Learn to write equation of ellipse given vertices and foci

The video tutorial guides students through plotting points and determining the orientation of the major axis, whether vertical or horizontal. It explains how to set up the equation for an ellipse, identify the center, and calculate the values of A, B, and C. The tutorial emphasizes the importance of graphing for understanding and solving the equation, providing a step-by-step approach to finding the simplified form of the equation.

What is the first step in understanding the orientation of the major axis?

• Identifying the foci

• Plotting the information

• Labeling the points

• Calculating the midpoint

If the major axis is vertical, where should 'a' be placed in the ellipse equation?

• Under the H

• Under the X

• Under the Y

• Under the B

How is the center of the ellipse determined?

• By using the distance formula

• By finding the midpoint between the vertices

• By calculating the average of the foci

• By plotting the co-vertices

What does the center of the ellipse represent in the equation?

• The length of the major axis

• The coordinates H and K

• The value of 'b'

• The value of 'a'

What is the common mistake students make when solving for 'b' in the ellipse equation?

• Solving for 'b' instead of 'b squared'

• Using the wrong formula

• Ignoring the value of 'c'

• Misplacing 'a' under the wrong variable

What is the simplified form of the ellipse equation when the center is at (0,0) and the major axis is vertical?

• X^2/2 + Y^2/3 = 1

• X^2/9 + Y^2/5 = 1

• X^2/5 + Y^2/9 = 1

• X^2/3 + Y^2/2 = 1

What is the distance from the center to the foci referred to as?

• A

• D

• B

• C