Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Ellipse Standard Form
An ellipse is defined by its standard form equation, which is typically written as (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 form is crucial for identifying the characteristics of the ellipse, including its orientation and dimensions.
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Foci of an Ellipse
The foci of an ellipse are two fixed points located along the major axis, which are essential for defining the shape of the ellipse. The distance from the center to each focus is calculated using the formula c = √(a² - b²), where c is the distance to each focus, a is the semi-major axis, and b is the semi-minor axis. Knowing the foci helps in understanding the ellipse's geometric properties.
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Foci and Vertices of an Ellipse
Graphing Ellipses
Graphing an ellipse involves plotting its center, determining the lengths of the semi-major and semi-minor axes, and marking the foci. The orientation of the ellipse (horizontal or vertical) is determined by the values of a and b in the standard form equation. A clear graph provides visual insight into the ellipse's shape and position in the coordinate plane.
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