Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Lesson 4.1
Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola
Contents
Introduction 1

Learning Objectives 2

Warm Up 3

Learn about It! 4

Parts of a Hyperbola 5
Equation of a Hyperbola in Standard Form 10
Equation of a Hyperbola in General Form 18

Key Points 25

Key Formulas 26

Check Your Understanding 27

Challenge Yourself 28

Bibliography 29

Key to Try It! 29

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Lesson 4.1

Definition and Equation of a

Hyperbola

Introduction
The concept of hyperbolas is widely used not only in architecture but also in navigation and
communication. For example, a navigation system called hyperbolic navigation is used to
determine a ship’s location by examining the difference between the times the ship receives
radio signals from fixed land-based navigation transmitters.

To illustrate how it works, imagine you are somewhere between two radio stations. You are
probably closer to one and farther to the other. The radio stations continuously transmit

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 1

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

radio waves, and you receive radio signals earlier from the nearest station. If you can see the
signals from the radio stations, how would it look like? It would be similar to the ripples of
waves coming from two fixed points. Each pair of the ripple of waves coming from the two
stations resembles a hyperbola.

Such an application of hyperbolas makes it an important concept in Mathematics and in

other fields. In this lesson, we will discover more about hyperbolas, its properties, and its
equation.

Learning Objectives DepEd Competencies

In this lesson, you should be able to do the

● Define a hyperbola
following: (STEM_PC11AG-ID-1).
● Define a hyperbola. ● Determine the standard form of
equation of a hyperbola
● Name the parts and properties of
(STEM_PC11AG-ID-2).
a hyperbola.

● Write the equation of a hyperbola.

● Transform the standard form of

equation of a hyperbola into its
general form and vice versa.

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 2

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Warm Up
Draw Me! 10 minutes
This activity will allow you to discover that a hyperbola is a set of points whose difference
between distances from two fixed points is constant.

Materials
● bond paper
● pencil
● ruler

Procedure
1. Draw a horizontal line of length 10 cm. Mark the endpoints of the line segment as 𝐹1
and 𝐹2 .
2. Construct as many triangles as possible using ̅̅̅̅̅̅
𝐹1 𝐹2 as the base while maintaining the
difference between the measures of the two other sides equal to 6 cm. For example,
you could draw a triangle whose base is 10 cm, while the lengths of the other sides are
10 cm and 4 cm.
3. Note that the additional vertices may be on either side of ̅̅̅̅̅̅
𝐹1 𝐹2 .
4. Connect the vertices of the triangles that are not on ̅̅̅̅̅̅
𝐹1 𝐹2 using a smooth curve.

Guide Questions
1. What are the measures of the triangles that you have formed?
2. What figure were you able to form by connecting the vertices that are not on ̅̅̅̅̅̅
𝐹1 𝐹2?
3. Based on the procedure, how do you define a hyperbola?

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 3

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Learn about It!

Recall that a hyperbola is formed when a vertical plane intersects a double-napped cone.

A plane intersecting a double-napped cone vertically

A hyperbola is defined as the set of all points on a plane whose absolute difference between
the distances from two fixed points 𝐹1 and 𝐹2 is constant. Similar to an ellipse, each of the two
fixed points 𝐹1 and 𝐹2 is called a focus (plural: foci) of the hyperbola. In the given hyperbola
below, |𝑃1 𝐹1 − 𝑃1 𝐹2 | = |𝑃2 𝐹1 − 𝑃2 𝐹2 |.

A hyperbola in a Cartesian Plane with foci 𝐹1 and 𝐹2

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 4

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Parts of a Hyperbola
• Principal axis – line passing through the foci of a hyperbola
• Vertices – two points on the hyperbola that lie on the principal axis
• Transverse axis – line segment joining the vertices
• Center – midpoint of the transverse axis
• Focal distance – distance from the center to a focus

Parts of a hyperbola

Throughout this unit, we will use 𝒂 to denote the distance from the center to a vertex,
which is also half of the transverse axis. Similar to an ellipse and a parabola, the focal
distance is denoted by 𝒄. Since a focus is farther from the center than a vertex, we can say
that 𝑐 > 𝑎. This implies that 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 > 0. Hence, we can let 𝑏 be a positive number such that
𝒃𝟐 = 𝒄𝟐 − 𝒂𝟐. Then, we define the conjugate axis as the line segment perpendicular to the
transverse axis whose length is 𝟐𝒃. Furthermore, since the center is the midpoint of the
transverse axis and the two foci, it follows that the length of the transverse axis and the
distance between the two foci are 2𝑎 and 2𝑐, respectively.

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 5

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

A hyperbola on a Cartesian plane with its two foci, 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐

In addition, we can show that if 𝑃 is a point on a hyperbola, then by the definition,

|𝑃𝐹1 − 𝑃𝐹2 | = 2𝑎.

Suppose 𝑃 is closer to 𝐹1 . Then, 𝑃𝐹1 = 𝑐 and 𝑃𝐹2 = 2𝑎 + 𝑐. Hence,

|𝑃𝐹1 − 𝑃𝐹2 | = |𝑐 − (2𝑎 + 𝑐)| = 2𝑎.

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 6

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Let’s Practice!
Example 1
If the focal distance of a hyperbola is 10 units and half of its transverse axis is 8 units, what is
the distance from the center of the hyperbola to one of the endpoints of the conjugate axis?

Solution
Since the problem is asking for the value of 𝑏 and the given information are 𝑐 = 10 units and
𝑎 = 8 units, we can use the relationship 𝑏2 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 .

𝑏2 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
𝑏2 = 102 − 82
𝑏2 = 100 − 64
𝑏2 = 36
𝑏=6

Note that we disregard the negative square root of 36 because 𝑏 cannot be negative.

1 Try It!
Find the distance from the center of a hyperbola to one of its vertices if the focal
distance is 13 units and the distance from the center to an endpoint of the conjugate
axis is 12 units.

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 7

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Example 2
The foci of a hyperbola are at (±8, 0). Find the distance from the center of the hyperbola to
one of its vertices if the endpoints of the conjugate axis are at (0, ±6).

Solution
Step 1: Determine the known values.

We can deduce that 𝑐 = 8 since the distance between the two foci is 16 units
and half of it is the focal distance 𝑐. Similarly, 𝑏 = 6 since it is half of the length
of the conjugate axis.

Step 2: Substitute the given values to 𝑏2 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 to find the unknown.

𝑏2 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
62 = 82 − 𝑎2
36 = 64 − 𝑎2
𝑎2 = 64 − 36
𝑎2 = 28
𝑎 = 2√7

Therefore, the distance from the center to either vertex is 𝟐√𝟕 units.

2 Try It!
The foci of a hyperbola are at (±12, 0). Find the distance from the center of the
hyperbola to one of its vertices if the endpoints of the conjugate axis are at (0, ±10).

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 8

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Example 3
The foci of a hyperbola are at (±4, 0). Find the distance from the center of the hyperbola to
one of its vertices if 𝑃(−5, 3) is a point on the graph.

Solution
Recall that the difference between the distances from any point to the foci of a hyperbola is
equal to the length of the transverse axis, which is 2𝑎. To solve the given problem, we first get
the difference between the distances from point 𝑃 to the two foci, then equate it to 2𝑎.

Step 1: Find the distance from the given point to the two foci.

𝑑1 = √(−5 − 4)2 + (3 − 0)2 = √81 + 9 = √90 = 𝟑√𝟏𝟎

𝑑2 = √[−5 − (−4)]2 + (3 − 0)2 = √1 + 9 = √𝟏𝟎

Step 2: Get the absolute value of the difference between the two distances, then
equate it to 2𝑎.

3√10 − √10 = 2𝑎
Step 3: Solve for 𝑎.

3√10 − √10 = 2𝑎
2√10 = 2𝑎
√10 = 𝑎

Therefore, the distance from the center of the hyperbola to one of its vertices is √𝟏𝟎 units.

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 9

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

3 Try It!
The foci of a hyperbola are at (±3, 0). Find the distance from the center of the
hyperbola to one of its vertices if 𝑃(−5, 4) is a point on the graph.

How do you represent the equation of a hyperbola?

Equation of a Hyperbola in Standard Form

Consider Fig. 4.1.1.

Fig. 4.1.1. A hyperbola with center at the origin and whose transverse axis lies on the 𝑥-axis

Suppose point 𝑃(𝑥, 𝑦) is a point on the graph of the hyperbola. Recall that the absolute value
of the difference between the distances from 𝑃 to 𝐹1 (−𝑐, 0) and 𝐹2 (𝑐, 0) is equal to the length
of the transverse axis, which is 2𝑎. That is,

|𝑃𝐹1 − 𝑃𝐹2 | = 2𝑎.

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 10

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Use the distance formula to solve for 𝑃𝐹1 and 𝑃𝐹2 .

𝑃𝐹1 = √[𝑥 − (−𝑐)]2 + (𝑦 − 0)2 = √(𝑥 + 𝑐)2 + 𝑦 2

𝑃𝐹2 = √(𝑥 − 𝑐)2 + (𝑦 − 0)2 = √(𝑥 − 𝑐)2 + 𝑦 2

Substituting the above equations to |𝑃𝐹1 − 𝑃𝐹2 | = 2𝑎, we have

|√(𝑥 + 𝑐)2 + 𝑦 2 − √(𝑥 − 𝑐)2 + 𝑦 2 | = 2𝑎.

We then remove the absolute value sign. We need to have an equation that is free of radicals,
so we isolate one radical on the left-hand side of the equation, then square both sides of the
equation.

√(𝑥 + 𝑐)2 + 𝑦 2 − √(𝑥 − 𝑐)2 + 𝑦 2 = ±2𝑎

√(𝑥 + 𝑐)2 + 𝑦 2 = ±2𝑎 + √(𝑥 − 𝑐)2 + 𝑦 2
2 2
(√(𝑥 + 𝑐)2 + 𝑦 2 ) = (±2𝑎 + √(𝑥 − 𝑐)2 + 𝑦 2 )

(𝑥 + 𝑐)2 + 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎2 ± 4𝑎√(𝑥 − 𝑐)2 + 𝑦 2 + (𝑥 − 𝑐)2 + 𝑦 2

Next, we expand the squares and isolate the remaining radicals on one side. In this process,
we also combine like terms to simplify the equation.

𝑥 2 + 2𝑐𝑥 + 𝑐 2 + 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎2 ± 4𝑎√(𝑥 − 𝑐)2 + 𝑦 2 + 𝑥 2 − 2𝑐𝑥 + 𝑐 2 + 𝑦 2

𝑥 2 − 𝑥 2 + 2𝑐𝑥 + 2𝑐𝑥 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑐 2 − 𝑦 2 + 𝑦 2 − 4𝑎2 = ±4𝑎√(𝑥 − 𝑐)2 + 𝑦 2
4𝑐𝑥 − 4𝑎2 = ±4𝑎√(𝑥 − 𝑐)2 + 𝑦 2

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 11

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Then, we divide both sides of the equation by 4 and simplify the resulting equation.

4𝑐𝑥 − 4𝑎2 ±4𝑎√(𝑥 − 𝑐)2 + 𝑦 2

=
4 4
𝑐𝑥 − 𝑎2 = ±𝑎√(𝑥 − 𝑐)2 + 𝑦 2
2
(𝑐𝑥 − 𝑎2 )2 = (±𝑎√(𝑥 − 𝑐)2 + 𝑦 2 )

𝑐 2 𝑥 2 − 2𝑎2 𝑐𝑥 + 𝑎4 = 𝑎2 [(𝑥 − 𝑐)2 + 𝑦 2 ]

𝑐 2 𝑥 2 − 2𝑎2 𝑐𝑥 + 𝑎4 = 𝑎2 (𝑥 2 − 2𝑐𝑥 + 𝑐 2 + 𝑦 2 )
𝑐 2 𝑥 2 − 2𝑎2 𝑐𝑥 + 𝑎4 = 𝑎2 𝑥 2 − 2𝑎2 𝑐𝑥 + 𝑎2 𝑐 2 + 𝑎2 𝑦 2

We can transpose all the terms with 𝑥 and 𝑦 on the left-hand side. Then, we factor out 𝑥 2 on
the left-hand side of the equation and 𝑎2 on the right-hand side.

𝑐 2 𝑥 2 − 2𝑎2 𝑐𝑥 + 2𝑎2 𝑐𝑥 − 𝑎2 𝑥 2 − 𝑎2 𝑦 2 = 𝑎2 𝑐 2 − 𝑎4
𝑐 2 𝑥2 − 𝑎2 𝑥2 − 𝑎2 𝑦 2 = 𝑎2 𝑐 2 − 𝑎4
𝑥 2 (𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 ) − 𝑎2 𝑦 2 = 𝑎2 (𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 )

Recall that 𝒃𝟐 = 𝒄𝟐 − 𝒂𝟐. We substitute this to the equation.

𝑥 2 (𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 ) − 𝑎2 𝑦 2 = 𝑎2 (𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 )
𝑥 2 𝒃𝟐 − 𝑎 2 𝑦 2 = 𝑎 2 𝒃𝟐

Finally, we divide both sides of the equation by 𝑎2 𝑏2 .

𝑥2 𝑦 2
− =1
𝑎2 𝑏2

The above equation is the standard form of equation of a hyperbola with center at the origin
and transverse axis on the 𝑥-axis.

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 12

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Using the same procedure, we can show that if the center is at the origin and the transverse
axis is on the 𝑦-axis, then the equation of the hyperbola is

𝑦 2 𝑥2
− = 1.
𝑎2 𝑏2

Further, by translation of axes, the equation of a hyperbola with center at (ℎ, 𝑘) and whose
transverse axis is horizontal is

(𝑥 − ℎ)2 (𝑦 − 𝑘)2
− = 1.
𝑎2 𝑏2

Similarly, the equation of a hyperbola with center at (ℎ, 𝑘) and whose transverse axis is
vertical is

(𝑦 − 𝑘)2 (𝑥 − ℎ)2
− = 1.
𝑎2 𝑏2

Let’s Practice!
Example 4
What is the standard form of the equation of a hyperbola with center at the origin, transverse
axis on the 𝑥-axis, 𝑎 = 5, and 𝑏 = 3?

Solution
The origin is the center of the hyperbola and its transverse axis lies on the 𝑥-axis. So, we need
𝑥2 𝑦2
to use the standard form of the equation of a hyperbola 𝑎2
− 𝑏2 = 1. Substitute the given

values.

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 13

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

𝑥2 𝑦 2
− =1
52 32
𝑥2 𝑦 2
− =1
25 9

𝒙𝟐 𝒚𝟐
Therefore, the standard form of the equation of the given hyperbola is − = 𝟏.
𝟐𝟓 𝟗

4 Try It!
Find the standard form of the equation of a hyperbola with center at the origin,
transverse axis on the 𝑦-axis, 𝑎 = 8, and 𝑏 = 6.

Example 5
Determine the standard form of the equation of a hyperbola whose center is at (2, −1),
transverse axis is vertical, 𝑏 = 8, and 𝑐 = 10.

Solution
Aside from the orientation of a hyperbola, we also need the values of ℎ, 𝑘, 𝑎, and 𝑏 to write its
equation in standard form. In the given problem, however, only ℎ = 2, 𝑘 = −1, and 𝑏 = 8 are
given. Hence, we need to identify the value of 𝑎 before we can write the equation of the
hyperbola.

Step 1: Use the relationship 𝑏2 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 to determine the value of 𝑎.

𝑏2 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
82 = 102 − 𝑎2
𝑎2 = 100 − 64
𝑎2 = 36
𝑎=6

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 14

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Step 2: Determine the appropriate equation in standard form to use.

Because the transverse axis is vertical and the center is at (2, −1), we use

(𝑦 − 𝑘)2 (𝑥 − ℎ )2
− = 1.
𝑎2 𝑏2

Step 3: Substitute the given values and the obtained value of 𝑎 to the appropriate
standard form.

(𝑦 − 𝑘)2 (𝑥 − ℎ )2
− =1
𝑎2 𝑏2
(𝑦 + 1)2 (𝑥 − 2)2
− =1
62 82
(𝑦 + 1)2 (𝑥 − 2)2
− =1
36 64

(𝒚+𝟏)𝟐 (𝒙−𝟐)𝟐
Therefore, the standard form of equation of the given hyperbola is − = 𝟏.
𝟑𝟔 𝟔𝟒

5 Try It!
Determine the standard form of the equation of a hyperbola whose center is at (−4, 3),
transverse axis is horizontal, 𝑎 = 9, and 𝑐 = 16.

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 15

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Example 6
Determine the standard form of the equation of a hyperbola with vertices at (3, 1) and (11, 1)
and foci at (−3, 1) and (17, 1).

Solution
To determine the standard form of the equation of the hyperbola, we need to identify first
the orientation of its transverse axis. Then, we determine the values of 𝑎 and 𝑏 and the
coordinates of the center.

Step 1: Determine the orientation of the transverse axis of the hyperbola and the
corresponding standard form that should be used.

If we connect the vertices, which are at (3, 1) and (11, 1), we form the transverse
axis of the hyperbola. This means that the transverse axis of the hyperbola is
horizontal. Hence, we need to use the standard form below.

(𝑥 − ℎ )2 (𝑦 − 𝑘)2
− =1
𝑎2 𝑏2

Step 2: Determine the center of the hyperbola using the midpoint formula.

The midpoint of either the vertices or the foci is the center of the hyperbola.
Hence, if we use the midpoint formula to get the midpoint of the vertices
located at (3, 1) and (11, 1), we obtain the coordinates of the center.

𝑥1 + 𝑥2 𝑦1 + 𝑦2
center = ( , )
2 2
3 + 11 1 + 1
center = ( , )
2 2
center = (7,1)

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 16

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Step 3: Identify the values of 𝑎 and 𝑏 using the distance formula.

With the given information, we first determine the values of 𝑎 and 𝑐. We can do
this in two ways: either we get the distance between the vertices and foci and
then divide each distance by 2 to get the values of 𝑎 and 𝑐, respectively, or we
get the distance from the center to a vertex and to a focus. In this solution, we
use the latter.

𝑎 = √(7 − 3)2 + (1 − 1)2 = 4

𝑐 = √(7 + 3)2 + (1 − 1)2 = 10

Step 4: To get the value of 𝑏, we use the relationship 𝑏2 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 .

𝑏2 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
𝑏2 = 102 − 42
𝑏2 = 100 − 16
𝑏2 = 84
𝑏 = 2√21

Step 5: Substitute the obtained values to the appropriate standard form.

(𝑥 − ℎ )2 (𝑦 − 𝑘)2
− =1
𝑎2 𝑏2
(𝑥 − 7)2 (𝑦 − 1)2
− =1
42 (2√21)2
(𝑥 − 7)2 (𝑦 − 1)2
− =1
16 84

(𝒙−𝟕)𝟐 (𝒚−𝟏)𝟐
Therefore, the standard form of equation of the given hyperbola is − = 𝟏.
𝟏𝟔 𝟖𝟒

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 17

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

6 Try It!
Determine the standard form of equation of a hyperbola with vertices at (6, 1) and
(−2, 1) and endpoints of the conjugate axis at (2, −4) and (2, 6).

What values are needed to write the standard form

of the equation of a hyperbola?

Equation of a Hyperbola in General Form

Similar to an ellipse, if we expand the squares in the standard form of equation of a hyperbola
and combine similar terms in such a way that there are no more rational terms, we obtain
the general form of equation of the hyperbola, which is represented by

𝐴𝑥 2 + 𝐵𝑦 2 + 𝐶𝑥 + 𝐷𝑦 + 𝐸 = 0,

where 𝐴 and 𝐶 are not equal to 0. Note that the coefficients 𝑥 2 and 𝑦 2 have different signs
because of the subtraction of the terms in the standard form. Hence, in the general form of
equation of a hyperbola, 𝐴𝐵 < 0.

When we are given an equation of a hyperbola in general form, we can transform it into its
standard form by completing the square. We will then be able to identify the parts of the
hyperbola and their coordinates.

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 18

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Remember

The general form of the equation of an ellipse and of a hyperbola are

quite similar. Just be careful to note that in the equation of an ellipse
in general form, 𝐴𝐵 > 0. On the other hand, in the equation of a
hyperbola in general form, 𝐴𝐵 < 0.

Let’s Practice!
Example 7
𝑥2 𝑦2
Transform the standard form of the equation of a hyperbola given by − = 1 into its
10 12

general form.

Solution
Step 1: Multiply both sides of the equation by their LCD.

The LCD is 60.

𝑥2 𝑦 2
60 ( − ) = 60(1)
10 12
6𝑥 2 − 5𝑦 2 = 60

Step 2: Transpose all constants to the left-hand side and arrange the terms following
the form 𝐴𝑥 2 + 𝐵𝑦 2 + 𝐶𝑥 + 𝐷𝑦 + 𝐸 = 0.

6𝑥 2 − 5𝑦 2 − 60 = 0

Therefore, the general form of the equation of the hyperbola is 𝟔𝒙𝟐 − 𝟓𝒚𝟐 − 𝟔𝟎 = 𝟎.

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 19

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

7 Try It!
𝑥2 𝑦2
Given a hyperbola, transform its equation in standard form − = 1 into general
30 20

form.

Example 8
Determine the general form of the equation of a hyperbola whose standard form is
(𝑦 − 5)2 (𝑥 + 1)2
− = 1.
16 9

Solution
Step 1: Expand the squares in the equation.

(𝑦 − 5)2 (𝑥 + 1)2
− =1
16 9
𝑦 2 − 10𝑦 + 25 𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 + 1
− =1
16 9

Step 2: Multiply both sides of the equation by their LCD.

𝑦 2 − 10𝑦 + 25 𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 + 1
144 ( − ) = 144(1)
16 9
9𝑦 2 − 90𝑦 + 225 − 16𝑥 2 − 32𝑥 − 16 = 144

Step 3: Transpose all terms on the left-hand side of the equation following the general
form.
9𝑦 2 − 90𝑦 + 225 − 16𝑥 2 − 32𝑥 − 16 = 144
9𝑦 2 − 16𝑥 2 − 90𝑦 − 32𝑥 + 225 − 16 − 144 = 0
9𝑦 2 − 16𝑥 2 − 90𝑦 − 32𝑥 + 65 = 0

Therefore, the general form of the given equation of the hyperbola is

𝟗𝒚𝟐 − 𝟏𝟔𝒙𝟐 − 𝟗𝟎𝒚 − 𝟑𝟐𝒙 + 𝟔𝟓 = 𝟎.

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 20

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

8 Try It!
Determine the general form of the equation of the hyperbola whose standard form is
(𝑥 + 4)2 (𝑦 − 3)2
− = 1.
20 9

Example 9
Transform the given equation of the hyperbola 3𝑥 2 − 4𝑦 2 − 24𝑥 − 24𝑦 − 48 = 0 into standard
form.

Solution
Step 1: Isolate the constant of the equation. Then, group the terms on the left-hand
side of the equation in such a way that the terms with the same variable are in
the same group.

3𝑥 2 − 4𝑦 2 − 24𝑥 − 24𝑦 − 48 = 0
3𝑥 2 − 4𝑦 2 − 24𝑥 − 24𝑦 = 48
(3𝑥 2 − 24𝑥 ) + (−4𝑦 2 − 24𝑦) = 48

Step 2: Factor out the common factor in each group, then complete the square.

(3𝑥 2 − 24𝑥 ) + (−4𝑦 2 − 24𝑦) = 48

3(𝑥 2 − 8𝑥) − 4(𝑦 2 + 6𝑦) = 48
3(𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 16) − 4(𝑦 2 + 6𝑦 + 9) = 48 + 48 − 36
3(𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 16) − 4(𝑦 2 + 6𝑦 + 9) = 60

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 21

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Step 3: Express the perfect square trinomials as squares of binomial. Then, divide both
sides of the equation by the constant on the right-hand side.

3(𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 16) − 4(𝑦 2 + 6𝑦 + 9) = 60

3(𝑥 − 4)2 − 4(𝑦 + 3)2 = 60
3(𝑥 − 4)2 4(𝑦 + 3)2 60
− =
60 60 60
(𝑥 − 4)2 (𝑦 + 3)2
− =1
20 15

Therefore, the standard form of the equation of the hyperbola 3𝑥 2 − 4𝑦 2 − 24𝑥 − 24𝑦 − 48 =
(𝒙−𝟒)𝟐 (𝒚+𝟑)𝟐
0 is 𝟐𝟎
− 𝟏𝟓
= 𝟏.

9 Try It!
Given a hyperbola, transform its equation 3𝑥 2 − 4𝑦 2 + 6𝑥 + 8𝑦 − 13 = 0 into standard
form.

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 22

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Example 10
In the given figure, Stations A and B are 100 kilometers apart. Suppose ship 𝑃 receives Station
A’s signal 240 microseconds before it receives the signal from Station B. Write an equation in
general form for the branches indicated in the figure. Assume that signal travels at 0.3
kilometers per microsecond.

Solution
Since the difference between the times of signal reception is constant, the branches formed
is a hyperbola. Assume that the center of the hyperbola is at the origin. Since the location of
the two stations serve as the foci of the hyperbola and are 100 kilometers apart, the value of
𝑐 is equal to 50 kilometers.

Step 1: Determine the value of 𝑎.

The ship receives the signal from Station A 240 microseconds before it receives
the signal from Station B. Since signals travel at the rate of 0.3 kilometers per
microsecond, the 240-microsecond difference is equivalent to

0.3 km
240𝜇𝑠 × = 72 km.
𝜇𝑠

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 23

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

This means that the distance from the ship to Station A is 72 kilometers shorter
than its distance to Station B. In notation, |𝑃𝐴 − 𝑃𝐵| = 72 km. The difference
between the two distances is equal to 2𝑎 by the definition of a hyperbola.
Hence, 𝑎 = 36 km.

Step 2: Determine the value of 𝑏.

By substituting the values 𝑐 = 50 and 𝑎 = 36 to 𝑏2 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 , we obtain the

value of 𝑏.

𝑏2 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
𝑏2 = 502 − 362
𝑏2 = 1 204
𝑏 = 2√301

𝑦2 𝑥2
Step 3: Substitute the values of 𝑎 and 𝑏 to the form 𝑎2
− 𝑏2 = 1 to determine the

standard form of equation of the hyperbola.

𝑦 2 𝑥2
− =1
𝑎2 𝑏2
𝑦2 𝑥2
− =1
362 (2√301)2

𝑦2 𝑥2
− =1
1 296 1 204

Step 4: To determine the general form of equation of the hyperbola, multiply both
sides of the equation by the LCD. Then, arrange the terms accordingly.

𝑦2 𝑥2
( − = 1) (390 096)
1 296 1 204
301𝑥 2 − 324𝑦 2 = 390 096
301𝑥 2 − 324𝑦 2 − 390 096 = 0

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 24

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Therefore, the equation representing the given hyperbola is 𝟑𝟎𝟏𝒙𝟐 − 𝟑𝟐𝟒𝒚𝟐 − 𝟑𝟗𝟎 𝟎𝟗𝟔 = 𝟎.

10 Try It!
Two stations that are 8 km apart receive a sound signal from a source located at a
certain point. The station located at (8,0) receives the signal 20 seconds earlier than
the station located at (0,0). Use 0.3 km/sec as the speed of sound and find an
equation in standard form containing the source of the sound.

Key Points
___________________________________________________________________________________________

● A hyperbola is formed when a vertical plane intersects a double-napped cone.

● A hyperbola is a set of points in a plane whose absolute value of the difference
between the distances from two fixed points is constant.
● The two fixed points in the definition of a hyperbola are the foci (singular: focus).
● The line passing through the foci of a hyperbola is called the principal axis.
● The two points on a hyperbola that lie on the principal axis are the vertices.
● The line segment joining the vertices of a hyperbola is called the transverse axis.
● The midpoint of the transverse axis is the center of the hyperbola.
● The line segment that passes through the center and is perpendicular to the
transverse axis whose length is 2𝑏 is called the conjugate axis.
● The distance from the center to a focus of a hyperbola is called the focal distance.
___________________________________________________________________________________________

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 25

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Key Formulas
___________________________________________________________________________________________

Concept Formula Description

Use this formula to find the

Equation of a (𝑥 − ℎ )2 (𝑦 − 𝑘)2
− = 1, equation of a hyperbola
Hyperbola in 𝑎2 𝑏2
given its center, 𝑎, and 𝑏 if
Standard Form where the transverse axis is
• (ℎ, 𝑘) is the center, horizontal.
• 𝑎 is the distance from the
center to a vertex, and
• 𝑏 is the distance from the
center to an endpoint of the
conjugate axis.

Use this formula to find the

(𝑦 − 𝑘)2 (𝑥 − ℎ )2
− = 1, equation of a hyperbola
𝑎2 𝑏2
given its center, 𝑎, and 𝑏 if
where the transverse axis is
• (ℎ, 𝑘) is the center, vertical.
• 𝑎 is the distance from the
center to a vertex, and
• 𝑏 is the distance from the
center to an endpoint of the
conjugate axis.

Equation of a 𝐴𝑥 2 + 𝐵𝑦 2 + 𝐶𝑥 + 𝐷𝑦 + 𝐸 = 0 This is the equation of a

Hyperbola in hyperbola when the
General Form where 𝐴𝐵 < 0. standard form is expanded.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 26

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Check Your Understanding

A. Determine the measure indicated in each item by using the

relationship between 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐 in a hyperbola.

1. Determine the value of 𝑎 if 𝑐 = 13 and 𝑏 = 12.

2. Determine the value of 𝑐 if 𝑎 = 10 and 𝑏 = 15.
3. Determine the focal distance of a hyperbola if the transverse axis is 8 units long and
the conjugate axis is 6 units long.
4. If the length of the conjugate axis is 40 units and the focal distance is 29 units, find
the distance from the center to a vertex of a hyperbola.
5. If the distance between the vertices of a hyperbola is 18 units and the length of the
conjugate axis is 10 units, find the focal distance.

B. Write the standard and general forms of equation of the hyperbola

satisfying the given conditions.

1. center at the origin, vertices at (±8,0), and endpoints of the conjugate axis at (0, ±6)
2. center at the origin, vertices at (±3,0), and foci (±5,0)
3. center at (1,2), vertical transverse axis of length 18, and conjugate axis of length 12
4. one vertex at (3,1) and an endpoint of the vertical conjugate axis at (0,4)
5. one endpoint of the vertical conjugate axis at (−3,5) and one focus at (-1,6)

C. Determine the standard form of equation of the hyperbola whose

general form is given.

1. 4𝑥 2 − 3𝑦 2 − 16𝑥 + 6𝑦 + 1 = 0
2. 3𝑥 2 − 4𝑦 2 − 6𝑥 − 8𝑦 − 13 = 0
3. 3𝑦 2 − 2𝑥 2 + 6𝑦 − 4𝑥 − 5 = 0
4. 4𝑥 2 − 9𝑦 2 − 16𝑥 + 18𝑦 − 29 = 0
5. 16𝑦 2 − 9𝑥 2 + 96𝑦 + 36𝑥 − 36 = 0

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 27

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Challenge Yourself

Answer the following questions.

1. The general form of equation of a hyperbola is given by 𝐴𝑥 2 + 𝐵𝑦 2 + 𝐶𝑥 + 𝐷𝑦 + 𝐸 = 0,

where 𝐴𝐵 < 0. Why cannot 𝐴𝐵 be equal to zero or greater than zero?
2. In writing the equation of a hyperbola from general to standard form, we divide both
sides of the equation by the constant on the right-hand side. What would be the
implication on the hyperbola if the constant is zero?
3. Lisa said that in a hyperbola, the value of 𝑎 should be greater than the value of 𝑏,
similar to the case of an ellipse. Do you agree with her? Explain.

4. What do the equations 𝑥 2 − 4𝑦 2 + 16 = 0 and 4𝑦 2 − 𝑥 2 + 16 = 0 have in common?

5. Is it possible for two distinct hyperbolas to have the same conjugate axis? Explain your
answer.

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 28

Unit 4: Hyperbolas

Bibliography

Barnett, Raymond, Michael Ziegler, Karl Byleen, and David Sobecki. College Algebra with
Trigonometry. Boston: McGraw Hill Higher Education, 2008.

Bittinger, Marvin L., Judith A. Beecher, David J. Ellenbogen, and Judith A. Penna. Algebra and
Trigonometry: Graphs and Models. 4th ed. Boston: Pearson/Addison Wesley, 2009.

Blitzer, Robert. Algebra and Trigonometry. 3rd ed. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey:
Pearson/Prentice Hal, 2007.

Larson, Ron. College Algebra with Applications for Business and the Life Sciences. Boston: MA:
Houghton Mifflin, 2009.

Simmons, George F. Calculus with Analytic Geometry. 2nd ed. New York: McGraw-Hill, 1996.

Key to Try It!

1. 5 units
2. 2√11 units
3. 3√5 units
𝑦2 𝑥2
4. 64
− 36 = 1
(𝑥+4)2 (𝑦−3)2
5. 81
− 175
=1
(𝑥−2)2 (𝑦−1)2
6. − =1
16 25

7. 2𝑥 2 − 3𝑦 2 − 60 = 0
8. 9𝑥 2 − 20𝑦 2 + 72𝑥 + 120𝑦 − 216 = 0
(𝑥+1)2 (𝑦−1)2
9. 4
− 3
=1
(𝑥−4)2 𝑦2
10. 9
− 7
=1

4.1. Definition and Equation of a Hyperbola 29