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 typically looks like (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. To graph an ellipse, it is essential to convert the given equation into this standard form, allowing for easy identification of its key features.
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Completing the Square
Completing the square is a method used to transform a quadratic equation into a perfect square trinomial. This technique is crucial for rewriting the ellipse equation in standard form, as it helps isolate the variables and identify the center and axes of the ellipse. It involves manipulating the equation to create a squared term for both x and y.
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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 denoted as c, where c² = a² - b². Identifying the foci is important for understanding the ellipse's properties, such as its eccentricity and how it relates to the distance from any point on the ellipse to the foci.
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