Graph the hyperbola. Locate the foci and find the equations of the asymptotes. (x^2)/16 - y^2 = 1
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- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
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8. Conic Sections
Hyperbolas NOT at the Origin
Problem 3
Textbook Question
Find the vertices and locate the foci of each hyperbola with the given equation. Then match each equation to one of the graphs that are shown and labeled (a)–(d).
a.
b.
c.
d. 
y2/4−x2/1=1
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the standard form of the hyperbola equation. The given equation is \(\frac{y^{2}}{4} - \frac{x^{2}}{1} = 1\), which matches the form \(\frac{y^{2}}{a^{2}} - \frac{x^{2}}{b^{2}} = 1\). This indicates a vertical transverse axis.
Determine the values of \(a^{2}\) and \(b^{2}\). From the equation, \(a^{2} = 4\) and \(b^{2} = 1\). Then find \(a\) and \(b\) by taking square roots: \(a = \sqrt{4}\) and \(b = \sqrt{1}\).
Find the vertices of the hyperbola. Since the transverse axis is vertical, the vertices are located at \((0, \pm a)\), which means the vertices are at \((0, \pm \sqrt{4})\).
Calculate the focal distance \(c\) using the relationship \(c^{2} = a^{2} + b^{2}\). Substitute the known values to find \(c^{2} = 4 + 1\) and then find \(c = \sqrt{5}\).
Locate the foci of the hyperbola. Because the transverse axis is vertical, the foci are at \((0, \pm c)\), which means the foci are at \((0, \pm \sqrt{5})\). Use this information to match the equation to the correct graph among options (a)–(d).
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Standard Form of a Hyperbola
A hyperbola's equation can be written in standard form as either (x²/a²) - (y²/b²) = 1 or (y²/a²) - (x²/b²) = 1. This form helps identify the orientation of the hyperbola (horizontal or vertical) and the values of a² and b², which are essential for finding vertices and foci.
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Asymptotes of Hyperbolas
Vertices of a Hyperbola
Vertices are the points where the hyperbola intersects its transverse axis. For the form (y²/a²) - (x²/b²) = 1, the vertices lie along the y-axis at (0, ±a). Knowing a allows you to locate these key points that define the shape and size of the hyperbola.
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Foci and Vertices of Hyperbolas
Foci of a Hyperbola
Foci are two fixed points used to define a hyperbola, located along the transverse axis beyond the vertices. Their distance from the center is given by c, where c² = a² + b². Finding the foci helps in graphing and understanding the hyperbola's geometric properties.
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Foci and Vertices of Hyperbolas
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