Pronunciation: [mˈa͡ɪnəɹ ˈaksɪs] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "minor axis" can be explained with IPA phonetic transcription as /ˈmaɪ.nər ˈæk.sɪs/. The first syllable "mi" is pronounced as /maɪ/ and the second syllable "nor" is pronounced as /nər/. The word "axis" is pronounced as /ˈæk.sɪs/. In geometry, the minor axis is the shorter of two perpendicular diameters of an ellipse. It extends from one side of the ellipse to the other side passing through the center.
The term "minor axis" refers to a key geometric element found in various shapes and figures, particularly in ellipses and hyperbolas. It represents the segment connecting two points on opposite sides of the central point or the center of symmetry, which lies on the shorter dimension or diameter of the figure.
In an ellipse, the minor axis is the line segment that passes through the center and is perpendicular to the major axis. It typically represents the shorter diameter of the ellipse, dividing it into two equal halves called "semi-axes." The length of the minor axis is half of the major axis.
Similarly, in a hyperbola, the minor axis is the segment that connects the two vertices and is perpendicular to the transverse axis. It is typically shorter than the major axis and divides the hyperbola into two branches.
Understanding the minor axis is crucial in determining various properties of shapes. For instance, in an ellipse, it helps calculate the eccentricity, foci, and vertices. In a hyperbola, the minor axis assists in identifying the asymptotes and eccentricity.
In summary, the minor axis is a line segment that links opposite points on either side of the central point, forming the shorter dimension of an ellipse or the hyperbola. Its length is half that of the major axis and plays a vital role in defining key characteristics and measurements of these shapes.
The word "minor" comes from the Latin "minōrus", which means "lesser" or "smaller". The word "axis" also comes from Latin, derived from "axis" meaning "axle" or "pivot". In the geometric sense, an axis refers to an imaginary line around which a shape or object rotates. Therefore, the "minor axis" refers to the smaller or lesser of the two axes of an ellipse or an ellipsoid.
