Learning Module in Pre-Calculus (11-STEM)

Self-instructed
Module in
Pre Calculus 11

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1
INTRODUCTION

This module focuses on the four nondegenerate conic sections, namely circle, parabola,
ellipse, and hyperbola. It begins with transformational processes and their effects on the
equations of the graphs. After establishing its parameters and properties, the discussion on
the conic sections ends with situational problems. Moreover, this module extends the
technical skills in finding the point(s) of intersection of two conic sections by solving systems
of two nonlinear equations.

How to join the VSMART?

1) Install VSMART application or visit the website:

school.vsmart.ph
2) Log in your given username and password
3) Go to your scheduled lesson

After completing this module, you are expected to:

 illustrate the different types of conic sections: parabola, ellipse, circle, hyperbola, and
degenerate cases (STEM_Pc11AG-la-1);
 define a circle(STEM_PC11AG-la-2);
 determine the standard form of equation of a circle (STEM_PC11AG-la-3);
 graph a circle in a rectangular coordinate system (STEM_Pc11AG-la-4);
 define a parabola (STEM_PC11AG-la-5);
 determine the standard form of equation of a parabola (STEM_Pc11AG-lb-1);
 graph a parabola in a rectangular coordinate system (STEM_Pc11AG-Ib-2);
 define an ellipse (STEM_Pc11AG-Ic-1);
 determine the standard form of equation of an ellipse (STEM_Pc11AG-Ic-2);
 graph an ellipse in a rectangular coordinate system (STEM_Pc11AG-Ic-3);
 define a hyperbola (STEM_Pc11AG-Id-1);
 determine the standard form of equation of a hyperbola (STEM_PC11AG-Id-2);
 graph a hyperbola in a rectangular coordinate system (STEM_PC11AG-Id-3);
 recognize the equation and important characteristics of the different types of conic
sections (STEM_PC11AG-le-1); and
 solve situational problems involving conic sections(STEM_Pc11AG-Ie-2).

2
Module 1: Analytic Geometry
Consider two congruent cones put on top of each other, their tips touching and their axes
aligned, with each cone extending indefinitely away from their tips.

When a plane crosses this figure, conic sections are formed.

A plane may intersect these to form other figures called degenerate conic sections.

3
Transformation of Graphs
Before we study conic sections in detail, we will see how equations of change when these are
translated or reflected.

Horizontal Translation
The graph of y = x2 is labeled A. If it is translated 5 units to the right (Graph B), its equation
becomes y = (x — 5)2. If it is translated 6 units to the left (Graph C), its equation becomes y
= (x + 6)2. When a graph is translated, all points move in the same direction. Observe how
the vertex (O. O) in A moves to (5, 0) In B. and to (—6, 0) In C.

Vertical Translation
Consider again the graph of y = x2, labeled A If it is translated 2 units upwards (Graph B), its
equation becomes y = x2 + 2. So that we can better see the effect of this change, we will write
this as y — 2 = x2. If it is translated 3 units downwards (Graph C), its equation becomes y =
x2 — 3, or y + 3 = x2. Observe how the vertex(O, O) In A moves to (O, 2) in B, and to (O, -3)in
C.

4
Translation of Graphs

Suppose a graph, whose equation is given, is translated, that is moved horizontally and/or
vertically. The graph’s equation can be determined as follows:

 If the graph is translated h > 0 units to the right, replace x with x-h.

 If the graph is translated h > 0 units to the left, replace x with x+h.

 If the graph is translated k > 0 units upwards, replace all y with y-k.

 If the graph is translated k > 0 units downwards, replace all y with y-k.

Example 1:
Graph A has equation y = X3 + 3x2. The three other graphs are translations of it. What are
their equations?

Example 1 Solution:
 Graph B is Graph A when translated 4 units down, so an equation for it is y + 4 = x +
3x2, or y = x3 + 3x2 — 4.

 Graph C is Graph A when translated 5 units to the right so an equation for it is y =

(x—5)3 + 3(x—5)2.

 Graph D Is Graph A, when translated 4 units to the left and 2 units up, so an
equation for it is y — 2 =(x+4)3 + 3(x+4)2 or y=(x+4)3+3(x+4)2+2.

Examp1e 2:
Describe how the graph of the first equation maybe translated to the graph of the second
equation.
1. y=|2x| -> y=|2x—8|+3

2. y=3x -> y=3x+6

3. y=x2+6 -> y=x2+6x+11

5
Example 2 Solutions.
1. The second equation maybe written as y = |2(x — 4)| + 3. The translation is 4 units to the
right and 3 units up.

2. A translation of 6 units up will bring the graph of the first equation to that of the second.

3. On completing the square, we see that the second equation can be written as

y = x2 + 6x + 11

y =(x2+6x+9)—9 + 11

y = (x + 3)2 + 2

y = (x + 3)2 + 6 — 4

y + 4= (x+3)2 + 6

Thus, the translation is 3 units to the left and 4 units down.

Reflection of Graphs

Graphs, aside from being translated, may also be reflected, forming mirror images with
respect to certain lines acting as mirrors

6
 1
The graph of y = − 4x4+ 5x3 — 36x2 + 112x — l28 is labeled A, with the point (6,4) on it. Its
graph is then reflected along the x axis, producing Graph B, where (6, 4) is reflected to (6, -
4). In general, a point (x, y), when reflected along the x-axis, goes to (x, —y). Thus, we can
determine the equation of Graph B by replacing y with —y in the equation of Graph A We
then get
1
—y= (− 4x4 + 5x3 — 36x2 + 112x— 128)
1
y= 4x4 — 5x3 + 36x2 — 112x + 128

In the following figure,

Graph A Is reflected along the line y = x, producing Graph E. Here we see that (6, 4) is reflected
to (4, 6). This reflection switches the two coordinates. Thus, to get the equation of Graph D,
we switch x and y in the equation of Graph A, giving us
1
x = − 4y4 + 5y3 — 36y2 + ll2y — 128

Reflection of Graphs

An equation of a graph is given. An equation of the new graph can be determined as under
the indicated reflection.
If the graph is reflected along the x-axis, replace all y with –y.

If the graph is reflected along the y-axis, replace all x with -x.

If the graph is reflected with respect to the origin, replace all x with -x, and all y
with -y.

If the graph is reflected along the line y = x, switch x and y.

Example 3:
The equation of Graph A is x3 — 12x2 — 4xy + 56x + y3 — 6y2 + 28y = 104. Find an
equation for each of Graphs B, C, D, and E.

7
Example 3 Solutions:

1. Graph B is the reflection of Graph A along the x-axis, so we replace y with —y in the given
equation. We get x3 — 12x2 — 4x(—y) + 56x + (—y)3 — 6(—y)2 + 28(—y) = 104. This is
equivalent to x3 — 12x2 + 4xy + 56x — y3 - 6y2 — 28y = 104.

2. Graph C is not a reflection of Graph A. Instead, It is a translation of the reflection along

the y-axis. Point P(4,2) in A is reflected to (-4, 2), and then translated to (-2, 1) in C. The
translation is 2 units to the right (h = 2) and 1 unit down (k = - 1). The equation of the
reflected graph Is —x3 — 12x2 + 4xy — 56x +y — 6y2 + 28v = 104, the result when x from the
original equation is replaced with —x. Finally, we replace x with x — 2 and y with y + 1. We
then get —(x—2)3— 12(x—2)2—4(x—2)(y+ 1)+ 56(x—2)+ (y+ 1)3—6(y + 1)2 + 28(y + 1) = 104.

3. Graph D is the reflection of Graph A along the line y = x. Thus, we switch the variables x
and y to get y3 — 12y2 — 4xy + 56y + x3 —6x2 +28x = 104, the equation of Graph D.

4. Graph E is the reflection with respect to the origin. so we replace x with —x, and y with —
y in the original equation. The equation of E then is —x3 — 12x2 + 4xy— 56x — y3 — 6y2 —
28y= 104.

8
Module 2: Circle
The conic section formed when a cone is
cut by a plane parallel to its base (with
this plane not passing through the cone’s
vertex), is a circle. We can define a circle
analytically.

A circle is the set of all points having the

same distance (the radius) from a given
point (the center). The term radius is also
used to refer to any segment connecting
the center and a point on the circle.

The circle has center C(3, 2) and radius r = 5. Point A(— 2, 2) is on the circle since it is 5
units away from C. Point B is also on the circle since by the distance formula.
BC=√(7 − 3)2 + (5_2)2.

A point P(x,y) will be on this circle if and only if PC = 5. By the distance formula,
√(𝑥_3)2 + (𝑦_2)2 = 5
(x—3)2 + (y—2)2 = 25
x2 + y2—6x-4y= 12

However, from the equation(x — 3)2 + (y — 2)2 25. We are able to pinpoint immediately the
center and the radius. This latter equation is the standard equation of the circle.

Example 1:
Identify whether the given equation is that of a circle.
1. x2 + y2 = 7
2. x2 + y2 + lOx — 6y = 2
3. x2 + y2 — 6x — 4y + 13 = O
4. x2 + y2 — 8x = -20

Example 1 Solutions:
1. The equation maybe written (x — 0)2 + (y — 0)2 = (√7 )2. This is the equation of a circle
with center (O. O) and radius √7

2. We determine the standard equation by completing the square.

9
 x2 + lOx + y2 — 6y = 2
x2 + lOx + 25 + y2 — 6y + 9 = 2 + 25 + 9
(x+5)2 + (y—3)2 = 36
This is a circle with center (—5, 3) and radius 6.

3. Complete the square

x2 — 6x + y2 — 4y = —13
x2 — 6x +9 + y2 — 4y +4 = —13+9+4
(x—3)2 + (y—2)2 = 0
This equation is satisfied only when x = 3 and y = 2. The graph is the single point (3,2) instead
of a circle.

4. In completing the square, the equation becomes (x—4)2 + y2 = -4. Since the left-hand side
can never be negative, then no ordered pair (x,y) will satisfy this equation. The equation has
no graph.

Example 2:
A diameter of a circle has endpoints A(—3,5) and B(—6,—1). Find its equation in standard
form.

Example 2 Solution:
The midpoint of a diameter is the center of the circle. The center then is the midpoint of A
9
and B, which is C(− 2, 2. We can determine the radius from the length of either AC or BC.
The length of AC is
9 2 45
√[−3 − (− )] + (5 − 2)2 = √
2 5
The equation then is

9 2 45
(𝑥 + 2) + (y-2)2 = 5

From geometry, a line that is tangent to a circle at a point is perpendicular to the radius from
the center to that point

Example 3:
Find the equations of the lines tangent to the circle x2 + y2 — 14x + 4y + 33 = 0 at points
where x = 3.

Example 3 Solution:
If we substitute x = 3 in the equation. We get y2 + 4y = 0, so y = 0 or y = —4. The points of
tangency are P(3. O) and Q(3. - 4). The circle has standard equation (x — 7)2 + (y 2)2 = 20,
and so has center C(7, — 2).
−2−0 1
Since the radius CP has slope 7−3 = − 2, the tangent at P has slope 2, and has equation y —
0 = 2(x — 3)or y = 2x — 6.
−2+4 1
Since CQ has slope 7−3 = 2, the tangent at Q has slope -2, and has equation y + 4 = —2(x —
3) or y = —2x + 2.
The tangent lines are y = 2x — 6(through P) and y = —2x + 2(through Q).

10
Module 3: Parabola

We start with a point, F(O,2), and a line, l, which is 2 units below the x-axis. The point
A(-8,8) has the property that its distance from l is the same as its distance from F. From the
figure, we see that the length of the vertical segment from A down to l is 1O units. By the
distance formula, we also have AF=1O. By symmetry, the point (8,8) should also have the
same property. Because V(0, 0) is exactly in the middle of F and I, then it also has the same
property. In fact, its distances from F and from l are both 2

Let P(x,y) be an arbitrary point having the same property: its distances from l and from F are
the same. Do you see why y ≥ O necessary? The distance of P from l is y + 2 (P is y units away
from the x-axis, and l is 2 units away from the same axis). On the other hand, the distance
PF can be expressed using the distance formula, as PF = √𝑥 2 + (𝑦 − 2)2 . We then have the
following

√𝑥 2 + (𝑦 − 2)2 = 𝑦 + 2
x2+(y—2)2=(y+2)2
x +y2-4y+4=y2+4y+4
2

x2=8y

11
Example 1:
Find the equation, in standard form, of the parabola described. Sketch the parabola.
1. The directrix is y = 1.5 and the focus is (O, -1.5).
2. The directrix is y = -4 and the focus is (2, 2).
3. The directrtx is x = —2 and the focus Is (2, 0).

Example 1 Solutions:

1. Since the focus and directrix are both 1.5 units away from the origin, then the vertex is
the origin. The parabola opens downward since the focus is below the vertex (c = -1.5 < 0).
The equation in standard form is then x2 = 4(-1.5)y, or x2 = 6y.

2. The point halfway through from the focus F(2, 2) to the directrix (l) y = - 4 is V(2,1), not
the origin. Thus, our parabola can be considered as the translation of a similarly shaped
parabola (with vertex at the origin). This translation is 2 units to the right and 1 unit down.
the translation will move from (0, 0) to V(2, -1). Since FV = 3 and F is above V (so the parabola
opens upward), then c = 3. The “untranslated” parabola with vertex at (0. 0) has equation x2
= 4(3)y, or x2 = 12y. The equation of our parabola with vertex V(2, —1) is(x—2)2 = 12(y+1).

12
3. The directrix is vertical this time, and the focus is on the x-axis. Observe that if we reflect
all of these along the line y = x, then the directrix becomes y = —2 and the focus becomes
(0,2). The equation of the parabola (dashed curve) in this case is x2 = 4(2)y. Therefore, the
equation of the parabola (solid curve) we are looking for is y2 = 8y. Instead of opening upward,
it opens to the right, In the direction of the positive x-axis.

13
Example 2:
Write the equation of the parabola in standard form. Sketch the parabola, and determine
the vertex, focus, directrix, and axis of symmetry.
1. x2—8x—lOy=34
2. y2+8x—2y=23

Ævample 2 Solutions:
1. To determine c and the vertex, we complete the square first.
x2 — 8x — l0y = 34
x2 — 8x = l0y+34
x2—8x+16 = l0y+ 34+ 16
x2 — 8x + 16 = 10y + 50
(x — 4)2 = 10(y + 5)

We then have 4c 10. or c 2.5. Since the variable that is squared is x and c > 0. The parabola
opens upward. The vertex is V(4, -5).The focus is c 2.5units above V, and so it is F(4, -2.5).
The directrix, the horizontal line c 2.5 units below V, is y = -7.5. The axis is the vertical line
through V, the line x = 4.

14
2. Start by completing the square
y2+8x — 2y = 23
y2 — 2y = —8x + 23
y2—2y+1 = —8x+23+1
y2 — 2y + 1 = —8x + 24
(y—1)2 = —8(x —3)

15
Module 4: Ellipse

An ellipse is one of the figures that can be formed when a cone and a plane intersect.

We will develop now a different definition. Consider the points F1(—4, 0) and F2(4, O). The
point A(0, 3) has the property that the sum of the distances of this point, from F1 to F2, is
10. This is because AF1 = √(𝑜— (_4))2 + (3 — 0)2 = 5 and similarly, AF2 = 5.

The points V1(-5, 0) and V2(5, 0)also have the same property: V1F1 + VF = 9 + 1 = 10. For
5√3 3
another point with the same property, consider B( , 2). It can be shown that BF1 = 5 +
2
2√3 and BF2 = 5 — 2√3.
Therefore. BF1 + BF2 = 10.
Let P(x,y)be an arbitrary point having the same property: the sum of its distances from F1
and F2 is the constant 10. We then have the fo11owing

Square both sides.

Square both sides again.

16
Divide both sides by 3600.

This is the equation of all points (x,y) whose distances from the foci F1(—4,0) and F2(4,0)
sum up to 10, and these points form an ellipse.

An ellipse is the set of all points P, the sum of whose distances from two specified points
F1 and F2 is a constant number. The points F1 and F2 are called the foci (each is a focus)
of the ellipse.

The center C of the ellipse is the midpoint of the foci. The major axis is the segment through
the foci, with endpoints on the ellipse. These endpoints V1 and V2 are called the vertices.
The minor axis is the segment perpendicular to the major axis at C, with endpoints on the
ellipse. These end points W1 and W2 are the covertices.

Example 1.
Find the equation in standard form of the ellipse consisting of points the sum of whose
distances from the indicated foci is 14. Sketch the ellipse.

1. The foci are F1(—5, 0) and F2(5, 0)

2. The foci are F1(—7, 3) andF2(3, 3)

Example 1 Solutions:
1. The foci, on the x-axis, are each 5 units away from the origin, the center C of the ellipse,
so c = 5. Since the constant sum of the distances of any point on the ellipse from the two
foci is 2a = 14, then a = 7. Consequently, b2 = a2 — c2 = 72 - 52 = 24 so b = 2√6. The
equation of the ellipse, in standard form, is then

𝑥2 𝑦2
+ =1
49 24

The vertices, a = 7 units to the left and right of C, areV1 (—7, 0) and V2 (7, 0). The
covertices, b = 2√6 Units below and above the center, are (0, —2√6)and(O, 2√6),
respectively. For graphing purposes, it is useful to note that 2√6 ≈ 4.9.

17
2. The midpoint of the foci is C(— 2, 3), not the origin (0, 0). Observe how as in the previous
problem, the foci are also c = 5 units to the left and right of the center, and the sum of the
distances of any point from the foci is 14. We then expect the ellipse to have the same
shape as the one from the previous problem, with the current one being the translation of
the former 2 units to the left (h = —2) and 3 units up (k = 3).

The equation now is then

(𝑥 + 2)2 (𝑦 − 3)2
+ =1
49 24

This is the standard equation of the ellipse. Its center is C(—2,3). The vertices, a = 5 units
to the left and right of C, are V1(—9, 3) and V2(5, 3). The covertices, b = 2√6 below and
above C, are W1(-2, 3-2√6) and W2(-2, 3+2√6), respectively.

Consider the ellipses reflecting each other.

18
Example 2:

Write the equation of the ellipse 9x2 + 4v2 + 54x – 32y = -109 in standard form. Sketch the
ellipse. and point out the center, foci, vertices, and covertices.

Example 2 Solution:

We complete the square in the given equation

9x2+54x+4y2-32y=-109
9(x2+6x)+4(y2-8y)=-109
9(x2+6x+9)+4(y2-8y+16)=-109+9(9)+4(16)
9(x+3)2+4(y—4)2 = 36

Divide by 36 for the constant to be 1

(𝑥 + 3)2 (𝑥 − 4)2
+ =1
22 32

19
  The center is C(— 3. 4).

 The major axis is vertical since the denominator of the y-term is bigger.

 The vertices, 3 units below and above the center, are V1(-3, 1) and V2(-3, 7).

 The covertices, 2 units to the left and right of the center, are W1 (-5. 4) and W2(-1, 4).

 The foci are c = √5 units below and above the center. These are F1(-3,4-√5)≈(-3, 1.76)
and F2(—3,4+√5) (—3, 6.24).

Application of Ellipse in Real-Life

Ellipses have the following interesting property: any ray coming from a focus will be
reflected to the other focus.

20
Module 2: Hyperbola

4√7
The figure below shows F1(-5, 0) and F2(5, 0). The distances of A(4, ( ))from F1 and F2 are
3
29 11
PF1 = ( ) and PF2=( ). Polnt A has the property that the difference of its distances from
3 3
the two given points F1 and F2 is AF1 — AF2 = 6.

4√7
On the other side of the y-axis, we see that B (−4, − ) has the same property. Since it is
3
28 11 4√7
much closer to F1 we consider BF2 — BF1 = — = 6. Aside from (−4, − ), other
3 3 3
points with the same property are V1(-3,0) and V2(3,0). We verify this easily for V1F2 — V1F1
= 8 — 2 = 6.

Let P(x,y) be an arbitrary point having the described property, that is, the difference of its
distances from F1 and F2is the same constant 6. Regardless of whether P is closer to F1 or
F2, this means that |PF1- PF2| = 6.

Square both sides and regroup

Simplify and well get

𝑥2 𝑦2
- =1
9 16

A hyperbola is the set of all points P. the difference of whose distances from two
specified points F1and F2 is a constant number. The point F1 and F2 are called the
foci(each is a focus) of the hyperbola.
21
Example 1:
Find the equation, in standard form, of the hyperbola having the described features. Sketch
the hyperbola, and determine the foci, vertices, and asymptotes.

1. foci(—3, 0) and (3, 0), and for any point in the hyperbola, its distances from the foci differ
by 4
4
2. asymptotes y = ± 3x. and a vertex (—6. 0)

3. vertices (—6, 5) and (2, 5), and a focus (—8, 5)

Example 1 Solutions:
1. The center is C(O, 0), the midpoint of the foci F1(—3. O) and F2(3, 0). Thus, c = 3. Since
the difference of the distances from the foci, of any point, is 2a=4, then a=2. The vertices are
then V1(-2, 0) and V2(2, 0). From c2=a2 + b2, we have b= √𝑐2 — 𝑎2. The equation of the
hyperbola is
𝑥2 𝑦2
− =1
4 5

𝑥2 𝑦2 √5
Solving − = 0 for y yields y = ± x, the equation of the asymptotes. These can be drawn
4 5 2
by extending the diagonals of the rectangle with center at C. two vertical sides through
vertices, and two horizontal sides b=√5 units away from the center.

22
2. The two asymptotes intersect at the origin, so this is the center of the hyperbola. Since
one vertex is V1(-6,0), then a = 6, and the other vertex is V2(6,0). Since the slopes of the
4 𝑏 4
asymptotes are ± ,we equate = . Since a = 6, then b = 8, and the hyperbola has
3 𝑎 3
equation
𝑥2 𝑦2
− =1
36 64
In this case, the foci are c=√𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 = 10 units away from the center, so these are F1(-10,0)
and F2(10,0). The asymptotes can be then be drawn from the diagonals of the rectangle
whose two vertical slides pass through the vertices, and whose horizontal sides are b = 8
units away from the center.

The midpoint of the vertices V1(—6, 5) and V2(2, 5) is the center C(—2, 5). The translation
from the origin to C is 2 units to the left and 5 units up. After determining a, b, and c, we
will write the equation as if the center was the origin, and then consider the described
translation afterwards. The distance from C to either vertex is a 4 units, while the distance
from C to the focus F1(—8, 5) is c = 6. The other focus would then be c = 6 units to the right
of the center:
𝑥2 𝑦2
F2(4,5). Also, b = √𝑐 2 — 𝑎2 = 2√5. If the center is the origin, the equation would be − =
16 20
1. The equation, when translated for the center to be C(-2. 5), is
(𝑥 − 2)2 (𝑦 − 5)2
− =1
16 20
𝑏 2√5
The two asymptotes are lines through C(-2,5) with slopes ± = ± . Their equations are y—
𝑎 4
2√5 √5 √5
5=± (x+2)or equivalently,y= x + √5 + 5 and y x — √5+ 5.
4 2 2

23
Example 2:

A hyperbola has foci F1(O, —4) and F2(0, 4). and It consists of points, the difference of
whose distances from the two foci is 4.8. Find the equation of the hyperbola. Identify its
vertices, center, and asymptotes.

Example 2 Solution:
The midpoint of the given foci is the origin. This is the center C. The distance of each focus
from the center is c 4. However, in this example, the foci are on the y-axis instead of the x-
axis. Suppose the foci were (—4, 0) and (4, 0) instead. The two branches of the hyperbola
will then open to the left and right. We still have 2a 4.8 (the difference between distances of
a point to both foci) so a 2.4. Thus. b = √𝑐 2 — 𝑎2 = 3.2. The equation ofthe hyperbola would
𝑥2 𝑦2 3.2
then be − 3.22 = 1, with asymptotes’ ±2.4—x. By reflecting everything along the line y=x,
2.42
𝑥2 𝑦2
the focus would again be the given F1 and F2. Thus. the equation we need is − 3.22 = 1.
2.42
3.2 3.2
Its asymptotes are x=±2.4—y or, equivalently. y ±2.4—x.

24
Example 3:

Write the equation of the hyperbola in standard form. Sketch the hyperbola, and determine
the foci, vertices, and asymptotes.

1. 7x2—9y2—28x+18y44

2. 4x2 — 9y2 + 16x + 54y = 29

Examp1e 3 Solutions:

1. Complete the square first

The hyperbola opens to the left and right since it is the x-part that comes before the
subtraction symbol The center is C(2, 1). Since a2 = 9, the vertices are a = 3 units to the left
and right of C: V1(—1, 1) and V2(5, 1). Since c2 = a2 + b2 = 9 + 7 = 16, then the foci are c = 4
units to the left and right of C: F1(-2, 1) and F2(6, 1). To draw the asymptotes, extend the
diagonals of the rectangle with vertical sides through V1and V2, and horizontal sides b = √7
√7
≈ 2.6 units above and below C. The asymptotes are y — 1 =± (x-2), or equivalently,
3
√7 √7 √7 √7
y= x - x + 1 and y = x - x + 1.
3 3 3 3

2. Complete the square first

The hyperbola opens upward and downward since it is the y-part that comes before the
subtraction symbol. The center is C(—2,3). Since a2= 4, then the vertices are a 2 units below
and above C: V1(-2, 1) and V2(-2, 5). Since c2= a2 + b2 = 4 + 9= 13, then the foci are c =√13 ≈
3.6 units below and above C: F1(—2, 3 —√13)and F2(—2, 3 +√13). To draw the asymptotes,
extend the diagonals of the rectangle with horizontal sides through V1 and V2. and vertical
2
sides b = 3 units to the left and right of C. The asymptotes are y — 3 = ± (x + 2). or
3
2 13 2 6
equivalently, y = 𝑥+ and y = 𝑥+
3 3 3 3

25
Module 1: EQUATIONS OF CONIC SECTIONS

Choose the correct equation that represents the conic section described in each item. Take
note of the variables used in the given illustrations.

1. Circle
2. Parabola with vertex at the origin and focus on y-axis
3. Parabola with vertical axis of symmetry

26
4. Parabola with horizontal axis of symmetry

5. Ellipse with center at the origin and foci on the x-axis

6. Ellipse with horizontal major axis

7. Ellipse with vertical major axis

27
8. Hyperbola with center at the origin and foci on the x-axis
9. Hyperbola with horizontal transverse axis

10. Hyperbola with vertical transverse axis

Answers:

28
29
CHARACTERISTICS OF CONIC SECTIONS
Complete the following tables. Choose your answer from the box.

I. Parabola

Answers:

30
II. Ellipse

Answer:

31
III. Hyperbola

Answers:

32
Problem Solving Involving Conic Sections

Solve the following problems.

1. Suppose we have a city laid out on a grid, with a straight road running through y=-2 and
a supply factory located at F(O,2) (suppose all units are in km). We want to identify all
possible locations of a store so that its distances from the factory F and from the road are
the same.

2. Two supply factories are located at F1(—3,0) and F2(3, 0). We want to set up a store near
these factories, at a location P(x,y). Delivery cost from either factory to P, is ₱50 per km.
However, it would cost us ₱370 to purchase certain goods from F1, and ₱570 if we were to
purchase the same goods from F2. To help us decide where to best set up the store, we identify
all possible which the locations from total cost (shipping plus purchase costs) relative to each
factory, would be the same.

3. A satellite dish has a shape called a paraboloid, so that its cross-sections through its
center (lowest point) are parabolas, all having the same focus. Radio signals sent to it bounce
off the surface and are reflected to the focus. The receiver is then placed at the focus. If the
satellite dish is 3m across and 0.625m deep at its center, how far should the receiver be from
the center?

4. Water is draining out of a horizontal pipe, which is 1.8m above ground. The trajectory of
the water ¡s a parabola whose vertex is at the opening of the pipe, and which makes contact
with the ground 1.2m away horizontally from the opening. Find the equation of this parabola.

5. The dome of a whispering gallery has the form of a semiellipse so that two persons standing
at the foci will be able to hear each other. This is because sound waves from one focus, when
they reach the semi-elliptical ceiling, bounce off to the other focus. If one such whispering
gallery has a focus 3m from an end of the semiellipse, and the other focus is 17m away from
the same end, how high is the dome at the center?

6. A truck is about to pass through a one-way tunnel in the form of a semiellipse, which is
15m across and 4m high in the middle. If the truck has a width of 4m and a height of 3.5 m,
will it be able to pass through the tunnel?

7. At the same instant, two radio stations A and B, 1100m apart on an east-west line, sent a
signal each to a ship out at sea. Suppose the ship received the signal from A 2.5s before the
message from B. Determine the possible locations of the ship. If the ship is directly to the
north of A (that is the ship is on the north-south line through A), how far is it from the
station? Use 340m/s as the speed of sound.

Solutions:
Problem 1: Suppose we have a city laid out on a grid, with a straight road running through
y=-2 and a supply factory located at F(O,2) (suppose all units are in km). We want to identify
all possible locations of a store so that its distances from the factory F and from the road are
the same.

33
Let. F(O,2) be the point of the factory P(x,y) be the coordinates of the store Q(x,—2)be the
point on the road closest to the store PF be the distance between the store and the factory
PQ be the distance between the store and the point on the road closest to it

Recall the distance formula:

From the distance formula, we have the following:

1
Thus, the store would have to be constructed anywhere on the graph of y = x2 which is a
8
parabola.

Problem 2:
Two supply factories are located at F1(—3, O) and F2(3, O). We want to set up a store near
these factories, at a location P(x,y). Delivery cost from either factory to P. is ₱50 per km.
However, it would cost us ₱370 to purchase certain goods from F1, and ₱570 if we were to
purchase the same goods from F2. To help us decide where to best set up the store, we identify
all possible locations from which the total cost (shipping plus purchase costs) relative to each
factory, would be the same.

34
Thus we require:

Using the distance formula, we have:

It can be shown (after some strategic manipulation of this equation) that (x,y) satisfies the
𝑋2 𝑌2
equation − = 1, whose graph is a hyperbola.
4 5

Since for the location of the store at R we have PF1 — PF2 = 4, the store’s location can be
anywhere on the right branch of the hyperbola shown. For the left branch. PF2-PF1 = 4 will
be used instead.

Problem 3:
A satellite dish has a shape called a paraboloid, so that its cross-sections through its (lowest
point) are parabola all having the same focus. Radio signals sent to it bounce off the surface
and are reflected to the focus. The receiver ¡s then placed at the focus. If the satellite dish is
3m across and 0.625m deep at its center, how far should the receiver be from the center?

35
Place the satellite dish on a coordinate system, superimposed on a parabola, whose equation
is to be determined.

Since it opens upward and has vertex at the origin, its equation has the form x2 = 4cy. The
point labeled A should have coordinates (1.5, 0.625). Thus, 1.52 = 4c(0.625), so c = 0.9.
Consequently, the receiver should be 0.9m above the center.

Problem 4. Water is draining out of a horizontal pipe, which is 1.8 m above ground. The
trajectory of the water is a parabola whose vertex is at the opening of the pipe, and which
makes contact with the ground 1m away horizontally from the opening. Find the equation of
this parabola.

Superimpose the parabolic trajectory on a coordinate system.

The vertex is at V(0, 1.8)

Since it opens downward, its equation is (x — 0)2 = d(y — 1.8), where d < 0. Note that instead
of 4c, we used d since we do not need to know anything about the focus. The contact point
with the ground is the x-intercept (1.2, 0). Thus, 1.22 = d(0 — 1.8), so d = —0.8.
The parabola then has equation x2 = —0.8(y — 1.8),or equivalently, y —1.25x2 + 1.8.
36
Problem 5:
The dome of a whispering gallery has the form of a semiellipse so that two persons standing
at the foci will be able to hear each other. This is because sound waves from when they reach
the semi-elliptical ceiling, bounce off to the other focus. If one such whispering gallery has
focus 3m from an end of the semiellipse, and the other focus is 17m away from the same
end, how high ¡s the dome at the center?

Two foci are 2c=17-3=14m apart, each of them is c=7m away from the center

The distance from the center to a vertex a=7+3=10 m.

Superimpose the dome on a coordinate system, with the center of the ellipse at the origin.

It follows that b2 = cz2-c2 = 102-72=51. The value of b is the distance from the center to a
covertex. Thus, the height of the dome at the center is b=51 ≈ 7.14 m.

Problem 6.
A truck ¡s about to pass through a one-way tunnel ¡n the form of a semiellipse, which is
15m across and 4m high in the middle. If the truck has a width of 4 m and a height of
3.5m, will it be able to pass through the tunnel?

Draw the semielliptical tunnel on a coordinate system, with its center at the origin.

37
It has equation

Since the truck is 4m wide, we consider the point on the graph for which x=2.

If its y-coordinate exceeds 3.5, then the truck will be able to pass through freely. Otherwise,
there is enough vertical space.

In the equation of the semiellipse, if x=2, we get

Since the height of the truck is less than this dimension, then the truck will be able to fit
inside the tunnel.

Problem 7:

At the same instant, two radio stations A and B, 1100 m apart on an east-west line, sent a
signal each to a ship out at sea. Suppose the ship received the signal from A 2.5s before the
message from B. Determine the possible locations of the ship. If the ship is directly to the
north of A (that is, the ship is on the north-south line through A), how far is it from the
station? Use 340m/s as the speed of sound.

Since the two stations are 1100 m apart, put the two stations A and B at(550, 0) and (-550,
0), respectively, two points on the x-axis of a coordinate system.

Each signal traveled at the rate of340 m/s. The time difference of2.5 s corresponds to a
distance of 340 (2.5) = 850 iii; the signal from B had to travel this additional distance before
reaching the ship. Thus, the difference of the ship’s distance from the two stations is 850 m.
This means that the ship is a point on a hyperbola whose two foci are stations A and B.
Specifically, the ship is on the right branch of the hyperbola (closer to A). Since the difference
38
of the distances from the foci is 2a = 850, then a = 425. Also, since each focus is c = 550m
away from the origin, then b2 = c2 — a2 = 121 875.

The hyperbola then has equation

If the ship is north of A, then they have the same x-coordinate. Now, suppose the ship is at
(550,y) on the hyperbola, wher y>0. By solving:

For y>0, we get:

Assessment
Identify whether each statement is true or false.

1. If y =(x-4)2+3 is translated 3 units to the right and 8 units downward, the result is y=(x-
7)2— 5.

2. Ify=x2+4x-5 is translated 1 unit to the left and four units up, the result is
y=(x+1)2+4(x+1)-5.

3. The radius of the circle x2 +y2 - 4x+ 10y+ 23 = O is 16

4. (-2,-1)and(6,3), are points of the circle (x-2)2+(y-1)2=20

x2 y2
5. The foci of the ellipse + = l are (O, —4) and (0, 4).
41 25

(x−2)2 (y+1)2
6. Ellipse + = l has foci 6 units below and above the center (2, —1).
36 72

39
7. The vertex of parabola x2-8x-8y=0 is (4,—2).

8. The directrix of parabola (y-3)2 = 12(x-8) is y=3.

(x−3)2 (y+4)2
9. The vertices of hyperbo1a + = l are (—4, —1) and (—4, 7).
16 9

(x+1)2 (y−2)2
l0. One of the foci of hyperbola + = 1 is(-5,2).
9 7

40