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Algebra 2ChallengeConic Sections

Conic Sections · Challenge problem

An elliptical pool table has foci F1=(−6,0)F_1 = (-6, 0) and F2=(6,0)F_2 = (6, 0) and semi-major axis 1010. A ball is struck from F1F_1, bounces once off the rail, and (by the reflection property of an ellipse) travels directly to F2F_2. Find the perimeter of the triangle formed by F1F_1, F2F_2, and the point where the ball bounces off the rail.