Understanding the Formula for an Ellipse | Shape, Size, and Location on the Coordinate Plane

ellipse formula

The formula for an ellipse is given as:
(x-h)^2/a^2 + (y-k)^2/b^2 = 1

In this formula, (h,k) represents the center of the ellipse, “a” represents the distance from the center to the horizontal vertex (along the x-axis), and “b” represents the distance from the center to the vertical vertex (along the y-axis)

The formula for an ellipse is given as:
(x-h)^2/a^2 + (y-k)^2/b^2 = 1

In this formula, (h,k) represents the center of the ellipse, “a” represents the distance from the center to the horizontal vertex (along the x-axis), and “b” represents the distance from the center to the vertical vertex (along the y-axis).

Alternatively, if the ellipse is centered at the origin (0,0), the formula can be written as:
x^2/a^2 + y^2/b^2 = 1

The general equation for an ellipse allows us to describe its shape, size, and location on the coordinate plane. It is derived by considering the distance from each point on the ellipse to its center, and the ratio of these distances remains constant, which is what defines the shape of an ellipse.

The major axis of an ellipse is the longest diameter (line passing through the center) and is equal to 2a. The minor axis is the shortest diameter (line passing through the center) and is equal to 2b. The focus points of an ellipse are two fixed points on the major axis that help define the shape of the curve.

By manipulating the coefficients “a” and “b” in the ellipse formula, you can stretch or compress the ellipse along the x-axis and y-axis, respectively, thus altering its shape and dimensions.

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