Math Calculator

Ellipse Calculator

Analyze an axis-aligned ellipse given semi-major and semi-minor lengths.

Enter a and b

Provide positive a and b (a is taken as the larger axis for eccentricity/foci).

Clear

About this calculator

How to use Ellipse Calculator, plus the formulas and logic behind the results.

Tool description

Ellipse area is πab. With A = max(a,b) and B = min(a,b), c = √(A²−B²) and eccentricity e = c/A.

How to use

  1. Enter positive semi-axes a and b.
  2. Select Calculate.
  3. Read area, c, eccentricity, and focus positions relative to center.

Formulas & reference

  • Area = π a b
  • c = √(A² − B²) where A≥B are sorted axes
  • e = c/A

Ellipse facts

  • 0 ≤ e < 1 for an ellipse
  • Foci lie on the major axis
  • Sum of distances to foci is 2A
  • Area depends on both axes

Calculation logic

Uses M_PI for area. Sorts axes so eccentricity uses the major axis correctly whether a>b or b>a.

If a = b, the ellipse is a circle: c = 0 and e = 0.

Ellipse Calculator FAQ

Common questions about this calculator and how to use the results.

What is ellipse area?

A = πab.

What is eccentricity?

e = c/A measuring how elongated the ellipse is.

Where are the foci?

At ±c from the center along the major axis.

What if a = b?

You have a circle with e = 0.

Must a be larger than b?

Not required—the calculator sorts them for c and e.

Is perimeter included?

Exact perimeter needs elliptic integrals; not computed here.