Definition:Hyperbola

Parts of Hyperbola

 * HyperbolaParts.png

Consider a hyperbola $K$ whose foci are $F_1$ and $F_2$.

For convenience, let $K$ be aligned in a cartesian coordinate plane such that:
 * $F_1$ and $F_2$ are located on the $x$-axis
 * the midpoint of the line $F_1 F_2$ is located at the origin.

Also see

 * Equivalence of Definitions of Hyperbola


 * Definition:Circle
 * Definition:Ellipse
 * Definition:Parabola

Linguistic Note
The word hyperbola is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable: hy-per-bo-la.

The plural of hyperbola is properly hyperbolae, but this is considered pedantic, and the usual plural form found is hyperbolas.

The form hyperbolas is used on.

Historical Note
The word hyperbola was provided by, who did considerable work on establishing its properties.