1. What is the Major Axis of an Ellipse?

The major axis of an ellipse is the longest diameter that passes through the center and both foci of the ellipse. It's twice the length of the semi-major axis (a).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

• \( a \) — Semi-major axis length
• major — Length of the major axis

Explanation: The major axis is simply twice the length of the semi-major axis, which is the longest radius of the ellipse.

3. Importance of Major Axis Calculation

Details: The major axis is fundamental in defining the size and shape of an ellipse. It's crucial in astronomy (for orbital calculations), engineering (for elliptical designs), and many other fields.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the semi-major axis length in any consistent units. The result will be in the same units. The value must be positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between major axis and semi-major axis?
A: The major axis is the full length through the ellipse, while the semi-major axis is half that length (from center to edge).

Q2: How does major axis relate to eccentricity?
A: The major axis, along with the minor axis, determines the ellipse's eccentricity, which measures how much it deviates from being circular.

Q3: Can this be used for planetary orbits?
A: Yes, in astronomy the major axis of an orbit is an important parameter in Kepler's laws of planetary motion.

Q4: What if I only know the minor axis?
A: You need at least the semi-major axis or the relationship between axes to calculate the major axis.

Q5: Are there real-world applications of this calculation?
A: Many, including satellite dish design, racetrack design, architectural features, and orbital mechanics.