1. What is Ellipse Diameter?

An ellipse has two diameters: the major diameter (longest) and minor diameter (shortest). The major diameter is twice the semi-major axis (2a), and the minor diameter is twice the semi-minor axis (2b).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses simple formulas:

Where:

• \( a \) — Semi-major axis (half of major diameter)
• \( b \) — Semi-minor axis (half of minor diameter)

Explanation: The major diameter spans the longest distance across the ellipse, while the minor diameter spans the shortest distance.

3. Importance of Ellipse Diameters

Details: Knowing both diameters is essential for calculating ellipse properties like area, circumference, and for applications in engineering, astronomy, and design.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the semi-major axis (a) and semi-minor axis (b) in any length units. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between diameter and axes?
A: The diameters are the full lengths across the ellipse, while the semi-axes are half of these lengths (a = major radius, b = minor radius).

Q2: Can a and b be equal?
A: Yes, when a = b, the ellipse becomes a circle, and both diameters are equal to the circle's diameter.

Q3: Which is larger - major or minor diameter?
A: By definition, the major diameter is always equal to or larger than the minor diameter (a ≥ b).

Q4: How are diameters related to ellipse area?
A: Area = πab = π × (major diameter/2) × (minor diameter/2).

Q5: What units should I use?
A: Any consistent length units (meters, inches, etc.). The results will be in the same units as your inputs.