Thread: finding hyperbola vertices, ect.

Find the vertices, foci, and the equations of the asymptotes of the hyperbola.


I am having trouble with this because I can't seem to find the right "a"

When I put the equation in standard form would "a" be 1 or 9/1? and then when I get the vertices I use the equation: (h+a,k) and (h-a,k). So it would be (0+1,0) or (0+9,0) and neither of these are the correct answer.

Originally Posted by RenSully

Find the vertices, foci, and the equations of the asymptotes of the hyperbola.


I am having trouble with this because I can't seem to find the right "a"

When I put the equation in standard form would "a" be 1 or 9/1? and then when I get the vertices I use the equation: (h+a,k) and (h-a,k). So it would be (0+1,0) or (0+9,0) and neither of these are the correct answer.

So you have


Then


and



Does this make any sense to you?

yes, absolutely! Thanks for reminding me. I didn't even think of it that way. I took college algebra 5 years ago so I am very rusty.