Factoring and Ellipses: How to Solve for Width?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving for the width of an ellipse given a height of 10 units above the origin. The user seeks clarification on whether the height refers to the vertical distance from the x-axis to the center of the ellipse and how to factor the equation involving the ellipse's dimensions. The key equation mentioned is a^2 = 10^2 + 25.4^2, which relates to determining the ellipse's dimensions. The user also inquires about the distinction between the major and minor axes in relation to width.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of ellipse equations and their properties
  • Familiarity with the concepts of major and minor axes
  • Basic algebra for factoring equations
  • Knowledge of coordinate geometry, specifically points in the Cartesian plane
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the standard form of ellipse equations and how to derive them
  • Learn how to calculate the lengths of major and minor axes from given points
  • Explore the geometric interpretation of ellipses in coordinate geometry
  • Review factoring techniques for quadratic equations relevant to ellipse dimensions
USEFUL FOR

Students studying conic sections, mathematics educators, and anyone involved in geometry or algebra who seeks to understand the properties of ellipses and their dimensions.

runicle
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I'm trying to put this into factored form help me out and help me with ellipses I don't know what to do... Would i have to place the C that i solved into [tex]a^2 = 10^2 + 25.4^2[/tex] http://s65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/runicrice/?action=view&current=scan.jpg
 
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My work is in the url...
 
If I read this correctly, the question is "What is the width of when the height is 10 units above the origin," which is somewhat of a confusing question.

10 units above the origin is point (0,10) which has x=0, and y=10.

Is the height, h = the vertical distance between the x-axis and the center of the ellipse?

Anyway, is the width considered the major axis or minor axis?

One can solve for either.
 

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