equation
-&1 ! /&4 !

5!
+ 3!
= 1.
! !
𝑥−ℎ 𝑦−𝑘
+ =1
𝑏! 𝑎!

𝑥−0 ! 𝑦−0 !
! + =1
3 3 2!
y# |#
+ =1
z{ }~

-! /!
Expand !,
+ +*
= 1 to get the general form.

y# |#
+ =1
z{ }~

36𝑥 ! + 27𝑦 !
=1
972

36𝑥 ! + 27𝑦 ! = 972

𝟑𝟔𝒙𝟐 + 𝟐𝟕𝒚𝟐 − 𝟗𝟕𝟐 = 𝟎 (General Form)

 Answer this activity on your ”Class Notebook”. Under Homework Section, add a
page and name it “Activity on ELLIPSE”. For low and zero bandwidths, answer the
following on your notebook.

A. Identify the center, vertices, co-vertices, and foci of each. Then sketch the
graph. Answers must be in rational or radical form.

!+# ! &−$ !
1) + =#
$% (

!−# ! &−$ !
2) )
+ $)
=#

!−$ ! &+) !
3) *
+ (
=#

4) $+ + %&+ + '$ − %)& + **+ = )

5) %$+ + ,&+ − -'$ + *,& + -' = )

B. Use the information provided to write the standard form of the equation of the
ellipse.

6)7)Vertices at (-6, 0) and (6, 0); foci at (-4, 0)

7)8) Foci at (3, -6) and (3, 2); length of the minor axis: 6 units

,
8)9) Vertices at (-6, 3) and (4, 3); . = -

9)10)

Focus
Lesson 4
Hyperbolas

Learning Targets

Given various learning activities, you will be able to:

(1) define hyperbola;

(2) determine the standard form of equation of a hyperbola; and
(3) graph a hyperbola in a rectangular coordinate system.

A hyperbola is a smooth curve on a plane consisting of two separate

branches that are images of each other.

An image of a hyperbola can be formed if a plane cuts both halves of the

double right circular cone but does not pass through the apex of the cone.

Models of hyperbola occur in science, business, and

economics. For example, some comes orbit in hyperbolic path,
pass through the solar system once and never return; reflexive
properties of hyperbola are used in photo instrument designs such
as the Hubble Space Telescope which uses hyperbolic mirror.

Images of hyperbola can be found around the places of

human activities. For example, hyperbola appears as linings of the
shadow cast on a wall by a cylindrical lampshade; when two
stones are thrown at the same time into a still water, ripples are
formed, some of which are hyperbolic in shape.

In science, hyperbola explains graphically some physical laws such

as the Boyle-Mariotte Law for Ideal Gas and the Ohm’s Law on
Current-Voltage Relationship.
DEFINITION OF A HYPERBOLA

A hyperbola is a set of all coplanar points such that the difference of

its distances from two fixed points is constant. The fixed points are called the foci of
the hyperbola.

Parts of a Hyperbola

1. Center - the intersection of the transverse axis and the conjugate axis. It is
located halfway between two foci.

2. Foci - two fixed points in a hyperbola. They are "c units" from the center and
always lie within the branches of the hyperbola.

3. Branches - the set of points that form the hyperbola itself. These are the curve
lines that are facing opposite each other.

4. Transverse axis - the segment joining the two vertices on the separate branches
and whose endpoints are "a units" from the center of the hyperbola.

5. Conjugate axis - the line segment perpendicular to the transverse axis and
whose endpoints are "b units" from the center of the hyperbola.
6. Vertices - the endpoints of the transverse axis. Each vertex is "a units" from the
center of the hyperbola.

7. Asymptotes - the branches of a hyperbola extend outward approaching two

lines which serve as the asymptotes of the hyperbola. The asymptotes intersect at
the center of the hyperbola and pass through the corners of an imaginary
rectangle (central box).

8. Latera Recta (singular, latus rectum) - Each latus rectum is a line segment
parallel to the conjugate axis, passes through a focus, and has endpoints on the
branches of the hyperbola.

The following box summarizes the features of a hyperbola with horizontal and vertical
orientations.
Example 4.1

(-&!)! (/&#)!
Determine all the features of the hyperbola given the equation .
− #
= 1.

Solution.

The given equation is with horizontal orientation since the denominator of 𝑥 is

(-&1)! (/&4)! ! !
positive. It is in the form − , where 𝑎 = 9 = 3; 𝑏 = 4 = 2; 𝑐 = 3 + 2 =
3! 5!
13.

(a)Center : (ℎ, 𝑘) = (2, 4)

(b)Length of transverse axis : 2𝑎 = 2 3 = 6 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠

(c) Length of conjugate axis : 2𝑏 = 2 2 = 4 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠

(d)Foci : 𝑓' = ℎ + 𝑐, 𝑘 = 2 + 13, 4

𝑓! = (ℎ − 𝑐, 𝑘) = 2 − 13, 4

(e) Vertices : 𝑉' = ℎ + 𝑎, 𝑘 = 2 + 3, 4 = (5, 4)

𝑉! = (ℎ − 𝑎, 𝑘) = 2 − 3, 4 = (−1, 4)

!5! !! ! %
(f) Latus Rectum : 3
= +
= + 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠

5 !
(g) Asymptotes : (i) y = 𝑘 + 3 (𝑥 − ℎ) = 𝑦 =4++ 𝑥−2

! #
= 𝑦 = 4 + +𝑥 − +

! %
= 𝑦 = +𝑥 + +

5 !
(ii) y = 𝑘 − 3 (𝑥 − ℎ) = 𝑦 =4−+ 𝑥−2

! #
= 𝑦 = 4 − +𝑥 + +

! '*
= 𝑦=− 𝑥+
+ +
(g) Graph of Hyperbola :

Example 4.2

Determine all the features of the hyperbola given the equation 7𝑥 ! − 9𝑦 ! − 14𝑥 +
72𝑦 − 200 = 0.

Solution.

First, reduce the equation in standard form. Apply completing the square.

7𝑥 ! − 9𝑦 ! − 14𝑥 + 72𝑦 − 200 = 0.

7𝑥 ! − 14𝑥 + −9𝑦 ! + 72𝑦 = 200
9 𝑥 ! − 2 − 9 𝑦 ! − 8𝑦 = 200
7 𝑥 ! − 2𝑥 + −1 !
− 9 𝑦 ! − 8𝑦 + −4 !
= 200 + 7 − 144
7 𝑥−1 ! −9 𝑦−4 ! = 63
7 𝑥−1 ! 9 𝑦−4 ! 63
− =
63 63 63
𝑥−1 ! 𝑦−4 !
− =1
9 7

-&' ! /&# ! (-&1)! (/&4)!

The equation .
− ,
= 1 is of the form 3!
− 5!
, where 𝑎 = 9 = 3;
!
𝑏 = 7; 𝑐 = 3 ! + 7 = 4.

(a)Center : (ℎ, 𝑘) = (1, 4)

(b)Length of transverse axis : 2𝑎 = 2 3 = 6 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠

(c) Length of conjugate axis : 2𝑏 = 2 7 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠

(d) Foci : 𝑓' = ℎ + 𝑐, 𝑘 = 1 + 4, 4 = (5, 4)
𝑓! = (ℎ − 𝑐, 𝑘) = 1 − 4, 4 = (−3, 4)

(e) Vertices : 𝑉' = ℎ + 𝑎, 𝑘 = 1 + 3, 4 = (4, 4)

𝑉! = (ℎ − 𝑎, 𝑘) = 1 − 3, 4 = (−2, 4)
!
!5! ! , '#
(f) Latus Rectum : = = 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠
3 + +

5 ,
(g) Asymptotes : (i) y = 𝑘 + 3 (𝑥 − ℎ) = 𝑦 =4+ +
𝑥−1

, ,
= 𝑦 =4+ 𝑥 −
+ +

, '!& ,
= 𝑦= +
𝑥 + +

5 ,
(ii) y = 𝑘 − 3 (𝑥 − ℎ) = 𝑦 =4− +
𝑥−1

, ,
= 𝑦 =4− 𝑥 +
+ +

, '!6 ,
= 𝑦=− +
𝑥 + +

(g) Graph of Hyperbola :

Example 4.3

Find the standard equation of the hyperbola that satisfies the following conditions:

(i) for any point on the hyperbola, the absolute value of the difference of its
distances from the foci (length of transverse axis) is 4
(ii) foci occur at (5, 2) and (0, 2)

Solution.

First, plot the foci in the rectangular coordinate plane to determine the center.
Take note that the midpoint of the foci is the center (h, k).

Based on the graph, the hyperbola is in horizontal orientation which means that
-&1 ! /&4 !
it is of the form − = 1.
3! 5!

It can be observed that the center (ℎ, 𝑘) of the equation is at (2.5, 2). The length
of the transverse axis, which is the absolute value of the difference of its distances
#
from the foci is 4, it means that 𝑎 = ! = 2 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠. We know that 𝑐 is the distance
between the center and the focus, so 𝑐 = 2.5 − 2 = 0.5. To find 𝑏, use the formula 𝑏 =
+
𝑐 ! − 𝑎! , so it is 𝑏 = (0.5)! − 2 ! = ! .

To find the standard form, substitute the values of h, k, a, and b to the equation
-&1 ! /&4 !

3!
− 5!
= 1.
! !
𝑥−ℎ 𝑦−𝑘
− =1
𝑎! 𝑏!

𝑥 − 2.5 ! 𝑦−2 !
− ! =1
2! 3
2

𝟓 𝟐
𝒙€𝟐 𝒚€𝟐 𝟐
− 𝟗 = 𝟏. (Standard Form)
𝟒
𝟒
Example 4.4

A hyperbola has vertices (-4, 9) and (-4, -5), and one of its foci is −4, 2 − 65 . Find its
standard equation.

Solution.

First, plot the given points (vertices and focus) in the rectangular coordinate
plane to determine the center. Take note that the midpoint of the vertices is the
center (h, k).
Based on the graph, the hyperbola is in vertical
/&4 !
orientation which means that it is of the form 3!
−
-&1 !

5!
= 1.

It can be observed that the center (ℎ, 𝑘) of the

equation is at (−4, 2) using the midpoint formula. The
distance from any of the vertices to the center is 𝑎 ,
which is equal to 7. We know that 𝑐 is the distance
between the center and the focus, so 𝑐 = | 2 − 65 −
2| = 65. To find 𝑏, use the formula 𝑏 = 𝑐 ! − 𝑎! , so it is 𝑏 =
( 65)! − 7 ! = 4.

To find the standard form, substitute the values of

/&4 ! -&1 !
h, k, a, and b to the equation 3!
− 5!
= 1.
! !
𝑦−𝑘 𝑥−ℎ
− =1
𝑎! 𝑏!

! !
𝑦−2 𝑥 − −4
− =1
(7)! 4 !

𝒚(𝟐 𝟐 𝒙*𝟒 𝟐
𝟒𝟗
− 𝟏𝟔
= 𝟏. (Standard Form)

Example 4.5

Find the standard equation, lengths of the transverse

and conjugate axes, and the latus rectum of the hyperbola
whose graph is shown on the right.

Solution.

Based on the graph, the ellipse is in vertical orientation

/&4 ! -&1 !
which means that it is of the form 3!
− 5!
=1
 The center (ℎ, 𝑘) can be solved by finding the midpoint of the vertices
''
0, −8 & (0, −3) which is 0, − ! . The value of 𝑎 can be computed by finding the
'' 7
distance between the center 0, − !
and one vertex 0, −8 , and it is equal to !
. In
''
solving 𝑐, we have to recall that it is the distance between the center 0, − !
and
,
either of the foci (0, 2), which is equal to !. We can compute 𝑏 using the values of 𝑎
and 𝑐 and 𝑏 = 6.

(a) standard form

To find the standard form, substitute the values of h, k, a, and b to the equation
/&4 ! -&1 !

3!
− 5!
= 1.
-(. # 0(1 #
− =1
/# 2#

11 !
𝑦+ 2 𝑥−0 !
− ! =1
(5/2)! 6

𝟏𝟏 𝟐
𝒚* 𝒙𝟐
𝟐
𝟐𝟓/𝟒
− 𝟔
= 𝟏. (Standard Form)

(b) length of the transverse axis

5
2𝑎 = 2 = 5 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠
2

(c) length of the conjugate axis

2𝑏 = 2 6 = 2 6 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠

(d) Latus Rectum

!
2𝑏 ! 2 6 24
= = 𝑢𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑠
𝑎 5 5
2
Answer this activity on your ”Class Notebook”. Under Homework Section, add a
page and name it “Activity on HYPERBOLAS”. For low and zero bandwidths,
answer the following on your notebook.

A. Identify the vertices, foci, and direction of opening of each. Then sketch the
graph.

!! $!
1) − =%
"# %

!&' ! $&" !
2) #()
−
%
=%

B. Identify the asymptotes, length of the transverse axis, length of the conjugate
axis, and the length of the latus rectum.

3) −10( − ( * = −4* * − 72* − 199

4) −( * + 12( − 19 = 18* − * *

C. Use the information provided to write the standard form equation of each
hyperbola.

5) vertices: 7, −2 , 5, −2 ; 23(4567683: ( = 11* − 68 & ( = −11* + 64.

6) <8=68> (10, −4); Transverse axis is vertical and 18 units long; conjugate axis is 10
units long.

7)
REFERENCES
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https://math.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Precalculus/Book%3A_Precalculus_(OpenStax)/07%3A_T
rigonometric_Identities_and_Equations/7.07%3A_Modeling_with_Trigonometric_Equations

2. Ateneo SALT Institute. (2020). SJ Basic Ed C - Adaptive Design for Learning. Retrieved from
https://canvas.instructure.com/courses/2088557

3. Bittinger, M., et al. (2016). Calculus and its Applications. Pearson Education South Asia PTE.
Ltd.

4. Bruce, R., et al. (2016). Math Connections in the Digital Age. Sibs Publishing House, Inc.

5. Coburn, J. (2016). Precalculus. McGraw – Hill Education.

6. Department of Education. (2019). Precalculus Curriculum Guide. (PDF File). Retrieved from
https://www.deped.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Pre-Calculus.pdf

7. Go, J., Atienza, R., & Ateneo de Manila University. (2019). Learning by Refraction: A
Practitioner’s Guide to 21st Century Ignatian Pedagogy. Ateneo de Manila Press.

8. Larson, R. & Edwards, B. (2019). Calculus of a Single Variable: Early Transcendental

Functions. Cengage Learning, Inc.

9. Orines, F. (2016). Next Century Mathematics 11 Precalculus. Phoenix Publishing House, Inc.

10. Science Europe. (2020). Calls for Proposals by Science Europe Members. Retrieved
from https://www.scienceeurope.org/our-priorities/covid-19/calls-for-proposals/

11. Stewart, J., et al. (2012). Precalculus: Mathematics for Calculus, Sixth Edition.
Brooks/Cole, Cengage Learning