Ellipse Major Axis Determination

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An ellipse's major axis is determined by the denominators of the squared terms in its equation. If the "x^2" term has a larger denominator, the major axis is horizontal along the x-axis; if the "y^2" term has a larger denominator, the major axis is vertical along the y-axis. The discussion highlights confusion regarding the classification of axes, particularly the notion of a "neither" option, which is deemed nonsensical. Understanding these principles is crucial for accurately determining the orientation of an ellipse. Clear comprehension of these rules can aid in solving related mathematical problems effectively.
Niaboc67
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Homework Statement


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The Attempt at a Solution



I thought that an ellipse shares vertices on the y-axis and the x-axis. Making it neither vertical major axis. I am unsure about the question.[/B]
 
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Now, can you see the answers?
 
What you should have learned is that if the "x^2" term has the larger denominator then the x-axis is the major axis. If the "y^2" term has the larger denominator, then the y-axis is the major axis..

(Was there really a choice that said "neither a major axis nor a major axis"? That makes no sense!)
 

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