<PRE><B>Question 696345</B>
write the standard form of the equation and state what conic section. 
9x^2-4y^2+18x+8y-31=0 
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Complete the square on the x-terms and on the y-terms:
9(x^2 + 2x + 1) - 4(y^2 + 2y + 1) = 31 + 9 - 4
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9(x+1)^2 - 4(y+1)^2 = 36
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(x+1)^2/4 - (y+1)^2/9 = 1
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Hyperbola with center at (-1,-1)
semi-minor axis = 2
semi-major axis = 3
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Cheers,
Stan H.</PRE>