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Ch. 7 - Conic Sections
Chapter 8, Problem 1

In Exercises 1–4, 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). x^2/4−y^2/1=1

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Hyperbola Definition

A hyperbola is a type of conic section formed by the intersection of a plane and a double cone. It consists of two separate curves called branches, which are mirror images of each other. The standard form of a hyperbola's equation can be expressed as (x-h)²/a² - (y-k)²/b² = 1 for horizontal hyperbolas, where (h, k) is the center, and a and b determine the distances to the vertices and foci.
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Vertices and Foci

The vertices of a hyperbola are the points where the branches are closest to each other, located at a distance 'a' from the center along the transverse axis. The foci are points located along the same axis, at a distance 'c' from the center, where c is calculated using the formula c² = a² + b². These points are crucial for understanding the hyperbola's shape and properties.
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Graphing Hyperbolas

Graphing a hyperbola involves plotting its center, vertices, and foci, and then sketching the asymptotes, which guide the shape of the branches. The asymptotes for the hyperbola in the given equation can be found using the slopes ±b/a, which help in determining the direction and spread of the branches. Matching the equation to a graph requires recognizing these features and their relationships.
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