Example

Example: Graphing (y+2)29(x+1)24=1\frac{(y+2)^2}{9} - \frac{(x+1)^2}{4} = 1

To graph the equation (y+2)29(x+1)24=1\frac{(y+2)^2}{9} - \frac{(x+1)^2}{4} = 1, apply the six-step procedure for graphing a hyperbola centered at (h, k). Step 1: The equation is already in standard form. Step 2: Because the (y+2)2(y+2)^2-term is positive, the transverse axis is vertical, and the hyperbola opens up and down. Step 3: From (xh)=(x+1)(x - h) = (x + 1), we get h=1h = -1, and from (yk)=(y+2)(y - k) = (y + 2), we get k=2k = -2, so the center is (1,2)(-1, -2). Since a2=9a^2 = 9, then a=3a = 3, and since b2=4b^2 = 4, then b=2b = 2. Step 4: Sketch the central rectangle that passes through the points 3 units above and below the center, and 2 units to the left and right of the center. Step 5: Sketch the asymptotes by drawing lines through the diagonals of the rectangle, and mark the vertices. Step 6: Draw the two branches of the hyperbola, making sure they open up and down.

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Updated 2026-06-20

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