Conic Sections Quiz

Conic Sections and Key Terms

• The line over which a parabola is symmetric is called the axis of symmetry. This line helps define the mirror-like quality of the parabola.

• The midpoint between the foci of an ellipse or hyperbola is referred to as the center. This point plays a crucial role in the geometrical properties of these conic sections.

• A set of all points that are equidistant from a fixed point is known as a circle. The fixed point is termed the center of the circle.

• Each of the two distinct sections of the graph of a hyperbola is called a branch. These branches open away from each other and reflect the hyperbola's unique structure.

• A conic section which cannot be classified as a parabola, ellipse, circle, or hyperbola is referred to as a degenerate conic. Examples include points, lines, and intersecting pairs of lines.