Write the equation for the ellipse with horizontal minor axis of length 8 and foci located at (0,5) and (0,-5).

Question

dumbcow · Answer

length of major axis = 2a
minor axis = 2b
length of foci = c

such that ..... b^2 +c^2 = a^2

from the info given :
b = 4
c = 5

therefore, 16 +25 = a^2
--> a^2 = 41

anonymous · Answer

so then x^2/16+y^2/41=1

anonymous · Answer

oh wait nope.. a is the x-int's so wouldn't it be x^2/41+y^2/16=1

dumbcow · Answer

sorry i was away for a moment ..... "a" refers to major axis
major axis is vertical or "y-axis"

so your 1st answer is correct
x^2/16 + y^2/41 = 1