What is the major axis of the equation shown below? (x - 2)^2 / 49 + (y + 5)^2 / 36 = 1 Will give fans and medals.

Question

What is the major axis of the equation shown below?  (x - 2)^2 / 49 + (y + 5)^2 / 36 = 1  Will give fans and medals.

misty1212 · Answer

Hi!!

misty1212 · Answer

this is the standard form of a certain shape
do you know what it is?

anonymous · Answer

Sorry, I had forgotten to specify.

misty1212 · Answer

i am asking if you know what it is 
parabola
hyperbola
ellipse

anonymous · Answer

I think it's an ellipse.  However, I would truly appreciate it if you would help me find the major axis.

misty1212 · Answer

yes it is an ellipse

misty1212 · Answer

standard form is $$\frac{(x-h)^2}{a^2}+\frac{(y-k)^2}{b^2}=1$$

misty1212 · Answer

where the center is $(h,k)$
what is the center here?

anonymous · Answer

(2, -5)

misty1212 · Answer

ok and next, which one is it?|dw:1453738335022:dw|

anonymous · Answer

The one on the left.

misty1212 · Answer

yes

misty1212 · Answer

we know the center is $(2,-5)$ and $a^2=49$ so $a=7$ and $b^2=36$ so $b=6$ 
what is left ?

misty1212 · Answer

ooh the length of the major axis?

anonymous · Answer

Yes, please.

misty1212 · Answer

ok you are going to be annoyed at how easy this one is
we got $a=7$ right?

misty1212 · Answer

it is $2a=14$

anonymous · Answer

So, it's just 14?

misty1212 · Answer

we can find the endpoints if you like but yes, it is just 14

anonymous · Answer

Man, that WAS easy.  Thank you.

misty1212 · Answer

$$\color\magenta\heartsuit$$

misty1212 · Answer

btw the length of the minor axis is .... 12

anonymous · Answer

Thank you for that too.