Question

the graph shows an ellipse. what is the length of its major axis?

Explanation:

Step1: Determine the endpoints of the major axis

The major axis of an ellipse is the longest diameter. From the graph, the endpoints of the major axis are at \(y = 10\) and \(y=- 8\).

Step2: Calculate the distance between the endpoints

Use the distance formula for two points on the \(y\) - axis \(d=\vert y_1 - y_2\vert\). Here \(y_1 = 10\) and \(y_2=-8\), so \(d=\vert10-(-8)\vert=\vert10 + 8\vert=18\)

Answer:

18