Ellipsoid Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ellipsoid
[ɪˈlɪpsɔɪd ]
Definitions
Context #1 | Noun
mathematical shape
An ellipsoid is a three-dimensional surface that is the analog of an ellipse in two dimensions. It can be described as a surface obtained by rotating an ellipse about one of its axes.
Examples of usage
- The Earth is often approximated as an ellipsoid rather than a perfect sphere.
- The shape of some planets can be best described as ellipsoids.
Context #2 | Noun
geology
In geology, an ellipsoid is used to represent the shape of the Earth, taking into account its irregularities and variations in density.
Examples of usage
- Geologists use ellipsoids to model the Earth's geoid.
Translations
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Origin of 'ellipsoid'
The term 'ellipsoid' comes from the Greek words 'ellips' (deficiency) and 'eidos' (form). It was first introduced by the German mathematician Carl Friedrich Gauss in the early 19th century. The concept of ellipsoids has since been widely used in various fields of mathematics, physics, and geology.