Chapter 11: Problem 31
The given equation represents a quadric surface whose orientation is different from that in Table \(11.7 .1 .\) Identify and sketch the surface. $$ z=\frac{x^{2}}{4}-\frac{y^{2}}{9} $$
Short Answer
Expert verified
The surface is a hyperbolic paraboloid oriented along the z-axis.
Step by step solution
01
Identify the Type of Quadric Surface
The equation \( z = \frac{x^2}{4} - \frac{y^2}{9} \) is in the form \( z = \frac{x^2}{a^2} - \frac{y^2}{b^2} \). This is the standard form of a hyperbolic paraboloid, characterized by having one term with a positive coefficient and one term with a negative coefficient.
02
Understand the Orientation
The given form \( z = \frac{x^2}{4} - \frac{y^2}{9} \) suggests the quadric surface is a hyperbolic paraboloid oriented along the z-axis, as \( z \) is isolated on one side of the equation. The squared terms of \( x \) and \( y \) determine the curvature in the \( xy \)-plane.
03
Sketch the Surface
To sketch the hyperbolic paraboloid, note that cross-sections parallel to the \( xz \)-plane (\( y = \text{constant} \)) are parabolas opening upwards (if the coefficient of \( x^2 \) is positive, downward if negative), and cross-sections parallel to the \( yz \)-plane (\( x = \text{constant} \)) are parabolas opening downwards (since the coefficient of \( y^2 \) is negative). The saddle shape is characteristic of a hyperbolic paraboloid.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Hyperbolic Paraboloid
A hyperbolic paraboloid is a fascinating type of quadric surface that has a unique saddle shape. You might compare it to a Pringles chip or a riding saddle. It manifests when you have an equation like \( z = \frac{x^2}{a^2} - \frac{y^2}{b^2} \). This form is essential as it has one squared term positive and the other negative. The equation represents a surface of infinite extent that curves differently in two axial directions.
- In the direction of the positive term (usually the \( x^2 \) term), you will have upward parabola shapes.
- In the direction of the negative term (\( y^2 \), in this case), you'll have downward parabola shapes.
Orientation of Surfaces
The orientation of a hyperbolic paraboloid can be determined by looking at which variable is isolated on one side of the equation. In the equation \( z = \frac{x^2}{4} - \frac{y^2}{9} \), \( z \) is isolated, indicating the surface is oriented so that it primarily stretches out along the \( z \)-axis. This equation's orientation is different compared to when the\( z \)-axis isn't in an isolated position.
- If \( z \) is by itself, we generally say the surface is "oriented along the z-axis."
- Similarly, if \( x \) or \( y \) were isolated, it would denote orientation along those respective axes.
Cross Sections
Cross sections are slices of the surface made by intersecting it with planes. They provide a clearer idea of the surface's shape by breaking down its complexity. For a hyperbolic paraboloid like \( z = \frac{x^2}{4} - \frac{y^2}{9} \), here's what its cross sections might look like:
- For sections parallel to the \( xz \)-plane, set \( y = \text{constant} \). You will get a series of upward opening parabolas, thanks to the \( x^2 \) positive term.
- For sections parallel to the \( yz \)-plane, \( x = \text{constant} \), you will see downward-opening parabolas, due to the negative \( y^2 \) term.
Surface Sketching
Sketching a hyperbolic paraboloid might seem daunting, but breaking it down can simplify the process. Start by understanding its cross sections, as discussed above. Here's a simple guide to help:
- Mark the center or the "saddle" point where the surface changes direction.
- From the center, sketch the parabolas along the cross-sections you already plotted.
- Focus on how these cross-section parabolas convey the saddle shape. Ensure the upward and downward curvatures are apparent.