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Ch. 7 - Conic Sections
Chapter 8, Problem 9

In Exercises 1–18, graph each ellipse and locate the foci. x^2/(9/4) +y^2/(25/4) = 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 identifying the properties of the ellipse in the given equation.
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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, recognizing the denominators helps determine the lengths of the axes and the orientation of the ellipse, which is essential for accurate graphing.
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Foci of an Ellipse

The foci of an ellipse are located along the major axis, and their distance from the center is determined by the formula c = √(a² - b²), where 'c' is the distance to each focus. In the context of the given equation, calculating 'c' allows one to find the exact positions of the foci, which are critical for understanding the ellipse's geometric properties and its applications in various fields.
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