Problem 8

Question

What is the name of the surface defined by the equation \(y=\frac{x^{2}}{4}+\frac{z^{2}}{8} ?\)

Step-by-Step Solution

Verified
Answer
Answer: Elliptic paraboloid
1Step 1: Analyze the equation
The given equation is \(y = \frac{x^2}{4} + \frac{z^2}{8}\). Notice that it can be also written as \(\frac{x^2}{4} + \frac{z^2}{8} - y = 0\).
2Step 2: Recognize the surface type
The equation can be rewritten as follows: \(\frac{x^2}{4} + \frac{z^2}{8} - y = 0\). We observe that this expression involves the squares of \(x\) and \(z\) variables, both are positive. Since there are no other terms, we deduce that it is an elliptic paraboloid.
3Step 3: Conclusion
The surface defined by the equation \(y = \frac{x^2}{4} + \frac{z^2}{8}\) is an elliptic paraboloid.