Classify and Graph Conic Section

MathematicsConic SectionsMediumSTEM

Published:

Classify each conic section and sketch its graph. For parabolas, identify the vertex, directrix, axis of symmetry, and focus. For circles, identify the center and radius. For ellipses and hyperbolas identify the center, vertices, co-vertices where needed, asymptotes where needed and foci. 9) $\frac{x^2}{9} + \frac{y^2}{36} = 1$

Animated Video Solution

The first half plays free, the full solution is in the app.

Step by Step Written Solution

1
Step 1

Hi Naomi, let's classify and analyze the conic section given by the equation x squared over nine plus y squared over thirty-six equals one.

Conic Section Analysis

$$\frac{x^2}{9} + \frac{y^2}{36} = 1$$
2
Step 2

Looking at the general form, we see that both terms are squared, they are added together, and they have different denominators. This matches the standard form of an ellipse.


Classification: Ellipse

3
Step 3

Since there are no h or k values added to x or y, the center of this ellipse is at the origin, zero zero.

$$ \text{Center: } (h, k) = (0, 0)$$
4
Step 4

Now, let's find the values of a and b. In an ellipse, a squared is always the larger denominator.

$$\frac{x^2}{9} + \frac{y^2}{36} = 1$$

Identifying Parameters

5
Step 5

Because thirty-six is greater than nine, we set a squared equal to thirty-six.

$$ a^2 = 36$$
6
Step 6

Taking the square root, we find that a equals six. Since this is under the y term, the major axis is vertical.

7
Step 7

Next, we set b squared equal to nine, the smaller denominator.

$$ b^2 = 9$$
8
Step 8

Taking the square root gives us b equals three. This corresponds to the horizontal minor axis.

The rest of this solution is on Solvi

8 more steps are locked. Watch the full animated, narrated solution for free.

Snap a photo, solve any question like this.

Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play

Free to download · First solutions are on us

100K+Questions solved daily
50K+Students learning
4.8 ★App Store rating

About This Question

Subject
Mathematics
Topic
Conic Sections
Difficulty
Medium
Exam
STEM
Question Type
Open Ended

Solve any question in seconds

Snap a photo and AI explains it step by step with voice and animation.

Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
Solvi
The full solution is in the appFree to download · First solutions are on us
Get