Compare two ellipses centered at origin: $E_1$ with $a=4$, $b=3$ and $E_2$ with $a=4$, $b=6$. Which statement about their areas is correct?

• A. $E_1$ has a larger area because its $b$‑value is closer to $a$, making it more circular.
• B. $E_2$ has a larger area; the area of $E_2$ is $12\pi$ and the area of $E_1$ is $24\pi$.
• C. The ellipses have equal area because both share the same value of $a=4$.
• D. $E_{{}_2}$ has a larger area; the area of $E_2$ is $24\pi$ and the area of $E_1$ is $12\pi$.

Answer: (D)