Math Puzzle for July 10, 2026

Two ellipses accidentally intersect — no injuries reported

Alameda Post - A math diagram of two intersecting ellipses which share a common center filled in with purple.

Two intersecting ellipses share a common center.
One ellipse obeys the equation: ( x²/ 9 ) + ( y²/ 25 ) = 1.
The other ellipse obeys the equation: ( x²/ 36 ) + ( y²/ 16 ) = 1.

Find the area of the purple intersection of the two ellipses.

A correct answer sent to [email protected] may win a Tucker’s gift card.

Last week’s winner was Ben Chacon with Area = 662 square centimeters.

(WARNING: Use of AI is strictly prohibited.)

Jeff Smith is a former Math teacher and a retired US Navy Lieutenant Commander. Reach him at [email protected].

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