Question

graph each equation.

1. $\frac{x^{2}}{4} + \frac{y^{2}}{9} = 1$

Explanation:

Step1: Identify ellipse standard form

The given equation $\frac{x^2}{4} + \frac{y^2}{9} = 1$ matches the vertical major axis ellipse standard form $\frac{x^2}{b^2} + \frac{y^2}{a^2} = 1$ where $a > b$.

Step2: Calculate $a$ and $b$

$a^2=9 \implies a=3$, $b^2=4 \implies b=2$

Step3: Find key vertices

• Vertical vertices: $(0, \pm a)=(0, 3), (0, -3)$
• Horizontal vertices: $(\pm b, 0)=(2, 0), (-2, 0)$

Step4: Plot and connect points

Mark the 4 vertices on the coordinate grid, then draw a smooth closed curve through them.

Answer:

The graph is an ellipse centered at the origin $(0,0)$, with vertices at $(0, 3)$, $(0, -3)$, $(2, 0)$, and $(-2, 0)$, forming a vertically elongated oval shape passing through these four points.