Question

In an ellipse, the variable is always matched with the variable whose axis parallels the __________ direction.

A. horizontal
B. narrower
C. vertical
D. wider

Answer 1

B. Narrower.

Explanation:

We have been given an incomplete statement. We are supposed to complete the given statement.

Statement: In an ellipse, the variable
`a^2` is always matched with the variable whose axis parallels the __________ direction.

We know that standard equation of an ellipse with a major axis parallel to x-axis is in form:

`(x^2)/(a^2)+(y^2)/(b^2)=1`

We know that standard equation of an ellipse with a major axis parallel to y-axis is in form:

`(x^2)/(b^2)+(y^2)/(a^2)=1`

The variable
`a^2` is matched with the variable, whose axis is parallel to wider direction and variable
`b^2` is matched with the variable, whose axis is parallel to narrower direction.

Therefore, option B is the correct choice.