Hyperbola

A hyperbola is a curve produced by the intersection of a plane with both nappes of a conic section.

Mathematical definition

A hyperbola may be more formally defined as the locus of all points the difference of whose distances from two fixed points (the foci) is constant. The Cartesian equation for a hyperbola with a semimajor axis about the x-axis is

x²/a² - y²/b² = 1

Applications

Nuclear reactor cooling towers are an example of a hyperbolic-shaped structure. This form allows for maximum structural strength with minimum use of building materials.

When two rocks are thrown simultaneously into a pool of still water, ripples move outward in concentric circles. These circles intersect in points which form a curve known as the hyperbola. The same phenomenon is used in radio tracking stations. Objects are located by sending out signals from two sources to a receiving station, such as one found on a boat or airplane. The constant time difference between the signals from the two stations is represented by a hyperbola.