1. Rotate an ellipse about its major axis. You obtain a rugby ball which is easier to pass.
2. The path of each planet is an ellipse with the Sun at one focus. In physics, this is known as Kepler's first law of planetary motion.
3. An ellipse exhibits an interesting acoustic phenomenon. From a focal point, one can hear far away sounds especially from the other focal point. This principle is used in whispering galleries.
4. Elliptical tables, book-cases, vent pipes etc look elegant and hence the shape is used in carpentry etc.
5. Lithotripsy: It is process of treatment of kidney stones without surgery. The patient is made to lie in an elliptical tub with kidney stone aligned to one of the foci. Shock waves generated at the other focus destroy the stone into sand like particles which easily pass through the body.
6. An elliptical training machine simulates the motion of running or climbing. So it is a stationery exercise with the joints minimally impacted.
