When we use standerd Equation of an ellipse

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The discussion focuses on the standard equation of an ellipse, highlighting the two formulas used to represent it. The primary equation is \(\frac{x^2}{a^2} + \frac{y^2}{b^2} = 1\), where the orientation of the ellipse depends on the relationship between a and b. If a is greater than b, the major axis is horizontal; if b is greater than a, it is vertical. The conversation also clarifies that when a equals b, the shape is a circle, which is a specific case of an ellipse. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for correctly identifying and solving problems related to ellipses.
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Hi

when we use standerd Equation of an ellipse

here 2 formula 1 and 2 when we use 1 and when we use 2

hlep me
 

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Errr... what's the difference, except that a is called b and b is called a in (2)?
 
when we say a is called b and b is called a in the queation

i mean in queation how we nowthe solve will be by formula 1 or 2

help me >>
 
The two formulas shown in the page you scanned are needlessly complicated. Only one equation is needed for an ellipse.
\frac{x^2}{a^2} + \frac{y^2}{b^2} = 1

If a > b, the major axis is along the x axis.
If a < b, the major axis is along the y axis.

Ex. 1
\frac{x^2}{25} + \frac{y^2}{16} = 1
x-intercepts (vertices) at (5, 0) and (-5, 0).
y-intercepts at (0, 4), and (0, -4).
Foci at (3, 0) and (-3, 0).

Ex. 2
\frac{x^2}{16} + \frac{y^2}{25} = 1
x-intercepts at (4, 0) and (-4, 0).
y-intercepts (vertices) at (0, 5), and (0, -5).
Foci at (0, 3) and (0, -3).
 
The b2 and a2 (depending on position) tell you the major and minor axis and which way to ellipse will be (like vertical or horizontal)

keep in mind: a cannot equal b because then it will be a circle not an ellipse.
 
Last edited:
iRaid said:
keep in mind: a cannot equal b because then it will be a circle not an eclipse.
A circle can be thought of as a special case of the ellipse, where the major and minor axes are equal.
 
Mark44 said:
A circle can be thought of as a special case of the ellipse, where the major and minor axes are equal.

Well yes, but it's generally not.
 
Ellipses are generally not circles, indeed.
But all circles are ellipses.

Just like not all rectangles are squares, but all squares are rectangles.
 

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