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i
Chapter 8
Conic Sections
1788
Chapter 8 Conic Sections
8.1 Distance, Midpoint, and the Parabola
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
1. Apply the distance and midpoint formulas.

2. Graph a parabola using its equation given in standard from.
3. Determine standard form for the equation of a parabola given general
form.
Conic Sections
A conic section1 is a curve obtained from the intersection of a right circular cone
and a plane. The conic sections are the parabola, circle, ellipse, and hyperbola.
The goal is to sketch these graphs on a rectangular coordinate plane.
1. A curve obtained from the

intersection of a right circular
cone and a plane.
1789
The Distance and Midpoint Formulas
We begin with a review of the distance formula2. Given two points ( x 1 , y 1 ) and
( x 2 , y 2 ) in a rectangular coordinate plane, the distance d between them is given
by the distance formula,
d = √(x 2 − x 1 )2 + (y 2 − y 1 )
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯2⎯
Furthermore, the point that bisects the line segment formed by these two points is
called the midpoint3 and is given by the formula,
( 2 2 )
x1 + x2 y1 + y2
,
The midpoint is an ordered pair formed by the average of the x-values and the
average of the y-values.
2. Given two points (x 1 , y1)

and (x 2 , y 2 ), the distance d
between them is given by
d=
√(x 2 − x 1 ) + (y 2 − y 1 )
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯2⎯ .
2
3. Given two points (x 1 , y1)

and (x 2 , y 2 ), the midpoint is
( 2 )
an ordered pair given by
x 1 +x 2 y 1 +y 2
2
, .
8.1 Distance, Midpoint, and the Parabola 1790

Example 1
Given (−2, −5) and (−4, −3) calculate the distance and midpoint between
them.
Solution:
In this case, we will use the formulas with the following points:
(x 1 , y 1 ) (x 2 , y 2 )
(−2, −5) (−4, −3)
It is a good practice to include the formula in its general form before

substituting values for the variables; this improves readability and reduces the
probability of making errors.
d = √(x 2 − x 1 )2 + (y 2 − y 1 )
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯2⎯
= √[−4 − (−2)] + [−3 − (−5)]

⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
2 2
⎯
= √(−4 + 2)2 + (−3 + 5)

⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯2⎯
= √(−2)2 + (2)2
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
= √4 + 4
⎯⎯
= √8
⎯⎯
= 2√2
Next determine the midpoint.

( 2 2 ) ( )
x1 + x2 y1 + y2 −2 + (−4) −5 + (−3)
, = ,
2 2
( 2 2 )
−6 −8
= ,
= (−3, − 4)
Plotting these points on a graph we have,
⎯⎯
Answer: Distance: 2√2 units; midpoint: (−3, −4)

Example 2
The diameter of a circle is defined by the two points (−1, 2) and (1, −2) .
Determine the radius of the circle and use it to calculate its area.
Solution:
Find the diameter using the distance formula.
d = √(x 2 − x 1 )2 + (y 2 − y 1 )
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯2⎯
= √[1 − (−1)] + (−2 − 2)

⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
2
⎯
2
= √(2)2 + (−4)2
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
= √4 + 16
⎯⎯⎯⎯
= √20
⎯⎯
= 2√5
Recall that the radius of a circle is one-half of the circle’s diameter. Therefore,
⎯⎯
if d = 2√5 units, then
⎯⎯
d 2√5 ⎯⎯
r= = = √5
2 2
The area of a circle is given by the formula A = πr2 and we have

A = π (√5)
⎯⎯ 2
=π ⋅ 5
= 5π
Area is measured in square units.
⎯⎯
Answer: Radius: √5 units; area: 5π square units
Try this! Given (0, 0) and (9, −3) calculate the distance and midpoint between
them.
Answer: Distance: 3√10 units; midpoint: ( 2 , − 32 )

⎯⎯⎯⎯ 9
(click to see video)
The Parabola
A parabola4 is the set of points in a plane equidistant from a given line, called the
L the directrix, and a point F the focus, then (x, y) is a point on the parabola if the
directrix, and a point not on the line, called the focus. In other words, if given a line
shortest distance from it to the focus and from it to the line is equal as pictured
below:
4. The set of points in a plane

equidistant from a given line, The vertex of the parabola is the point where the shortest distance to the directrix
called the directrix, and a point
not on the line, called the
is at a minimum. In addition, a parabola is formed by the intersection of a cone with
focus. an oblique plane that is parallel to the side of the cone:

Recall that the graph of a quadratic function, a polynomial function of degree 2, is

parabolic. We can write the equation of a parabola in general form5 or we can
write the equation of a parabola in standard form6:
General Form Standard Form

y = a(x − h) + k
2
y = ax 2 + bx + c
Here a, b, and c are real numbers, a ≠ 0. Both forms are useful in determining the
general shape of the graph. However, in this section we will focus on obtaining
standard form, the vertex is (h, k) . To see that this is the case, consider graphing
standard form, which is often called vertex form7. Given a quadratic function in
y = (x + 3)2 + 2 using transformations.
5. The equation of a parabola

written in the form
y = ax 2 + bx + c or y =x2 Basic squaring f unction.
x = ay 2 + by + c, where a, 2
b, and c are real numbers and y = (x + 3) Horizontal shif t lef t 3 units.
a ≠ 0. 2
y = (x + 3) + 2 Vertical shif t up 2 units.
y = a(x − h) + k or
written in the form
2
x = a(y − k) + h.
2 Use these translations to sketch the graph,

written in standard form is
often called vertex form. In
apparent: (h, k) .
this form the vertex is

Here we can see that the vertex is (−3, 2) . This can be determined directly from
the equation in standard form,
y= a(x − h)2 + k
⏐
↓ ⏐
↓
y = [x − (−3)]2 + 2
Written in this form we can see that the vertex is (−3, 2) . However, the equation is
typically not given in standard form. Transforming general form to standard form,
by completing the square, is the main process by which we will sketch all of the
conic sections.

Example 3
Rewrite the equation in standard form and determine the vertex of its graph:
y = x 2 − 8x + 15.
Solution:
Begin by making room for the constant term that completes the square.
y = x 2 − 8x + 15
= x 2 − 8x + ___ +15 − ___
The idea is to add and subtract the value that completes the square, ( b2 ) , and
2
then factor. In this case, add and subtract ( b2 ) = ( 2 )

2 −8 2
= (−4)2 = 16.
y = x 2 − 8x + 15 Add and subtract 16.

= (x 2 − 8x + 16) + 15 − 16 Factor.
= (x − 4) (x − 4) − 1
= (x − 4)2 − 1
Adding and subtracting the same value within an expression does not change it.
Doing so is equivalent to adding 0. Once the equation is in this form, we can
easily determine the vertex.

y =a(x − h) + k
2
⏐
↓ ⏐
↓
y= (x − 4)2 + (−1)
Here we have a translation to the right 4 units and down 1 unit. Hence, h = 4
and k = −1.
Answer: y = (x − 4)2 − 1; vertex: (4, −1)
If there is a leading coefficient other than 1, then begin by factoring out that
leading coefficient from the first two terms of the trinomial.

Example 4
Rewrite the equation in standard form and determine the vertex of the graph:
y = −2x 2 + 12x − 16.
Solution:
Since a = −2, factor this out of the first two terms in order to complete the
square. Leave room inside the parentheses to add and subtract the value that
completes the square.
y = −2x 2 + 12x − 16
= −2 (x 2 − 6x + ___ − ___) − 16
( 2 ) = ( 2 ) = (−3) = 9. Add and subtract 9 and factor as follows:

Now use −6 to determine the value that completes the square. In this case,
b 2 −6 2 2
y = −2x 2 + 12x − 16
= −2 (x 2 − 6x + ___ − ___ ) − 16 Add and subtract 9.
= −2(x 2 − 6x + 9 − 9) − 16 Factor.
= −2 [(x − 3) (x − 3) − 9] − 16
= −2 [(x − 3)2 − 9] − 16 Distribute the − 2.
= −2(x − 3)2 + 18 − 16
= −2(x − 3)2 + 2
In this form, we can easily determine the vertex.

y = a(x − h) + k
2
⏐
↓ ⏐ ↓
y = −2(x − 3)2 + 2
Here h = 3 and k = 2.
Answer: y = −2(x − 3)2 + 2; vertex: (3, 2)
Make use of both general form and standard form when sketching the graph of a
parabola.

Example 5
Graph: y = −2x 2 + 12x − 16.
Solution:
From the previous example we have two equivalent forms of this equation,
General Form Standard Form

y = −2x 2 + 12x − 16 y = − 2(x − 3)2 + 2
Recall that if the leading coefficient a > 0 the parabola opens upward and if
a < 0 the parabola opens downward. In this case, a = −2 and we conclude the
When x = 0 we can see that the y-intercept is (0, −16) . From the equation in
parabola opens downward. Use general form to determine the y-intercept.
standard form, we can see that the vertex is (3, 2) . To find the x-intercept we
could use either form. In this case, we will use standard form to determine the
x-values where y = 0 ,
y = −2(x − 3)2 + 2 Set y = 0 and solve.

2
0 = −2(x − 3) + 2
−2 = −2(x − 3)2
1 = (x − 3)2 Apply the square root property.
±1 = x − 3
3 ± 1=x
Here x = 3 − 1 = 2 or x = 3 + 1 = 4 and therefore the x-intercepts are

(2, 0) and (4, 0) . Use this information to sketch the graph.

Answer:
So far we have been sketching parabolas that open upward or downward because
these graphs represent functions. At this point we extend our study to include
parabolas that open right or left. If we take the equation that defines the parabola
in the previous example,
y = − 2(x − 3)2 + 2
and switch the x and y values we obtain
x = − 2(y − 3) + 2
2
This produces a new graph with symmetry about the line y = x.

Note that the resulting graph is not a function. However, it does have the same
general parabolic shape that opens left. We can recognize equations of parabolas
that open left or right by noticing that they are quadratic in y instead of x. Graphing
parabolas that open left or right is similar to graphing parabolas that open upward
and downward. In general, we have
In all cases, the vertex is (h, k) . Take care to note the placement of h and k in each
equation.

Example 6
Graph: x = y 2 + 10y + 13.
Solution:
Because the coefficient of y 2 is positive, a = 1, we conclude that the graph is a

parabola that opens to the right. Furthermore, when y = 0 it is clear that
standard form. Here we will add and subtract ( b2 ) = ( 2 )

x = 13 and therefore the x-intercept is (13, 0) . Complete the square to obtain
= (5) = 25.
2 10 2 2
x = y 2 + 10y + 13
= y 2 + 10y + 25 − 25 + 13
= (y + 5) (y + 5) − 12
= (y + 5) − 12
2
Therefore,
x = a (y − k ) + h
2
⏐
↓ ⏐
↓
x = (y − (−5)) + (−12)
2
From this we can see that the vertex (h, k) = (−12, −5) .Next use standard
form to find the y-intercepts by setting x = 0.

x = (y + 5) − 12
2
0 = (y + 5) − 12
2
12 = (y + 5)
2
⎯⎯⎯⎯
±√12 = y + 5
⎯⎯
±2√3 = y + 5
⎯⎯
−5 ± 2√3 = y
The y-intercepts are (0, −5 − 2√3) and (0, −5 + 2√3) . Use this
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
information to sketch the graph.
Answer:

Example 7
Graph: x = − 2y 2 + 4y − 5.
Solution:
Because the coefficient of y 2 is a = −2, we conclude that the graph is a
x = −5 and therefore the x-intercept is (−5, 0) . Begin by factoring out the

parabola that opens to the left. Furthermore, when y = 0 it is clear that
leading coefficient as follows:
x = −2y 2 + 4y − 5
= −2 (y 2 − 2y+ ___ − ___) − 5
Here we will add and subtract ( b2 ) = ( 2 )

2 −2 2
= (−1)2 = 1.
x = −2y 2 + 4y − 5
= −2(y 2 − 2y + 1 − 1) − 5
−2 [(y − 1) − 1] − 5
2
=
−2(y − 1) + 2 − 5
2
=
−2(y − 1) − 3
2
=
Therefore, from vertex form, x = − 2(y − 1) − 3, we can see that the

2
vertex is (h, k) = (−3, 1) . Because the vertex is at (−3, 1) and the parabola
opens to the left, we can conclude that there are no y-intercepts. Since we only
have two points, choose some y-values and find the corresponding x-values.

x y x = −2(y − 1) − 3
2
−11 −1 x = − 2(−1 − 1)2 − 3 = −2(−2)2 − 3 = −11

−5 2 x = − 2(2 − 1)2 − 3 = −2(1)2 − 3 = −5
−11 3 x = − 2(3 − 1)2 − 3 = −2(2)2 − 3 = −11
Answer:
Try this! Graph: x = y 2 − y − 6.
Answer:

KEY TAKEAWAYS
• Use the distance formula to determine the distance between any two
given points. Use the midpoint formula to determine the midpoint
between any two given points.
• A parabola can open upward or downward, in which case, it is a
function. In this section, we extend our study of parabolas to include
those that open left or right. Such graphs do not represent functions.
• The equation of a parabola that opens upward or downward is quadratic
in x, y = ax 2 + bx + c. If a > 0, then the parabola opens upward
and if a < 0, then the parabola opens downward.
• The equation of a parabola that opens left or right is quadratic in y,
x = ay 2 + by + c. If a > 0, then the parabola opens to the right
and if a < 0, then the parabola opens to the left.
• The equation of a parabola in general form y = ax 2 + bx + c or
x = ay 2 + by + c can be transformed to standard form
y = a(x − h) + k or x = a(y − k) + h by completing the
2 2
square.
• When completing the square, ensure that the leading coefficient of the
variable grouping is 1 before adding and subtracting the value that
completes the square.
Given standard form the vertex is apparent (h, k) . To find the x-

• Both general and standard forms are useful when graphing parabolas.
intercept set y = 0 and solve for x and to find the y-intercept set
x = 0 and solve for y.

TOPIC EXERCISES
PART A: THE DISTANCE AND MIDPOINT FORMULAS
Calculate the distance and midpoint between the given two points.
1. (−1, −3) and (5, −11)

2. (−3, 2) and (1, −1)
3. (4, −2) and (−2, −6)
4. (−5, −6) and (−3, −4)
5. (10, −1) and (9, 6)
6. (−6, −4) and (−12, 1)
(0, 0) and (√ 2 , √ 3 )
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
7.
(0, 0) and (2√ 2 , −√ 3 )

⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
8.
( ) ( )
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯ ⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
9. √ 5 , − √ 3 and 2√ 5 , −√ 3
( ) ( )
⎯⎯⎯⎯ ⎯⎯ ⎯⎯⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
10. 3√ 10 , √ 6 and √ 10 , −5√ 6
( 2 , −1) and (−2, 2 )

1 3
11.
(− , 2) and (− , − 12 )
4 1
12.
( 5 , − 5 )and ( 10 , − 2 )
3 3
1 9 3 5
13.
(− , 43 )and (− , 56 )
1 2
14.
(a, b) and (0, 0)

2 3
15.
(0, 0) and (a√ 2 , 2√ a)

⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
16.

Determine the area of a circle whose diameter is defined by the given

two points.
17. (−8, 12) and (−6, 8)
18. (9, 5) and (9, −1)
19. (7, −8) and (5, −10)

20. (0, −5) and (6, 1)
( ) ( )
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
21. √ 6 , 0 and 0, 2√ 3
( ) ( )
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
22. 0, √ 7 and √ 5 , 0
Determine the perimeter of the triangle given the coordinates of the

vertices.
23. (5, 3) , (2, −3) , and (8, −3)

24. (−3, 2) , (−4, −1) , and (−1, 0)
(3, 3) , (5, 3 − 2√ 3 ) , and (7, 3)

⎯⎯
25.
(0, 0) , (0, 2√ 2 ) , and (√ 2 , 0)

⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
26.
Find a so that the distance d between the points is equal to the given
quantity.
27. (1, 2) and (4, a); d = 5 units

28. (−3, a) and (5, 6) ; d = 10 units
⎯⎯
29. (3, 1) and (a, 0); d = √ 2 units
(a, 1) and (5, 3) ; d = √ 13 units
⎯⎯⎯⎯
30.
PART B: THE PARABOLA
Graph. Be sure to find the vertex and all intercepts.

31. y = x2 + 3
1
32. y= 2
(x − 4) 2
33. y = −2(x + 1) 2 − 1
34. y = −(x − 2) 2 + 1
35. y = −x 2 + 3
36. y = −(x + 1) 2 + 5
37. x = y2 + 1
38. x = y2 − 4
x = (y + 2)
2
39.
x = (y − 3)
2
40.
41. x = −y 2 + 2
x = −(y + 1)
2
42.
(y − 3) − 1
1 2
43. x= 3
(y + 3) − 1
1 2
44. x=− 3
Rewrite in standard form and give the vertex.
45. y = x 2 − 6x + 18
46. y = x 2 + 8x + 36
47. x = y 2 + 20y + 87
48. x = y 2 − 10y + 21
49. y = x 2 − 14x + 49
50. x = y 2 + 16y + 64
51. x = 2y 2 − 4y + 5
52. y = 3x 2 − 30x + 67

53. y = 6x 2 + 36x + 54
54. x = 3y 2 + 6y − 1
55. y = 2x 2 − 2x − 1
56. x = 5y 2 + 15y + 9
57. x = −y 2 + 5y − 5
58. y = −x 2 + 9x − 20
Rewrite in standard form and graph. Be sure to find the vertex and all
intercepts.
59. y = x 2 − 4x − 5
60. y = x 2 + 6x − 16
61. y = −x 2 + 12x − 32
62. y = −x 2 − 10x
63. y = 2x 2 + 4x + 9
64. y = 3x 2 − 6x + 4
65. y = −5x 2 + 30x − 45
66. y = −4x 2 − 16x − 16
67. x = y 2 − 2y − 8
68. x = y 2 + 4y + 8
69. x = y 2 − 2y − 3
70. x = y 2 + 6y − 7
71. x = −y 2 − 10y − 24
72. x = −y 2 − 12y − 40
73. x = 3y 2 + 12y + 12
74. x = −2y 2 + 12y − 18

75. x = y 2 − 4y − 3
76. x = y 2 + 6y + 1
77. x = −y 2 + 2y + 5
78. y = 2x 2 − 2x + 1
79. y = −3x 2 + 2x + 1
80. y = −x 2 + 3x + 10
81. x = −4y 2 − 4y − 5
82. x = y2 − y + 2
83. y = x 2 + 5x − 1
84. y = 2x 2 + 6x + 3
85. x = 2y 2 + 10x + 12
86. x = y2 + y − 1
PART C: DISCUSSION BOARD
87. Research and discuss real-world applications that involve a parabola.
88. Do all parabolas have x-intercepts? Explain.
89. Do all parabolas have y-intercepts? Explain.
90. Make up your own parabola that opens left or right, write it in general form,
and graph it.

ANSWERS
1. Distance: 10 units; midpoint: (2, −7)

⎯⎯⎯⎯
3. Distance: 2√ 13 units; midpoint: (1, −4)
5. Distance: 5√ 2 units; midpoint: ( , 52 )

⎯⎯ 19
2
( 2 2 )
⎯⎯ √2 √3
7. Distance: √ 5 units; midpoint: ,
( 2 )
⎯⎯ 3√5 ⎯⎯
9. Distance: √ 5 units; midpoint: , −√ 3
units; midpoint: (− , 14 )
5√2 3
11. Distance:
2 4
units; midpoint: ( )
√2 1 43
13. Distance: ,−
+ b units; midpoint: ( 2a , b2 )
2 4 20
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯2⎯
15. Distance: √ a2
17. 5π square units

9
21.
2
π square units
⎯⎯
23. 6 + 6√ 5 units
25. 12 units
27. −2, 6
29. 2, 4

31.
33.
35.

37.
39.
41.

43.
45. y = (x − 3) 2 + 9; vertex: (3, 9)
x = (y + 10) − 13 ; vertex: (−13, −10)

2
47.
49. y = (x − 7) 2 ; vertex: (7, 0)
x = 2(y − 1) + 3 ; vertex: (3, 1)

2
51.
53. y = 6(x + 3) 2 ; vertex: (−3, 0)
y = 2(x − 12 ) − ; vertex: ( , − 32 )
2 3 1
55.
2 2
x = −(y − 52 ) + ; vertex: ( , 52 )
2 5 5
57.
4 4
59. y = (x − 2) 2 − 9;

y = −(x − 6) + 4;
2
61.
63. y = 2(x + 1) 2 + 7 ;
65. y = −5(x − 3) 2 ;

x = (y − 1) − 9;
2
67.
x = (y − 1) − 4;
2
69.

x = −(y + 5) + 1;
2
71.
x = 3(y + 2)
2
73. ;

x = (y − 2) − 7;
2
75.
x = −(y − 1) + 6;
2
77.

y = −3(x − 13 ) +
2 4
79. ;
3
x = −4(y + 12 ) − 4 ;
2
81.

y = (x + 52 ) −
2 29
83. ;
4
x = 2(y + 52 ) −
2 1
85. ;
2

87. Answer may vary
89. Answer may vary

8.2 Circles
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
1. Graph a circle in standard form.

2. Determine the equation of a circle given its graph.
3. Rewrite the equation of a circle in standard form.
The Circle in Standard Form
A circle8 is the set of points in a plane that lie a fixed distance, called the radius9,
from any point, called the center. The diameter10 is the length of a line segment
passing through the center whose endpoints are on the circle. In addition, a circle
can be formed by the intersection of a cone and a plane that is perpendicular to the
axis of the cone:
(h, k), we have

In a rectangular coordinate plane, where the center of a circle with radius r is
8. A circle is the set of points in a

plane that lie a fixed distance
from a given point, called the
center.
9. The fixed distance from the

center of a circle to any point
on the circle.
10. The length of a line segment

passing through the center of a
circle whose endpoints are on
the circle.
1825
Calculate the distance between (h, k) and (x, y) using the distance formula,
√( ) ( ) =r
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
2 2
⎯
x − h + y − k
Squaring both sides leads us to the equation of a circle in standard form11,
(x − h) + (y − k) = r
2 2 2
(x − 2)2 + (y + 5) = 16 we have,
In this form, the center and radius are apparent. For example, given the equation
2
(x − h) + (x − k)
2 2
= r2
⏐
↓ ⏐
↓ ⏐
↓
(x − 2)2 + [y − (−5)] = 42
2
In this case, the center is (2, −5) and r = 4. More examples follow:
Equation Center Radius
(x − 3)2 + (y − 4) = 25 (3, 4)
11. The equation of a circle written 2
r=5
(x − h) + (y − k) = r
in the form
2 2 2
where (h, k) is the center and

r is the radius.
8.2 Circles 1826

Equation Center Radius
(x − 1)2 + (y + 2) = 7 (1, −2) r = √7

2 ⎯⎯
(x + 4)2 + (y − 3) = 1 (−4, 3)
2
r=1
x 2 + (y + 6) = 8 (0, −6) r = 2√2

2 ⎯⎯
The graph of a circle is completely determined by its center and radius.
8.2 Circles 1827

Example 1
Graph: (x − 2)2 + (y + 5) = 16.

2
Solution:
Written in this form we can see that the center is (2, −5) and that the radius
r = 4 units. From the center mark points 4 units up and down as well as 4 units
left and right.
Then draw in the circle through these four points.
Answer:
As with any graph, we are interested in finding the x- and y-intercepts.
8.2 Circles 1828

Example 2
Find the intercepts: (x − 2)2 + (y + 5) = 16.

2
Solution:
To find the y-intercepts set x = 0 :
(x − 2)2 + (y + 5) = 16
2
(0 − 2)2 + (y + 5) = 16
2
4 + (y + 5) = 16
2
For this equation, we can solve by extracting square roots.
(y + 5) = 12
2
⎯⎯⎯⎯
y + 5 = ±√12
⎯⎯
y + 5 = ±2√3
⎯⎯
y = −5 ± 2√3
Therefore, the y-intercepts are (0, −5 − 2√3) and (0, −5 + 2√3) . To find
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
the x-intercepts set y = 0 :
8.2 Circles 1829

(x − 2)2 + (y + 5) = 16
2
(x − 2)2 + (0 + 5) = 16
2
(x − 2)2 + 25 = 16
(x − 2)2 = −9
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
x − 2 = ±√−9
x = 2 ± 3i
And because the solutions are complex we conclude that there are no real x-
intercepts. Note that this does make sense given the graph.
Answer: x-intercepts: none; y-intercepts: (0, −5 − 2√3) and

⎯⎯
(0, −5 + 2√3)
⎯⎯
Given the center and radius of a circle, we can find its equation.
8.2 Circles 1830

Example 3
Graph the circle with radius r = 3 units centered at (−1, 0) . Give its equation
in standard form and determine the intercepts.
Solution:
Given that the center is (−1, 0) and the radius is r = 3 we sketch the graph as
follows:
(h, k) = (−1, 0) and r = 3 we have,

Substitute h, k, and r to find the equation in standard form. Since
(x − h) + (y − k) = r
2 22
[x − (−1)] + (y − 0) = 3
2 2 2
(x + 1)2 + y 2 = 9
The equation of the circle is (x + 1)2 + y 2 = 9, use this to determine the y-

intercepts.
8.2 Circles 1831

(x + 1)2 + y 2 = 9 Set x = 0 to and solve f or y.

2 2
(0 + 1) + y = 9
1 + y2 = 9
y2 = 8
⎯⎯
y = ±√8
⎯⎯
y = ±2√2
Therefore, the y-intercepts are (0, −2√2) and (0, 2√2) . To find the x-
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
intercepts algebraically, set y = 0 and solve for x; this is left for the reader as
an exercise.
Answer: Equation: (x + 1)2 + y 2 = 9; y-intercepts: (0, −2√2) and

⎯⎯
(0, 2√2); x-intercepts: (−4, 0) and (2, 0)

⎯⎯
Of particular importance is the unit circle12,
x 2 + y2 = 1
12. The circle centered at the

Or,
origin with radius 1; its
equation is x 2 + y 2 = 1.
8.2 Circles 1832

(x − 0)2 + (y − 0) = 12
2
In this form, it should be clear that the center is (0, 0) and that the radius is 1 unit.
Furthermore, if we solve for y we obtain two functions:
x 2 + y2 = 1
y2 = 1 − x 2
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
y = ±√1 − x 2
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
The function defined by y = √1 − x 2 is the top half of the circle and the function
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
defined by y = −√1 − x 2 is the bottom half of the unit circle:
8.2 Circles 1833

Try this! Graph and label the intercepts: x 2 + (y + 2) = 25.

2
Answer:
The Circle in General Form
We have seen that the graph of a circle is completely determined by the center and
radius which can be read from its equation in standard form. However, the equation
is not always given in standard form. The equation of a circle in general form13
follows:
x 2 + y 2 + cx + dy + e = 0
Here c, d, and e are real numbers. The steps for graphing a circle given its equation
in general form follow.
13. The equation of a circle written

in the form
x 2 + y 2 + cx + dy + e = 0.
8.2 Circles 1834

Example 4
Graph: x 2 + y 2 + 6x − 8y + 13 = 0.
Solution:
Begin by rewriting the equation in standard form.
• Step 1: Group the terms with the same variables and move the
constant to the right side. In this case, subtract 13 on both sides
and group the terms involving x and the terms involving y as
follows.
x 2 + y 2 + 6x − 8y + 13 = 0
(x + 6x+ ___) + (y − 8y+ ___) = −13
2 2
the value that completes the square, ( b2 ) , to both sides for both
• Step 2: Complete the square for each grouping. The idea is to add
2
( 2 ) = 3 = 9 and for the terms involving y use

groupings, and then factor. For the terms involving x use
6 2 2
( 2 )
−8 2
= (−4)2 = 16.
(x + 6x + 9) + (y − 8y + 16) = −13 + 9 + 16
2 2
(x + 3)2 + (y − 4) = 12
2
• Step 3: Determine the center and radius from the equation in

standard form. In this case, the center is (−3, 4) and the radius
⎯⎯⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
r = √12 = 2√3.
• Step 4: From the center, mark the radius vertically and
horizontally and then sketch the circle through these points.
8.2 Circles 1835

Answer:
8.2 Circles 1836

Example 5
Determine the center and radius: 4x 2 + 4y 2 − 8x + 12y − 3 = 0.
Solution:
We can obtain the general form by first dividing both sides by 4.
4x 2 + 4y 2 − 8x + 12y − 3 0
=
4 4
3
x 2 + y 2 − 2x + 3y − = 0
4
Now that we have the general form for a circle, where both terms of degree two
have a leading coefficient of 1, we can use the steps for rewriting it in standard
form. Begin by adding 34 to both sides and group variables that are the same.
(x − 2x+ ___) + (y + 3y+ ___) = 4

2 2 3
Next complete the square for both groupings. Use ( −2

2 )
2
= (−1)2 = 1 for the
first grouping and ( 32 ) = 4 for the second grouping.
2 9
8.2 Circles 1837

(x − 2x + 1) + (y + 3y + 4 ) = 4 + 1 + 4
2 2 9 3 9
( 2)
2
3 16
(x − 1)2 + y + =
4
( 2)
2
2 3
(x − 1) + y + =4
Answer: Center: (1, − 32 ); radius: r = 2
In summary, to convert from standard form to general form we multiply, and to

convert from general form to standard form we complete the square.
Try this! Graph: x 2 + y 2 − 10x + 2y + 21 = 0.
Answer:
8.2 Circles 1838

KEY TAKEAWAYS
• The graph of a circle is completely determined by its center and radius.
(x − h) + (y − k) = r .The center is (h, k)

• Standard form for the equation of a circle is
2 2 2
and the radius
measures r units.
• To graph a circle mark points r units up, down, left, and right from the
center. Draw a circle through these four points.
• If the equation of a circle is given in general form
x 2 + y 2 + cx + dy + e = 0, group the terms with the same
variables, and complete the square for both groupings. This will result in
standard form, from which we can read the circle’s center and radius.
• We recognize the equation of a circle if it is quadratic in both x and y
where the coefficient of the squared terms are the same.
8.2 Circles 1839

TOPIC EXERCISES
PART A: THE CIRCLE IN STANDARD FORM
Determine the center and radius given the equation of a circle in

standard form.
(x − 5) + (y + 4) = 64
2 2
1.
(x + 9) 2 + (y − 7) = 121
2
2.
x 2 + (y + 6) = 4
2
3.
4. (x − 1) 2 + y 2 = 1
(x + 1) 2 + (y + 1) = 7
2
5.
(x + 2) 2 + (y − 7) = 8
2
6.
Determine the standard form for the equation of the circle given its
center and radius.
7. Center (5, 7) with radius r = 7.

8. Center (−2, 8) with radius r = 5.
9. Center (6, −11) with radius r
⎯⎯
= √2 .
Center (−4, −5) with radius r = √ 6 .

⎯⎯
10.
⎯⎯
11. Center (0, −1) with radius r = 2√ 5 .
⎯⎯⎯⎯
12. Center (0, 0) with radius r = 3√ 10 .
Graph.
(x − 1) 2 + (y − 2) = 9
2
13.
(x + 3) 2 + (y − 3) = 25
2
14.
8.2 Circles 1840

(x − 2) 2 + (y + 6) = 4
2
15.
(x + 6) + (y + 4) = 36
2 2
16.
x 2 + (y − 4) = 1
2
17.
18. (x − 3) 2 + y 2 = 4
19. x 2 + y 2 = 12
20. x 2 + y2 = 8
(x − 7) 2 + (y − 6) = 2
2
21.
(x + 2) 2 + (y − 5) = 5
2
22.
(x + 3) 2 + (y − 1) = 18
2
23.
(x − 3) 2 + (y − 2) = 15
2
24.
Find the x- and y-intercepts.
(x − 1) 2 + (y − 2) = 9
2
25.
(x + 5) + (y − 3) = 25
2 2
26.
x 2 + (y − 4) = 1
2
27.
28. (x − 3) 2 + y 2 = 18
29. x 2 + y 2 = 50
x 2 + (y + 9) = 20
2
30.
(x − 4) 2 + (y + 5) = 10
2
31.
(x + 10) 2 + (y − 20) = 400

2
32.
Find the equation of the circle.
33. Circle with center (1, −2) passing through (3, −4) .
8.2 Circles 1841

34. Circle with center (−4, −1) passing through (0, −3) .
35. Circle whose diameter is defined by (5, 1) and (−1, 7) .
36. Circle whose diameter is defined by (−5, 7) and (−1, −5) .
37. Circle with center (5, −2) and area 9π square units.
38. Circle with center (−8, −3) and circumference 12π square units.
+ 12) 2 + (x − 5) = 7.
2
39. Find the area of the circle with equation (x
(x + 1) 2 + (y + 5) = 8.
40. Find the circumference of the circle with equation
2
PART B: THE CIRCLE IN GENERAL FORM
Rewrite in standard form and graph.
41. x 2 + y 2 + 4x − 2y − 4 = 0
42. x 2 + y 2 − 10x + 2y + 10 = 0
43. x 2 + y 2 + 2x + 12y + 36 = 0
44. x 2 + y 2 − 14x − 8y + 40 = 0
45. x 2 + y 2 + 6y + 5 = 0
46. x 2 + y 2 − 12x + 20 = 0
47. x 2 + y 2 + 8x + 12y + 16 = 0
48. x 2 + y 2 − 20x − 18y + 172 = 0
49. 4x 2 + 4y 2 − 4x + 8y + 1 = 0
50. 9x 2 + 9y 2 + 18x + 6y + 1 = 0
51. x 2 + y 2 + 4x + 8y + 14 = 0
52. x 2 + y 2 − 2x − 4y − 15 = 0
53. x 2 + y 2 − x − 2y + 1 = 0
8.2 Circles 1842

1
54. x 2 + y2 − x + y − 2
=0
55. 4x 2 + 4y 2 + 8x − 12y + 5 = 0
56. 9x 2 + 9y 2 + 12x − 36y + 4 = 0
57. 2x 2 + 2y 2 + 6x + 10y + 9 = 0
58. 9x 2 + 9y 2 − 6x + 12y + 4 = 0
Given a circle in general form, determine the intercepts.
59. x 2 + y 2 − 5x + 3y + 6 = 0
60. x 2 + y 2 + x − 2y − 7 = 0
61. x 2 + y 2 − 6y + 2 = 2
62. x 2 + y 2 − 6x − 8y + 5 = 0
63. 2x 2 + 2y 2 − 3x − 9 = 0
64. 3x 2 + 3y 2 + 8y − 16 = 0
65. Determine the area of the circle whose equation is
x 2 + y 2 − 2x − 6y − 35 = 0.
66. Determine the area of the circle whose equation is
4x 2 + 4y 2 − 12x − 8y − 59 = 0.
67. Determine the circumference of a circle whose equation is
x 2 + y 2 − 5x + 1 = 0.
68. Determine the circumference of a circle whose equation is
x 2 + y 2 + 5x − 2y + 3 = 0.
69. Find general form of the equation of a circle centered at (−3, 5) passing
through (1, −2) .
70. Find general form of the equation of a circle centered at (−2, −3) passing
through (−1, 3) .
Given the graph of a circle, determine its equation in general form.
8.2 Circles 1843

71.
72.
8.2 Circles 1844

73.
74.
75. Is the center of a circle part of the graph? Explain.
76. Make up your own circle, write it in general form, and graph it.
77. Explain how we can tell the difference between the equation of a parabola in
general form and the equation of a circle in general form. Give an example.
78. Do all circles have intercepts? What are the possible numbers of intercepts?
Illustrate your explanation with graphs.
8.2 Circles 1845

ANSWERS
1. Center: (5, −4) ; radius: r =8

3. Center: (0, −6) ; radius: r =2
⎯⎯
5. Center: (−1, −1) ; radius: r = √7
(x − 5) + (y − 7) = 49
2 2
7.
(x − 6) + (y + 11) = 2
2 2
9.
x 2 + (y + 1) = 20
2
11.
13.
15.
8.2 Circles 1846

17.
19.
21.
8.2 Circles 1847

23.
( ) ( )
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
25. x-intercepts: 1 ± √ 5 , 0 ; y-intercepts: 0, 2 ± 2√ 2
27. x-intercepts: none; y-intercepts: (0, 3) , (0, 5)
(±5√ 2 , 0) ; y-intercepts: (0, ±5√ 2 )

⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
29. x-intercepts:
31. x-intercepts: none; y-intercepts: none
(x − 1) 2 + (y + 2) = 8
2
33.
(x − 2) 2 + (y − 4) = 18
2
35.
(x − 5) + (y + 2) = 9
2 2
37.
(x + 2) 2 + (y − 1) = 9;
2
41.
8.2 Circles 1848

(x + 1) 2 + (y + 6) = 1;
2
43.
x 2 + (y + 3) = 4;
2
45.
8.2 Circles 1849

(x + 4) 2 + (y + 6) = 36;
2
47.
(x − 2 ) + (y + 1) = 1;
1 2 2
49.
8.2 Circles 1850

(x + 2) 2 + (y − 4) = 6;
2
51.
(x − 2 ) + (y − 1) =
1 2 2 1
53. ;
4
8.2 Circles 1851

(x + 1) 2 + (y − 32 ) = 2;
2
55.
(x + 2 ) + (y + 2 ) = 4;
3 2 5 2
57.
8.2 Circles 1852

59. x-intercepts: (2, 0) , (3, 0) ; y-intercepts: none
61. x-intercepts: (0, 0) ; y-intercepts: (0, 0) , (0, 6)
63. x-intercepts: (− , 0), (3, 0) ; y-intercepts: 0, ±

( )
3 3√2
2 2

⎯⎯⎯⎯
67. π √ 21 units
69. x 2 + y 2 + 6x − 10y − 31 = 0
71. x 2 + y 2 − 6x + 10y + 18 = 0
73. x 2 + y 2 + 2y = 0
75. Answer may vary
77. Answer may vary
8.2 Circles 1853

8.3 Ellipses
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
1. Graph an ellipse in standard form.

2. Determine the equation of an ellipse given its graph.
3. Rewrite the equation of an ellipse in standard form.
The Ellipse in Standard Form
An ellipse14 is the set of points in a plane whose distances from two fixed points,
called foci, have a sum that is equal to a positive constant. In other words, if points
(x, y) is a point on the ellipse if d = d1 + d2 as pictured below:

F1 and F2 are the foci (plural of focus) and d is some given positive constant then
14. The set of points in a plane

whose distances from two fixed In addition, an ellipse can be formed by the intersection of a cone with an oblique
points have a sum that is equal
plane that is not parallel to the side of the cone and does not intersect the base of
to a positive constant.
the cone. Points on this oval shape where the distance between them is at a
15. Points on the ellipse that mark maximum are called vertices15 and define the major axis16. The center of an ellipse
the endpoints of the major
is the midpoint between the vertices. The minor axis17 is the line segment through
axis.
the center of an ellipse defined by two points on the ellipse where the distance
16. The line segment through the between them is at a minimum. The endpoints of the minor axis are called co-
center of an ellipse defined by
vertices18.
two points on the ellipse where
the distance between them is a
maximum.
17. The line segment through the

center of an ellipse defined by
two points on the ellipse where
the distance between them is a
minimum.
18. Points on the ellipse that mark

the endpoints of the minor
axis.
1854
If the major axis of an ellipse is parallel to the x-axis in a rectangular coordinate

plane, we say that the ellipse is horizontal. If the major axis is parallel to the y-axis,
we say that the ellipse is vertical. In this section, we are only concerned with
sketching these two types of ellipses. However, the ellipse has many real-world
rectangular coordinate plane, where the center of a horizontal ellipse is (h, k), we
applications and further research on this rich subject is encouraged. In a
have
As pictured a > b where a, one-half of the length of the major axis, is called the
major radius19. And b, one-half of the length of the minor axis, is called the minor
radius20. The equation of an ellipse in standard form21 follows:
(x − h) (y − k)
2 2
+ =1
a2 b2
The vertices are (h ± a, k) and (h, k ± b) and the orientation depends on a and b.
If a > b, then the ellipse is horizontal as shown above and if a < b, then the ellipse
19. One-half of the length of the is vertical and b becomes the major radius. What do you think happens when
major axis. a = b?
20. One-half of the length of the
minor axis.
21. The equation of an ellipse

written in the form
(y−k)
2
(x−h) 2
+ = 1.The
center is (h, k) and the larger
a2 b2
of a and b is the major radius

and the smaller is the minor
radius.
8.3 Ellipses 1855

Equation Center a b Orientation
(y−8)
2
(x−1) 2
4
+ 9
= 1 (1, 8) a=2 b=3 Vertical
= 1 (3, −5) a = √2
(y+5) ⎯⎯
2
(x−3) 2 b=4
2
+ 16
Vertical
(y−7) ⎯⎯
2
(x+1) 2
1
+ 8
= 1 (−1, 7) a = 1 b = 2√2 Vertical
= 1 (0, −6) a = 5 b = √10

(y+6) ⎯⎯⎯⎯
2
x2
25
+ 10
Horizontal
The graph of an ellipse is completely determined by its center, orientation, major

radius, and minor radius, all of which can be determined from its equation written
in standard from.
8.3 Ellipses 1856

Example 1
(y−2)
2
(x+3) 2
Graph: 4
+ 25
= 1.
Solution:
Written in this form we can see that the center of the ellipse is (−3, 2),
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯⎯⎯
a = √4 = 2, and b = √25 = 5. From the center mark points 2 units to the
left and right and 5 units up and down.
Then draw an ellipse through these four points.
Answer:
8.3 Ellipses 1857

Example 2
(y−2)
2
(x+3) 2
Find the intercepts: 4
+ 25
= 1.
Solution:
To find the x-intercepts set y = 0 :
(x + 3)2 (0 − 2)2
+ =1
4 25
(x + 3)2 4
+ =1
4 25
(x + 3)2 4
=1 −
4 25
2
(x + 3) 21
=
4 25
At this point we extract the root by applying the square root property.
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
√
x+3 21
=±
2 25
⎯⎯⎯⎯
2√21
x + 3=±
5
⎯⎯⎯⎯ ⎯⎯⎯⎯
2√21 −15 ± 2√21
x = −3 ± =
5 5
Setting x = 0 and solving for y leads to complex solutions, therefore, there are
no y-intercepts. This is left as an exercise.
8.3 Ellipses 1858

( )
−15±2√21
Answer: x-intercepts: 5
, 0 ; y-intercepts: none.
Unlike a circle, standard form for an ellipse requires a 1 on one side of its equation.
8.3 Ellipses 1859

Example 3
Graph and label the intercepts: (x − 2)2 + 9(y − 1) = 9.

2
Solution:
To obtain standard form, with 1 on the right side, divide both sides by 9.
(x − 2)2 + 9(y − 1)
2
9
=
9 9
9(y − 1)
2
(x − 2)2 9
+ =
9 9 9
(y − 1)
2
(x − 2)2
+ =1
9 1
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
Therefore, the center of the ellipse is (2, 1), a = √9 = 3, and b = √1 = 1.
The graph follows:
+ (y − 1) = 1:
(x−2) 2 2
To find the intercepts we can use the standard form 9
8.3 Ellipses 1860

x-intercepts set y =0 y-intercepts set x =0
+ (y − 1) = 1
(0−2) 2 2
2
+ (y − 1) = 1
(x−2) 9
9
+ (0 − 1)2 = 1 2
4
(y − 1) = 9
(x−2) 2 9
9
+ 1=1 25
2
(x − 2) = 0
y − 1 = ±√ 59
⎯⎯⎯
x − 2=0
x=2 √5 3±√5
y=1 ± 3
= 3
( )
3+√5
Therefore the x-intercept is (2, 0) and the y-intercepts are 0, 3
and
( )
3−√5
0, 3
.
Answer:
Consider the ellipse centered at the origin,
8.3 Ellipses 1861

2 y2
x + =1
4
Given this equation we can write,
(y − 0)
2
(x − 0)2
+ =1
12 22
In this form, it is clear that the center is (0, 0), a = 1, and b = 2. Furthermore, if
we solve for y we obtain two functions:
2 y2
x + =1
4
y2
=1 − x2
y 2 = 4 (1 − x 2 )
4
y = ±√4 (1 − x 2 )
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
y = ±2√1 − x 2
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
The function defined by y = 2√1 − x 2 is the top half of the ellipse and the
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
function defined by y = −2√1 − x 2 is the bottom half.
8.3 Ellipses 1862

Try this! Graph: 9(x − 3)2 + 4(y + 2) = 36.

2
Answer:
The Ellipse in General Form
We have seen that the graph of an ellipse is completely determined by its center,
orientation, major radius, and minor radius; which can be read from its equation in
standard form. However, the equation is not always given in standard form. The
equation of an ellipse in general form22 follows,
22. The equation of an ellipse

written in the form
px 2 + qy 2 + cx + dy + e = 0 px 2 + qy 2 + cx + dy + e = 0
where p, q > 0.
8.3 Ellipses 1863

where p, q > 0. The steps for graphing an ellipse given its equation in general form
are outlined in the following example.
8.3 Ellipses 1864

Example 4
Graph: 2x 2 + 9y 2 + 16x − 90y + 239 = 0.
Solution:
constant to the right side. Factor so that the leading coefficient of
each grouping is 1.
2x 2 + 9y 2 + 16x − 90y + 239 = 0

(2x + 16x+ ___) + (9y − 90y+ ___) = −239
2 2
2 (x 2 + 8x+ ___) + 9 (y 2 − 10y+ ___) = −239
terms involving x use ( 82 ) = 42 = 16 and for the terms

• Step 2: Complete the square for each grouping. In this case, for the
2
involving y use ( −10

2 )
= (−5) = 25. The factor in front of the
2 2
grouping affects the value used to balance the equation on the

right side:
2 (x 2 + 8x + 16) + 9 (y 2 − 10y + 25) = −239 + 32 + 225
Because of the distributive property, adding 16 inside of the first

grouping is equivalent to adding 2 ⋅ 16 = 32. Similarly, adding 25
inside of the second grouping is equivalent to adding
9 ⋅ 25 = 225. Now factor and then divide to obtain 1 on the right
side.
8.3 Ellipses 1865

2(x + 4)2 + 9(y − 5) = 18

2
2(x + 4)2 + 9(y − 5)

2
18
=
18 18
9(y − 5)
2
2(x + 4)2 18
+ =
18 18 18
(y − 5)
2
(x + 4)2
+ =1
9 2
(−4, 5), a = √9 = 3, and b = √2.

• Step 3: Determine the center, a, and b. In this case, the center is
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
• Step 4: Use a to mark the vertices left and right of the center, use b
to mark the vertices up and down from the center, and then sketch
the graph. In this case, the vertices along the minor axes
(−4, 5 ± √2) are not apparent and should be labeled.

⎯⎯
Answer:
8.3 Ellipses 1866

8.3 Ellipses 1867

Example 5
Determine the center of the ellipse as well as the lengths of the major and
minor axes: 5x 2 + y 2 − 3x + 40 = 0.
Solution:
In this example, we only need to complete the square for the terms involving x.
5x 2 + y 2 − 30x + 40 = 0
(5x − 30x+ ___) + y = −40
2 2
5 (x 2 − 6x+ ___) + y 2 = −40
Use ( −6
2 )
2
= (−3)2 = 9 for the first grouping to be balanced by 5 ⋅ 9 = 45 on
the right side.
5 (x 2 − 6x + 9) + y 2 = −40 + 45
5(x − 3)2 + y 2 = 5
5(x − 3)2 + y 2 5
=
5 5
2 2
(x − 3) y
+ =1
1 5
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
Here, the center is (3, 0), a = √1 = 1, and b = √5. Because b is larger than
a, the length of the major axis is 2b and the length of the minor axis is 2a.
⎯⎯
Answer: Center: (3, 0); major axis: 2√5 units; minor axis: 2 units.
8.3 Ellipses 1868

Try this! Graph: x 2 + 4y 2 + 10x − 16y + 25 = 0.
Answer:
KEY TAKEAWAYS
• The graph of an ellipse is completely determined by its center,

orientation, major radius, and minor radius.
• The center, orientation, major radius, and minor radius are apparent if
the equation of an ellipse is given in standard form:
(y−k)
2
(x−h) 2
a2
+ = 1.
b2
• To graph an ellipse, mark points a units left and right from the center
and points b units up and down from the center. Draw an ellipse through
these points.
• The orientation of an ellipse is determined by a and b. If a > b then the
ellipse is wider than it is tall and is considered to be a horizontal ellipse.
If a < b then the ellipse is taller than it is wide and is considered to be
a vertical ellipse.
• If the equation of an ellipse is given in general form
px 2 + qy 2 + cx + dy + e = 0 where p, q > 0 , group the terms
with the same variables, and complete the square for both groupings.
• We recognize the equation of an ellipse if it is quadratic in both x and y
and the coefficients of each square term have the same sign.
8.3 Ellipses 1869

TOPIC EXERCISES
PART A: THE ELLIPSE IN STANDARD FORM
Given the equation of an ellipse in standard form, determine its center,

(y+2)
2
(x−1) 2
1.
4
+ 49
=1
(y−2)
2
(x+3) 2
2.
64
+ 9
=1
+ (y + 9) = 1
x2 2
3.
3
(x−1) 2
4.
8
+ y2 = 1
4(x + 5) + 9(y + 5) = 36
2 2
5.
16(x − 1) 2 + 3(y + 10) = 48

2
6.
Determine the standard form for the equation of an ellipse given the
following information.
7. Center (3, 4) with a = 5 and b = 2.

8. Center (−1, 9) with a = 7 and b = 3.
Center (5, −1) with a = √ 6 and b = 2√ 3 .
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
9.
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
10. Center (−7, −2) with a = 5√ 2 and b = √ 7 .
⎯⎯
11. Center (0, −3) with a = 1 and b = √ 5 .
⎯⎯
12. Center (0, 0) with a = √ 2 and b = 4.
Graph.
(y+2)
2
(x−4) 2
13.
4
+ 9
=1
(y−2)
2
(x+1) 2
14.
25
+ 4
=1
8.3 Ellipses 1870

(x−5) (y+6)
2 2
15.
16
+ 1
=1
(y+3)
2
(x+4) 2
16.
4
+ 36
=1
(y−1)
2
(x−2) 2
17.
9
+ 64
=1
+ (y + 3) = 1
(x+1) 2 2
18.
49
4(x + 3) 2 + 9(y − 3) = 36
2
19.
16x 2 + (y − 1) = 16
2
20.
21. 4(x − 2) 2 + 25y 2 = 100

22. 81x 2 + y 2 = 81
(y−4)
2
(x−2) 2
23.
8
+ 9
=1
(y−1)
2
(x+1) 2
24.
4
+ 12
=1
(x−6) (y+2)
2 2
25.
2
+ 5
=1
(y−5)
2
(x+3) 2
26.
18
+ 3
=1
3x 2 + 2(y − 3) = 6
2
27.
28. 5(x + 1) 2 + 3y 2 = 15
29. 4x 2 + 6y 2 = 24
30. 5x 2 + 10y 2 = 50
(y−2)
2
(x−3) 2
31.
4
+ 9
=1
(y−7)
2
(x+3) 2
32.
16
+ 9
=1
8.3 Ellipses 1871

(y+6)
2
(x−2) 2
33.
4
+ 36
=1
(y−1)
2
(x+1) 2
34.
25
+ 9
=1
5x 2 + 2(y − 4) = 20
2
35.
36. 4(x − 3) 2 + 9y 2 = 72
37. 5x 2 + 2y 2 = 10
38. 3x 2 + 4y 2 = 24
Find the equation of the ellipse.
39. Ellipse with vertices (±5, 0) and (0, ±6) .
vertices (−2, 4) and (6, 4) .

40. Ellipse whose major axis has vertices (2, 9) and (2, −1) and minor axis has
41. Ellipse whose major axis has vertices (−8, −2) and (0, −2) and minor axis
has a length of 4 units.
42. Ellipse whose major axis has vertices (−2, 2) and (−2, 8) and minor axis
has a length of 2 units.
PART B: THE ELLIPSE IN GENERAL FORM
43. 4x 2 + 9y 2 + 8x − 36y + 4 = 0
44. 9x 2 + 25y 2 − 18x + 100y − 116 = 0
45. 4x 2 + 49y 2 + 24x + 98y − 111 = 0
46. 9x 2 + 4y 2 − 72x + 24y + 144 = 0
47. x 2 + 64y 2 − 12x + 128y + 36 = 0
48. 16x 2 + y 2 − 96x − 4y + 132 = 0
49. 36x 2 + 4y 2 − 40y − 44 = 0
8.3 Ellipses 1872

50. x 2 + 9y 2 − 2x − 8 = 0
51. x 2 + 9y 2 − 4x − 36y − 41 = 0
52. 16x 2 + y 2 + 160x − 10y + 361 = 0
53. 4x 2 + 5y 2 + 32x − 20y + 64 = 0
54. 2x 2 + 3y 2 − 8x − 30y + 65 = 0
55. 8x 2 + 5y 2 − 16x + 10y − 27 = 0
56. 7x 2 + 2y 2 + 28x − 16y + 46 = 0
57. 36x 2 + 16y 2 − 36x − 32y − 119 = 0
58. 16x 2 + 100y 2 + 64x − 300y − 111 = 0
59. x 2 + 4y 2 − 20y + 21 = 0
60. 9x 2 + y 2 + 12x − 2y − 4 = 0
Given general form determine the intercepts.
61. 5x 2 + 4y 2 − 20x + 24y + 36 = 0

62. 4x 2 + 3y 2 − 8x + 6y − 5 = 0
63. 6x 2 + y 2 − 12x + 4y + 4 = 0
64. 8x 2 + y 2 − 6y − 7 = 0
65. 5x 2 + 2y 2 − 20x − 8y + 18 = 0
66. 2x 2 + 3y 2 − 4x − 5y + 1 = 0
Determine the area of the ellipse. (The area of an ellipse is given by the
formula A = πab , where a and b are the lengths of the major radius
and the minor radius.)
(y+3)
2
(x−10) 2
67.
25
+ 5
=1
(x+1) 2 y2
68.
18
+ 36
=1
69. 7x 2 + 3y 2 − 14x + 36y + 94 = 0
8.3 Ellipses 1873

70. 4x 2 + 8y 2 + 20x − 8y + 11 = 0
Given the graph of an ellipse, determine its equation in general form.
71.
72.
8.3 Ellipses 1874

73.
74.
75. Explain why a circle can be thought of as a very special ellipse.
76. Make up your own equation of an ellipse, write it in general form and graph it.
77. Do all ellipses have intercepts? What are the possible numbers of intercepts for
an ellipse? Explain.
78. Research and discuss real-world examples of ellipses.
8.3 Ellipses 1875

ANSWERS
1. Center: (1, −2) ; orientation: vertical; major radius: 7 units; minor radius: 2
units; a = 2; b = 7
⎯⎯
3. Center: (0, −9) ; orientation: horizontal; major radius: √ 3 units; minor
⎯⎯
radius: 1 unit; a = √ 3; b = 1
5. Center: (−5, −5) ; orientation: horizontal; major radius: 3 units; minor
radius: 2 units; a = 3; b = 2
(y−4)
2
(x−3) 2
7.
25
+ 4
=1
(x−5) (y+1)
2 2
9.
6
+ 12
=1
(y+3)
2
2
11. x + 5
=1
13.
8.3 Ellipses 1876

15.
17.
19.
8.3 Ellipses 1877

21.
23.
25.
8.3 Ellipses 1878

27.
29.
( 3 )
9±2√5
31. x-intercepts: ,0 ; y-intercepts: none
33. x-intercepts: (2, 0) ; y-intercepts: (0, −6)
( 10 )
⎯⎯⎯⎯
35. x-intercepts: none; y-intercepts: 0, 4 ± √
( ) ( )
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
37. x-intercepts: ±√ 2 , 0 ; y-intercepts: 0, ±√ 5
x2 y2
39.
25
+ 36
=1
(y+2)
2
(x+4) 2
41.
16
+ 4
=1
8.3 Ellipses 1879

(y−2)
2
(x+1) 2
43.
9
+ 4
= 1;
(y+1)
2
(x+3) 2
45.
49
+ 4
= 1;
+ (y + 1) = 1;
(x−6)
2
2
47.
64
8.3 Ellipses 1880

(y−5)
2
x2
49.
4
+ 36
= 1;
(y−2)
2
(x−2) 2
51.
81
+ 9
= 1;
8.3 Ellipses 1881

(y−2)
2
(x+4) 2
53.
5
+ 4
= 1;
(y+1)
2
(x−1) 2
55.
5
+ 8
= 1;
8.3 Ellipses 1882

(x− 2 ) (y−1)
2
1 2
57.
4
+ 9
= 1;
+ (y − 52 ) = 1;
x2 2
59.
4
8.3 Ellipses 1883

61. x-intercepts: none; y-intercepts: (0, −3)
( 3 )
3±√3
63. x-intercepts: ,0 ; y-intercepts: (0, −2)
( 5 )
10±√10
65. x-intercepts: ,0 ; y-intercepts: none
⎯⎯
67. 5π √ 5 square units
⎯⎯⎯⎯
69. π √ 21 square units
71. 9x 2 + 4y 2 + 72x − 32y + 172 = 0
73. x 2 + 3y 2 − 18y − 9 = 0
75. Answer may vary
77. Answer may vary
8.3 Ellipses 1884

8.4 Hyperbolas
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
1. Graph a hyperbola in standard form.

2. Determine the equation of a hyperbola given its graph.
3. Rewrite the equation of a hyperbola in standard form.
4. Identify a conic section given its equation.
The Hyperbola in Standard Form
A hyperbola23 is the set of points in a plane whose distances from two fixed points,
called foci, has an absolute difference that is equal to a positive constant. In other
(x, y) is a point on the hyperbola if d = |d1 − d2 |as pictured below:

words, if points F1 and F2 are the foci and d is some given positive constant then
In addition, a hyperbola is formed by the intersection of a cone with an oblique

plane that intersects the base. It consists of two separate curves, called branches24.
Points on the separate branches of the graph where the distance is at a minimum
are called vertices.25 The midpoint between a hyperbola’s vertices is its center.
Unlike a parabola, a hyperbola is asymptotic to certain lines drawn through the
23. The set of points in a plane center. In this section, we will focus on graphing hyperbolas that open left and right
whose distances from two fixed or upward and downward.
points, called foci, has an
absolute difference that is
equal to a positive constant.
24. The two separate curves of a

hyperbola.
25. Points on the separate

branches of a hyperbola where
the distance is a minimum.
1885
The asymptotes are drawn dashed as they are not part of the graph; they simply
indicate the end behavior of the graph. The equation of a hyperbola opening left
and right in standard form26 follows:
(x − h) (y − k)
2 2
− =1
a2 b2
26. The equation of a hyperbola

written in the form
(y−k)
Here the center is (h, k) and the vertices are (h ± a, k) . The equation of a
2
(x−h) 2
− = 1.The
center is (h, k) , a defines the
a2 b2
hyperbola opening upward and downward in standard form 27 follows:

transverse axis, and b defines
the conjugate axis.
27. The equation of a hyperbola
(y − k) (x − h)
written in the form
(y−k) 2 2
2
(x−h) 2
− a2 = 1.The
center is (h, k) , b defines the
b2 − =1
b2 a2
transverse axis, and a defines
the conjugate axis.
8.4 Hyperbolas 1886

Here the center is (h, k) and the vertices are (h, k ± b) .
standard form, the asymptotes are lines passing through the center (h, k) with
The asymptotes are essential for determining the shape of any hyperbola. Given
slope m = ± ba .To easily sketch the asymptotes we make use of two special line
segments through the center using a and b. Given any hyperbola, the transverse
axis28 is the line segment formed by its vertices. The conjugate axis29 is the line
segment through the center perpendicular to the transverse axis as pictured below:
The rectangle defined by the transverse and conjugate axes is called the
fundamental rectangle30. The lines through the corners of this rectangle have
28. The line segment formed by
the vertices of a hyperbola. slopes m = ± ba .These lines are the asymptotes that define the shape of the
hyperbola. Therefore, given standard form, many of the properties of a hyperbola
29. A line segment through the
center of a hyperbola that is are apparent.
perpendicular to the
transverse axis.
30. The rectangle formed using the

endpoints of a hyperbolas,
transverse and conjugate axes.
8.4 Hyperbolas 1887

Equation Center a b Opens
(y−5)
(3, 5) a = 5
2
(x−3) 2 Left and
− =1 b=4
25 16 right
(y−2)
2 Upward
(x+1) 2
36
− 9
= 1 (−1, 2) a = 3 b=6 and
downward
− (x − 5) = 1 (5, −2) a = 1 b = √3
(y+2)
Upward
2
2 ⎯⎯
and
3 downward
(y+4) ⎯⎯
2
Left and
x2
− =1 (0, −4) a = 7 b = 2√2
49 8 right
The graph of a hyperbola is completely determined by its center, vertices, and

asymptotes.
8.4 Hyperbolas 1888

Example 1
(x−5) (y−4)
2 2
Graph: 9
− 4
= 1.
Solution:
In this case, the expression involving x has a positive leading coefficient;

⎯⎯
therefore, the hyperbola opens left and right. Here a = √9 = 3 and
b = √4 = 2. From the center (5, 4), mark points 3 units left and right as well
⎯⎯
as 2 units up and down. Connect these points with a rectangle as follows:
The lines through the corners of this rectangle define the asymptotes.
Use these dashed lines as a guide to graph the hyperbola opening left and right
passing through the vertices.
8.4 Hyperbolas 1889

Answer:
8.4 Hyperbolas 1890

Example 2
(y−2)
2
(x+1) 2
Graph: 4
− 36
= 1.
Solution:
In this case, the expression involving y has a positive leading coefficient;

⎯⎯⎯⎯
therefore, the hyperbola opens upward and downward. Here a = √36 = 6
⎯⎯
and b = √4 = 2. From the center (−1, 2) mark points 6 units left and right as
well as 2 units up and down. Connect these points with a rectangle. The lines
through the corners of this rectangle define the asymptotes.
Use these dashed lines as a guide to graph the hyperbola opening upward and
downward passing through the vertices.
Answer:
Note: When given a hyperbola opening upward and downward, as in the previous
example, it is a common error to interchange the values for the center, h and k. This
8.4 Hyperbolas 1891

is the case because the quantity involving the variable y usually appears first in
standard form. Take care to ensure that the y-value of the center comes from the
quantity involving the variable y and that the x-value of the center is obtained from
the quantity involving the variable x.
8.4 Hyperbolas 1892

Example 3
(y−2)
2
(x+1) 2
Find the intercepts: 4
− 36
= 1.
Solution:
To find the x-intercepts set y = 0 and solve for x.
(0 − 2)2 (x + 1)2
− =1
4 36
(x + 1)2
1− =1
36
(x + 1)2
− =0
36
(x + 1)2 = 0
x + 1=0
x = −1
Therefore there is only one x-intercept, (−1, 0) . To find the y-intercept set
x = 0 and solve for y.
8.4 Hyperbolas 1893

( y − 2)
2
(0 + 1)2
− =1
4 36
(y − 2)
2
1
− =1
4 36
(y − 2)
2
37
=
4 36
(y − 2)
⎯⎯⎯⎯
√37
=±
2 6
⎯⎯⎯⎯
√37
y − 2=±
3
⎯⎯⎯⎯ ⎯⎯⎯⎯
√37 6 ± √37
y=2 ± =
3 3
( )
6−√37
Therefore there are two y-intercepts, 0, 3
≈ (0, −0.03)and
( )
6+√37
0, 3
≈ (0, 4.03) .Take a moment to compare these to the sketch of
the graph in the previous example.
( ) ( )
6−√37 6+√37
Answer: x-intercept: (−1, 0); y-intercepts: 0, 3
and 0, 3
.
Consider the hyperbola centered at the origin,
9x 2 − 5y 2 = 45
Standard form requires one side to be equal to 1. In this case, we can obtain
standard form by dividing both sides by 45.
8.4 Hyperbolas 1894

9x 2 − 5y 2 45
=
45 45
2 2
9x 5y 45
− =
45 45 45
x 2 y2
− =1
5 9
This can be written as follows:
(y − 0)
2
(x − 0)2
− =1
5 9
⎯⎯
In this form, it is clear that the center is (0, 0), a = √5, and b = 3. The graph
follows.
8.4 Hyperbolas 1895

(x−5)
2
y2
Try this! Graph: 25 − 9
= 1.
Answer:
The Hyperbola in General Form
We have seen that the graph of a hyperbola is completely determined by its center,
vertices, and asymptotes; which can be read from its equation in standard form.
However, the equation is not always given in standard form. The equation of a
hyperbola in general form31 follows:
px 2 − qy 2 + cx + dy + e = 0 Hyperbola opens lef t and right.

qy 2 − px 2 + cx + dy + e = 0 Hyperbola opens upward and downward.
where p, q > 0. The steps for graphing a hyperbola given its equation in general
31. The equation of a hyperbola form are outlined in the following example.
written in the form
px 2 − qy 2 + cx
+dy + e = 0
or
qy 2 − px 2 − cx
+dy + e = 0
where p, q > 0.
8.4 Hyperbolas 1896

Example 4
Graph: 4x 2 − 9y 2 + 32x − 54y − 53 = 0.
Solution:
constant to the right side. Factor so that the leading coefficient of
each grouping is 1.
4x 2 − 9y 2 + 32x − 54y − 53 = 0
(4x + 32x+ ___) + (−9y − 54y+ ___) = 53
2 2
4 (x 2 + 8x+ ___) − 9 (y 2 + 6y+ ___) = 53
terms involving x use ( 82 ) = 42 = 16 and for the terms

• Step 2: Complete the square for each grouping. In this case, for the
2
involving y use ( 62 ) = (3)2 = 9. The factor in front of each

2
grouping affects the value used to balance the equation on the

right,
4 (x 2 + 8x + 16) − 9 (y 2 + 6y + 9) = 53 + 64 − 81
Because of the distributive property, adding 16 inside of the first

grouping is equivalent to adding 4 ⋅ 16 = 64. Similarly, adding 9
inside of the second grouping is equivalent to adding
−9 ⋅ 9 = −81. Now factor and then divide to obtain 1 on the right
side.
8.4 Hyperbolas 1897

4(x + 4)2 − 9(y + 3) = 36

2
4(x + 4)2 − 9(y + 3)

2
36
=
36 36
9(y + 3)
2
4(x + 4)2 36
− =
36 36 36
(y + 3)
2
(x + 4)2
− =1
9 4
• Step 3: Determine the center, a, and b, and then use this

information to sketch the graph. In this case, the center is
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
(−4, −3), a = √9 = 3, and b = √4 = 2. Because the leading
coefficient of the expression involving x is positive and the
coefficient of the expression involving y is negative, we graph a
hyperbola opening left and right.
Answer:
8.4 Hyperbolas 1898

Try this! Graph: 4y 2 − x 2 − 40y − 12x + 60 = 0.
Answer:
Identifying the Conic Sections
In this section, the challenge is to identify a conic section given its equation in
general form. To distinguish between the conic sections, use the exponents and
coefficients. If the equation is quadratic in only one variable and linear in the other,
then its graph will be a parabola.
Parabola: a >0
y = a(x − h) + k x = a(y − k) + h
2 2
y = ax 2 + bx + c x = ay 2 + by + c
8.4 Hyperbolas 1899

Parabola: a <0
y = a(x − h) + k x = a(y − k) + h
2 2
y = ax 2 + bx + c x = ay 2 + by + c
If the equation is quadratic in both variables, where the coefficients of the squared
terms are the same, then its graph will be a circle.
8.4 Hyperbolas 1900

Circle:
(x − h) + (y − k) = r
2 22
x 2 + y 2 + cx + dy + e = 0
If the equation is quadratic in both variables where the coefficients of the squared
terms are different but have the same sign, then its graph will be an ellipse.
Ellipse: a, b > 0 and p, q > 0
(y−k)
2
(x−h) 2
a2
+ =1
b2
px 2 + qy + cx + dy + e = 0
2
If the equation is quadratic in both variables where the coefficients of the squared
terms have different signs, then its graph will be a hyperbola.
8.4 Hyperbolas 1901

Hyperbola: a, b > 0 and

p, q > 0
(y−k) (y−k)
2 2
(x−h) 2 (x−h) 2
a2
− =1 − a2
=1
b2 b2
px 2 − qy + cx + dy + e = 0 qy 2 − px 2 + cx + dy + e = 0
2
8.4 Hyperbolas 1902

Example 5
Identify the graph of each equation as a parabola, circle, ellipse, or hyperbola.
a. 4x 2 + 4y 2 − 1 = 0
b. 3x 2 − 2y 2 − 12 = 0
c. x − y 2 − 6y + 11 = 0
Solution:
a. The equation is quadratic in both x and y where the leading

coefficients for both variables is the same, 4.
4x 2 + 4y 2 − 1 = 0
4x 2 + 4y 2 = 1
1
x 2 + y2 =
4
This is an equation of a circle centered at the origin with radius 1/

2.
b. The equation is quadratic in both x and y where the leading

coefficients for both variables have different signs.
3x 2 − 2y 2 − 12 = 0
3x 2 − 2y 2 12
=
12 12
2 2
x y
− =1
4 6
This is an equation of a hyperbola opening left and right centered

at the origin.
8.4 Hyperbolas 1903

c. The equation is quadratic in y only.
x − y 2 + 6y − 11 = 0
x = y 2 − 6y + + 11
2
x = (y − 6y + 9) + 11 − 9
x = (y − 3) + 2
2
This is an equation of a parabola opening right with vertex (2, 3) .
Answer:
a. Circle
b. Hyperbola
c. Parabola
8.4 Hyperbolas 1904

KEY TAKEAWAYS
• The graph of a hyperbola is completely determined by its center,

vertices, and asymptotes.
• The center, vertices, and asymptotes are apparent if the equation of a
(y−k)
2
(x−h) 2
hyperbola is given in standard form:
a2
− = 1 or
b2
(y−k)
2
2
(x−h)
− a2
= 1.
b2
• To graph a hyperbola, mark points a units left and right from the center
and points b units up and down from the center. Use these points to
draw the fundamental rectangle; the lines through the corners of this
rectangle are the asymptotes. If the coefficient of x 2 is positive, draw
the branches of the hyperbola opening left and right through the points
determined by a. If the coefficient of y 2 is positive, draw the branches
of the hyperbola opening up and down through the points determined
by b.
• The orientation of the transverse axis depends the coefficient of x 2 and
y2.
• If the equation of a hyperbola is given in general form
px 2 − qy 2 + cx + dy + e = 0 or
qy 2 − px 2 + cx + dy + e = 0 where p, q > 0 , group the terms
with the same variables, and complete the square for both groupings to
obtain standard form.
• We recognize the equation of a hyperbola if it is quadratic in both x and
y where the coefficients of the squared terms are opposite in sign.
8.4 Hyperbolas 1905

TOPIC EXERCISES
PART A: THE HYPERBOLA IN STANDARD FORM
Given the equation of a hyperbola in standard form, determine its

center, which way the graph opens, and the vertices.
(x−6) (y+4)
2 2
1.
16
− 9
=1
(y−3)
2
(x+1) 2
2.
25
− 64
=1
(y+9)
2
3.
5
− x2 = 1
(x−5)
2
4.
12
− y2 = 1
4(y + 10) − 25(x + 1) 2 = 100

2
5.
9(x − 1) 2 − 5(y + 10) = 45

2
6.
Determine the standard form for the equation of a hyperbola given the
7. Center (2, 7) , a = 6, b = 3, opens left and right.

8. Center (−9, 1) , a = 7, b = 2, opens up and down.
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
9. Center (10, −3) , a = √ 7, b = 5√ 2 , opens up and down.
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
10. Center (−7, −2) , a = 3√ 3, b = √ 5 , opens left and right.
⎯⎯
11. Center (0, −8) , a = √ 2, b = 1 ,opens up and down.
⎯⎯
12. Center (0, 0) , a = 2√ 6, b = 4 , opens left and right.
Graph.
(y+1)
2
(x−3) 2
13.
9
− 16
=1
8.4 Hyperbolas 1906

(y−1)
2
(x+3) 2
14.
4
− 25
=1
(y+3)
2
(x−2) 2
15.
16
− 1
=1
(y+2)
2
(x+2) 2
16.
9
− 36
=1
(y−1)
2
(x−2) 2
17.
4
− 16
=1
(y + 2) −
2 (x+3) 2
18.
9
=1
4(x + 3) 2 − 9(y − 3) = 36
2
19.
16x 2 − 4(y − 1) = 64
2
20.
4(y − 1) − 25x 2 = 100

2
21.
22. 9y 2 − 16x 2 = 144

(y−4)
2
(x−2) 2
23.
12
− 9
=1
(y−1)
2
(x+2) 2
24.
4
− 8
=1
(y+1)
2
(x−3) 2
25.
5
− 2
=1
(y−4) (x+6)
2 2
26.
3
− 18
=1
4x 2 − 3(y − 3) = 12
2
27.
28. 7(x + 1) 2 − 2y 2 = 14
29. 6y 2 − 3x 2 = 18
30. 10x 2 − 3y 2 = 30
(y−4)
2
(x−1) 2
31.
9
− 4
=1
8.4 Hyperbolas 1907

(y−3)
2
(x+4) 2
32.
16
− 9
=1
(y−1)
2
(x+1) 2
33.
4
− 36
=1
(y+2)
2
(x−1) 2
34.
4
− 16
=1
2x 2 − 3(y − 1) = 12
2
35.
6(x − 5) − 2y 2 = 12
2
36.
37. 36x 2 − 2y 2 = 9
38. 6y 2 − 4x 2 = 2
39. Find the equation of the hyperbola with vertices (±2, 3) and a conjugate axis
that measures 12 units.
40. Find the equation of the hyperbola with vertices (4, 7) and (4, 3) and a
conjugate axis that measures 6 units.
PART B: THE HYPERBOLA IN GENERAL FORM
41. 4x 2 − 9y 2 + 16x + 54y − 101 = 0

42. 9x 2 − 25y 2 − 18x − 100y − 316 = 0
43. 4y 2 − 16x 2 − 64x + 8y − 124 = 0
44. 9y 2 − 4x 2 − 24x − 72y + 72 = 0
45. y 2 − 36x 2 − 72x − 12y − 36 = 0
46. 9y 2 − x 2 + 8x − 36y + 11 = 0
47. 36x 2 − 4y 2 + 24y − 180 = 0
48. x 2 − 25y 2 − 2x − 24 = 0
49. 25x 2 − 64y 2 + 200x + 640y − 2,800 = 0
50. 49y 2 − 4x 2 + 40x + 490y + 929 = 0
8.4 Hyperbolas 1908

51. 3x 2 − 2y 2 + 24x + 8y + 34 = 0
52. 4x 2 − 8y 2 − 24x + 80y − 196 = 0
53. 3y 2 − x 2 − 2x − 6y − 16 = 0
54. 12y 2 − 5x 2 + 40x + 48y − 92 = 0
55. 4x 2 − 16y 2 + 12x + 16y − 11 = 0
56. 4x 2 − y 2 − 4x − 2y − 16 = 0
57. 4y 2 − 36x 2 + 108x − 117 = 0
58. 4x 2 − 9y 2 + 8x + 6y − 33 = 0
Given the general form, determine the intercepts.
59. 3x 2 − y 2 − 11x − 8y − 4 = 0
60. 4y 2 − 8x 2 + 2x + 9y − 9 = 0
61. x 2 − y 2 + 2x + 2y − 4 = 0
62. y 2 − x 2 + 6y − 8x − 16 = 0
63. 5x 2 − 2y 2 − 4x − 3y = 0
64. 2x 2 − 3y 2 − 4x − 5y + 1 = 0
Find the equations of the asymptotes to the given hyperbola.
(y−5)
2
(x+8) 2
65.
9
− 16
= 1.
(y−4)
2
(x+9) 2
66.
36
− 4
= 1.
67. 16x 2 − 4y 2 − 24y − 96x + 44 = 0.
68. 4y 2 − x 2 − 8y − 4x − 4 = 0.
Given the graph of a hyperbola, determine its equation in general form.
8.4 Hyperbolas 1909

69.
70.
71.
8.4 Hyperbolas 1910

72.
PART C: IDENTIFYING THE CONIC SECTIONS
Identify the following as the equation of a line, parabola, circle, ellipse,

or hyperbola.
73. x 2 + y 2 + 10x − 2y + 23 = 0
74. x 2 + y + 2x − 3 = 0
75. 2x 2 + y 2 − 12x + 14 = 0
76. 3x − 2y = 24
77. x 2 − y 2 + 36 = 0
78. 4x 2 + 4y 2 − 32 = 0
79. x 2 − y 2 − 2x + 2y − 1 = 0
80. x − y 2 + 2y + 1 = 0
81. 3x + 3y + 5 = 0
82. 8x 2 + 4y 2 − 144x − 12y + 641 = 0
Identify the conic sections and rewrite in standard form.
83. x 2 − y − 6x + 11 = 0
8.4 Hyperbolas 1911

84. x 2 + y 2 − 12x − 6y + 44 = 0
85. x 2 − 2y 2 − 4x − 12y − 18 = 0
86. 25y 2 − 2x 2 + 36x − 50y − 187 = 0
87. 7x 2 + 4y 2 − 84x + 16y + 240 = 0
88. 4x 2 + 4y 2 − 80x + 399 = 0
89. 4x 2 + 4y 2 + 4x − 32y + 29 = 0
90. 16x 2 − 4y 2 − 32x + 20y − 25 = 0
91. 9x − 18y 2 + 12y + 7 = 0
92. 16x 2 + 12y 2 − 24x − 48y + 9 = 0
PART D: DISCUSSION BOARD
93. Develop a formula for the equations of the asymptotes of a hyperbola. Share it
along with an example on the discussion board.
94. Make up your own equation of a hyperbola, write it in general form, and graph
it.
95. Do all hyperbolas have intercepts? What are the possible numbers of intercepts
for a hyperbola? Explain.
96. Research and discuss real-world examples of hyperbolas.
8.4 Hyperbolas 1912

ANSWERS
1. Center: (6, −4) ; a = 4; b = 3; opens left and right; vertices: (2, −4) ,
(10, −4)
⎯⎯
3. Center: (0, −9) ; a= 1, b = √ 5; opens upward and downward; vertices:
( ) ( )
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
0, −9 − √ 5 , 0, −9 + √ 5
(−1, −15) , (−1, −5)

5. Center: (−1, −10) ; a
= 2, b = 5; opens upward and downward; vertices:
(y−7)
2
(x−2) 2
7.
36
− 9
=1
(y+3)
2
(x−10) 2
9.
50
− 7
=1
(y+8)
2
x2
11.
1
− 2
=1
13.
8.4 Hyperbolas 1913

15.
17.
19.
8.4 Hyperbolas 1914

21.
23.
25.
8.4 Hyperbolas 1915

27.
29.
( 5 , 0) ; y-intercepts: none
⎯⎯
31. x-intercepts: 1 ± 3 √
( )
3±√37
33. x-intercepts: none; y-intercepts: 0, 3
( )
√30
35. x-intercepts: ± 2
,0 ; y-intercepts: none
37. x-intercepts: (± , 0); y-intercepts: none

1
2
(y−3)
2
x2
39.
4
− 36
=1
(y−3)
2
(x+2) 2
41.
9
− 4
= 1;
8.4 Hyperbolas 1916

(y+1)
2
(x+2) 2
43.
16
− 4
= 1;
(y−6)
2
45.
36
− (x + 1) 2 = 1;
8.4 Hyperbolas 1917

(y−3)
2
x2
47.
4
− 36
= 1;
(y−5)
2
(x+4) 2
49.
64
− 25
= 1;
8.4 Hyperbolas 1918

(y−2)
2
(x+4) 2
51.
2
− 3
= 1;
(y−1)
2
(x+1) 2
53.
6
− 18
= 1;
8.4 Hyperbolas 1919

(x+ 2 ) (y− 2 )
2 2
3 1
55.
4
− 1
= 1;
− (x − 32 ) = 1;
y2 2
57.
9
8.4 Hyperbolas 1920

59. x-intercepts: (− , 0), (4, 0) ; y-intercepts: (0, −4 ± 2√ 3 )

1 ⎯⎯
3
(−1 ± √ 5 , 0) ; y-intercepts: none

⎯⎯
61. x-intercepts:
63. x-intercepts: (0, 0) , ( , 0); y-intercepts: (0, 0) , (0, − 32 )

4
5
3 3
65. y=− 4
x − 1, y = 4
x + 11
67. y = −2x + 3 , y = 2x − 9
69. x 2 − 9y 2 − 4x + 18y − 41 = 0
71. 25y 2 − 4x 2 − 100y + 8x − 4 = 0
73. Circle
75. Ellipse
77. Hyperbola
79. Hyperbola
81. Line
83. Parabola; y = (x − 3) 2 + 2
(y+3)
2
(x−2) 2
85. Hyperbola;
4
− 2
=1
8.4 Hyperbolas 1921

(x−6) (y+2)
2 2
87. Ellipse;
4
+ 7
=1
89. Circle; (x + 12 ) + (y − 4) = 9
2 2
= 2(y − 13 ) − 1
2
91. Parabola; x
93. Answer may vary
95. Answer may vary
8.4 Hyperbolas 1922

8.5 Solving Nonlinear Systems
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
1. Identify nonlinear systems.

2. Solve nonlinear systems using the substitution method.
Nonlinear Systems
A system of equations where at least one equation is not linear is called a nonlinear
system32. In this section we will use the substitution method to solve nonlinear
(x, y) that satisfy both equations.

systems. Recall that solutions to a system with two variables are ordered pairs
32. A system of equations where at

least one equation is not linear.
1923
Example 1
{ x 2 + y2 = 5
x + 2y = 0
Solve: .
Solution:
In this case we begin by solving for x in the first equation.
x + 2y = 0⇒ x = −2y
{ x 2 + y2 = 5
Substitute x = −2y into the second equation and then solve for y.
(−2y) + y = 5
2 2
4y 2 + y 2 = 5
5y 2 = 5
y2 = 1
y = ±1
Here there are two answers for y; use x = −2y to find the corresponding x-
values.
8.5 Solving Nonlinear Systems 1924

Using y = −1 Using y =1
x = −2y x = −2y
= −2 (−1) = −2 (1)
=2 = −2
This gives us two ordered pair solutions, (2, −1) and (−2, 1) .
Answer: (2, −1), (−2, 1)
In the previous example, the given system consisted of a line and a circle. Graphing
these equations on the same set of axes, we can see that the two ordered pair
solutions correspond to the two points of intersection.
If we are given a system consisting of a circle and a line, then there are 3
possibilities for real solutions—two solutions as pictured above, one solution, or no
solution.


Example 2
{ x 2 + y2 = 2
x+y=3
Solve: .
Solution:
Solve for y in the first equation.
x + y = 3⇒ y = 3 − x
{ x 2 + y2 = 2
Next, substitute y = 3 − x into the second equation and then solve for x.
x 2 + (3 − x)2 = 2
x 2 + 9 − 6x + x 2 = 2
2x 2 − 6x + 9 = 2
2x 2 − 6x + 7 = 0
The resulting equation does not factor. Furthermore, using a = 2, b = −6, and
c = 7 we can see that the discriminant is negative:
b2 − 4ac = (−6) − 4 (2) (7)

2
= 36 − 56
= −20

We conclude that there are no real solutions to this equation and thus no
solution to the system.
Answer: Ø
{ x 2 + (y + 1)2 = 8
x−y=5
Try this! Solve: .
Answer: (2, −3)
If given a circle and a parabola, then there are 5 possibilities for solutions.

When using the substitution method, we can perform the substitution step using
entire algebraic expressions. The goal is to produce a single equation in one
variable that can be solved using the techniques learned up to this point in our
study of algebra.

Example 3
{ y − x 2 = −2
x 2 + y2 = 2
Solve: .
Solution:
We can solve for x 2 in the second equation.
x 2 + y2 = 2
{ y − x 2 = −2 ⇒ y + 2 = x2
Substitute x 2 = y + 2 into the first equation and then solve for y.
y + 2 + y2 = 2
y2 + y = 0
y (y + 1) = 0
y=0 or y = −1
Back substitute into x 2 = y + 2 to find the corresponding x-values.

Using y = −1 Using y =0
x2 =y + 2 x2 =y + 2
x 2 = −1 + 2 x 2 = 0 + 2
x2 =1 x2 =2
⎯⎯
x = ±1 x = ±√2
This leads us to four solutions, (±1, −1) and (±√2, 0) .

⎯⎯
Answer: (±1, −1), (±√2, 0)

⎯⎯

Example 4
(x − 1)2 − 2y 2 = 4
{
Solve: .
x 2 + y2 = 9
Solution:
We can solve for y 2 in the second equation,
(x − 1)2 − 2y 2 = 4
{ x 2 + y 2 = 9⇒ y 2 = 9 − x 2
Substitute y 2 = 9 − x 2 into the first equation and then solve for x.
(x − 1)2 − 2(9 − x 2 ) = 4
2 2
x − 2x + 1 − 18 + 2x = 0
2
3x − 2x − 21 = 0
(3x + 7)(x − 3) = 0
3x + 7 = 0 or x − 3 = 0
7
x =− x=3
3
Back substitute into y 2 = 9 − x 2 to find the corresponding y-values.

7
Using x =− Using x =3
3
y 2 = 9 − (− 73 )
2
y 2 = 91 − 49 y 2 = 9 − (3)2
9
2 32 y2 = 0
y = 9
y=0
√32 4√2
y =± 3
=± 3
( )
7 4√2
This leads to three solutions, − 3
,± 3
and (3, 0) .
( )
7 4√2
Answer: (3, 0), − 3
,± 3

Example 5
{
x 2 + y2 = 2
Solve: .
xy = 1
Solution:
Solve for y in the second equation.
 x 2 + y2 = 2


 

1
xy = 1 ⇒ y =
x
Substitute y = 1x into the first equation and then solve for x.
(x)
2
1
x2 + =2
1
x2 + 2 =2
x
This leaves us with a rational equation. Make a note that x ≠ 0 and multiply
both sides by x 2 .

( x )
1
x2 x2 + 2 =2 ⋅ x2
x 4 + 1 = 2x 2
x 4 − 2x 2 + 1 = 0
(x 2 − 1)(x 2 − 1) = 0
At this point we can see that both factors are the same. Apply the zero product
property.
x2 − 1=0
x2 =1
x = ±1
Back substitute into y = 1x to find the corresponding y-values.
Using x = −1 Using x =1
y = 1x y = 1x
1
= −1 = 11
= −1 =1
This leads to two solutions.
Answer: (1, 1), (−1, −1)



Try this! Solve: 
1 1
+ =4

x y

1 1
.
x2
+ y2
= 40
Answer: (− 12 , 16 ), ( 16 , − 12 )
KEY TAKEAWAYS
• Use the substitution method to solve nonlinear systems.

• Streamline the solving process by using entire algebraic expressions in
the substitution step to obtain a single equation with one variable.
• Understanding the geometric interpretation of the system can help in
finding real solutions.

TOPIC EXERCISES
PART A: NONLINEAR SYSTEMS
Solve.
x 2 + y 2 = 10
{ x+y=4
1.
x 2 + y2 = 5
{
2.
x − y = −3
x 2 + y 2 = 30
{ x − 3y = 0
3.
x 2 + y 2 = 10
{ 2x − y = 0
4.
x 2 + y 2 = 18
{
5.
2x − 2y = −12
(x − 4) 2 + y 2 = 25
{
6.
4x − 3y = 16
3x 2 + 2y 2 = 21
{
7.
3x − y = 0
x 2 + 5y 2 = 36
{ x − 2y = 0
8.
4x 2 + 9y 2 = 36
{ 2x + 3y = 6
9.
4x 2 + y 2 = 4
{
10.
2x + y = −2
2x 2 + y 2 = 1
{
11.
x+y=1

4x 2 + 3y 2 = 12
{
12.
2x − y = 2
x 2 − 2y 2 = 35
{ x − 3y = 0
13.
5x 2 − 7y 2 = 39
{ 2x + 4y = 0
14.
9x 2 − 4y 2 = 36
{
15.
3x + 2y = 0
x 2 + y 2 = 25
{
16.
x − 2y = −12
2x 2 + 3y = 9
{ 8x − 4y = 12
17.
2x − 4y 2 = 3
{ 3x − 12y = 6
18.
 4x 2 + 3y 2 = 12




19. 3
x − =0
2
5x 2 + 4y 2 = 40
{
20.
y−3=0
21. The sum of the squares of two positive integers is 10. If the first integer is
added to twice the second integer, the sum is 7. Find the integers.
⎯⎯
22. The diagonal of a rectangle measures √ 5 units and has a perimeter equal to 6
units. Find the dimensions of the rectangle.
23. For what values of b will the following system have real solutions?
{ y=x+b
x 2 + y2 = 1

24. For what values of m will the following system have real solutions?
{ y = mx
x 2 − y2 = 1
Solve.
x 2 + y2 = 4
{ y − x2 = 2
25.
x 2 + y2 = 4
{ y − x 2 = −2
26.
x 2 + y2 = 4
{ y − x2 = 3
27.
x 2 + y2 = 4
{
28.
4y − x 2 = −4
x 2 + 3y 2 = 9
{
29.
y2 − x = 3
x 2 + 3y 2 = 9
{
30.
x + y 2 = −4
4x 2 − 3y 2 = 12
{
31.
x 2 + y2 = 1
x 2 + y2 = 1
{x 2 − y 2 = 1
32.
x 2 + y2 = 1
{ 4y 2 − x 2 − 4y = 0
33.
x 2 + y2 = 4
{ 2x 2 − y 2 + 4x = 0
34.
2(x − 2) 2 + y 2 = 6
{ (x − 3) 2 + y 2 = 4
35.

x 2 + y 2 − 6y = 0
{ 4x 2 + 5y 2 + 20y = 0
36.
x 2 + 4y 2 = 25
{ 4x 2 + y 2 = 40
37.
x 2 − 2y 2 = −10
{
38.
4x 2 + y 2 = 10
2x 2 + y 2 = 14
{ x 2 − (y − 1) 2 = 6
39.
 3x 2 − y − 2 2 = 12
 ( )

 2
 x + (y − 2) = 1
40.
2
41. The difference of the squares of two positive integers is 12. The sum of the
larger integer and the square of the smaller is equal to 8. Find the integers.
42. The difference between the length and width of a rectangle is 4 units and the
diagonal measures 8 units. Find the dimensions of the rectangle. Round off to
the nearest tenth.
43. The diagonal of a rectangle measures p units and has a perimeter equal to 2q
units. Find the dimensions of the rectangle in terms of p and q.
44. The area of a rectangle is p square units and its perimeter is 2q units. Find the
dimensions of the rectangle in terms of p and q.
Solve.
x 2 + y 2 = 26
{
45.
xy = 5
x 2 + y 2 = 10
{
46.
xy = 3
2x 2 − 3y 2 = 5
{
47.
xy = 1
3x 2 − 4y 2 = −11
{
48.
xy = 1

x 2 + y2 = 2
{ xy − 2 = 0
49.
x 2 + y2 = 1
{ 2xy − 1 = 0
50.
4x − y 2 = 0
{
51.
xy = 2
3y − x 2 = 0
{ xy − 9 = 0
52.
2y − x 2 = 0
{ xy − 1 = 0
53.
x − y2 = 0
{
54.
xy = 3
⎯⎯⎯⎯
55. The diagonal of a rectangle measures 2√ 10 units. If the area of the rectangle
is 12 square units, find its dimensions.
56. The area of a rectangle is 48 square meters and the perimeter measures 32
meters. Find the dimensions of the rectangle.
57. The product of two positive integers is 72 and their sum is 18. Find the
integers.
58. The sum of the squares of two positive integers is 52 and their product is 24.
Find the integers.
1
Solve.

x
1

+ =4
1
y

59.
x
1
− =2
2
y

x
1

− =5
1
y

60.
x
1
+ =2
y

1
 + =1
x
2
61. 
3
y
 − =2
x
1
 1
y

 x
1
62. 
+ =6
 1
y
 2 + 2 = 20
x
1
 1
y

 x
1
63. 
+ =2
 1
y
 2 + 2 = 34
x
1
y
{ 2x 2 − y = 0
xy − 16 = 0
64.
x + y2 = 4
{ y = √x
65. ⎯⎯
y 2 − (x − 1) 2 = 1
{
66. ⎯⎯
y = √x
y = 2x
{ y = 2 2x − 56
67.
y = 3 2x − 72
{ y − 3x = 0
68.
y = e4x
{ y = e2x + 6
69.
y − e2x = 0
{ y − ex = 0
70.
PART B: DISCUSSION BOARD
71. How many real solutions can be obtained from a system that consists of a circle
and a hyperbola? Explain.

72. Make up your own nonlinear system, solve it, and provide the answer. Also,
provide a graph and discuss the geometric interpretation of the solutions.

ANSWERS
1. (1, 3) , (3, 1)
( ) ( 3 , √3 )
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯ ⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
3. −3 √ 3 , − √ 3 , 3 √
5. (−3, 3)
7. (−1, −3) , (1, 3)
(0, 2) , (3, 0)
(0, 1) , ( 23 , 13 )
9.
11.
(−3√ 5 , −√ 5 ) , (3√ 5 , √ 5 )
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯ ⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
13.
15. Ø
( 2 ) ( 2 )
−3+3√5 ⎯⎯ −3−3√5 ⎯⎯
17. , −6 + 3√ 5 , , −6 − 3√ 5
( 2 , −1), ( 2 , 1)
3 3
19.
21. 1, 3
b ∈ [−√ 2 , √ 2 ]
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
23.
25. (0, 2)
27. Ø
(−3, 0) , (0, −√ 3 ) , (0, √ 3 )

⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
29.
31. Ø
( 5) ( 5 5)
2√5 1 2√5 1
33. (0, 1) , − 5
,− , ,−
35. (3, −2) , (3, 2)

37. (−3, −2) , (−3, 2) , (3, −2) , (3, 2)

( ) ( ) ( 3) ( 3 3)
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯ √55 4 √55 4
39. − √ 7 , 0 , √7 , 0 , −
3
, , ,
41. 2, 4
q+√2p 2 −q 2 q−√2p 2 −q 2
43. units by units
(−5, −1) , (5, 1) , (−1, −5) , (1, 5)

2 2
45.
( 3 ) ( 3 )
⎯⎯ √3 ⎯⎯ √3
47. −√ 3 , − , √3 ,
49. Ø
51. (1, 2)
( 2 )
3 ⎯⎯
3
√ 4
53. √ 2,
55. 2 units by 6 units
( 3 , 1)
57. 6, 12
1
59.
( 5 , 7)
7
61.
(− , 15 ), ( 15 , − 13 )
1
63.
3
( 2)
⎯⎯
65. 2, √
67. (3, 8)
( , 9)
ln 3
69.
2
71. Answer may vary

8.6 Review Exercises and Sample Exam
1946
REVIEW EXERCISES
DISTANCE, MIDPOINT, AND THE PARABOLA
Calculate the distance and midpoint between the given two points.
1. (0, 2) and (−4, −1)

2. (6, 0) and (−2, −6)
3. (−2, 4) and (−6, −8)
( 2 , −1) and ( 2 , − 2 )
1 5 1
4.
( 2) ( 2)
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
5. 0, −3 √ and √ 5 , −4 √
(−5√ 3 , √ 6 ) and (−3√ 3 , √ 6 )

⎯⎯ ⎯⎯ ⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
6.
Determine the area of a circle whose diameter is defined by the given

two points.
7. (−3, 3) and (3, −3)

8. (−2, −9) and (−10, −15)
( 3 , − 2 )and (− , 32 )
2 1 1
9.
3
( ) ( )
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
10. 2√ 5 , −2 √ 2 and 0, −4√ 2
Rewrite in standard form and give the vertex.
11. y = x 2 − 10x + 33
12. y = 2x 2 − 4x − 1
13. y = x 2 − 3x − 1
14. y = −x 2 − x − 2
15. x = y 2 + 10y + 10
8.6 Review Exercises and Sample Exam 1947

16. x = 3y 2 + 12y + 7
17. x = −y 2 + 8y − 3
18. x = 5y 2 − 5y + 2
Rewrite in standard form and graph. Be sure to find the vertex and all
intercepts.
19. y = x 2 − 20x + 75
20. y = −x 2 − 10x + 75
21. y = −2x 2 − 12x − 24
22. y = 4x 2 + 4x + 6
23. x = y 2 − 10y + 16
24. x = −y 2 + 4y + 12
25. x = −4y 2 + 12y
26. x = 9y 2 + 18y + 12
27. x = −4y 2 + 4y + 2
28. x = −y 2 − 5y + 2
CIRCLES
Determine the center and radius given the equation of a circle in

standard form.
( x − 6) + y = 9
2 2
29.
(x + 8) 2 + (y − 10) = 1
2
30.
31. x 2 + y2 = 5
(x − 8 ) + (y + 2 ) =
3 2 5 2 1
32.
2
Determine standard form for the equation of the circle:

33. Center (−7, 2) with radius r = 10.

34. Center ( , −1) with radius r =
1 2
3
. 3
Center (0, −5) with radius r = 2√ 7 .

⎯⎯
35.
5√3
36. Center (1, 0) with radius r = .
2
37. Circle whose diameter is defined by (−4, 10) and (−2, 8) .
38. Circle whose diameter is defined by (3, −6) and (0, −4) .
(x − 3) 2 + (y + 5) = 16
2
39.
(x + 5) + (y − 1) = 4
2 2
40.
x 2 + (y − 2) = 20
2
41.
(x − 3) 2 + (y + 3) = 8
2
42.
43. x 2 + y 2 − 12y + 27 = 0
44. x 2 + y 2 − 4x + 2y + 1 = 0
Graph.
(x + 8) 2 + (y − 6) = 4
2
45.
46. (x − 20) 2 + (y + 2 )
15 2
= 225
4
47. x 2 + y 2 = 24
1
48. (x − 1) 2 + y 2 = 4
x 2 + (y − 7) = 27
2
49.
(x + 1) 2 + (y − 1) = 2
2
50.

51. x 2 + y 2 − 6x + 4y − 3 = 0
52. x 2 + y 2 + 8x − 10y + 16 = 0
53. 2x 2 + 2y 2 − 2x − 6y − 3 = 0
54. 4x 2 + 4y 2 + 8y + 1 = 0
1
55. x 2 + y 2 − 5x + y − 2
=0
56. x 2 + y 2 + 12x − 8y = 0
ELLIPSES
Given the equation of an ellipse in standard form, determine its center,

(y−10)
2
(x+12) 2
57.
16
+ 4
=1
(x+3) 2 y2
58.
3
+ 25
=1
(y−5)
2
2
59. x + 12
=1
(x−8) 2 (y+8)
60.
5
+ 18
=1
Determine the standard form for the equation of the ellipse given the
61. Center (0, −4) with a = 3 and b = 4.

⎯⎯
62. Center (3, 8) with a = 1 and b = √ 7 .
⎯⎯
63. Center (0, 0) with a = 5 and b = √ 2 .
64. Center (−10, −30) with a = 10 and b = 1.
(x+2) 2 y2
65.
4
+ 9
=1

(y+1)
2
(x−1) 2
66.
2
+ 3
=1
67. 5x 2 + 2y 2 = 20
68. 5(x − 3) 2 + 6y 2 = 120
Graph.
(y+5)
2
(x−10) 2
69.
25
+ 4
=1
(x+6) (y−8)
2 2
70.
9
+ 36
=1
+ (y − 72 ) = 1
(x− 2 )
2
3
2
71.
4
(x − 3 ) +
2 2 y2
72.
4
=1
x2 y2
73.
2
+ 5
=1
(y−3)
2
(x+2) 2
74.
8
+ 12
=1
75. 4x 2 + 9y 2 − 8x + 90y + 193 = 0

76. 9x 2 + 4y 2 + 108x − 80y + 580 = 0
77. x 2 + 9y 2 + 6x + 108y + 324 = 0
78. 25x 2 + y 2 − 350x − 8y + 1,216 = 0
79. 8x 2 + 12y 2 − 16x − 36y − 13 = 0
80. 10x 2 + 2y 2 − 50x + 14y + 7 = 0
HYPERBOLAS
Given the equation of a hyperbola in standard form, determine its

center, which way the graph opens, and the vertices.

(y+5)
2
(x−10) 2
81.
4
− 16
=1
(y−8)
2
(x+7) 2
82.
2
− 8
=1
− (x − 15) = 1
(y−20)
2
2
83.
3
84. 3y 2 − 12(x − 1) 2 = 36
Determine the standard form for the equation of the hyperbola.
85. Center (−25, 10) , a

⎯⎯
= 3, b = √ 5, opens up and down.
⎯⎯
86. Center (9, −12) , a = 5√ 3, b = 7 , opens left and right.
87. Center (−4, 0) , a = 1, b = 6, opens left and right.

⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
88. Center (−2, −3) , a = 10√ 2, b = 2√ 3 , opens up and down.
(y+3)
2
(x−1) 2
89.
4
− 9
=1
(y−2)
2
(x+4) 2
90.
8
− 12
=1
4(y − 2) − x 2 = 16
2
91.
6(y + 1) − 3(x − 1) 2 = 18
2
92.
Graph.
(y+5)
2
(x−10) 2
93.
25
− 100
=1
(y−8)
2
(x−4) 2
94.
4
− 16
=1
(y−3) (x−6)
2 2
95.
9
− 81
=1
(y+1)
2
(x+1) 2
96.
4
− 25
=1

y2 (x−3) 2
97.
27
− 9
=1
x2 y2
98.
2
− 3
=1
99. 4x 2 − 9y 2 − 8x − 90y − 257 = 0

100. 9x 2 − y 2 − 108x + 16y + 224 = 0
101. 25y 2 − 2x 2 − 100y + 50 = 0
102. 3y 2 − x 2 − 2x − 10 = 0
103. 8y 2 − 12x 2 + 24y − 12x − 33 = 0
104. 4y 2 − 4x 2 − 16y − 28x − 37 = 0
Identify the conic sections and rewrite in standard form.
105. x 2 + y 2 − 2x − 8y + 16 = 0
106. x 2 + 2y 2 + 4x − 24y + 74 = 0
107. x 2 − y 2 − 6x − 4y + 3 = 0
108. x 2 + y − 10x + 22 = 0
109. x 2 + 12y 2 − 12x + 24 = 0
110. x 2 + y 2 + 10y + 22 = 0
111. 4y 2 − 20x 2 + 16y + 20x − 9 = 0
112. 16x − 16y 2 + 24y − 25 = 0
113. 9x 2 − 9y 2 − 6x − 18y − 17 = 0
114. 4x 2 + 4y 2 + 4x − 8y + 1 = 0
Given the graph, write the equation in general form.

115.
116.
117.

118.
119.
120.

SOLVING NONLINEAR SYSTEMS
Solve.
x 2 + y2 = 8
{ x−y=4
121.
x 2 + y2 = 1
{ x + 2y = 1
122.
x 2 + 3y 2 = 4
{ 2x − y = 1
123.
2x 2 + y 2 = 5
{ x+y=3
124.
3x 2 − 2y 2 = 1
{ x−y=2
125.
x 2 − 3y 2 = 10
{ x − 2y = 1
126.
2x 2 + y 2 = 11
{ 4x + y 2 = 5
127.
x 2 + 4y 2 = 1
{ 2x 2 + 4y = 5
128.
5x 2 − y 2 = 10
{ x2 + y = 2
129.
2x 2 + y 2 = 1
{ 2x − 4y 2 = −3
130.
x 2 + 4y 2 = 10
{
131.
xy = 2
y + x2 = 0
{ xy − 8 = 0
132.

1
 + = 10
x
1
133. 
 1
y

 x
1
− =6
1
y
 + =1
134.  x
1

 y−x=2
y
x − 2y 2 = 3
{ y = √x − 4
135. ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
(x − 1) 2 + y 2 = 1
{ y − √x = 0
136. ⎯⎯

ANSWERS
1. Distance: 5 units; midpoint: (−2,

2)
1
⎯⎯⎯⎯
3. Distance: 4√ 10 units; midpoint: (−4, −2)
( 2 )
⎯⎯ √5 7√2
5. Distance: √ 7 units; midpoint: ,− 2

5π
9. square units
4
y = (x − 5) + 8; vertex: (5, 8)
2
11.
y = (x − 32 ) − ; vertex: ( )
2 13 3 13
13.
4 2
,− 4
x = (y + 5) − 15 ; vertex: (−15, −5)

2
15.
x = −(y − 4) + 13 ; vertex: (13, 4)

2
17.
19. y = (x − 10) 2 − 25 ;
21. y = −2(x + 3) 2 − 6 ;

x = (y − 5) − 9;
2
23.
x = −4(y − 32 ) + 9 ;
2
25.

x = −4(y − 12 ) + 3 ;
2
27.
29. Center: (6, 0) ; radius: r =3

⎯⎯
31. Center: (0, 0) ; radius: r = √5
(x + 7) 2 + (y − 2) = 100
2
33.
x 2 + (y + 5) = 28
2
35.
(x + 3) 2 + (y − 9) = 2
2
37.
( 7)
⎯⎯
39. x-intercepts: none; y-intercepts: 0, −5 ± √

(0, 2 ± 2√ 5 )
⎯⎯
41. x-intercepts: (±4, 0) ; y-intercepts:
43. x-intercepts: none; y-intercepts: (0, 3) , (0, 9)
45.
47.

49.
(x − 3) 2 + (y + 2) = 16;
2
51.
(x − 2 ) + (y − 2 ) = 4;
1 2 3 2
53.

(x − 2 ) + (y + 2 ) = 7;
5 2 1 2
55.
57. Center: (−12, 10) ; orientation: horizontal; major radius: 4 units; minor
radius: 2 units
59. Center: (0, 5) ; orientation: vertical; major radius: 2√ 3 units; minor radius:
⎯⎯
1 unit
(y+4)
2
x2
61.
9
+ 16
=1
x2 y2
63.
25
+ 2
=1
65. x-intercepts: (−4, 0) , (0, 0) ; y-intercepts: (0, 0)

(0, ±√ 10 )
⎯⎯⎯⎯
67. x-intercepts: (±2, 0) ; y-intercepts:
69.
71.

73.
(y+5)
2
(x−1) 2
75.
9
+ 4
= 1;
+ (y + 6) = 1;
(x+3) 2 2
77.
9

(y− 2 )
2
3
2
(x−1)
79.
6
+ 4
= 1;
81. Center: (10, −5) ; opens left and right; vertices: (8, −5) , (12, −5)
83. Center: (15, 20) ; opens upward and downward; vertices:
( ) ( )
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
15, 20 − √ 3 , 15, 20 + √ 3
(y−10) (x+25)
2 2
85.
5
− 9
=1
y2
87. (x + 4) 2 − 36
=1
( 2 , 0) ; y-intercepts: none
⎯⎯
89. x-intercepts: 1 ± 2 √

91. x-intercepts: (0, 0) ; y-intercepts: (0, 0) , (0, 4)
93.
95.

97.
(y+5)
2
(x−1) 2
99.
9
− 4
= 1;
(y−2)
2
x2
101.
2
− 25
= 1;

(y+ 2 ) (x+ 2 )
2 2
3 1
103.
6
− 4
= 1;
− 1) 2 + (y − 4) = 1
2
105. Circle; (x
(y+2)
2
(x−3) 2
107. Hyperbola;
2
− 2
=1
(x−6)
2
109. Ellipse;
12
+ y2 = 1
− (x − 12 ) = 1
(y+2)
2
2
111. Hyperbola;
5
113. Hyperbola; (x − 13 ) − (y + 1) = 1
2 2
115. x 2 + y 2 + 18x − 6y + 9 = 0

117. 9x 2 − y 2 + 72x − 12y + 72 = 0

119. 9x 2 + 64y 2 + 54x − 495 = 0
(2, −2)
(− 13 )
121.
1 15
123.
13
,− , (1, 1)
125. (−9, −11) , (1, −1)

127. (−1, −3) , (−1, 3)
( ) ( ) ( ) ( )
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯ ⎯⎯ ⎯⎯
129. − √ 2 , 0 , √ 2 , 0 , −√ 7 , −5 , √ 7 , −5
( )( ) ( 2 ) ( 2 )
⎯⎯ ⎯⎯ ⎯⎯ ⎯⎯ ⎯⎯ √2 ⎯⎯ √2
131. √ 2 , √ 2 , −√ 2 , −√ 2 , 2√ 2 , , −2√ 2 , −
(8 , 2)
1 1
133.
135. (5, 1)

SAMPLE EXAM
1. Given two points (−4, −6) and (2, −8) :
a. Calculate the distance between them.

b. Find the midpoint between them.
2. Determine the area of a circle whose diameter is defined by the points

(4, −3) and (−1, 2) .
Rewrite in standard form and graph. Find the vertex and all intercepts
if any.
3. y = −x 2 + 6x − 5
4. x = 2y 2 + 4y − 6
5. x = −3y 2 + 3y + 1
6. Find the equation of a circle in standard form with center (−6, 3) and radius
⎯⎯
2√ 5 units.
Sketch the graph of the conic section given its equation in standard
form.
(x − 4) 2 + (y + 1) = 45
2
7.
(x+3) 2 y2
8.
4
+ 9
=1
y2 x2
9.
3
− 9
=1
− (y − 2) = 1
x2 2
10.
16
11. 9x 2 + 4y 2 − 144x + 16y + 556 = 0

12. x − y 2 + 6y + 7 = 0
13. x 2 + y 2 + 20x − 20y + 100 = 0
14. 4y 2 − x 2 + 40y − 30x − 225 = 0

x = −2(y − 4) + 9
2
15.
(y−1)
2
16.
12
− (x + 1) 2 = 1
Solve.
{ y = −x 2 + 4
x+y=2
17.
y − x 2 = −3
{ x 2 + y2 = 9
18.
{ (x + 1) 2 + 2y 2 = 1
2x − y = 1
19.
x 2 + y2 = 6
{ xy = 3
20.
21. Find the equation of an ellipse in standard form with vertices (−3, −5) and
(5, −5) and a minor radius 2 units in length.
( 5 , 0) and a conjugate axis that measures 10 units.

22. Find the equation of a hyperbola in standard form opening left and right with
⎯⎯
vertices ±√
23. Given the graph of the ellipse, determine its equation in general form.

24. A rectangular deck has an area of 80 square feet and a perimeter that measures
36 feet. Find the dimensions of the deck.
⎯⎯⎯⎯
25. The diagonal of a rectangle measures 2√ 13 centimeters and the perimeter
measures 20 centimeters. Find the dimensions of the rectangle.

ANSWERS
⎯⎯⎯⎯
1. a. 2√ 10 units;
b. (−1, −7)
3. y = −(x − 3) 2 + 4;
x = −3(y − 12 ) +
2 7
5. ;
4

7.
9.
(y+2)
2
(x−8) 2
11.
4
+ 9
= 1;

(x + 10) 2 + (y − 10) = 100;

2
13.
( )
8±3√2
15. x-intercept: (−23, 0) ; y-intercepts: 0, 2
17. (−1, 3) , (2, 0)

19. Ø
(y+5)
2
(x−1) 2
21.
16
+ 4
=1
23. 4x 2 + 25y 2 − 24x − 100y + 36 = 0
25. 6 centimeters by 4 centimeters

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This is “Conic Sections”, chapter 8 from the book Advanced Algebra (index.html) (v. 1.0).

This book is licensed under a Creative Commons by-nc-sa 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/

8.1 Distance, Midpoint, and the Parabola

1. Apply the distance and midpoint formulas.

The goal is to sketch these graphs on a rectangular coordinate plane.

1. A curve obtained from the

The Distance and Midpoint Formulas

2. Given two points (x 1 , y1)

3. Given two points (x 1 , y1)

8.1 Distance, Midpoint, and the Parabola 1790

It is a good practice to include the formula in its general form before

= √[−4 − (−2)] + [−3 − (−5)]

= √(−4 + 2)2 + (−3 + 5)

Next determine the midpoint.

8.1 Distance, Midpoint, and the Parabola 1791

Plotting these points on a graph we have,

8.1 Distance, Midpoint, and the Parabola 1792

Find the diameter using the distance formula.

= √[1 − (−1)] + (−2 − 2)

The area of a circle is given by the formula A = πr2 and we have

8.1 Distance, Midpoint, and the Parabola 1793

Area is measured in square units.

Answer: Distance: 3√10 units; midpoint: ( 2 , − 32 )

(click to see video)

4. The set of points in a plane

8.1 Distance, Midpoint, and the Parabola 1794

Recall that the graph of a quadratic function, a polynomial function of degree 2, is

General Form Standard Form

y = (x + 3)2 + 2 using transformations.

5. The equation of a parabola

7. The equation of a parabola

8.1 Distance, Midpoint, and the Parabola 1795

8.1 Distance, Midpoint, and the Parabola 1796

then factor. In this case, add and subtract ( b2 ) = ( 2 )

y = x 2 − 8x + 15 Add and subtract 16.

8.1 Distance, Midpoint, and the Parabola 1797

Answer: y = (x − 4)2 − 1; vertex: (4, −1)

8.1 Distance, Midpoint, and the Parabola 1798

( 2 ) = ( 2 ) = (−3) = 9. Add and subtract 9 and factor as follows:

In this form, we can easily determine the vertex.

8.1 Distance, Midpoint, and the Parabola 1799

Answer: y = −2(x − 3)2 + 2; vertex: (3, 2)

8.1 Distance, Midpoint, and the Parabola 1800

Graph: y = −2x 2 + 12x − 16.

General Form Standard Form

y = −2(x − 3)2 + 2 Set y = 0 and solve.

Here x = 3 − 1 = 2 or x = 3 + 1 = 4 and therefore the x-intercepts are

8.1 Distance, Midpoint, and the Parabola 1801

and switch the x and y values we obtain

This produces a new graph with symmetry about the line y = x.

8.1 Distance, Midpoint, and the Parabola 1802

8.1 Distance, Midpoint, and the Parabola 1803

Graph: x = y 2 + 10y + 13.

Because the coefficient of y 2 is positive, a = 1, we conclude that the graph is a

standard form. Here we will add and subtract ( b2 ) = ( 2 )

8.1 Distance, Midpoint, and the Parabola 1804

information to sketch the graph.

8.1 Distance, Midpoint, and the Parabola 1805

Because the coefficient of y 2 is a = −2, we conclude that the graph is a