Graphing Elliptic Cylinders

Graphing Elliptic Cylinders
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Given a question to graph:

x^2 + 4y^2 = 16

I would assume its a 2D Plot. My textbook assumes otherwise and treats it as a trace.

This is how the equation looks like when plotted.

x^2 + 4y^2 = 16

My question is - is the 3D plot of x^2 + 4y^2 = 16 the same as the 2D plot of x^2 + 4y^2 = 16 except one is parallel to the plane and thats it? What distinguishes them? In the future if Im asked to draw a cylinder plane what would be the proper equation for it?

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1 Answer

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$x^2+4y^2 = 16$ is the same thing as saying that $x^2+4y^2+0z=16$. So $z$ will not affect your graph, but now you can graph this equation in $3$ dimensions.

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David Miller
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David Miller

David Miller brings 15 years of experience in global economics, personal finance strategy, and market dynamics. He specializes in turning complex economic trends into actionable insights for everyday readers.