Find Equation of Ellipse at (1,2) & (1,8), Minor Axis Length 4

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the equation of an ellipse given specific parameters: a center at (1,2), a vertex at (1,8), and a minor axis length of 4. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and technical explanation related to the properties of ellipses.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Technical explanation, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests the equation of the ellipse based on the provided parameters.
  • Another participant suggests sketching the ellipse to aid in understanding and proposes an equation: \(\frac{(x-1)^2}{4} + \frac{(y-2)^2}{36} = 1\).
  • A third participant reiterates the request for the equation and emphasizes the importance of showing work to facilitate assistance.
  • A later reply presents an alternative equation: \(\frac{(x-1)^2}{16} + \frac{(y-2)^2}{36} = 1\), suggesting a different interpretation of the semi-minor axis.
  • One participant clarifies the lengths of the semi-major and semi-minor axes, stating that the semi-major axis is 6 and the semi-minor axis is 2.
  • Another participant acknowledges a misunderstanding regarding the length of the minor semi-axis.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the correct equation of the ellipse, with multiple proposed equations and interpretations of the parameters. The discussion remains unresolved regarding which equation is correct.

Contextual Notes

There are potential limitations in the assumptions made about the lengths of the axes and the interpretations of the parameters, which have not been fully clarified or agreed upon.

schooler
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Find equation for center at (1,2) and vertex at (1,8) and Minor axis length of 4?
 
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Hello, schooler!

Did you make a sketch?

Find equation of the ellipse with center (1,2),
and vertex at (1,8) and minor axis length of 4.
Code:
          |
          |   *(1,8)
          |   :
          |   :
          |   :6
          |   :
          |   :   2
      * . | . + . . . *
          |   :(1,2)
    - - - + - : - - - - -
          |   :
          |   :
          |   :
          |   *
          |
We have enough information to write the equation.

. . \frac{(x-1)^2}{4} + \frac{(y-2)^2}{36} \;=\;1
 
schooler said:
Find equation for center at (1,2) and vertex at (1,8) and Minor axis length of 4?

Hello, schooler! :D

We do ask that you show what you have tried so our helpers can see where you are stuck and can help get you unstuck. If you simply post a problem with no work shown, we don't really know how to help, other than perhaps give you hints you have already tried which wastes your time and the time of the helper. Most of our helpers are not going to just work the problem for you, because this does not really get you involved in the process and maximize the "learning moment."
 
soroban said:
\frac{(x-1)^2}{4} + \frac{(y-2)^2}{36} \;=\;1
This should be
\[
\frac{(x-1)^2}{16} + \frac{(y-2)^2}{36}=1
\]
 
Hello, Evgeny!

The semi-major axis has length 6.
Hence: a = 6.

The minor axis has length 4.
The semi-minor axis has has length 2.
Hence: b = 2.

 
Sorry, you are right. I read it as the minor semi-axis has length 4.
 

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