[Math] Closest point to $(2,0)$ on with a hyperbola as a constraint

calculuslagrange multiplier

I'm looking to find a point on the hyperbola $y^{2}-x^{2}=4$ which is closest to $(2,0)$.

As far as I know I need to find the distance formula and use lagrange multipliers.

Best Answer

I do not think you need LaGrange multiplier. Define $f(x)$ to be the square of the distance between the point $(2,0)$ and the hyperbola. (It is enough to minimize the square of the distance to make the calculus easier). Using the top half of the hyperbola, with a bit of math we get $$f(x)=(x-2)^2+(\sqrt{x^2+4}-0)^2.$$ Minimize this function using the first derivative test to find the value of $x$ on the hyperbola closest to $(2,0).$ Then use the hyperbola equation to find the $y-$value.