Formula Used:
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The Semi Minor Axis of an Ellipse is half of the length of the shortest diameter of the ellipse. It is perpendicular to the semi major axis and passes through the center of the ellipse.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula calculates the semi minor axis of an ellipse using the latus rectum and eccentricity values.
Details: The semi minor axis is a fundamental parameter in ellipse geometry, used in various mathematical calculations, engineering applications, and astronomical computations involving elliptical orbits.
Tips: Enter latus rectum in meters, eccentricity in meters. Eccentricity must be between 0 and 1 (0 ≤ e < 1). All values must be valid positive numbers.
Q1: What is the range of eccentricity for an ellipse?
A: For an ellipse, eccentricity ranges from 0 (circle) to values approaching but not reaching 1.
Q2: How does the semi minor axis relate to the semi major axis?
A: The semi minor axis is always smaller than or equal to the semi major axis in an ellipse.
Q3: What happens when eccentricity equals 0?
A: When eccentricity is 0, the ellipse becomes a perfect circle, and the semi minor axis equals the semi major axis.
Q4: Can eccentricity be exactly 1?
A: No, eccentricity of 1 represents a parabola, not an ellipse. For ellipses, eccentricity must be less than 1.
Q5: What are practical applications of this calculation?
A: This calculation is used in astronomy for orbital mechanics, in engineering for elliptical designs, and in various mathematical and physical applications.