ELLIPSOID Meaning and
Definition
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An ellipsoid is a three-dimensional geometric shape that closely resembles a stretched or compressed sphere. It is a smooth, closed surface with every cross-section being an ellipse. In simpler terms, an ellipsoid can be visualized as a sphere that has been transformed by stretching or squashing along different axes, resulting in an elongated or flattened shape.
Mathematically, an ellipsoid can be defined as the set of all points in space whose distances from a fixed point, known as the center, are in a constant ratio to the distances from a set of fixed points called foci. This ratio is known as the eccentricity and helps determine the degree of elongation or flattening of the ellipsoid. The eccentricity ranges from zero to one, with a value of zero representing a perfect sphere, and a value of one representing a flat, disk-like shape.
Ellipsoids arise in various fields such as mathematics, physics, and astronomy, where they serve as essential models for describing a wide range of natural and man-made objects. For instance, the Earth is often approximated as an oblate ellipsoid, with slight flattening at the poles and bulging at the equator. Similarly, ellipsoids are commonly used to represent celestial bodies like planets and stars.
In summary, an ellipsoid is a smooth, three-dimensional figure that resembles a distorted sphere, possessing a constant ratio of distances from its center to a set of fixed points.
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A figure or solid formed by the revolution of an ellipse about its axis.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ELLIPSOID
Etymology of ELLIPSOID
The word "ellipsoid" comes from the combination of two Greek roots: "ellips" meaning "deficiency" or "falling short" and "eidos" meaning "form" or "shape". The term was coined in the mid-18th century to describe a geometric shape that is similar to an ellipse, but three-dimensional. An ellipsoid is a closed surface where each cross-section is an ellipse.
Similar spelling words for ELLIPSOID
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