Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 16m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 19m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
8. Conic Sections
Ellipses: Standard Form
10:05 minutes
Problem 3
Textbook Question
Textbook QuestionIn Exercises 1–18, graph each ellipse and locate the foci. x^2/9 +y^2/36= 1
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Ellipse Definition
An ellipse is a set of points in a plane where the sum of the distances from two fixed points, called foci, is constant. The standard form of an ellipse's equation is (x-h)²/a² + (y-k)²/b² = 1, where (h, k) is the center, a is the semi-major axis, and b is the semi-minor axis. Understanding this definition is crucial for graphing and identifying the properties of the ellipse.
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Foci and Vertices of an Ellipse
Graphing Ellipses
To graph an ellipse, one must identify its center, vertices, and foci. The center is found at (h, k), while the vertices are located a distance 'a' from the center along the major axis and 'b' along the minor axis. For the given equation, the graph will be vertically oriented due to the larger denominator under y², indicating the major axis is vertical.
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Foci of an Ellipse
The foci of an ellipse are located along the major axis, at a distance 'c' from the center, where c is calculated using the formula c = √(b² - a²). In the context of the given ellipse, identifying the foci is essential for understanding its geometric properties and how they relate to the shape of the ellipse.
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Foci and Vertices of an Ellipse
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