Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 18m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 22m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
8. Conic Sections
Hyperbolas at the Origin
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
Determine the vertices and foci of the hyperbola 4y2−x2=1.
A
Vertices: (2,0),(−2,0)
Foci: (5,0),(−5,0)
B
Vertices: (0,2),(0,−2)
Foci: (0,5),(0,−5)
C
Vertices: (1,0),(−1,0)
Foci: (5,0),(−5,0)
D
Vertices: (0,1),(0,−1)
Foci: (0,5),(0,−5)

1
Identify the standard form of the hyperbola equation. The given equation is \( \frac{y^2}{4} - x^2 = 1 \), which is in the form \( \frac{y^2}{a^2} - \frac{x^2}{b^2} = 1 \). This indicates a vertical hyperbola.
Determine the values of \( a^2 \) and \( b^2 \). From the equation, \( a^2 = 4 \) and \( b^2 = 1 \). Therefore, \( a = 2 \) and \( b = 1 \).
Find the vertices of the hyperbola. For a vertical hyperbola, the vertices are located at \( (0, \pm a) \). Thus, the vertices are \( (0, 2) \) and \( (0, -2) \).
Calculate the distance to the foci using the formula \( c^2 = a^2 + b^2 \). Substitute the known values: \( c^2 = 4 + 1 = 5 \), so \( c = \sqrt{5} \).
Determine the coordinates of the foci. For a vertical hyperbola, the foci are at \( (0, \pm c) \). Therefore, the foci are \( (0, \sqrt{5}) \) and \( (0, -\sqrt{5}) \).
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