Formula Used:
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The Semi Minor Axis of Elliptic Cylinder is the half of the length of the longest chord which is perpendicular to the line joining the foci of the elliptic face of the Elliptic Cylinder. It's a fundamental geometric parameter that defines the elliptical cross-section of the cylinder.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula calculates the semi minor axis by relating it to the lateral surface area, semi major axis, surface to volume ratio, and height of the elliptic cylinder.
Details: Calculating the semi minor axis is crucial for understanding the geometric properties of elliptic cylinders, which have applications in engineering, architecture, and various scientific fields where elliptical cross-sections are used.
Tips: Enter all values in appropriate units (meters for length, square meters for area, and 1/meter for surface to volume ratio). Ensure all values are positive and non-zero for accurate calculation.
Q1: What is the relationship between semi major and semi minor axes?
A: The semi major axis is the longer radius of the ellipse, while the semi minor axis is the shorter radius. They define the elliptical shape of the cylinder's cross-section.
Q2: Can this formula be used for circular cylinders?
A: Yes, for circular cylinders where semi major axis equals semi minor axis (a = b), the formula simplifies accordingly.
Q3: What happens if the denominator becomes zero?
A: The calculation becomes undefined (division by zero). This occurs when (RA/V × h) - 2 = 0, which represents a specific geometric condition.
Q4: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation is mathematically exact based on the input values. The accuracy depends on the precision of the input measurements.
Q5: What are typical applications of elliptic cylinders?
A: Elliptic cylinders are used in various engineering applications, architectural designs, fluid dynamics, and optical systems where elliptical cross-sections provide specific advantages over circular ones.