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Straight Lines
Straight Lines is a fundamental and an important topic under Coordinate
Geometry.
Introduction
Coordinate Geometry is the unification of algebra and geometry in which algebra is used in
the study of geometrical relations and geometrical figures are represented by means of
equations. The most popular coordinate system is the rectangular Cartesian system.
Coordinates of a point are the real variables associated in an order to describe its location in
space. Here we consider the space to be two-dimensional. Through a point O, referred to as
the origin, we take two mutually perpendicular lines XOX and YOY and call them x and y
axes respectively. The position of a point is completely determined with reference to these
axes of means of an ordered pair of real numbers (x, y) called the coordinates of P where |x|
and |y| are the distances of the point P from the y-axis and the x-axis respectively. X is called
the x-coordinate or the abscissa of P and y is called the y-coordinate or the ordinate of P.
Hence OA = AO
Similarly ordered pairs are represented in a plane. To represent an ordered pair (a, b) we
take two reference lines which are mutually perpendicular. The ordered pair (a, b) represents
in such a plane, by a point P(a, b) such that (see figure given below) OA = a and OB = b.
This system is called Cartesian co-ordinate system. Since elements of an ordered pair are
not inter changeable (i.e., (a, b) (b, a) unless a = b) so they are represented in particular
order, the first element a is represented on horizontal line called abscissa and the second
element b on a vertical line called ordinate. Like the real number notation the positive side
of the x-axis is the right side of O and positive side of O and positive side of y-axis is upper
side of O.
So, the two lines divide the region in 4 parts. These are called quadrants. These quadrants
are characterized as
I
quadrant
x > 0, y > 0
II
quadrant
x < 0, y > 0
III
quadrant
x < 0, y < 0
IV
quadrant
x > 0, y < 0
Here the point O represents x = 0 and y = 0, hence order pair becomes (0, 0).
There is a second type of representation called the polar co-ordinate system. In this system
a reference is fixed to a line (Called the initial line), and a point called the origin in the
system. Any point P is represented by ordered pair (r, ).
Such that
Let P(x1, y1) and Q(x2, y2) be the two points and let the distance between
them be d. Draw PA, QR parallel to y-axis and PR parallel to x-axis.
Angle QRP = 90o
d2 = PR2 + RQ2
d2 = (x2 x1)2 + (y2 y1)2
Let us say we want to know the co-ordinates of point which divides a line
segment between two points A(x1, y1) and B(x2, y2) in the ratio m : n.
The coordinates of such a point are given by
(nx1 + mx2/m+n, ny1 + my2/m+n) (for internal division)
Note:
This is called section formula.
Let P divide the line segment AB in the ratio m : n. If P is inside AB then it is
called internal division; if it is outside AB then it is called external division.
However in each case AP/BP [or AP'/BP' or AP"/BP"] = m/n.
Proof:
Consider ? ABB
Since BB||PQ and AP:PB = m:n (see figure given below)
m:n can be written as m/n or :1. So any point on line joining A and B will
be P(x2+x1/+1.y2+y1/+1). It is useful to assume :1 because it involves
only one variable.
illustration:
Find the ratio in which line segment A(2, 1) and B(5, 2) is divided by x-axis.
Solution:
(i)
We know that orthocenter will lie on AD. We need to find this point and its
co-ordinates.
We should select a point H1 on AD and take the ratio AH1/H1D in such a
manner so that xH1 and yH1 calculated form (i) should be symmetric in x1, x2,
x3, tan A, tan B and tan C. Think before you proceed
Let
Since the result is symmetric, this point H1 will lie on other altitude as well
i.e. the altitudes are concurrent
xH = xH1 and yH = yH1
Illustration:
Prove analytically that in a right angled triangle the midpoint of the
hypotenuse is equidistant from the three angular points.
Solution:
While proving a problem analytically take most convenient co-ordinates of
known points.
In the present case triangle is assumed as AOB with coordinates as shown in
figure given below, C is midpoint of AB.
Now AB = a2 + b2
CA = CB = AB/2 (C is mid point of AB)
= a2 + b2
and, we know that the distance between two points C and O is given by
CO = (a/2 0)2 + (b/2 0)2 = a2 + b2/2
Hence CA = CB = CO
Coordinates of the point P dividing the join of two points A(x1, y1) and
B(x2,
y2)
internally
in
the
given
= 1/2 areP(2x1+1x2/2+1, 2y1+1y2/2+1).
ratio
1 : 2 i.e.,
AP/BP
Coordinates of the point P dividing the join of two points A(x1, y1) and B(x2,
y2) externally in the ratio 1 : 2 i.e., Ao/BP = 1/2 areP(2x1+1x2/2
1, 2y1+1y2/21).
Centroid of Triangle
The centroid of a triangle is the point of concurrency of the medians. The centroid G of the
triangle ABC, divides the median AD, in the ratio of 2 : 1.
Illustration:
Find the centroid of the triangle the coordinates of whose vertices are given by A(x 1, y1),
B(x2, y2) and C(x3, y3) respectively.
Solution:
AG/AD = 2/1
Since D is the midpoint of BC, coordinates of D are (x 2+x3/2, y2+y3/2)
Using the section formula, the coordinates of G are
(2(x2+x3/2)+1.x1/2+1, 2(y2+y3/2)+1.y1/2+1)
Coordinates of G are (x1+x2+x3/3, y1+y2+y3/3).
Incentre of Triangle
The incentre I of a triangle is the point of concurrency of the bisectors of the angles of the
triangle.
Illustration:
Find the incentre of the triangle the coordinates of whose vertices are given by A(x 1, y1),
B(x2, y2), C(x3, y3).
Solution:
By geometry, we know that BD/DC = AB/AC (since AD bisects A).
If the lengths of the sides AB, BC and AC are c, a and b respectively, then BD/DC = AB/AC =
c/b.
Coordinates of D are (bx2+cx3/b+c, by2+cy3/b+c)
IB bisects B. Hence ID/IA = BD/BA = (ac/b+c)/c = a/c+b.
Orthocentre of Triangle
This is the point of concurrency of the altitudes of the triangle.
Excentre
Excentre of a triangle is the point of concurrency of bisectors of two exterior and third
interior angle. Hence there are three excentres I1, I2 and I3 opposite to three vertices of a
triangle.
If A(x1, y1), B(x2, y2) and C(x3, y3) are the vertices of a triangle ABC,
Area of a triangle
Let (x1, y1), (x2, y2) and (x3, y3) respectively be the coordinates of the vertices
A, B, C of a triangle ABC. Then the area of triangle ABC, is
It follows that the three points (x1, y1), (x2, y2) and (x3, y3) will be collinear
if
= 0.
Solution:
Note:
If three points P1, P2 and P3 are collinear then the determinant at must vanish
i.e. the area of triangle formed must be zero.
Note:
If the vertices are in clockwise order then take modulus.
Illustration:
Straight Line
Any equation of first degree of the form Ax + By + C = 0, where A, B, C are
constants always represents a straight line (at least one out of A and B is non
zero).
Slope
If is the angle at which a straight line is inclined to the positive direction of
the x-axis, then m = tan, (0 < < 180o) is the slope of the line.
Intercept Form:
x/a + y/b = 1
x intercept = a
y intercept = b
(b)
The gradient of the straight line i.e., the slope m of the line
Equation:
y y1 = m(x x1), where (x1, y1) is a point on the straight line.
Illustration:
Pause:
Equation of line in figure (ii) is x = 3, because x-co-ordinate of each point on
the line is 3.
Equation of line in figure (iv) is y = 2, because y-co-ordinate of each point on
the line is 2.
Although every line satisfied the above given basic definition, a line can be
represented in many forms, some of which are given hereunder.
Two points form:
Let there be two points A(x1, y1) and B(x2, y2) in a co-ordinate plane. If any
point P(x, y) lies on the line joining A and b then m = tan = yy1/xx2 = y2
y1/x2 x1, (see figure given below).
y y2 = y2 y1/x2 x1 (x x2) or
= 0.
Illustration:
Find the locus of the point of intersection of the liens xcos + ysin = a and xsin ycos =
b. where is a variable.
Solution:
Let P(h, k) be the point of intersection of the given lines.
Then hcos + ksin = a.
hsin kcos = b.
(1)
(2)
y/b = x/a + 1.
x/a + y/b = 1.
This is intercept from of the equation of a straight line.
Parametric form:
Consider line PQ with points Q(x1, y1). Then Co-ordinates of any points P(x, y) are
x = x1 + r cos (see figure given below)
y = y1 + r sin
Equation of the line is obtained as follows: xx1/cos = yy1/sin = r
This is parametric form of the equation of a straight line.
Note:
That tan = m = slope of line.
Normal form:
Consider line l as shown in figure given below
ON l and |ON| = p
We have in ?ONA
OA = p/cos
This equation can be reduced to any of the above forms with some rearrangements.
Intercept form
3x 4y = 5
3x/5 + 4y/5 = 1
(d)
parametric form
x1/cos = r, where tan = 3/4
x1/4/5 = y2/3/5 = r
(e)
Normal form
3x 4y = 5
3x + 4y = 5
Dividing by ((3)2 + 4)
3/5 x + 4/5 y = 5/5 = 1
x cos + y sin = p, p > 0
Where cos = 3/5, sin = 4/5, p = 1
Illustration:
The straight line drawn through the point P(0, 3) and making an angle of
30o with positive x-axis, meets the line x + y = 6 at Q. Find the length PQ.
Solution:
Method 1.
Equation of the line through the point P is
x0/cos 30 = y 3/sin 30 = r
xQ = 3/r r, yQ = 3 + r/2, r = distance PQ
Point Q lies on x + y = 6
r3/2 + (3 + r/2) = 6
r = 6/3+1
Method 2.
Equation of the line through the point P is y = 1/3 x + 3
[because here m = tan 30o = 1/3, c = 3]
Solving this line, with x + y = 6, we get
xQ = 33/3+1, yQ = 33+6/3+1
distance PQ = (xQ xP)2 + (yQ yP)2
= 6/3+1
Illustration:
Find the equation of the line whose perpendicular distance from the origin is
4 units and the angle which the normal makes with positive direction of xaxis is 15o.
Solution:
Here, we are given p = 4 and = 15o.
Now cos 15o = 3+1/22
and sin 15o = 31/22
By the normal form, the equation of the line is
x cos 15o + y sin 15o = 4 or 3+1/22 x + 31/22 y = 4
or (3 + 1) x + (3 1)y = 82.
This is the required equation.
Illustration:
Given a line 2x 3y + 5 = 0. Write various forms of the line.
Solution:
Slope intercept form:
y = 2x/3 + 5/3, C = 5/3
Illustration:
Find the equation of the line joining the points (1, 3) and (4, 2).
Solution:
Equation of the line passing through the points (x1, y1) and (x2, y2) is
y y1 = y1y2/x1x2 (x x1)
Hence equation of the required line will be
y 3 = 3+2/14 (x + 1) x + y 2 = 0.
Illustration:
Represent the straight-line y = x + 2 in the parametric form.
Solution:
Slope of the given line is = 1 = tan /4.
Equation of the straight line can be written as y 2 = x.
or y2/1/2 = x/1/2= r.
Any point on the line is (r/2, 2 + r/2).
The point (x, y) is at a distance r from the point (0, 2).
Illustration:
A line joining two points A(2, 0) and B(3, 1) is rotated about A in the
anticlockwise direction through an angle of 15o. Find the equation of the line
in the new position. If B goes to C, what will be the coordinates of C, in the
new position?
Solution:
Slope of BAB(m) = 1 m = tan = 1 = 45o.
= tan (60o) (because angle between AB and AC = 15o).
Also AB = AC = 2 and A is (2, 0).
i.e.
generalizing for any point (x, y) the equation of the angle bisector is obtained
as:
A1x+B1y+C1/A12 + B12 = + A2x+B2y+C2/A22 + B22
Note:
1. This equation gives two bisectors: one-acute angle bisector and the other
obtuse bisector.
To determine a bisector which lies in the same relative position with respect
to the lines as a given point S(x 3, y3) does, make the signs of the expressions
A2x3 +
B1y3+
C1 and
A2x3 +
B2y3 +
C2 identical.
(say
positive)
2
2
2
2
then A1x+B1y+C1/A1 + B1 = +A2x+B2y+C2/A2 + B2 gives the bisector
towards this point. If the signs are different multiply one of the equations
with 1 throughout, so that positive sign is obtained. Then above equation
with changed equations of lines will given the required bisector.
3. If (x3, y3) (0, 0) and A2A1 + B2B1 > 0 then the bisector towards the origin
is the obtuse angle bisector.
Locus
If a point moves according to some fixed rule, its co-ordinates will always
satisfy some algebraic relation corresponding to the fixed rule. The resulting
path (a curve) of the moving point is called the locus of the point. The locus
i.e. the curve now contains all the points satisfying the specified condition
and no point outside the curve satisfies the condition.
When a point moves in a plane under certain geometrical conditions, the
point traces out a path. This path of the moving point is called its locus.
Equation of Locus
The equation to the locus is the relation which exists between the
coordinates of all the point on the path, and which holds for no other points
except those lying on the path.
Procedure for finding the equation of the locus of a point
(i) If we are finding the equation of the locus of a point P, assign coordinates
(h, k) to P.
(ii) Express the given conditions as equations in terms of the known
quantities and unknown parameters.
(iii) Eliminate the parameters, so that the eliminant contains only h, k and
known quantities.
(iv) Replace h by x, and k by y, in the eliminant. The resulting equation is the
equation
of
the
locus
of
p.
The problem of determining the equation of locus of points every pair of
which has constant slope. (see figure given below)
Slope is the tangent (i.e. tan q) of the angle made by a line with the positive
x-axis (remember positive) taken in anticlockwise direction from x-axis to the
line. For any two points P(x1, y1) and Q(x2, y2).
Solution:
Let us make the expression on the left-hand side of the given equations of the same sign
or + ve. After substituting x = 0 and
y = 0.
L.H.S. of (i) is 3.0 + 4.0 12 = 12 = ve
R.H.S. of (ii) is 5.0 + 12.0 + 13 = 13 = + ve
So, multiply equation (i) by (1), we get
3x 4y + 12 = 0
(1)
Equation of the bisector of the angle containing origin is given by +ve sign i.e. 3x
4y+12/5 = + 5x+12y+13/13
64x + 112y 91 = 0
(3)
(1)
5x + 12y + 13 = 0
(2)
To find out whether this is an acute angle bisector or obtuse angle bisector, let us find the
sign of a1 a2 + b1 b2 from equation (1) and equation (2).
a1 a2 + b1 b2
= (3) (5) + (4) (12) = 15 48 = 63 = ve
the bisector containing the origin is the acute angle bisector.
Now, For obtuse angle bisector, we take ve origin.
i.e. 3x 4y+12/5 = + 5x+12y+13/13
i.e. 14x 8y 221 = 0
(4)
Well, to confirm all this, let us find angle between one of the lines and one of the bisectors
i.e.
5x + 12y + 13 = 0
(2)
64x + 112y 91 = 0
(3)
tan =
<1
( = say)
tan acute =
Important:
1.
2.
3.
Equation of a line parallel to y = mx + c is y = mx + k, i.e. Equation of a line parallel to
ax + by + c = 0 is ax + by + k = 0
4.
Equation of a line perpendicular to y = mx + c is y = 1/m x + k i.e. Equation of a line
perpendicular to ax + by + c = 0 is
bx ay + k = 0
5.
Lines
a1x + b1y + c1 = 0
a2x + b2y + c2 = 0
(i)
(ii)
represents
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
2.
Complete distance formula. If the point P and the origin O, instead of lying on the
opposite sides of l as in figure given above, lie on the same side of line l 1 it may be proved
by proceeding exactly in the same manner that
The distance of a point from a line is the length of the perpendicular drawn from the point to
the line. Let L : Ax + By + C = 0 be a line, whose distance from the point P(x 1, y1) is d. Draw
a perpendicular PM from the point P to the line L. If the line meets the x and y-axes at the
points Q and R respectively, then coordinates of the points are Q(C/A, 0) and R(0, C/B).
Thus the area of the triangle PQR is given by
area(?PQR) = 1/2 PM QR, which gives PM = 2 are (PQR)/QR
also, area (?PQR) = 1/2 |x1 (0 + C/B) + (C/A) (C/B y1) + 0(y1 0)|
= 1/2 |x1 C/B + y1 C/A + C2/AB|
(1)
(1)
and y = mx + c2
(2)
Line (1) will intersect x-axis at the point A (c1/m, 0) as shown in figure.
Distance between two lines is equal to the length of the perpendicular from point A to line
(2). Therefore, distance between the lines (1) and 92) is
|(m)(c1/m)+(c2)|/1+m2 or d = |c1c2|/1+m2.
Thus the distance d between two parallel liens y = mx + c 1 and y + mx + c2 is given by d = |
C1C2|/A2+B2.
Illustration:
Find the distance of the point (3, 5) from the line 3x 4y 26 = 0.
Solution:
Given line is 3x 4y 26 = 0.
(1)
Illustration:
Find the distance between the parallel lines 3x 4y + 7 = 0 and
3x 4y + 5 = 0.
Solution:
Here A = 3, B = 4, C1 = 7 and C2 = 5.
Illustration:
The coordinates of the vertices A, B, C of a triangle are (6, 3), (3, 5) and (4,2) respectively
and P is any point (x, y). Show that the ratio of the areas of the triangles PBC and ABC is |x +
y 2| : 7.
Solution:
Equation of the line BC is x + y 2 = 0. Let PG and AD be perpendiculars from p and A on
BC.
Illustration:
Find the distance from the line 3x 4y + 35 = 0 of the point (0, 0).
Solution:
Writing the given equation in the normal form, we get
3/5 x + 4/5 y 7 = 0
Substituting x = 0, y = 0 in it, d = 3/5 (0) + 4/5 (0) 7 = 7
Changing sign the required distance = 7.
Second form:
To find the perpendicular distance of the point (x1, y1) from the line
ax + by + c = 0.
Let us convert the given equation in the normal form.
a/a2+b2 x + b/a2+b2 y + c/a2+b2 = 0
The perpendicular Distance of (x1, y1) is
d = a/a2+b2 x1 + b/a2+b2 y1 + c/a2+b2
d = ax1+by1+c/a2+b2
This formula can also be obtained independently as under:
Let PM be the perpendicular form P on AB. Then coordinates of A and B are
(c/a, 0) and (0, c/b) respectively,
AB = c2/a2+c2/b2
= c/ab (a2+b2)
Area of ?PAB (Recall from page M4 M 4)
= 1/2 [x1 (c/b 0)+0(0 y1) c/a (y1 + c/b)]
= c/2ab (ax1 + by1 + c)
(1)
(2)
PM = ax1+by1+c/a2+b2
Neglecting the negative sign, as the length of a segment is always positive, we have
PM = |ax1+by1+c/a2+b2|
Note:
1.
Actually
d = + ax1+by1+c/a2+b2
2.
To find the distance of a point from the given line, in the left side of the equation (right
side being zero) substitute the co-ordinates of the point, and divide the result
by (coefficient of x)2 + (coefficient of y)2
3.
When to use complete perpendicular Distance formula? The complete perpendicular
Distance formula is used when the length of the perpendicular to the line is given.
Illustration:
Find the
x y = 5.
distance
of
the
point
P(2,
3)
from
the
line
AB
which
is
Solution:
The equation of the line is
x y 5 = 0 [Making right side zero (note this step)]
Perpendicular Distance of the point (2, 3)
= (2)35/(1)2+(1)2 = 10/2
= 52
Changing the sign, perpendicular Distance in magnitude = 52.
Enquiry:
We can now find the distance of a point form a line but how can we
determine as to which side of the line does the point lie?
From the figure, we observe that
ax0 + by0 + c = 0
(1)
[x0 = x1 = x2]
= b(y1 y0)
= ve
Consider, ax2 + by2 + c
= (ax0 + c) + by2
= b(y2 y0)
= +ve
Thus we observe that the point is on one side of the line, if put in the expression of line is
gives one sign, while the point is on the other side of the line, if put in the expression of line
it gives opposite sign.
Illustration:
Final the condition so that the points (x 1, y1) and (x2, y2) lie on the same side, of the line ax +
by + c =
Solution:
Since, (ax1 + by1 + c) and (ax2 + by2 + c)
Should be of the same sign.
Their product should be positive i.e.
(ax1+by1+c)(ax2+by2+c) > 0, which is the required condition.
Family of lines
The general equation of the family of lines through the point of intersection of two given
lines is L + L = 0, where L = 0 and L = 0 are the two given lines, and is a parameter.
Illustration:
A
variable
line
through
the
point
of
intersection
of
the
lines
x/a + y/b = 1 and x/b + y/a = 1 meets the coordinate axes in A and B. Show that the locus
of the midpoint of AB is the curve 2xy(a + b) = ab(x + y).
Solution:
Let (h, k) be the midpoint of the variable line AB.
The equation of the variable line AB is
(bx + ay ab) + (ax + by ab) = 0
(i)
The above expression for tan, gives two values of m, say mA and mB.
(ii)
The required equations of the lines through the point (x 1, y1) and making equal
angles with the given line are y y1 = mA (x x1), y y1 = mB(x x1).
Illustration:
Find the equations to the sides of an isosceles right-angled triangle, the equation of whose
hypotenuse is 3x + 4y = 4 and the opposite vertex is the point (2, 2).
Solution:
The problem can be restated as:
Find the equations to the straight lines passing through the given point (2, 2) and
making equal angles of 45o with the given straight line 3x + 4y 4 = 0
Slope of the line 3x + 4y 4 = 0 is m1 = 3/4
and mB = 7.
(1)
Solution:
Distance AC between the two given parallel lines
= |c1c2/a2+b2| = 123/16+9 = 9/5.
equations
of
the
lines
are
7x
24y
182
and
Alternative solution:
Equation of the line, through P(2, 7) and making angle with the x-axis, is x+2/cos =
y+7/sin = r.
If this line intersects the given lines at A and B, with AB = 3, the points A and B are A(2 +
r1 cos , 7 + r1 sin ) and B (2 + (r1 + 3) cos , 7 + (r1 + 3) sin ).
Since A and B lie on the lines 4x + 3y = 3 and 4x + 3y = 12, we have
(i)
= 0.
(ii) There exist 3 constants l, m, n (not all zero at the same time) such that IL 1 + mL2 +
nL3 = 0, where L1 = 0, L2 = 0 and L3 = 0 are the three given straight lines.
(iii) The three lines are concurrent if any one of the lines passes through the point of
intersection of the other two lines.
Illustration:
Check if lines
a1 x + b1 y + c1 = 0
(1)
a2 x + b2 y + c2 = 0
(2)
(3)
are concurrent?
Solution:
We can try to find , and by observation as follow:
L3 2L1 + 3L2 = 0
Enquiry: many lines can pass through the intersection of two lines. Can we find
a general equation of these lines?
If L1 = 0 and L2 = 0 are two lines then equation of family of lines passing through their
intersection is given by
L1 + L2 = 0
(A)
Illustration:
If x (2q + p) + y(3q + p) = 0
(x + y 1) + q/p (2x + 3y 1) = 0, p 0
Solution:
This equation represents the family of lines passing through the intersection of lines x + y
1 = 0 and 2x + 3y 1 = which is fixed point i.e. (2, 1).
If p = 0 then equation becomes
q(2x + 3y 1) = 0
this also represents a line which passes through fixed points (2, 1).
Hence the given equation represents family of lines passing through a fixed point (2, 1) for
variable p, q.
Illustration:
Find the equation of a line, through the intersection of 2x + 3y 7 = 0 and x + 3y 5 = 0
and having distance from origin as large as possible.
2x + y 5 = 0
Illustration:
Find the point of concurrency of the altitudes drawn from the vertices (at 1t2, a(t1 + r2)), (at2t3,
a2t2 + t3)) and (at3t1, a(t3 + t1)) respectively of a triangle ABC.
Solution:
Slope of AD = t3.
Equation of AD is y a(t1 + t2) = t3(x + at1t2).
(1)
(2)
So that ax1 + by1 + c and ax2 + by2 + c should have opposite signs.
Case 2:
If ax1 + by1 + c and ax2 + by2 + c have the same signs then m1/m2 = ve, so that the point R
on the line ax + by + c = 0 will divide the line PQ externally in the ratio m 1 : m2 and the
points P(x1, y1) and Q(x2, y2) are on the same side of the line ax + by + c = 0.
Illustration:
Find the range of in the interval (0, ) such that the points (3, 5) and (sin, cos) lie on the
same side of the line x + y 1 = 0.
Solution:
3 + 5 1 =7 > 0 sin + cos 1 > 0
sin(/4 + ) > 1/2
/4 < /4 + < 3/4
0 < < /2.
Illustration:
Find a, if (, 2) lies inside the triangle having sides along the lines
2x + 3y = 1, x + 2y 3 = 0, 6y = 5x 1.
Solution:
Let A, B, C be vertices of the triangle.
If p lies in-side the ABC, then sign of P will be the same as sign of a w.r.t. the line BC
5 62 1 < 0.
Similarly
2 + 32 1 > 0.
And,
+ 22 3 < 0.
(1)
(2)
(3)
Solving, (1), (2) and (3) for and then taking intersection,
We get
Illustration:
The equations of the perpendicular bisectors of the sides AB and AC of a triangle ABC are
respectively x y + 5 = 0 and x + 2y = 0. If the co-ordinates of A are (1, 2), find the
equation of BC.
Solution:
From the figure,
E (x1+1/2, y12/2),
F (x2+1/2, y22/2).
(1)
and x2 + 2y2 3 = 0
(2)
(3)
And 2x2 y2 4 = 0
(4)
. (1)
. (2)
[Using a a = b b]
.. (3)
Angle Bisectors
To find the equations of the bisectors of the angle between the lines
a1x + b1y+ c1 = 0 and a2x + b2y + c2 = 0.
A bisector is the locus of a point, which moves such that the perpendiculars drawn from it to
the two given lines, are equal.
The equations of the bisectors are
a1x+b1y+c1/a12+b12 = + a2x+b2y+c2/a22+b22.
(ii)
(iii)
Solution:
Equations of bisectors of the angles between the given lines are
4x+3y6/42+32 = + 5x+12y+9/52+122
9x 7y 41 = 0 and 7x + 9y 3 = 0.
(ii)
The equation ax2 + 2hxy + by2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0. Represents a second degree equation
where a, h, b doesnt variables simultaneously.
Let a 0.
Now, the above equation becomes
a2 x2 + 2ax (hy + g) = aby2 2afy ac
on completing the square on the left side, we get,
a2 x2 + 2ax (hy + g) = y2 (h2 ab) + 2y (gh af) + g2 ac.
i.e.
(ax + hy + g) = + y2(h2ab)+2y(ghaf)g2ac
We cannot obtain x in terms of y, involving only terms of the first degree, unless the quantity
under the radical sign be a perfect square. The condition for this is,
(gh af)2 = (h2 ab) (g2 ac)
i.e. g2h2 2afgh + a2f2 = g2h2 abg2 abg2 ach2 + a2bc
cancelling and diving by a, we have the required condition
abc + 2fgh af2 af2 bg2 ch2 = 0
Illustration:
What is the point of intersection of two straight lines given by general equation ax 2+ 2hxy +
by2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0?
Solution:
The general solution is
ax2 + 2hxy + by2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0
(1)
y = y +
Illustration:
Represent lines y = 2x and y = 3x by a homogeneous equation of second degree
Solution:
(y 2x) (y 3x) = 0
Or 6x2 5xy + y2 = 0
Illustration:
Represent lines parallel to y = 2x and y = 3x by a second degree equation
Solution:
(y 2x c1) (y 3x c2) (where c1 and c2 are constants)
= 6x2 5xy + y2 + (3c1 + 2c2) x + ( c1 c2) y + c1 c2 = 0
Note:
1.
Homogeneous part is same as for the equation of above illustration. Therefore, the
homogeneous part of a general second degree equation determines the slope of the lines
i.e. lines parallel to ax2 + 2hxy + by2 + c = 0 and through the origin are represented by the
equation ax2 + 2hxy + by2 = 0
2.
The equation ax2 + 2hxy + by2 + 2fy + c = 0 represents a pair of parallel straight lines
if h/a = b/h = f/g or bg2 = af2
The distance between them is given by 2g2ac/a(a+b) or f2bc/b(a+b)
Illustration:
Does the second degree equation x2 + 3xy + 2y2 x 4y 6 = 0 represents a pair of
lines. If yes, find their point of intersection.
Solution:
We observe that
a = 1, h = 3/2, b = 2, g = 1/2, f = 2, c = 6
\ abc + 2fgh af2 bg2 ch2 = 12 + 3 4 1/2 + 27/2 = 0
Therefore the given second-degree equation represents a pair of lines, x 2 + 3xy + 2y2 x
4y 6 = (x + 2y + 2) (x + y 3).
+ 2hxy
+ by = 0
Comparing the coefficients of x2, y2 and xy, we get
b(y m1x) (y m2x) = ax2 + 2hxy + by2
m1 + m2 = 2h/b and
m1 m2 = a/b
tan acute = |m2m1/1+m1m2|
= |(m1m2)2 4m1m2/1+m1m2|
= |2h2ab/a+b|
Caution:
1.
Note:
1.
2.
i.e. x2 + 2hxy y2 always represents pair of mutually perpendicular lines through origin.
3.
Two lines are equally inclined to axes but are not parallel. For such a case let us take a
line l1 which is inclined at an angle , then l2 is inclined at ( ).
tan ( ) = tan .
which is the condition for two lines inclined equally to axes.
4.
Illustration:
What is the equation of the pair of lines through origin and perpendicular to ax 2 + 2hxy +
by2 = 0
Solution:
Let ax2 + 2hxy + by2 = 0 represents the lines y = m1x (i) and y = m2x (ii)
Lines perpendicular to the lines (i) and (ii) are y = 1/m1 x and y = 1/m2 x respectively and
passing through origin
i.e. m1y + x = 0 and m2y + x = 0
Their combined equation is given by
(m1y + x) (m2y + x) = 0
m1m2 y2 + (m1 + m2) xy + x2 = 0
a/2 y2 2h/b xy + x2 = 0
bx2 2hxy + ay2 = 0 is the equation of the pair of lines perpendicular to pair of lines ax 2 +
2hxy + by2 = 0
Note:
=0
1.
2.
3.
If in (i), coefficient of x2 + coefficient of 2 = 0, then the two bisectors are always
perpendicular to each other
Illustration:
Prove that the angle between one of the lines given by
ax2 + 2hxy + by2 = 0 and one of the lines given by ax2 + 2hxy+ by2 + K(x2 + y2) = 0 is equal
to the angle between the other two lines of the system.
Solution:
Let L1 and L2 be one pair and L3 and L4 be the other pair of lines.
If the angle between L1 and L3 is equal to the angle between L2 and L4 then pair of
bisectors of L1 and L2 would be same as that of L3 and L4. Pair of bisectors of L3 and L4 is
x2y2/(a+k)(b+k) = xy/h
x2y2/ab = xy/h
Which is the same as the bisector pair of L1 and L2.
6.
Angle bisectors of ax2 + 2hxy + by2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 (i) are given by (xx0)2(y
2
y0) /ab = (xx0)(yy0)/h where (x0, y0) is the point of intersection of (i)
Enquiry: If we shift the origin of the coordinate system how can the coordinates
of a point be known in the new system? What will happen if we rotate the axis?
(i)
Linear Transformation:
CP = x, DP = y; AP = x, BP = y
X=xh
Y=yk
You can check it by putting (h = 0, k = 0) that it gets reduced to the same original
coordinate system.
(ii)
Rotation of Axes:
If axes are rotated anticlockwise by angle q then the coordinates of a point P(x, y) changes
to say P(x, y):
OL = x, PL = y
OM = X, PM = Y
OP = R (say)
cos ( + ) = x/R
(i)
sin ( + ) = Y/R
(ii)
cos = x/R
(ii)
sin = Y/R
(iv)
= 0.
(since h2 + k2 0).
Circle
Circle holds a high pedestal in the entire Syllabus of Co-ordinate
Geometry in Mathematics.
In this chapter, we discuss the algebraic equations representing
a circle and the lines associated with it i.e. a tangent, a pair of
1. Basic Concepts
2. Chord of a Circle
3. Chord of Contact
4. Common Tangents
5. Family of Circle
6. Power of a Point with Respect to a Circle
7. Radical Axis
8. Solved Examples
Basic Concepts
Locus has been defined as the path of a point satisfying some geometrical condition; i.e.
constraint equations. The path represents a curve, which includes all the points satisfying
the given condition.
Similarly a circle can be defined as: The locus of a point which moves in such a way that its
distance from a fixed point is always constant and positive. The fixed point is called the
centre of the circle and the given distance the radius of the circle. In real life, when you
rotate a stone tied with one end of a string then the path followed by stone is exactly a circle
whose centre is your finger an radius is length of the string.
The equation of a circle with its centre at C(xc, yc) and radius r is:
(x xc)2 + (y yc)2 = r2
Proof:
Let P(x, y) be any point on the circle. Then by the definition of the locus the constant
distance is (see figure given below)
y = yc + r sin
Similarly x = xc + r cos
Then we have
CP2 = OC2 + OP2 2OC . OP cos COP
i.e. a2 = R2 + r2 2 Rr cos ( )
i.e. r2 2 Rr cos ( ) + R2 a2 = 0 (1)
This is the required polar equation.
Particular cases of the general equation in polar coordinates.
Note:
1. Let the initial line be taken to go through the centre C. Then = 0, and the equation
becomes
r2 2Rr cos + R2 a2 = 0.
2. Let the pole O be taken on the circle, so that
R = OC =
The general equation the becomes
r2 2ar cos ( ) = 0,
i.e. r = 2a cos ( ).
3. Let the pole be on the circle and also let the initial line pass through the centre of the
circle. In this case
= 0, and R = a
Now, the general equation reduces to the simple form r=2a cos
Recall:
PRQ = /2 (Angle subtended by diameter at any point on the circle is a right angle).
QR PR
(Slope of QR) x (Slope of PR) = 1
(y-y2)/(x-x2 )(y-y1)/(x-x1 ) = 1
(x x1) (x x2) + (y y1) (y y2) = 0
Which gives the required equation.
Note:
This equation can also be obtained considering
PR2 + QR2 = PQ2
The general from of the equation of a circle is:
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 (1)
(x + g)2 + (y + f)2 = g2 + f2 c
Comparing this equation with the standard equation (x xc)2 + (y yc)2= r2
We have:
Centre of the circle is (g, f), Radius = (g2+f2-c).
Equation (1) is also written as S = 0.
Note:
1. If g2 + f2 c > 0, circle is real
2. If g2 + f2 c = 0, circle is a point circle.
3. If g2 + f2 c < 0, the circle is imaginary.
4. Any second-degree equation ax2 + 2hxy + by2 + 2gx + 2fy+c=0 represents a circle
only when h = 0 and a = b i.e. if there is no term containing xy and co-efficient of x 2 and
y2 are same, provided abc + 2fgh af2 bg2 ch2 0
Illustration:
Find the centre and the radius 3x2 + 3y2 8x 10y + 3 = 0.
Solution:
We write the given equation as x2 + y2 8/3 10/3 y + 1 = 0.
g = -4/3, f = -5/3 , c = 1
Illustration:
Find the equation of the circle whose diameter is the line joining the points (4, 3) and
(12, 1). Find also the intercept made by it on the y-axis.
Solution:
The equation of the required circle is
(x + 4) (x 12) + (y 3) (y + 1) = 0.
On the y-axis, x = 0 48 + y2 2y 3 = 0.
y2 2y 51 = 0 y = 1 52.
Hence the intercept on the y-axis = 2252 = 413.
Illustration:
Find the equation of the circle passing through (1, 1), (2, 1) and (3, 2).
Solution:
Let the equation be x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0.
Substituting the coordinates of three points, we get
2g + 2f + c = 2,
4g 2f + c = 5,
6g + 4f + c = 13.
Solving the above three equations, we obtain:
f = 1/2; g = 5/2, c = 4.
Hence the equation of the circle is
x2 + y2 5x y + 4 = 0.
Illustration:
Write general equation of a circle centered at a point on x-axis.
Solution:
Circle is: x2 + y2 + 2gx + c = 0, g2 c 0
Its centre is (g, 0) and radius (g2-c)
Or
(x + g)2 + (y 0)2 = r2
Solution:
(x a) (x 0) + (y 0) (y b) = 0
Illustration:
Find the equation of circle shown in figure given below in polar form.
Solution:
OP = OA cos
r = 2a cos , /2 /2, a is raius of circle
Illustration:
Find the co-ordinates of the centre of the circle represented by
r = A cos + B sin .
Solution:
r = A cos + B sin
= [A/(A2+B2 ) cos +B/(A2+B2 ) sin ] (A2+B2 )
= cos ( ) ((A2+B2 ))
centre is (1/2 (A2+B2 ),tan-1 (B/A) )
Note:
1. The equation of the circle through three non-collinear points
Chord of a circle
The equation of the chord of the circle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy +c=0 with M(x1, y1) as the
midpoint of the chord is
xx1 + yy1 + g(x + x1) + f(y + y1) = x12 + y12 + 2gx1 + 2fy1
i.e. T = S1
Illustration:
Find the equation of the circle whose centre is (3, 4) and which touches the line 5x +
12y = 1.
Solution:
Let r be the radius of the circle. Then
r = distance of the centre i.e. point (3, 4) from the line 5x + 12y = 1
= |(15+48-1)/(25-44)|=62/13.
Hence the equation of the required circle is (x 3)2 + (y 4)2 = (62/13)2.
x2 + y2 6x 8y + 381/169 = 0.
Illustration:
Find the co-ordinates of the point from which tangents are drawn to the circle x 2 + y2
6x 4y + 3 = 0 such that the mid-point of its chord of contact is (1, 1).
Solution:
Let the required point be (P(x1, y1). The equation of the chord of contact of P with
respect to the given circle is
xx1 + yy1 3(x + x1) 2(y + y1) + 3 = 0. (1)
The equation of the chord with mid-point (1, 1) is
x + y 3(x + 1) 2(y + 1) + 3 = 1 + 1 6 4 + 3
2x + y = 3.
Equating the ratios of the coefficients of x, y and the constant terms and solving for x 1,
y1 we get x1 = 1, y1 = 0.
Chord of contact
Let AP and AQ be tangents to circle from point P(x 1, y1). Then equation of PQ is known as
equation of chord of contact.
1. It is also written as T = 0
2. The equation of chord AB [A (R cos , R sin ); B (R cos , R sin )] of the circle x2 +
y2 = R2 is given by
x cos (( + )/2) + y sin (( - )/2) = a cos (( - )/2)
3. If a line y = mx + c intersects the circle x2 + y2 = a2 in two distinct points A and B then
length of intercept AB = 2((a2 (1+m2 )-c2)/(1+m2 ))
Caution:
The equation of a chord of contact and the equation of the tangent on a point of the circle
and both given by T = 0. The difference is that while in the case of a tangent the point (x 1,
y1) lies on the circle. In the case of a chord of contact (x1, y1) lies outside the circle.
Illustration:
Write the equations of tangents to the circle x2 + y2 = 9 and having slope 2.
Solution:
Tangents with slope m are given by y = mx + a (1+m 2 ) i.e.
3 (1+4).
Note:
These are two parallel tangents to the circle at the end of the diameter.
Illustration:
Write the equation of tangents to the circle x2 + y2 = 25 at the point (3, 4)?
Solution:
Point (3, 4) lies on the circle.
Required equation of the tangent is : 3x + 4y= 25 using
x1x + y1y = a2, where (x1, y1) (3, 4)
Illustration:
Write the equation of normal to x2 + y2 = 25 at (3, 4)?
Solution:
Recall:
y = 2x
Common Tangents
(a) Direct common tangents:
(i) The direct common tangents to two circles meet on the line of centres and divide it
externally in the ratio of the radii.
(ii) The transverse common tangents also meet on the line of centres and divide it
internally in the ratio of the radii.
Notes:
When one circle lies completely inside the other without touching, there is nocommon
tangent.
When two circles touch each other internally 1 common tangent can be drawn to the
circles.
When two circles intersect in two real and distinct points, 2 common tangentscan be
drawn to the circles.
When two circles touch each other externally, 3 common tangents can be drawn to the
circles.
When two circle neither touch nor intersect and one lies outside the other, then 4 common
tangents can be drawn.
P is the point of intersection of two direct common tangents to the circles with centres
C1 and C2 and radii r1, r2 respectively. C1A1, C2A2 are perpendiculars from C1 and C1 to one of
the tangents (figure given below)
Common Tangents
Notes:
When one circle lies completely inside the other without touching, there is nocommon
tangent.
When two circles touch each other internally 1 common tangent can be drawn to the
circles.
When two circles intersect in two real and distinct points, 2 common tangentscan be
drawn to the circles.
When two circles touch each other externally, 3 common tangents can be drawn to the
circles.
When two circle neither touch nor intersect and one lies outside the other, then 4 common
tangents can be drawn.
P is the point of intersection of two direct common tangents to the circles with centres
C1 and C2 and radii r1, r2 respectively. C1A1, C2A2 are perpendiculars from C1 and C1 to one of
the tangents (figure given below)
Caution:
Length C1C2 > |r1 r2|
(b) Transverse Common tangents
P is the point of intersection of two transverse tangents to two non-intersecting circles
with centres C1 and C2 and radii r1, and r2 respectively. Then P lies on the line joining the
centres. C1A1 and C2A2 are perpendiculars from C1 and C2 to one of these tangents. (Figure
given below)
The centres of circles of a coaxial system, which are of zero radiuses, are called the
limiting points o the coaxial system.
Let the equation of a system of coaxial circles be
x2 + y2 + 2gx + c = 0
Where g is a parameter and c is a constant.
Its radius (g2-c)and centre is (g, 0)
If g2 c = 0 or g = + c, then radius become zero and for these two values of g we
have two circles of zero radius whose centres are ( c, 0).
These circles of zero radius are just points and according to definition given above are
the limiting points of the co-axial system.
1. If the system of circles is intersecting one, then c is negative and these limiting points are
two imaginary points.
2. If the system of circles are non intersecting then c is positive and these limiting points are
both real.
3. If c = 0, points of intersection are coincident to (0, 0) i.e.
Since radius of a circle is perpendicular to the tangent. So C 1P and C2P are also
perpendicular.
(C1C2)2 = (C1P)2 + (C2P)2 (g1 g2)2 + (f1 f2)2 = r12 + r22
g12 + g22 2g1g2 + f12 + f22 2f1f2=g12 + f12 C1 + g22 + f22 c2
2g1g2 + 2f1f2 = C1 + C2
which is the required condition for the orthogonal intersection of two circles.
From the triangle C1C2P it is clear that angle can be written as:
cos = (r12+r22-d2)/(2r1 r2 )
The equation of polar of a fixed point P(x1, y1) with respect to the circle x 2 + y2 +
2gx + 2fy + c = 0 is
xx1 + yy1 + g(x + x1) + f(y + y1) + c = 0
i.e. of the form T = 0
Family of Circles
Enquiry: If the numbers of conditions for a circle to be drawn are less than three
then what shall we get?
Since (h, k) is fixed, so only parameter varying is r. This is one parameter family of
circles, and is the equation of the family of concentric circles. Fixation of the radius will give
a particular circle.
Caution:
If k = 1, we get equation of common chord i.e. straight line instead of circle.
Let S1 x2 + y2 + 2g1x + 2f1y + c1 = 0
S2 x2 + y2 + 2g2x + 2f2y + c2 = 0
Since, point lies on both the circles,
x2A + y2A + 2g1xA + 2f1yA + c1 = 0
x2A + y2A + 2g2xA + 2f2yA + c2 = 0
x2A + y2A + 2g1xA + 2f1yA + c1 + (x2A + y2A + 2g1xA + 2f1yA + c1)=0
Point A(xA, yA) lies on S1 + S2 = 0 R
Similarly point B(xB, yB) lies on S1 + S2 = 0 R
S1 + S2 = 0 is the family of circles through the intersection of S 1 = 0 and S2 = 0
6. Family of circles touching a given line L = 0 at a point (x1, x1) on the line is (x x1)2 + (y
x1)2 + L = 0, the particular value of the parameters gives a unique circle.
Family of Circles
(i) If S x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c=0 and S x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c=0 are two intersecting
circles, then S + S = 0, 1, is the equation of a family of circlespassing through the
points of intersection of S = 0 and S = 0.
(ii) If S = x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 is a circle which is intersected by the straight line =
ax + by + c = 0 in two real and distinct points, then S + = 0 is the equation of a family
of circles passing through the points of intersection of S = 0 and = 0.
(iii) The equation of a family of circles passing through two given points (x 1, x1) and (x2, y2)
can be written in the form
where is a parameter.
(iv) The equation of the family of circles which touch the line y x1 = m
(x x1) at (x1, x1) for any values of m is (x x1)2 + (y x1)2 +
[(y x1) m(x x1)] = 0.
Notes:
The two circles are said to intersect orthogonally if the angle of intersection of the circles
i.e., the angle between their tangents at the point of intersection is 90o.
The condition for the two circles to cut each other orthogonally is 2gg 1+ 2ff1 = c + c1 where
(g, f) and (g1, f1) are the centres of the respective circles, S = 0 and S1 = 0.
Illustration:
Find the equation of the circle described on the common chord of the circles x 2 + y2
4x 5 = 0 and x2 + y2 + 8y+ 7 = 0 as diameter
Solution:
Equation of the common chord is S1 S2 = 0
x + 2y + 3 = 0
Equation of the circle through the two circles is S1 + S2 = 0
x2 + y2 -4/(1+ ) x+8y/(1+ )+(7 -5)/(1+ ) = 0.
Its centre (2/(1+ ),-4/(1+ )) lies on x + 2y + 3 = 0
2/(1+ )-8/(1+ ) + 3 = 0 2 8 + 3 + 3 = 0 = 1.
Hence the required circle is x2 + y2 2x + 4y + 1 = 0.
Illustration:
The line Ax + By + C = 0 cuts the circle x2 + y2 + ax + by + c = 0 in P and Q. The Line A?
x + B?y + C? = 0 cuts the circle x2 + y2 + a'x + b'y + c' = 0 in R and S. If P, Q, R, S are
concyclic, prove that
Solution:
The equation of the circle through the first line and the first circle, i.e. through P and Q
is
x2 + y2 + ax + by + c + 1 (Ax + By + C) = 0. ........................ (1)
C- 2C' + c - c' = 0.
Illustration:
Show that the circle passing through the origin and cutting the circles x 2 + y2 - 2a1x 2b1y + c = 0 and x2 + y2 - 2a2x - 2b2y + c = 0 orthogonally is
Solution:
Let the equation of the circle passing through the origin be
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy = 0. ..................... (1)
It cuts the given two circles orthogonally
-2ga1 - 2fb1 = c1 c1 + 2ga1 + 2fb1 = 0 ? (2)
and -2ga2 - 2fb2 = c2 c2 + 2ga2 + 2fb2 = 0 ? (3)
Illustration:
Find that member of the family of circles having centre at (2, 3) which has radius of 5
unit.
Solution:
Family of circles having fixed centre (2, 3) is
(x - 2)2 + (y - 3)2 = r2
here we want that particular circle that has radius 5 units i.e. r = 5, the required circle is,
(x - 2)2 + (y - 3)2 = 25
Illustration:
Find a circle passing through the intersection of x 2 + y2 - 4 = 0 and x2 + y2 - 6x + 5 = 0
which passes through the point (2, 1)?
Solution:
Family of required circles is S1 + S2 = 0
(x2 + y2 - 4) + (x2 + y2 - 6x + 5) = 0
Since the required circle passes through the point (2, 1), the previous equation is satisfied
for the point (2, 1)
(4 + 1 - 4) + (4 + 1 - 12 + 5) = 0
1 - 2 = 0 = 1/2
Equation of the required circle is
(x2 + y2 - 4) + 1/2 (x2 + 2y - 6x + 5) = 0
x2 + y2 - 2x - 1 = 0
External and Internal Contacts of Circles
If two circles with centres C1(x1, y1) and C2(x2, y1) and radii r1 and r2 respectively, touch each
other externally, C1C2 = r1 + r2. Coordinates of the point of contact are A ((r1 r2+r2 r1)/
(r1+r2 ),(r1 y2+r2 y1)/(r1+r2 )).
Illustration 11:
Examine whether the two circles x2 + y2 2x 4y = 0 and x2 + y2 8y 4 = 0 touch
each other externally or internally.
Solution:
Let C1 and C2 be the centres of the circles.
C1(1, 2) and C2(0, 4). Let r1 and r2 be the radii of the circles
r1 = 5 and r2 = 25. Also C1C2 = (1+4)=5.
But r1 + r2 = 35 and r2 r1 = 5 = C1C2.
Hence the circles touch each other internally.
Illustration 12:
Radical Axis
This radical axis of two circles is the locus of a point from which the tangent segments to
the two circles are of equal lengths.
Equation of the Radical Axis
In general S S = 0 represents the equation of the Radical Axis to the two circles
i.e. 2x(g g) + 2y(f f) + c c = 0
where S x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0
and S x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0
(i) If S = 0 and s = 0 intersect in real and distinct points then S S = 0 is the equation of
the common chord of the two circles.
(ii) If S = 0 and S = 0 touch each other, then S S = 0 is the equation of the common
tangent to the two circles at the point of contact.
Solved Examples
Example 1:
Find the equation of the circle circumscribing the triangle formed by the lines x + y =
6, 2x + y = 4, x + 2y = 5.
Solution:
Method 1.
Consider the equation
(x + y 6) (2x + y 4) + 1 (2x + y 4) (x + 2y 5) + 2
(x + 2y 5) (x + y 6) = 0 (1)
This equation is satisfied by the points of intersection of any two of the given three
lines, i.e. it is satisfied by the vertices of the triangle formed by the given lines.
Result:
Now if (i) represents a circle then
(a) coefficient of x2 = coefficient of y2 and
(b) coefficient of xy = 0
And
3 + 51 + 32 = 0 1 = 6/5
Substituting these values in (i) and simplifying
We get
x2+ y2 17x 19y + 50 = 0 (Ans.)
Which is the equation of the required circle.
Method 2.
Solve the lines in pair to find the vertices of the triangle and then obtain theequation
of the circle through these three points.
Example 2:
Find the locus of the point of intersection of perpendicular tangents to the circle x 2 +
y = 4.
2
Solution:
Method 1.
y = mx + 2 (1+m2 ) is tangent to x2 + y2 = 4 for all values of m.
It passes through (h, k) if
k = mh + 2 (1+m2 )
(k mh)2 = 4 (1 + m2)
m2 (h2 4) 2h km + (k2 4) = 0 (i)
The roots m1 and m2 of this quadratic equation are the slopes of PT and PT. If PT and
PT are at right angle then m1m2 = 1.
From (i)
m1m2 = (k2-4)/(h2-4)
(k2-4)/(h2-4) = 1
h2 + k2 = 8
Locus of P(h, k) is x2 + y2 = 8
Method 2:
Equation of tangent at the point T(2 cos , 2 sin )
is 2 cos x + 2 sin y = 4
i.e. x cos + y sin = 2 (i)
Method 3:
OP2 = OT2 + TP2 ( OTP is a right angled triangle)
OP2 = OT2 + OT2
OP2 = 2R2
h2 + k2 = 2(4) = 8
Locus of P(h, k) is x2 + y2 = 8.
Note:
x2 + y2 = 8 is director circle of the circle x2 + y2 = 4
Example 3:
Find the condition that the line 3x + 44y p = 0 is tangent to the circle x 2 + y2 4x 6y
+9=0
Solution:
Radius of the given circle is 2 and centre is (2, 3). So for line 3x + 4x p = 0 to be
tangent to the circle we have,
|(3.2+4.3-p)/(32+42 )| = 2.
|18 p| = 10
18 p = 10 p = 8
18 p = 10 p = 28
Hence the required condition is p = 8 or p = 28. (Ans.)
Example 4
A circular plot of land in the form of a unit circle is to be divided into two equal parts by
the arc of a circle whose centre is on the circumference of the circular plot. Show that the
radius of the circular arc is 2 cos , where is given by sin 2 2 cos 2 = /2.
Solution:
Let O be the centre of the given circular plot of radius 1 i.e. OA = OB = OC = 1 and A
be any point on its circumference. Again BDC be the arc of the circle with centre A and
dividing the given circle into two equal parts. Let r the radius of the new circle, then AB = AC
= AD = r.
Let AOB =
Then OBA = OCA = , and AOB = ( 2).
Now area ABDCA must be = 1/2 area of unit circle = ( (1) 2)/2 = /2 (i)
r/sin( -2 ) =1/(sin ) r = 2 cos .
Required Area APBDCQA = Area of sector ABDCA + area of sector OCQAPB 2 area of
OAB
/2 = 1/2 r2 (2) + 1/2 (1)2 (2 4) 2 1/2 (1)2 sin ( 2)
sin 2 2 cos 2 = /2 (Ans.)
Example 5:
Find the equation of the circle which passes through the point (2, 0) and whose
centre is the limit of the point of intersection of lines 3x + 5y = 1, (2 + c)x + 5c 2 y = 1.
Solution:
Solving, 3x + 5y = 1, (2 + c)x + 5c2y = 1
We get,
when c 1
Pause:
We will study limits in detail in module 5.
Now, we want to find out the equation of the circle which passes through (2, 0) and
has its centre at (2/5), 1/25).
Equation of the circle is
(x-2/5)2+(y+1/25)2=(2/5-2)2+(1/25)2
This is the required equation of the circle.
Example 6:
Find the equation of circle having the lines x2 + 2xy + 3x + 6y = 0 as its normals
and having size just sufficient to contain the circle, x(x 4) + y(y 3) = 0
Solution:
The combined equation of two normal of the circle is given by
x2 + 2xy + 3x + 6y = 0
(x + 3)(x + 2y) = 0
x = 3, x = 2y
Recall:
A normal to a circle always passes through the centre of the circle. Now solving these,
we get the co-ordinates of the centre of the circle as (3, 3/2); because the two normal
intersect at the centre of the circle
The required circle just contains the circle
x(x 4) + y(y 3) = 0
i.e. x2 + y2 4x 3y = 0 (i)
Hence the required circle will touch the circle given by (1) internally.
Let r be the radius of the required circle. Now the two circles given by (1)
= ([22+(3/2)2 ] )=5/2 and centre = (2,3/2)
Now the required circle will touch the circle (i) internally, if
We have distance between the centre of the two circles = difference between their radii.
((-3-2)2+(3/2-3/2)2 )=(r-5/2)
r = 15/2
Hence the equation of the required circle is given by
(x + 3)2 + (y-3/2)2=(15/2)2
x2 + y2 + 6x 3y 45 = 0 (Ans.)
Example 7:
A tangent is drawn to each of the circles x2 + y2 = a2, x2 + y2 = b2. Show that if these
two tangents are perpendicular to each other, the locus of their point of intersection is a
circle concentric with the given circles.
Solution:
Method 1:
Let P (x1, y1) be the point of intersection of the tangents PA and PB where A, B are
points of contact with the circles respectively.
As PA is perpendicular to PB, the corresponding radii OA and OB are also perpendicular.
Let AOX =
BOX = 90 +
Using the parametric from of the circle we can take
A (a cos , a sin )
B (b sin , b cos )
The equation of PA is
x (a cos) + y (a sin ) = a2
y cos x sin = b
Since P(x1, y1) lies on these tangents
x1 cos + y1 sin = a and y1 cos x1 sin = b
. Squaring and adding above equation (we get).as is a variable quantity; we eliminate
x12 + y12 = a2 + b2
locus of p is x2 + y2 = a2 + b2, which is concentric with given circles.
Method 2:
OAPB is a rectangle
OP2 = OA2+ AP2
x1 2 + y 1 2 = a 2 + b 2
Locus of P(x1, y1) is x2 + y2 = a2 + b2
Example 9:
The circle x2 + y2 = 1 cuts x-axis at P and Q. Another circle with centre at Q and
variable radius intercepts the first circle at R above x-axis and the line segment PQ at S. Find
the maximum area of the triangle QSR.
Solution:
Method 1.
Equation of circle centred at Q is (x + 1)2 + y2 = 2
Pause:
We will study maxima and minima in module 5.
For max./min. dA/d = 0
tan = 2 cot /2
2t/(1-t2 )=2/t (where t=tan /2)
t = tan /2=1/2
(d2 A)/(d2 ) = sin cos /2-1/2 cos sin /2-1/2 sin /2 cos 1/4 cos /2 sin
Method 2.
Equation of circle I is
x2 + y2 = 1 It cuts x-axis
where P (1, 0) and
Q (1, 0)
Let QR = then equation of the circle II.
Centred at Q(1, 0) and radius = is given by
(x + 1)2 + y2 = 2 (1)
Solving it with x-axis; we get S ( 1, 0).
Also solving the two circles, we get the co-ordinates of R
as [(2/2)-1,/2 ((4-2 ) )]
The area of QRS = 1/2 QS RL
= 1/2 /2 ((4-2 ) )
= A (say)
Now A is max./min. means A2 is max./min.
Let A2 = Z.
Then Z = 4/16 (4 )2
dz/d=1/4. 43 (65)/16
r12 = 2h
Similarly r22 = 22h
r32 = 23h
= r12 r32 = 41 2 h2 = 422 h2 = (r22)2
= r2r3 r22 r1, r2, r3 are in G.P.
(Proved).
Example 11:
Show that the equation x2 + y2 4x ky 5 = 0 represents (for variable k) a family of
circles passing through two fixed points A and B. Find the equation of the circle belonging to
this family and cutting circle x2 + y2 6x 5y = 0 at right angles.
Solution:
x2 + y2 4x ky 5 = 0
(x2 + y2 4x 5) + k ( y) = 0
This is the equation of family of circles passing though the intersection point of x 2+ y2 4x
5 = 0 (a circle) and a straight line putting y = 0, in x 2 + y2 4x 5 = 0 gives
x2 4x 5 = 0
x = 1, 5
Hence the given circle passes through two fixed points (1, 0) and (5, 0)
For given family of circles
x2 + y2 4x ky 5 = 0 (1)
g = 2, f = k/2, c = 5
One member of family (1) and circle x2 + y2 6x 5y 0 (2)
Intersect orthogonally
For circle (2)
g = 3, f = 5/2, c = 0
For two circle to be orthogonal
2(gg + ff) = (c + c)
2[(2) (3) + (k/2)(5/2)] = 5 + 0
2 [6+5K/4] = 5
12 + 5K/2 = 5
5K/2 = 17
K = 34/5
Required equation of circle is
x2 + y2 4x + 34/5 y 5 = 0 (Ans.)
Example 12:
Lines 5x + 12y 10 = 0 and 5x 12y 40 = 0 touch a circle C 1 of diameter 6. If the
centre of C1 lies in first quadrant, find the equation of circle C2 which is concentric with
C1 and cuts intercept of length 8 on these lines.
Solution:
Recall:
If a circle touches two lines L1 and L2 then the centre of the circle lies on the angle
bisectors of the lines.
Angle bisector of given lines are
(5x+12y-10)/13=(5x-12y-40)/13
Taking +ve sign: y = (-5)/4
Taking ve sign: x = 5
Given lines L1 and L2 intersect at (5,-5/4)
Since the centre of C1 lies in the first quadrant, it can lie on x = 5 only.
Let the centre of C1 be (5, y1)
|(5(5)+12y1-10)/(52+122 )| = 3
15 + 12y1 = 39
y1 = 2 or y1 = -54/12 (Neglect)
Centre of C1 is (5, 2)
Since C2 is concentric with C1, its centre is also (5, 2)
Example 13:
Find the equation of the circle which passes through the point (2a, 0) and whose radical
axis with respect to the circle x2 + y2 = a2 is the lines x = a/2.
Solution:
Recall:
S2 x2 + y2 + 6x + y + 8 = 0
S3 x2 + y2 4x 4y 37 = 0
C1 (0, 2), C2 (3, 1/2), C3 (2, 2)
r1 = (4+1) = 5
r2 = (9+1/4-8)=5/2
r3 = (4+4+37)=45=35
C2C3 = ((2+3)2+(2+1/2)2 )=(25+25/4)=5/2 5
C1C3 = ((2-0)2+(2+2)2 )=25
r1 + r2 = 3/2 5 = C1C2
r3 r2 = 5/4 5 = C2C3
r3 r1 = 25 = C1C3
Recall:
Two circles touch each other.
(i) externally if C1C2 = r1 + r2
(ii) internally if C1C2 = r1 r2
Example 15:
Find the four common tangents to the circles x2 + y2 22x + 4y + 110 = 0 and x2 + y2
22x 4y 100 = 0
Solution:
S1 x2 + y2 22x + 4y + 100 = 0
S2 x2 + y2 + 22x 4y 100 = 0
C1 (11, 2), C2 (11, 2)
r1 = ((11)2+(-2)2-100) = 5
r2 = ((-11)2+(2)2+100) = 15
Out of four common tangents are transverse tangents and other two direct tangents. (1)
and (2) are direct common tangents while (3) and (4) are transverse common tangents.
Recall:
Transverse common tangents divide line joining centres in ratio of radii internally while
direct tangents divides line joining centres in ratio of radii externally.
Let T1, T2 divide C1C2 in ratio of r1 : r2 internally and externally respectively.
Co-ordinates of T1 are (1511+5(-11))/(15+5) and (15(-2)+52)/(15+5)
That is T1 is the point (11/2,-1)
Co-ordinates of T2 are (1511-5(-11))/(15-5) and (15(-2)-52)/(15-5)
that is T2 is the point (22, 4)
Let the equation to either of the tangents, passing through T1 be
y + 1 = m (x 11/2) (A)
Then the perpendicular from the point (11, 2) on it is equal to + 5 and hence
(m(11-11/2)-(-2+1))/(1+m2 ) = 5
On solving, we have m = -24/7 or 4/3
The required tangents through T1 are therefore
24x + 7y = 125, and 4x 3y = 25
Similarly the equation to the tangents through T2 is
y + 4 = m (x 22) (B)
where (m(11-22)-(-2+4))/(1+m2 ) = 5
On solving, we have m = 7/24 or 3/4
On substitution in (B) the required equations are therefore
x 24y = 250 and 3x + 4y = 50
The four common tangents are therefore found. (Ans.)
Example 16:
The circle x2 + y2 4x 4y + 4 = 0 is inscribed in a triangle which has two of its sides
along the co-ordinate axes. The locus of the circumcentre of the triangle is x + y xy + k
(x2 + y2)1/2 = 0 Find k?
Solution:
Method 1.
The equation of the incircle can be put in the from (x 2)2 + (y 2)2 = 4
This implies that the inradius r = 2 (i)
Let the hypotenuse of the triangle meet OX and OY at A (a, 0) and B (0, b) respectively.
r = (Area of AOB) / ((1/2)(Sum of sides of AOB)) = ((1/2)ab) / ((1/2)
(a+b+(a2+b2 )))
2 = ab/(a+b+(a2+b2 ))
Let M (x1, y1) be the circumcentre of OAB. Since OAB is right angled, its circumcentre is
the mid point of hypotenuse.
Method 2.
Equation of AB is x/a + y/b = 1 (1)
(x1, y1) (a/2,b/2), where M(x1, y1) is the circumcentre of OAB i.e. midpoint of the
hypotenuse.
(1) becomes: x / (2x1 )+y / (2y1 ) = 1 (2)
In circle (x 2)2 + (y 2)2 = 4 touches line (2)
(2/(2x1 )+2 / (2y1 )-1) / ((1/2x1 )2+ (1/2y1 )2 ) = 2
x1 + y1 x1 y1 + (x12+y12 ) = 0
Locus of M(x1, y1) is
x + y xy + (x2+y2 ) = 0
Comparing it with the given equation of the locus, we find that k = 1.
Note:
Distance from (2, 2) to the line x/2x1 +y/2y1 -1 = 0 has been taken 2, because origin and
this point lies on the same side of the origin.
Parabola
Parabola Definition
Parabola is the chief and easiest chapter in the Conic Sections of Co-ordinate Geometry in
Mathematics. Let us start analyzing the thought A point always moves such that the ratio of
its distances from a fixed point and a fixed line is constant. Can we get some meaningful
result? Yes we get a parabola, which follow the above rule/thought. We can represent the
curve mathematically using the co-ordinates and this curve is useful in finding out the many
physical/practical phenomenons.
If we take a Right Circular Cone and cut it by a horizontal plane, we get a cross-section
which is circular. If we cut this cone by planes of different orientations, different planes
produce different type of curves. As all these curves are sections of a right circular cone, we
call them conic sections. When we analyze these curves in detail we find that when the
ratio of the distances of a point on the curve from a fixed point to its distance from a fixed
line, is equal to 1 we have one type of curve, for ratio less than 1, we have second type of
curve and for ratio more than 1, we have third type of curve. With this basis we can analyze
these three curves.
In this sections well discuss the curve of 1st type for which the ratio is equal to 1 i.e. the
distance from the fixed point is always equal to the distance from the fixed line. We call this
a Parabola.
Parabola is one of the easiest and important chapters of Conic Sections of Co-ordinate
Geometry in the Mathematics syllabus of IIT JEE, AIEEE and other engineering examinations.
The chapter is important because it fetches 1-2 questions in most of the engineering
examination
Index
Parabola is important from the perspective of scoring high in IIT JEE as there are few fixed
pattern on which a number Multiple Choice Questions are framed on this topic. You are
expected to do all the questions based on this to remain competitive in IIT JEE examination.
It is very important to master these concepts at early stage as this forms the basis of your
preparation for IIT JEE, AIEEE, DCE, EAMCET and other engineering entrance examinations.
Conic Sections
Conics or conic sections are the curves corresponding to various plane sections of a
right circular cone by cutting that cone in different ways.
Each point lying on these curves satisfies a special condition, which actually leads us
towards the mathematical definition of conic sections.
If a point moves in plane in such a way that the ratio of its distance from a fixed point to
its perpendicular distance from a fixed straight line, always remains constant, then the locus
of that point I called a Conic Section.
The fixed point is called the focus and the fixed line is called directrix of the conic. The
constant ratio is called the eccentricity and is denoted by e.
According to the value of there are three types o conic i.e. for e = 1, e < 1 and e > 1 the
corresponding conic is called parabola, ellipse and hyperbola respectively.
A conic section or conic is the locus of a point, which moves so that its distance from a
fixed point is in a constant ratio to its distance from a fixed straight line, not passing through
the fixed point.
The fixed point is called the focus.
The fixed straight line is called the directrix.
The constant ratio is called the eccentricity and is denoted by e.
When the eccentricity is unity i.e. e = 1, the conic is called a parabola; when e < 1, the
conic is called an ellipse; and when e > 1, the conic is called a hyperbola.
The straight line passing through the focus and perpendicular to the directrix is called the
axis of the parabola.
The point of intersection of a conic with its axis is called vertex.
The chord passing through focus and perpendicular to axis is called latus rectum.
Any chord of the parabola which is perpendicular to the axis is called double ordinate.
The straight line perpendicular to axis of the parabola passing through vertex is called
tangent at the vertex.
There are four common forms of parabola according to their axis, with their vertex at origin
(0, 0).
The co-ordinates of the end point of the latus rectum are (a, 2a) and (a, 2a) and length
of latus rectum = |4a|.
The x-axis along AS, and the y-axis along the perpendicular to AS, as A, as in the figure. Now
by definition PM = PS MP2 = PS2
So, that, (a + x)2 = (x a)2 + y2.
Hence, the equation of horizontal parabola is y2 = 4ax.
Now by definition PM = PS
MP2 = PS2
So that, (b + y)2 = (y b)2 + x2.
Hence, the equation of vertical parabola is x2 = 4by.
y2 = 4a2
y = + 2a
Hence the end points are (a, 2a) and (a, 2a).
Also LSL = |2a (2a)| = 4a = length of double ordinate through the focus S.
Note:
Two parabolas are said to be equal when their latus recta are equal.
The important points & lines related to standard Parabola
Note:
1. The points and lines of two parabolas can be interchanged by transformations.
2. If a > 0 & a < 0 the parabola will be forward opening and backward opening
respectively.
3. If b > 0 & b < 0 the parabola will be forward opening and downward opening
respectively.
Illustration:
Find the vertex, axis, directrix, tangent at the vertex and the length of thelatus
rectum of the parabola 2y2 + 3y 4x 3 = 0.
Solution:
The given equation can be re-written as (y-3/4)2= 2 (x+33/32)
Which is of the form Y2 = 4aX.
Hence the vertex is (-33/32,-3/4).
The axis is y + 3/4 = 0 y = 3/4.
The directrix is X + a = 0.
x + 33/32+1/2 = 0 x = -49/32.
The tangent at the vertex is x + 33/32 = 0 x = 33/32.
Length of the latus rectum = 4a = 2.
Illustration:
The extreme points of the latus rectum of a parabola are (7, 5) and (7, 3). Find the
equation of the parabola and the points where it meets the coordinate axes.
Solution:
Focus of the parabola is the mid-point of the latus rectum.
S is (7, 4). Also axis of the parabola is perpendicular to the latus rectum and passes
through the focus. Its equation is
y 4 = 0/(5-3) (x 7) y = 4.
Length of the latus rectum = (5 3) = 2.
Hence the vertex of the parabola is at a distance 2/4 = .5 from the focus. We have two
parabolas, one concave rightwards and the other concave leftwards. The vertex of the first
parabola is (6.5, 4) and its equation is
(y 4)2 = 2(x 6.5) and it meets the x-axis at (14.5, 0).
The equation of the second parabola is (y 4)2 = 2 (x 7.5).
15).
Taking 1/m = t where t is a parameter, i.e., it varies from point to point. Theparabola y2 =
4ax as a parametric form is given by the co-ordinate (at 2, 2at) and we refer to it as point t.
Illustration:
Prove that the area of the triangle inscribed in the parabola y2 = 4ax is a2 |(t1 t2) (t2
t3) (t3 t1)| where t1, t2 and t3 are the vertices.
Solution:
The three points on the parabola are (at12, 2at1), (at22, 2at2) and (at32, 2at3).
This is the general equation of a parabola. It is clear that second-degree terms in the
equation of a parabola form a perfect square.
The converse is also true, i.e. if in an equation of the second degree, the second-degree
terms from a perfect square then the equation represents a parabola, unless it represents
two parallel straight lines.
Note:
The general equation of second degree i.e. ax2 + 2hxy + by2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0
represents a parabola if 0 and h2 = ab. ( = abc + 2fgh af2 bg2 ch2).
Special case:
Let the vertex be (, ) and the axis to be parallel to the x-axis. Then the equation of
parabola is given by (y )2 = 4a (x ) which is equivalent to x = Ay 2 + By + C.
If three points are given we can find A, B and C.
Similarly, when the axis is parallel to the y-axis, the equation of the parabola is y = Ax2 +
Bx + C.
Illustration:
Find the equation of the parabola whose focus is (3, 4) and directrix
x t + 5 = 0.
Solution:
Let P(x, y) be any point on the parabola. Then
((x-3)2 (y+4) )=|x-y+5|/(1+1)
(x 3)2 + (y + 4)2 = (x-y+5)2/2
x2 + y2 + 2xy 22x + 26y + 25 = 0.
(x + y)2 = 22x 26y 25.
Illustration:
Find the equation of the parabola having focus (6, 6) and verte (2, 2).
Solution:
Let S(6, 6) be the focus and A(2, 2) the vertex of the parabola. On SA take a point K
(x1, y1) such that SA = AK. Draw KM perpendicular on SK. Then KM is the directrix of
the parabola.
Since A bisects SK, ((-6+x1)/2,(-6+y1)/2) = (2, 2)
6 + x1 = 4, and 6 + y1 = 4
Or (x1, y1) = (2, 10).
Illustration:
If the point (2, 3) is the locus and x = 2y + 6 is the directrix of a parabola, find
(i) the equation of the axis,
(ii) the co-ordinates of the vertex,
(iii) length of the latus rectum,
(iv) equation of the latus rectum.
Solution:
(i) We know that the axis of a parabola is the line through the focus
And perpendicular to the directrix.
The equation of any line passing through the focus (2, 3) is
y 3 = m (x 2) mx y = 3 2m
If the line be perpendicular to the directrix x 2y = 6, we have,
m (1/2) = 1 m = 2.
Hence the equation of the axis is y 3 = 2 (x 2) 2x + y = 7.
(ii) The co-ordinates of the point of intersection (say) A of the directrix x 2y = 6 and the
axis 2x + y = 7 are obtained by solving the two equations; thus they are (4, 1). Since the
vertex is the middle point of A (4, 1) and the focus S(2, 3); the co-ordinates of the vertex
are ((4+2)/2,(3-1)/2), i.e. (3, 1).
(iii) Since OS = ((3-2)2+(1-3)2 )=5,
The length of the latus rectum = 4OS = 45.
(iv) Since the latus rectum is the line through the focus parallel to the directrix, its
equation is x 2y + c = 0, where c is given by 2 2.3 + c = 0, i.e. c = 4.
Focal Chord
Any chord to y2 = 4ax which passes through the focus is called a focal chord of
the parabola y2 = 4ax.
Let y2 = 4ax be the equation of a parabola and (at2, 2at) a point P on it. Suppose the
coordinates of the other extremity Q of the focal chord through P are (at12, 2at1).
Then, PS and SQ, where S is the focus (a, 0), have the same slopes
(2at-0)/(at2-a)=(2at1-0)/(at12-a)
tt12 t = t1 t2 (tt t1
+ 1) (t1 t) = 0.
Find the locus of the centre of the circle described on any focal chord of
aparabola as diameter.
Solution:
Let the equation of the parabola be y2 = 4ax.
Let t1, t2 be the extremities of the focal chord. Then t1 . t2 = 1.
The equation of the circle on t1, t2 as diameter is
(x at22) (x at22) + (y 2at1) (y 2at2) = 0
or x2 + y2 ax (t12 + t22) 2ay (t1 + t2) + a2 t12 t12 + 4a2 t1t2 = 0
x2 + y2 ax (t12 + t22) 2ay (t1 + t2) 3a2 = 0. ( t1t2 = 1)
If (,) be the centre of the circle, then = a/2 (t 12+t22 ) If (, ) be the centre of the circle,
then = a/2 (t12+t22 )
= a (t1 + t2) (t1 + t2)2 =2/a2 t12 + t22 + 2t1t2 =2/a2 2/a-2= 2/a2
2a 2a2 = 2 2 = 2a ( a).
Hence locus of (, ) is y2 = 2a(x a).
Focal Distance of a Point
The focal distance of a point P on the parabola
y2 = 4ax is the distance between the point P and the focus S, i.e. PS. Thus thefocal
distance of P = PS = PM = ZN = ZA + AN = a + x.
or
Now, PM2 = y12 and LM2 = 4ax1 by virtue of the coordinates of L satisfying the equation of
the parabola. Hence, the condition for P to lie outside the parabolabecomes y12 4ax1 >
0.
Similarly, the condition for P to lie inside the parabola is y12 4ax1 < 0.
Chord
Intersection of a Straight Line with a Parabola
The combined equation of straight line y = mx + c and parabola
y2 = 4ax gives us the co-ordinates of point(s) of their intersection. The combined equation
m2x2 + 2x (mc 2a) + c2 = 0 will give those roots. The straight line therefore meets
the parabola at two points.
Points of Intersection of a straight line with the parabola y2 = 4ax
Points of intersection of y2 = 4ax and y = mx + c are given by (mx+c)2=4ax
Illustration:
Find the Length of the chord intercepted by the parabola y2 = 4ax from the line y =
mx + c. Also find its mid-point. Solution:
Simply by applying the formula o length of the joining (x1, y1) and (x2, y2) we get,
Length of the chord = ((x1-x2 )2+(y1-y2 )2 )
= ((x1-x2 )2+m2 (x1-x2 )2 )
= |x1 x2| (1+m2 ) = 4 (a(a-mc) ) (1+m2 )
[ x1+x2=(-2(m-2a) )/m2 and x1 x2=c2/m2 ]
The midpoint of the chord is ((2a-mc)/m2 ,2a/m)
Tangent to a Parabola
Let P(x1, y1) and Q(x2, y2) be two neighbouring points on the parabola y2 4ax. Then
the equation of the line joining P and Q is
y y1 = (y2-y1) / (x2-x1 ) (x x1) (1)
Since, points P and Q lies on the parabola, we have
y12 = 4ax1 (2)
y22 = 4ax2 (3)
(equation 3 and 2) give
Note:
The angle between the tangents drawn to the two parabolas at the point of their
intersection is defined as the angle of intersection of two parabolas.
Tangent at the point (x1, y1)
Let the equation of the parabola be y2 = 4ax.
Hence, value of dy/dx at P(x1, y1) is 2a/y1 and the equation of the tangent at P is
y y1 = 2a/y1 (x x1) i.e. yy1 = 2a(x x1) + y12.
Alternatively, we write the equation of the chord joining the points P(x1, y1) and Q(x2, y2)
on the parabola y2 = 4ax. Equation of the chord is (x-x1)/(x2-x1 )=(y-y1)/(y2-y1 )
or (x-x1)/(x2-x1 ) = (y-y1 )(y2+y1 )/(y22-y12 )= (y-y1 )(y2+y1 )/((x2-x1 ) )
or 4a(x x) = (y y1) (y2 + y1).
When the two points P and Q tend to coincide, y 2 y1 and the line PQ becomestangent
to the parabola. Its equation is 4a (x x1) = (y y1) (2y1) = 2yy1 2y12= 2yy1 8ax1 or
yy1 = 2a(x + x1).
Tangent in terms of m
Suppose that the equation of a tangent to the parabola y2 = 4ax (i)
is y = mx + c. (ii)
The abscissae of the points of intersection of (i) and (ii) are given by the equation (mx +
c)2 = 4ax. But the condition that the straight line (ii) should touch the parabola is that it
should meet the parabola in coincident points
(mx 2a)2 = m2c2 (iii)
c = a/m. (iv)
Hence, y = mx + a/m is a tangent to the parabola y2 = 4ax, whatever be the value of m.
Equation (mx + c)2 = 4ax now becomes (mx a/m)2 = 0.
x = a/m2 and y2 = 4ax y = 2a/m.
Thus the point of contact of the tangent y = mx + a/m is (a/m2 ,2a/m).
Illustration:
Find the condition that the line y = mx + c may touch the Parabola y2 = 4ax and also
find its point of contact.
Solution:
Illustration:
Find the equation of normal to the Parabola yy2 = 4ax, having slope m.
Solution:
Slope of tangent at any point is
dy/dx=2a/y
Slope of normal at that point is
-y/2a = m (say)
Point of contact of a normal having slope m with the Parabola
yy2 = 4ax is (amy2, 2am)
So, equation of normal at this point is
y + 2am = m (x amy2)
or y = mx 2am amy3.
Illustration:
If the line 2x + 3y = 1 touches the Parabola yy2 = 4ax, find the length of its latus
rectum.
Solution:
Equation of any tangent to yy2 = 4ax is
y = mx + a/m my2x my + a = 0.
Comparing it with the given tangent 2x + 3y 1 = 0, we find
my2/2=(-m)/3=a/(-1), m = (-2)/3, a = m/3 = -2/9.
Hence the length of the latus rectum.
= 4a = 8/9, ignoring the negative sign for length.
Alternative Solution:
Writing the given equation as
y = -2/3 x + 1/3=-2/x x-(2/9)/(-2/3), we find that a = 2/9.
Hence the length of the latus rectum = 4a = 8/9.
tangent at the point t
Equation of the tangent at t is ty = x + aty2. T
the point of intersection of the tangents at t1 and t2 is (at1t2, a(t1 + t2)).
Illustration:
One the Parabola yy2 = 4ax, three points E, F, G are taken so that their ordinates are
in G.P. Prove that the tangents at E and G intersect on the ordinate of F.
Solution:
Let the points E, F, G be (at1y2, 2at1), (at2y2, 2at2), (at3y2, 2at3) respectively. Since the
ordinates of these points are in G.P., t22 = t1t3. tangents at E and G are t1y = x + at12 and
t3y = x + at32. Eliminating y from these equation, we get x = at1t3 = at22. Hence the point lies
on the ordinates of F.
Illustration:
Prove that the area of the triangle formed by three points on a parabola is twice the
area of the triangle formed by the tangents at these points.
If the tangents from the external point (x1, y1) touch the parabola at P and Q, then PQ is
the chord of contact of the tangents.
Illustration:
Prove that through any given point (x1, y1) there pass, in general, twotangents to
the parabola y2 = 4ax.
Solution:
The equation to any tangent is y = mx + a/m. (1)
If this passes through the fixed point (x1, y1), we have
y1 = mx1 + a/m, i.e. m2x1 m y1 + a = 0. (2)
This is a quadratic equation and gives two values of m (real or imaginary). Corresponding to
each value of m we have, two different tangents. The roots of (2) are real and different if
y12 4ax1 > 0, i.e. If the point (x1, y1) lies outside the curve. The roots are equal, if y12
4ax1 = 0 i.e. if the point (x1, y1) lies on the curve. In this case the two tangent merge into
one. The two roots are imaginary if y12 4ax1 < 0, i.e. if the point (x1, y1) lies within the
curve.
Chord of Contact
The chord joining the points of contact of the tangents on the parabola from an external
point is called the chord of contact.
Let the tangent drawn from the point P(x1, y1) touch Parabola at Q(x2, y2) and R(x3, y3)
then QR is the chord of contact of the point P(x1, y1) with respect to y2= 4ax.
The equation of tangents at Q and R are
yy2 = 2a(x + x2) (1)
yy3 = 2a(x + x3) (2)
Note:
The equation of the chord of the parabola y2 = 4ax with mid point
(x1, y1) is T = S1.
Illustration:
Find the equation of the chord of the parabola y2 = 12x which is bisected at the
point (5, 7).
Solution:
Here (x1, y1) = (5, 7), and y2 = 12x = 4ax a = 3.
The equation of the chord is S1 = T
Normal to a Parabola
Normal at the point (x1, y1)
The equation of the tangent at the point (x1, y1) is yy1 = 2a(x + x1). Since the slope of the
tangent = 2a/y1, slope of the normal is y1/2a. Also it passes through (x1, y1).
Hence, its equation is y y1 = -y1/2a (x x1). (i)
Normal in terms of m
In equation (i), put -y1/2a = m so that y1 = 2a and x1 = (y12)/4a = am2, then the equation
becomes y = mx 2am am3
where m is a parameter. Equation (ii) is the normal at the point (am 2, 2am) of
theparabola.
Note:
If this normal passes through a point (h, k), then k = mh 2am am3.
For a given parabola and a given point (h, k), this cubic in m has three roots say m1, m2,
m3 i.e. from (h, k) three normals can be drawn to the parabola whose slopes are m1, m2, m3.
For this cubic, we have m1+ m2+ m3 = 0, m1 m2 + m2 m3 + m3 m1 = (2a h)/a, m1 m2 m3 =
k/a.
If we have an extra condition about the normals drawn from a point (h, k) to a
given parabola y2 = 4ax then by eliminating m1, m2, m3 from these four relations between
m1, m2, m3, we can get the locus of (h, k).
Since the sum of the roots is equal to zero, the sum of the ordinates of the feet of
the normals from a given point is zero. These points are called Co-Normal Points.
Illustration:
Find the locus of the point of intersection of two normals to a parabolawhich are at
right angles to one another.
Solution:
Illustration:
Prove that the normal chord to a parabola at the point whose ordinate is equal to
the abscissa subtends a right angle at the focus.
Solution:
If the normal to the parabola y2 = 4ax at P(at1t2, 2at1) meets it again at the point t2,
then we have t2 = t1 2/t1 .
If the abscissa and the ordinates of P be equal, then at 12 = 2at1
t1 = 2 (rejecting t1 t= 0)
=21=3
The co-ordinates of P and Q are therefore (4a, 4a) and (9a, 6a) respectively.
The focus is the point S (a, 0).
Slope of PS = and slope of QS = .
PSQ = right angle. Hence the result.
Illustration:
Find the locus of the middle points of the normal chords of the parabolay2 = 4ax.
Solution:
Equation of the normal chord at any point (at2, 2at) of the parabola is
y + tx = 2at + at3. (1)
Equation of the chord with mid point (x1, y1) is T = S1
or yy1 2a(x + x1) = y12 4ax1 or yy1 2ax = y12 2ax1. (2)
Since equations (1) and (2) are identical, 1/y1 =t/(-2a)=(2at+at3)/t = 2a + ((2a)/y1 )2
or -(y12)/2a + x1 = 2a + 4a3/(y12 ) or x1 2a = (y12)/2a+4a3/(y12 )
Hence the locus of the middle point (x1, y1) is
x 2a = y2/2a+4a3/y2 .
Illustration:
P and Q are the points t1 and t2 on the parabola y2 = 4ax. If thenormals to
the parabola at P and Q meet at R, (a point on the parabola), show that t1t2 = 2.
Solution:
Let the normals at P and Q meet at R(at2, 2at).
Then t = t1 2/t1 and t = t2 2/t2 .
Therefore t1 + 2/t1 = t2 + 2/t2 (t1 t2) = 2(t1-t2 )/(t1 t2 ) t1t2 = 2.
Illustration:
Find the equations of the normals to the parabola y2 = 4ax at the extremities of
its latus rectum. If the normals meet the parabola, again at P and Q, prove that PQ = 12a.
Solution:
The ends of the latus rectum are (a, 2a) and (a, 2a). The equations of the normals
to the parabola at these points are (put t = 1 and 1)
y + x = 3a and y x = 3a.
These
lines meet the parabola again at P(9a, 6a) and Q(9a, 6a) respectively.
PQ = 6a + 6a = 12a.
(i) The tangent at any point P on a parabola bisects the angle between the focal chord
through P and the perpendicular from P on the directrix.
The tangent at P (at2, 2at) is ty = x + at2.
It meets the x-axis at T(at2, 0).
Hence ST = a (1 + t2).
(ii) The portion of a tangent to a parabola cut off between the directrix and the
curve subtends a right angle at the focus.
Let P(at2, 2a), be a point on the parabola y2 = 4ax.
The tangent at P is ty = x + at2.
Point of intersection of the tangent with the directrix x + a = 0 is (a, at a/t).
Now, slope of SP is (2at-0)/(at2-a)=2t/(t2-1)
and slope of SK is (at-a/t-0)/(-a-a)=-(t2-1)/2t
(Slope of the SP).(Slope of SK) = 1.
Hence SP is perpendicular to SK i.e. KSP = 90.
(iii) Tangents at the extremities of any focal chord intersect at right angles on the
directrix.
Let P(at2, 2at) and P(at12, 2at1) be the end points of a focal part on the parabola.
Then t.t1 = 1. Equations of the tangents at the point P and the point P are ty = x + at 2 and
t1y = x + at12 respectively.
Let these tangents intersects at a point (h, k). Then h = att1 and k = a(t + t1).
Since the tangents are perpendicular, tt1 = 1 h a.
Hence the locus of the point (h, k) is x = a which is the equation of the directrix.
(iv) Any tangent to a parabola and the perpendicular on it from the focus meet on
the tangent at the vertex.
Equation of the perpendicular to the tangent ty = x + at 2 (1)
From the focus (a, 0) is tx + y = at. (2)
and (2) intersect at x = 0 which is the equation of the tangent at the vertex.
Co-normal Points:
The three points on the parabola, the normals at which pass through a common point,
are called the co-normal points.
Diameter:
The locus of the middle point of a system of parallel chords of a parabola is called its
diameter.
Solved Examples
Example 1:
Find the equation of the parabola whose focus is (3, 4) and directrix is the line
Example 2:
Find the equation of the parabola whose directrix makes an isosceles right angled
triangle of area 4 square units with the axis in the 3rd quadrant and focus is on the line y =
x, 2 units away from the origin.
Solution:
First we find the equation of directrix. Let the directrix form the isosceles triangle OAB
with OA = OB = a.
Therefore the co-ordinate, of A and B are (22, 0) and (0, 22) respectively.
So, equation of directrix
(y 0) = ((0+22)/(-22-0)) (x + 22) x + y + 22 = 0
Now the focus S is on line y = x and 2 units away from the origin i.e.
OS = 2 point (2, 2) by definition of parabola, we have
((x-2)2+(y-2)2 )=|(x+y+22)/(12+12 )|
x2 + y2 82x 82y 2xy = 0
Example 3:
The x and y co-ordinate of any point P are expressed as x = (v cos ) t, y = (v sin )
t 1/2 gt2, where t is parameter and v, , g are constants, show that the locus of the point
P(x, y) is a parabola. Find the coordinate of the vertex of thisparabola.
Solution:
We are given x = (v cos ) t (1)
y = (v sin ) t 1/2 gt2 (2)
From equation (3) it is clear that this is a equation of parabola whose vertex is the point
with the co-ordinates
((v2 sin cos )/g,(v2 sin2 )/2g)
Example 5:
Find the equation of the common tangents to the parabola y2 = 32x and x2 = 108y.
Solution:
The equation of the tangent to the parabola y2 = 4ax, is
y = mx + a/m (1)
The equation of tangent to the parabola
y2 = 32x (2) is
y = mx + 8/m (3)
If this line given by (3) is also a tangent to the parabola
x2 = 108y, then (3) meets x2 = 108y (4)
in two coincident points
Substituting the value of y from (3) in (4) we get
x2 = 108 [mx+(8/m) ]
mx2 108m2x 864 = 0
The roots of this quadratic are equal provided b2 = 4ac.
i.e. ( 108 m2)2 = 4m (864)
m = (-2)/3 (m 0, from geometry of curves)
Substituting their value of m in (3), the required equation is
y = (-2)/3 x + 8/(2/3)
y = (-2)/3 x 12
2x + 3y + 36 = 0
Example 6:
Find the equation of the tangent to the parabola y2 = 6x, which is parallel to the line
cutting intercepts 3 and 4 on x and y axis respectively.
Solution:
The line cutting intercepts 3 and 4 on x and y-axis respectively is,
x/3+y/4 = 1
4x + 3y = 12 (1)
Example 7:
Find the angle of intersection of the parabola y2 = 8x and x2 = 27y.
Solution:
The given parabolas are
y2 = 8x (1)
and x2 = 27y (2)
Solving (1) and (2) we get
(x2/27)2 = 8x
x4 = 5832x
x4 5832x = 0
x(x3 5832) = 0
x = 0, x = 18
Example 8:
Prove that (x + a)2 = (y2 4ax), is the locus of the point of intersection of the
tangents to the parabola y2 /4.= 4ax, which includes an angle
Solution:
Let two tangent to the parabola y2 = 4ax (1)
be yt1 = x + at12 (2)
and yt2 = x + at22 (3)
Let the point of intersection of the tangent be (x1, y1) then solving equation (1) and (2) we
get,
x1 = at1 t2
y1 = a(t1 + t2)
Also the slope of these tangents are 1/t1 and 1/t2
If be the angle between these two tangents then
Example 9:
Prove that normal at one end of latus rectum of a parabola is parallel to the tangent
at the other end.
Solution:
Let the parabola be y2 = 4ax (1)
The end points of latus rectum are (a, 2a) & (a, 2a) and
The equation of the normal to (1) at (a, 2a) is
(y 2a) = (x a)
y = x + 3a (2)
The equation of the tangent to (1) at (a, 2a)
y + 2a = (x a)
y=xa
and from (2) and (3), we find that the slope of normal to one end of the latus rectum is equal
to the slope of tangent at other end of tangent to the other end. Hence the required fact is
proved.
Example 10:
Find the length of the focal chord of parabola y2 = 4ax whose one end point is P(at2,
2at)
Solution:
Let Q (at12, 2at) be the other end of this focal chord.
The equation of the line joining (at2, 2at) and (at12, 2at1) is
(y 2at) = (2at1-2at)/(at12-at2 ) (x at2)
If this passes through the focus (a, 0), then
2at = 2/(t1+t) (a at2)
t (t + t1) = 1 t2
tt1 = 1
t1 = 1/t
Then Q is the point (a/t2 ,(-2a)/t)
The length of the focal chord PQ
= a |t+1/t| ((t-1/t)2+4)
a (t-1/t)2
Example 11:
Prove that the locus of the point of intersection of two mutually perpendicular tangents
one to each of the parabola y2 = 4a (x + a) and y2 = 4b (x + b), is a line parallel to y-axis.
Solution:
The given parabolas are
y2 = 4a(x + a) (1)
and y2 = 4b(x + b) (2)
Any tangent to (1) is y = m (x + a) + a/m (3)
Similarly any tangent to (2) is y = m (x + b) + b/m (4)
mm = 1
or m = -1/m
(4) becomes y = {(x + b)/m} bm (5)
The required locus is obtained by eliminating m between (3) and (5).
For this subtracting (5) from (3), we get
0 = x (m+1/m)+a(m+1/m)+b(m+1/m)
x+a+b=0
This is the required locus which is parallel to y axis.
Example 12:
If two tangents to a parabola intercept a constant length on any fixed tangent, find
the locus of their point of intersection.
Solution:
Let yt = x + at2 (1)
be a fixed tangent to the parabola y2 = 4ax (2)
Let the other two tangent to (2) be
yt1 = x + at12 (3)
And yt2 = x + at22 (4)
The point of intersection of (1) with (3) and (4) are P {att1, a(t1 + t2)} and Q{at t2, a (t +
t2)}
Given PQ is constant or PQ2 = constant
a2t2 (t1 t2)2 + a2(t1 t2)2 = constant
a2(t2 + 1) (t1 t2)2 = constant
(t1 t2)2 = constant since t is constant as (1) is a fixed tangent.
(t1 t2)2 = c (say) (5)
Let (x1, y1) be the point of intersection of (3) and (4),
Example 13:
Find the locus of the poles of normals to parabola y2 = 4ax.
Solution:
Any normal to the parabola y2 = 4ax is (1)
y = mx 2am am3 (2)
Let (x1, y1) be the pole of (2) with respect to (1), then (2) is the polar of (x 1, y1) w.r.t (1)
i.e.
yy1 = 2a (x + x1)
comparing (2) & (3), we get
2a/m=y1/1=(2ax1)/(-2am-am3 )
Hence we get
x1 = 2a am2 (4)
and y1 = 2a/m (5)
Eliminating m between (4) & (5) we get
Example 14:
Find the locus of the point P if the perpendicular from that point P upon its polar with
respect to parabola, is of constant length.
Solution:
Polar of P (x1, y1) with respect to the parabola y2 = 4ax is
y1y = 2a (x1 + x)
or y1y = 2ax 2ax1 = 0 (1)
We are given that the distance of P (x1, y1) from line (1) is constant, say
|y12-2ax1-2ax1 |/(y12+(2a)2 ) = (constant)
Locus of (x1, y1) is
(y2 4ax)2 = 2 (y2 + 4a2)
Example 15:
Find the locus of the point, from which the three normals to the parabola y 2 = 4ax
cut the axis at points whose distance from the vertex are in A.P.
Solution:
Any normal to the parabola y2 = 4ax is y = mx 2am am3 (1)
If (1) passes through (x1, y1) then
y1 = mx1 2am am3
am3 + m (2a x1) + y1 = 0 (2)
m1 + m2 + m3 = 0 (3)
y2 = 4ax
Then its focus is (a, 0). Let (x1, y1) be the mid point of a chord of the given parabola. Then
it equation is
S1 = T
or y12 4ax1 = y.y1 2a (x + x1)
It passes through the focus (a, 0) of (1), then
y12 4ax1 = 0.y1 2a (a + x1)
y12 = 2a(x1 a)
The required locus of (x1, y1) is
y2 = 2a (x a), which is a parabola.
Method 2:
Equation of chord AB is
y (t1 + t2) = 2(x + at1t2) (1)
It passes through the focus (a, 0) (2)
0 = 2(a + at1 + t22) t1t2 = 1
2h = a(t12 + t22) and k = a (t1 + t2) (3)
2h = a((t1 + t2)2 2t1t2)
= a ((k/a)2+2) using (2) and (3)
k2 = 2a (h a)
Locus of M (h, k) is
y2 = 2a (x a)
Example 17:
A tangent to the parabola y2 + 12x = 0 cuts the parabola y2 = 4ax at P and Q. Find
the locus of middle points of PQ.
Solution:
Any tangent to the parabola y2 = 4bx is y = mx b/m
y = mx 3/m
Let (x1, y1) be the mid point of PQ, where P and Q are point of intersection o line (1) and
y = 4ax
2
Equation of chord PQ is
S1 = T
y12 4ax1 = y1y 2a(x + x1)
y1y 2ax y12 + 2 ax1 = 0 (2)
Equation (1) can be written as
my m2 x + 3 = 0 (3)
equation (2) and (3) represent the same line
m/y1 =m2/2a=3/(2ax1-y12 ) (4)
m = 2a/y1 (from 4)
Again, from (4), we get
m/y1 =3/(2ax1-y12 )
2a/y1 =3/(2ax1-y12 )
Locus of (x1, y1) is
4a2x = y2 (3 + 2a)
Example 18:
The normal at any point P of the y2 = 4ax meets the axis in G and to thetangent at
the vertex at H. If A be the vertex and the rectangle AGQH be completed, prove that the
locus of Q is x3 = 2ax2 + ay2.
Solution:
Ellipse
Ellipse is one of the easiest topics in the Conic Sections of Co-ordinate Geometry in
Mathematics.
"Ellipse" is defined as the locus of a point which moves such that the ratio of its distance
(Eccentricity) from a fixed point (Locus) and a fixed line (Directrix) is less than one i.e. a
point moves such that its distance from a fixed point is always less than the distance from a
fixed line, we get a different types of curve for one value of eccentricity, which are similar for
all values of eccentricity less than one. Thus curve looks like a circle but it is not exactly a
circle. Rather it is more like the edges of an egg. And if we plot the movement of the Earth
and other planets around the Sun, it is the same curve satisfying the above condition of
eccentricity less than one. This beautiful curve has been named as "Ellipse".
In this chapter we will discuss in detail the nature/properties of this beautiful and important
curve. As you will see, the curve is symmetrical about two axes. We will study the standard
form of ellipse where the X and y-axes will be taken as these axes. The main emphasis in
this chapter should be on learning the properties ofellipse. The judgement of using
parametric co-ordinates, which can reduce the complexity of the problem, should also be
learnt.
Topics Covered under Ellipse are:-
1. Basic Concepts
2. Tangent and Normal
3. Propositions of an Ellipse
4. Solved Examples of Ellipse
Basic Concepts
If we slice an egg obliquely there will appear a typical curve by its edge. We find the similar
but larger curve if we trace the curve of the movement of earth around the sun. Our
mathematicians and scientist, named this curve as the ellipse. Ellipse one of the conic
sections is obtained by cutting one nappe of cone with a plane that does not pass through
the vertex.
Definition
An ellipse is locus of a point, which moves in a plane such that the ratio of its distances
from a fixed point and a fixed line is constant and always less than one.
In other words "Ellipse" is a conic for which the eccentricity
e < 1. Let S be the focus of ellipse, P any point on the ellipse and PM perpendicular
distance of the directrix from P, then
SP/PM = e < 1
Let S be the focus and ZM be the directrix of the ellipse. Let be itseccentricity.
We draw SZ perpendicular to the directrix and divide SZ internally and externally in the
ratio e : 1 and let A and A' be the internal and external point of division.
Then we have SA = e AZ
And SA' = e A'Z
...... (1)
...... (2)
Let AA' = 2a and take O the midpoint of AA' as origin. Let P(x, y) be any point on
theellipse referred to OA and OB as co-ordinate axis.
Then from figure it is evident that
AS = AO - OS = a - OS
AZ = OZ - OA = OZ - a
A'S = A'O + OS = a + OS
A'Z = OZ + OA' = OZ + a
Substituting these values in (1) and (2), we have
a - OS = e (OZ - a)
a + OS = e (OZ + a)
...... (3)
...... (4)
OZ = a/e
...... (5)
...... (6)
.. The directrix MZ is x = OZ = a/e and the co-ordinate of the focus S are (OS, 0)
i.e. (ae, 0). Now as P(x, y) lies on the ellipse.
So we get
SP = e PM or SP2 = e2 PM2
(x - ae)2 + y2 = e2 [OZ - x co-ordinate of P]2
=> (x - ae)2 + y2 = e2 [a/e - x]2 = (a - ex)2
...... (7)
S'P2 = e2 (PM')2
Hence, any point P on the curve is such that its distance from S' is e times to its
distance from Z'K' so we should have obtained the same curve, if we had started with S' as
focus, a Z'K' as directrix and the same eccentricity.
Pause:
We have considered a > b, now if we consider b > a, what will be the shape of
the ellipse x2/a2 +y2/b2? In this case the major axis AA' of the ellipse is along the y-axis and
is of length 2b. See figure.
The minor axis of BB' = 2a. The foci S and S' are (0, be) and (0, -be) respectively.
The directrix are MZ and M'Z' given by y = + b/e, respectively. Also here a 2 = b2 (1 - e2).
Note:
Let P(x1, y1) be any point. This point lies outside, on or inside the ellipse (8) according as
x21/a2 + y21/b2 = 1 > 0 or = 0 or < 0.
Central Curve
A curve is said to be a central curve if there is a point, called the centre, such that every
chord passing through it is bisected at it.
Latus rectum:
The length of a chord through the focus and at right angle to the major axis of
the ellipse is known as the latus rectum of the ellipse.
There being two foci of an ellipse, there are two rectum, which are of equal length.
yL = b2/a
.. The length of latus rectum LSL' = 2b2/a
Notes:
The major axis AA' is of length 2a and the minor axis BB' is of length 2b.
e (NN') = e(2a/e) = 2a
=>
the sum of the focal distances of any point on the ellipse is equal to its major axis.
...... (i)
Its foci S and S' are (ae, 0) and (-ae, 0). The equation of its directrices MZ and M'Z'
are x = a/e and x = -a/e respectively. Let P(x 1, y1) be any point on (i)
Now SP = e PM = e NZ = e (OZ - ON) = e[(a/e)-x 1] = a - ex1
.. SP + S'P = 2a = AA'
So by this property an ellipse can also be defined as "the locus of a point which moves such
that the sum of its distances from two fixed point is always constant.
Other Forms
If in the equation x2/a2 +y2/b2 = 1, a2 < b2, then the major and minor axis of
theellipse lie along the y and the x-axis and are of lengths 2b and 2a respectively. The foci
become (0, + be), and the directrices become y = + b/e where e = (1-a2/b2 ). The length of
the semi-lactus rectum becomes a2/b2.
If the centre of the ellipse be taken at (h, k) and axes parallel to the x and the yaxes, then the equation of the ellipse is (x-h)2/a2 +(y-k)2/b2 = 1.
Illustration:
Find the centre, the length of the axes and the eccentricity of the ellipse 2x2 + 3y2 - 4x 12y + 13 = 0.
Solution:
The given equation can be written as 2(x - 1)2 + 3(y - 2)2 = 1
=>(x-1)2/(1/2)+(y-2)2/(1/3) = 1 => The centre of the ellipse is (1, 2).
The major axis = 2. 12 = 2.
The minor axis = 2.1/3=2/3 => e2 = 1 1/2 = 1/3 => e = 1/3.
Illustration:
Find the equation of the ellipse whose foci are (2, 3), (-2, 3) and whose semi minor axis is
of length 5.
Solution:
Here S is (2, 3), S' is (-2, 3) and b = 5.
=> SS' = 4 = 2ae ae = 2.
But b2 = a2 (1 - e2) => 5 = a2 - 4 => a = 3.
Centre C of the ellipse is (0, 3).
Illustration:
Find the equation of the ellipse having centre at (1, 2), one focus at (6, 2) and passing
through the point (4, 6).
Solution:
With centre at (1, 2) the equation of the ellipse is (x-1)2/a2 +(y-2)2/b2 = 1. It passes
through the point (4, 6).
=>
9/a2 +16/b2 = 1.
...... (1)
b2 = a2 - a2e2 = a2 - 25.
...... (2)
Solving for a2 and b2 from the equations (1) and (2), we get a2 = 45 and b2 = 20.
Hence the equation of the ellipse is (x-1)2/45+(y-2)2/20 = 1.
Illustration:
Find the equation of the ellipse (in standard form) having latus rectum 5
andeccentricity 2/3.
Solution:
Let the ellipse be x2/a2 +y2/b2 = 1 with a > b.
Latus rectum = 5 = 2b2/a => 2b2 = 5a.
...... (1)
Illustration:
Find the equation of the ellipse, which cuts the intercept of length 3 and 2 on positive x
and y-axis. Centre of the ellipse is origin and major and minor axes are along the positive xaxis and along positive y-axis.
Solution:
x2/a2 +y2/b2 = 1
...... (1)
According to the given condition the ellipse (1) passes through (3, 0) and (0, 2), so
we have.
9/a2 = 1 => a2 = 9
And 4/b2 = 1 => b2 = 4
Therefore, the equation of the ellipse is x2/9 + y2/4 = 1
Illustration:
Obtain the equation of an ellipse whose focus is the point (-1, 1) whose directrix is the
line passing through (2, 5) having the unit gradient and whose eccentricity is .
Solution:
Let P(x, y) be any point on ellipse.
Its focus is S (-1, 1).
Let the directrix be y = x + c
...... (1)
(. gradient m = 1)
Line (1) passes through (2, 5) so,
5 = 2 + c => c = 3
The directrix is y = x + 3
=> x - y + 3 = 0
...... (2)
...... (1)
Let P(x1, y1) and Q(x2, y2) be two points on the ellipse. The equation of the line PQ is,
y - y1 = ((y2-y1)/(x2-x1 )) (x - x1)
...... (2)
As point Q approaches towards point P along the ellipse, the line PQ tends to thetangent at
P. So, by substituting x1 and y1 for x2 and y2 in the above equation, we have the equation of
the tangent at P as
y - y1 = (-b2 (2x1 ))/(a2 (2y1)) (x - x1)
=> (xx1)/a2 + yy1/b2 =(x12)/a2 +(y`1)/b2 = 1
....... (4)
...... (5)
...... (6)
If (4) touches (5) then the roots f (6) must be coincident i.e. D = 0
......(7)
From the equation (6) and (7) we get the point of contact as ((+_a2 m)/(a2
m2+b2 ),(b2)/(a2 m2+b ))
(xx1)/a2 +(yy1)/b2 = 1.
* Equation of tangent at the point q i.e. (a cos, b sin) is obtained by putting x 1= a cos,
y1 = b sin
=> (x cos )/a+(y sin )/b = 1.
Illustration:
Find the locus of the point of intersection of the tangents to the ellipse x2/a2+y2/b2 = 1
(a > b) which meet at right angles.
Solution:
The line y = mx (a2 m2+b2) is a tangent to the given ellipse for all m. Let is passes
through (h, k).
=> k - mh = (a2 m2+b2 ) => k2 + m2h2 - 2hkm = a2m2 + b2
=> m2 (h2 - a2) - 2hkm + k2 - b2 = 0.
If the tangents are at right angles, then m1m2 = -1.
=> (k2-b2)/(h2-a2 ) = - 1 => h2 + k2 = a2 + b2.
Hence the locus of the point (h, k) is x2 + y2 = a2 + b2 which is a circle. This circle is called
the Director Circle of the ellipse.
Note:
The locus of the point of the intersection of two perpendicular tangents to anellipse is a
circle known as the director circle.
Illustration:
Prove that the locus of the mid-points of the intercepts of the tangents to
theellipse x2/a2 + y2/b2 = 1 = 1, intercepted between the axes, is a2/x2 +b2/y2 = 4.
Solution:
The tangent to the ellipse at any point (a cos, b sin)(x cos)/a+(y sin )/b = 1.
Let it meet the axes in P and Q, so that P is (a sec, 0)
and Q is (0, b cosec). If (h, k) is the mid-point of PQ, then h = (a sec)/2.
=> cos = a/2h
Illustration:
Prove that the product of the lengths of the perpendiculars drawn from the foci to
any tangent to the ellipse x2/16+y2/9 = 1 is equal to 9.
Solution:
For the given ellipse a = 4, b = 3 and hence 9 = 16 (1 - e2)
=> e = 7/4. The foci are thus located at (7,0) and (-7,0).
Equation of a tangent to the given ellipse is
y = mx + (16m2+9)
(as a = 4, b = 3).
Note:
The product of lengths of the perpendiculars drawn from the foci to any tangent to
the ellipse x2/a2 +y2/b2 = 1 is b2.
* To find the equation of the normal to the ellipse x2/a2 +y2/b2 = 1 at (x1, y1):
Equation of the tangent at (x1, y1) is (xx1)/a2 +(yy1)/b2 = 1
=>
* Equation of the normal at (a cos, b sin) is (x-a cos)/((a cos)/a2) = (y-b sin )/((b
sin)/b2).
=> ax sec - by cosec = a2 - b2.
Illustration:
If the normals to the ellipse x2/a2 + y2/b2 = 1 at the points (x1, y1), (x2, y2) and (x3, y3) are
concurrent, prove that
= 0.
Solution:
The equation of the normal to the given ellipse at (x1, y1) is
a2xy1 - b2yx1 - (a2 - b2)x1y1 = 0.
...... (1)
...... (2)
...... (3)
Eliminating a2x, b2y and (a2 - b2) from (1), (2) and (3), we find that the three lines are
concurrent if
= 0.
Enquiry:
We know that y = mx + (a2 m2+b2) is a tangent to the ellipse x2/a2 +y2/b2 = 1 for real
values of m. If this tangent passes through a point (x1, y1) we have y1 = mx1 +
((a2 m2+b2)).
or m2(x12 - a2) - 2x1y1m + (y12 - b2) = 0, which being a quadratic equation in m gives two
values of m. Thus from a point two tangents corresponding two values of m) can be drawn
to an ellipse.
* If from the point P(x1, y1) tangents PQ and PR be drawn to the ellipse x2/a2+y2/b2 = 1,
then the line joining the points of contact Q and R is called the chord of contact. Equation of
the chord of contact is xx1/a2 + yy1/b2 - 1 = 0 or T = 0.
* Equation of the Chord Joining the Points ( cos, sin),
( cos, sin) is
x/a cos((+)/2)+ y/b sin((+)/2) = cos((-)/2)
* Equation of a chord which is bisected at the point (x1, y1) is xx1/a2 + yy1/b2 -1 = (x12)/a2 +
(y12)/b2 - 1 or = S1
* Length of the chord ... (from package).
To find the length of the chord intercepted by the ellipse x2/a2 +y2/b2 = 1 on the
straight line y = mx + c.
Points of intersection of the ellipse and the line are given by x2/a2 +(mx+c)2/b2 = 1
i.e. (a2 m2 + b2)x2 + 2a2 cmx + a2(c2 - b2) = 0
...... (1)
Therefore the straight line meets the ellipse in two points (real, coincident or imaginary).
If (x1, y1) and (x2, y2) be the points of intersection, the length of the chord is
((x1-x2 )2+(y1-y2)2 )=(1+m2 )= |x1 - x2|
...... (2)
...... (1)
and (x-x1)/((x1/a2))+(y-y2)/((y1/b2)) = 1
...... (2)
(say)
Illustration:
Prove that the locus of the middle points of the portion of tangent to
the ellipsex2/a2 +y2/b2 = (a+b) between the axis is the curve a/x2 + b/y2 = 4/((a+b)).
Solution:
Any tangent to the ellipse x2/a2 +y2/b2 = 1 , is
y = mx + (a2 m2 + b2)
...... (1)
Illustration:
If PS1Q and PS2R be two focal chord of the ellipse whose two foci are S1 and S2and the
eccentric angle of P is '' then show that the equation of chord QR is x/a cos + y/b.(1+e 2)/
(1-e2) sin + 1 = 0.
Solution:
Let Q be (a cos , b sin ) and R be (a cos , b sin ) then the equation of the chord QR is
x/ cos(+)/2 + y/b sin(+)/2 = cos(-)/2
which on simplifying becomes
x/a (1-tan /2 tan /2)+y/b (tan /2+tan /2) = 1 + tan /2 tan /2 ..... (1)
Also, PQ and PR are focal chord thus
tan /2 tan /2 = (e-1)/(e+1) and tan /2 tan /2 = (e+1)/(e-1)
(From previous illustration)
On substituting the values of tan /2 and /2 in (1), we get
...... (1)
Since the origin 'O' is the centre so the equation of pair of lines OP and OQ can be obtained
by homogenizing the equation of the ellipse x2/a2 +y2/b2 = 1, with the help of (1), thus
Propositions on Ellipse:
Auxiliary circle of an ellipse
Auxiliary circle of an ellipse which is a circle described on the major axis of anellipse as
its diameter.
Let the ellipse be
x2/a2 + y2/b2 =1
...... (1)
...... (2)
+ y12 = a2
Therefore (a cos , b sin ) are the parametric co-ordinates of any point P on theellipse,
where is the eccentric angle of P.
Propositions on Ellipse:
Note:
1.
The equation of the line PQ reduces to that of tangent when x/a cos + y/b sin = 1
...... (a)
2.
Equation of normal can be derived by using the formula of equation of straight line passing
through point (a cos, b sin) and perpendicular to tangent (a) i.e. (y - b sin ) = (a sin /b
cos ) (x - a cos ).
=> a x sec - b y cosec = a2 - b2
Diameter of an ellipse
The locus of the middle points of a system of parallel chords of an ellipse is called
the diameter of the ellipse.
Let y = mx + c
...... (1)
In (1) m is constant and c varies from chord to chord. Let K (x1, y1) be the midpoint of a
chord PQ of this system.
Eliminating y between (1) and (2) we get
(a2m2 + b2)x2 + 2a2mcx + a2(c2 - b2) = 0
...... (3)
Note:
1. Conjugate Diameters: Two diameters of an ellipse which bisects chords parallel to each
other are called conjugated diameters. Therefore the diameters y = mx and y = m 1x of
the ellipse x2/a2 +y2/b2 = 1 are conjugate if mm1 = -b2/a2.
2. In an ellipse, the major axes bisects all chords parallel to the minor axes and vice-versa,
therefore major axes and minor axes of an ellipse are conjugate diameters but they do not
satisfy the condition
mm1 = -b2/a2 and are the only perpendicular conjugate diameters.
3.
Equi-conjugate diameter:
If the length of two conjugate diameters of ellipse be equal then they are called equi
conjugate diameters.
The equation of equi conjugated diameters are x2/a2 y2/b2 = 1.
...... (1)
...... (2)
To obtain the locus of the point of intersection (1) and (2) we have to eliminate m squaring
and adding (1) and (2), we get
(y - mx)2 + (my + x)2 = (a2m2 + b2) + (a2 + b2m)
=> x2 + y2 = a2 + b2, which is the equation of the director circle.
Enquiry:
y1)?
...... (1)
...... (2)
Or
Illustration:
How to find out pole of the line lx + my + n = 0 w.r.t. the ellipse x2/a2+y2/b2 = 1.
Solution:
Let (x1, y1) be the pole of line lx + my + n = 0.
w.r.t. the ellipse x2/a2 + y2/b2 = 1
...... (1)
...... (2)
...... (3)
Since (1) and (3) represents the same polar, so comparing them we have
(x1/a2)/l+(y1/b2)/b2 = (-1)/n
or
x1 = (-a2 l)/n
y1 = (-b2 m)/n
...... (1)
If the coordinates of the required point on the ellipse (1) be (6 cos ,2 sin ) then
the tangent at the point is x/6 cos + y/2 sin = 1
...... (2)
Slope of (2) = (-cos )/62/(sin )=(-2)/6 cot
Example 2:
If P be a point on the ellipse x2/a2 + y2/b2 = 2/c whose ordinate is 2/c, prove that the angle
between the tangent at P and SP is tan-1 (b2/ac), where S is the focus.
Solution:
The given ellipse x2/a2 + y2/b2 = 2/c
...... (1)
Example 4:
Find the locus of the extremities of the latus recta of all ellipses having a given major axis
6a.
Solution:
Let LSI be the latus rectum, C be the centre of the ellipse and the coordinates of L be (x, y)
then x = CS = 3 ae
...... (1)
And y = SL = b2/3a =(9a2(1-e2))/3a = 3a (1 - e2)
...... (2)
Eliminating the variable 'e' from (1) and (2) we get eh locus of L.
Hence putting the value of e from (1) and (2), we get
y = 3a(1-x2/9a2)
=> x2 = 9a2 - 3ay
=> x2 = 3a(3a - y), which is clearly a parabola. Similarly we can show that the locus of L' is
x2 = 3ay(y + 3a) which is again a parabola.
Example 5:
Find the equation of the normals at the end of the latus rectum of the ellipsex2/a2 +y2/b2 =
c2 and find the condition when each normal through one end of the minor axis.
Solution:
The ellipse x2/a2 + y2/b2 = c2
=> x2/(a2 c2+y2/(b2 c2) = 1
...... (1)
Example 6:
The circle x2 + y2 = 4 is concentric with the ellipse x2/7 + y2/3 = 1; prove that the
common tangent is inclined to the major axis at an angle 30o and find its length.
Solution:
The ellipse x2/7+y2/3=1
...... (1)
...... (2)
...... (3)
is always the tangent on the ellipse. If this is also a tangent on the circle (2) then length
of perpendicular from the centre (0, 0) on the line (1) must be equal to radius of circle i.e. 2.
Hence, (7m2+3)/(1+m2) = 2
=> 7m2 + 3 = 22 (1 + m2)
=> 7m2 - 4m2 = 4 - 3
=> m2 = 1/3
=> m = + 1/3
Hence the common tangent to the two curves is inclined at an angle of tan -1 (+1/3) i.e.
30o to the axis.
Note:
We can also prove the above result by using the fact that the line = mx + (7m 2+3) will
be tangent to x2 + y2 = 4 if discriminent of x2 + (m + (7m2+3))2 = 4 is zero.
Let P and Q be the points of contact of the common tangent with ellipse and circle
respectively and O be the common centre of the two, then PQ = (OP 2-OQ2)[ CPQ = 90o]
The coordinates of P are [(-a2m)/(a2 m2 + b2), b2/(a2 m2 + b2)]
i.e. [(-7/3)/(16/3),3/(16/3)]
i.e.[(-7)/4,(33)/4]
and coordinate of O are (0, 0)
So, OP = (((-7)/4)2+ ((33)/4)2) = (19/4)
As OQ = r = 2
.. PQ = (OP2-OQ2 ) = (19/4-4) = 3/2
Example 7:
If q be the angle between CP and normal at point P, on the ellipse a2 x2 + b2 y2 = 1, then
find out tan and prove that its greatest value is (b2-a2)/2ab. C is centre of ellipse and P is
any point on ellipse.
Solution:
The equation of the ellipse be
x2/(1/a2)+y2/(1/b2) = 1
..... (1)
If be the angle between the normal at P = (1/a cos ,1/b sin and PC where C is the
centre of the ellipse given by (1) equation to the normal PG is
x/a sec - y/b cosec = 1/a2 -1/b2
=> bx sec - ay cosec = (b2 - a2)/ab
Its slope = (b sec )/(a cosec ) = b/a tan = m 1 (say)
The slope of PC = (1/b sin )/(1/a cos ) = a/b tan = m2 (say)
tan = (m1-m2)/(1+m1 m2) = (a/b tan -a/b tan )/(1+(b/a) tan (a/b) tan ) = ((b 2-a2 )tan
)/ab(1-tan2 )
(b2-a2)/2ab.(2tan)/(1-tan2 )
tan = (b2 - a2)/2ab sin 2
The value of tan will be maximum when sin 2 is maximum, sin 2 is maximum i.e. sin 2
is 1. Therefore the greatest value of tan is (b2-a2)/2ab.
Example 9:
Find the locus of the point of intersection of the two straight lines (x tan )/a - y/b + tan x =
0 and x/a+(y tan )/b where a is fixed angle. Also find the eccentric angle of the point of
intersection.
Solution:
Equation of the lines are given as
(x tan )/a-y/b + tan = 0
...... (1)
...... (2)
To find the locus of the point of intersection, we have to eliminate the variable 'tan a' from
(1) and (2), so by (2),
y/b=1/(tan ) (1-x/a) and by (1)
y/b = tan (1+x/a)
Multiplying we get
y/b)2-(1-x/a)(1+x/a)
=> x2/a2 +y2/b2 = 1
This is the equation of an ellipse
Again solving (1) and (2), we get
x = a(1-tan2 )/((1+tan2 ))
x = a(1-tan2 )/(sec2 )
Let the abscissa of the point of intersection be a cos f, then
x = a cos = a(1-tan2)/(sec2 )
=> cos = (1-tan2 )/(sec2 )
=> (1-cos )/(1+cos )=(sec2 -(1-tan2))/(sec2 +(1-tan2 ) )
(By components & dividendo)
= (2 tan2 )/2 = tan2
=> (2 sin2/2)/(2 cos2 ) = tan2
=> tan2 /2 = tan2
=> tan /2 = tan
Hence = 2
Example 10:
If TP and TQ are perpendiculars upon the axes from any point T on the ellipsex2/a2+ y2/b2 =
4. Prove that PQ is always normal to fixed concentric ellipse.
Solution:
The ellipse is given by x2/(4a2 )+ y2/(4b2 ) = 1
...... (1)
...... (2)
Now equation to the normal at point (A cos , B sin ) with respect to any other
concentric ellipse
x2/A2 +y2/B2 = 1 is
Ax sec - By cosec = A2 - B2
...... (3)
...... (4)
Example 11:
If the straight line y = 2x + 2 meet the ellipse 2x2 + 3y2 - 6, prove that equation to the
circle, described on the line joining the points of intersection as diameters, is 7x 2+ 7y2 + 12x
- 4y - 5 = 0.
Solution:
The line is given as
y = 2x + 2
...... (1)
...... (2)
...... (3)
...... (4)
Let y1 and y2 be the corresponding ordinates for the abscissa x1 and x2; so the co-ordinates
of the points of intersection will be (x1, y1) and (x2, y2). As these lie on line
y = 2(x + 1)
We have y1 = 2(x1 + 1) and y2 = 2(x2 + 1)
Where y1 + y2 = 2(x1 + x2) + 4
y1y2 = 4(x1 + 1) (x2 + 1)
...... (5)
...... (6)
The equation to the circle drawn with the line joining (x1, y1) and
(x2, y2) as diameter is
(x - x1) (x - x2) + (y - y1) (y - y2) = 0
=> x2 + y2 - x(x1 + x2) - y(y1 + y2) + x1x2 + y1y2 = 0
=> x2 + y2 - x(x1 + x2) y[2(x1 + x2) + 4] + x1x2 +......+ 4[x1x2 + (x1 + x2) + 1] = 0
(By (5) and (6))
Putting the values from (3) and (4)
x2 + y2 - x (-12/7) - y[2(-12/7)+4] + 3/7 + 4[3/7+(-12/7)+1] = 0
= 7x2 + 7y2 + 12x - 4y - 5 = 0. Hence proved.
Example 12:
If the product of the perpendiculars from the foci upon the polar of P be constant and equal
to c2. Find the locus of P.
Solution:
Suppose the equation to the ellipse x2/a2 + y2/b2 = 1. The co-ordinate of foci are (ae, 0) and
(-ae, 0).
Let the co-ordinates of P be (h, k). Then polar of P is
xh/a2 +yk/b2 = 1
Or b2xh + a2yk - a2b2 = 0
...... (1)
If P1 and P2 be the lengths of the perpendiculars on the line (1) from (ae, 0) respectively are
P1 = (b2 hae-a2 b2)/(b2 h2 + a4 k2)
And P2 = (-a2 b2-b2 hea)/(b2 h2+a4 x2)
.. P1P2 = (-b2 h2 a2 e2+a4 b4)/(b4 h2+a4) = c2 (By hypothesis)
=> a4b4 - b4h4a2e2 = c2b4h2 - c2a4k2
=> b4h2 (c2 + a2e2) + c2a4k2 = a4b4
Generalizing the locus of the point P(h, x) is
b4 x2 (c2 + a2 e2) + c2 a4 y2 = a4 b4
Example 13:
Chords of ellipse x2/a2 +y2/b2 = 1 always touch another concentric ellipse x2/2+ y2/2 =
1, show that the locus of their poles is ( 2 x2)/a2 + (2 y2)/b2 = 1.
Solution:
Let (x1, y1) be the pole of a chord of the ellipse
x2/a2 +y2/b2 = 1
...... (1)
Then the equation of this cord is the same as the polar of (x 1, y1) with respect to (1)
i.e. xx1/a2 + yy1/b2 = 1
If (2) touches the ellipse x2/2 + y2/2 = 1, then
(b2/y1)2 = 2{-{b2x1/a2y1}}2 + 2
=> b4/y21 = (2b4x21/a4y21) + 2
=> (2 x12)/a4 +(2 y12)/b4 = 1
.. The locus of (x1, y1) is (2 x2)/a2 +(2 y2)/b4 = 1
Hence proved.
Example 14:
...... (2)
If the straight line y = x tan + ((a2 tan2 +b2)/2), being the angle of inclination,
intersects the ellipse x2/a2 +y2/b2 = 1. Then prove that the straight lines joining the centre to
their point of intersection are conjugate diameters.
Solution:
The equation of the ellipse be
x2/a2 +y2/b2 = 1
...... (1)
...... (2)
To get the equation to the lines joining the point of intersection to the origin, making (1)
homogeneous with the help of (2), we have
x2/a2 + y2/b2 = [((y-mx)/2)/(a2 m2 + b2 )]2
= 2((y2 + m2 x2 - 2mxy))/(a2 m2 + b2)
=> (b2 x2 + a2 y2) (a2m2 + b2) = 2a2 b2(y2 + m2x2 - 2mxy)
y2 a2(a2m2 - b2) + 4m2 - b2xy - b2x2 (a2m2 - b2) = 0
=> y2 + (4 mb2)/((a2 m2+b2)) xy -b2/a2 x2 = 0
...... (3)
This equation represents two straight lines y = m1x and y = m2x then the combined equation
will be y2 - (m1 + m2)xy + m1m2x2 = 0.
Comparing (3) and (4); we get
m1m2 = -b2/a2
which is the condition of diameter to be conjugate. Hence the lines are the conjugate
diameters.
Example 15:
The eccentric angles of two points P and Q on the ellipse 1, 2. Find the area of the
parallelogram formed by the tangents at the ends of diameters through P and Q.
Solution:
The ellipse is
x2/a2 +y2/b2 = 1
Equation to the tangent at the points P and Q are
x/a cos 1 + y/b sin 1 = 1
...... (1)
...... (2)
and
Solving (1) and (2), we will have the coordinates of the point of intersection. Multiplying (1)
by sin 2 and (2) by sin 1 and subtracting, we get
x/a (sin 2 cos 1 - cos 2 sin 1) = sin 2 - sin 1
=> x/a sin (2 - 1) = 2 sin (2 - 1)/2cos (2 + 1)/2
.. x = a (cos((1 - 2)/2))/(cos(1 - 2)/2); y = b (sin(1 + 2)/2)/(cos (1 - 2)/2)
Above are co-ordinates of the point of intersection L of tangents at p and Q, i.e. at 1 and 2.
Putting 1 = p + 1 in above we get the co-ordinates of the point of intersection M of
tangent at Q and P' as
Hyperbola
We have studied earlier about parabolas and ellipses as two conic sections. In this chapter we will
study another conic section called hyperbola which can be obtained by cutting a right circular come
at both the nappe by a plane. Thus it has two branches, one on each nappe.
Hyperbola is the locus of a point which moves in a plane such that it distance from a fixed point is
e(>1) times its distance from a fixed straight line. It is symmetrical about two axes and one branch
is the reflection of other about one of the axes. Since, we have studied ellipse in the previous
chapter, it will be easier to understand this chapter. We will give you a proportion by which you can
easily get the formulae for hyperbola if you know the formulae for ellipse.
Most of the properties of hyperbola are similar to those of the ellipse. We will introduce the
concept of asymptotes. You will also learn about rectangular hyperbolas and conjugate hyperbola.
The rectangular hyperbola can be very simply represented in a parametric form. It is advisable
that this fact should always be kept in the fore while solving problems on and related to rectangular
hyperbola.
Wishing you All the Best for the preparation Hyperbola with askIITians.com.
Topics Covered:
Basic Concepts of Hyperbola
Relation between Focal Distances
Parametric Coordinates
Important Properties of Hyperbola
Examples Based on Hyperbola
Ellipse Vs Hyperbola
Propositions of a Hyperbola
Examples on Propositions of a Hyperbola
Rectangular hyperbola
Intersection of a Circle and a Rectangular Hyperbola
Conjugate hyperbola
Examples on finding locus of point
Solved Examples on Hyperbola Part-I
Solved Examples of Hyperbola (Part-II)
Basic Concepts
As we have studied earlier that by slicing a cone with a plane in different orientations, we
obtain conic sections. The hyperbola is obtained by cutting a right circular cone at both the
nappes by a plane. The hyperbola is to be thought of a single curve consisting of two
branches, one on each nappe.
Definitions
A hyperbola is the locus of a point which moves in a plane such that its distance from a fixed
point (called the focus) is e ( >1) times its distance from a fixed straight line (called the
directrix).
The hyperbola is a conic section for which the eccentricity (e) is greater than unity.
Standard Equation
Let S be the focus and ZM the directrix of a hyperbola.
Since e > 1, we can divide SZ internally and externally in the ratio e : 1; let the points of
division be A and A as in the figure. Let AA = 2a and be bisected at C. Then, SA = e.AZ, SA
= e.ZA
SA + SA = e(AZ + ZA) = 2ae
i.e., 2SC = 2ae or SC = ae.
Similarly by subtraction, SA SA
= e(ZA ZA) = 2e.ZC 2a = 2eSC SC = a/e.
Now, take C as the origin, CS as the x-axis, and the perpendicular line CY as the y-axis. Then,
S is the point (ae, 0) and ZM the line x = a/e. Let P(x, y) be any point on the hyperbola. Then
the
condition
PS2 = e2.(distance of P from ZM) 2 gives (x ae)2 + y2 = e2 (x a/e)2 or x2(1 e)2+ y2 = a2(1
e 2)
i.e. x2/a2 y2/a2(e21) = 1.
(i)
Since e > 1, e2 1 is positive. Let a 2 (e2 1) = b2. Then the equation (i) becomes x2/a2
y2/a2 = 1.
The eccentricity e of the hyperbola x2/a2 y2/a2 = 1 is given by the relation e2 = (1 + b2/a2).
Since the curve is symmetrical about the y-axis, it is clear that there exists another focus S
at (ae, 0) and a corresponding directrix ZM with the equation x = a/e, such that the same
hyperbola is described if a point moves so that its distance from S is e times its distance
from ZM.
The points A and A where the straight line joining the two foci cuts the hyperbola are
called the vertices of the hyperbola.
The straight line joining the vertices is called the transverse axis of the hyperbola, its
length AA is 2a.
The middle point C of AA possesses the property that it bisects every chord of the
hyperbola passing through it. It can be proved by taking P(x 1, y1) as any point on the
hyperbola. If (x1, y1) lies on the hyperbola then so does P(x 1, y1) because the hyperbola is
symmetrical about the x and the y axes. Therefore PP is a chord whose middle point (0, 0),
i.e. the origin C. On account of this property the middle point of the straight line joining the
vertices of the hyperbola is called the centre of the hyperbola.
The straight line through the centre of a hyperbola which is perpendicular to the
transverse axis does not meet the hyperbola in real points. If B and B be the points on this
line such that BC=CB=b, the line BB is called the conjugate axis.
A latus rectum is the chord through a focus at right angle to the transverse axis.
The length of the semi-latus rectum can be obtained by putting x = ae in the equation of
the hyperbola. Thus y = b a2e2/a21 = be21 = b.b/a = b2/a.
Foci and Directrices:
Since the curve is symmetrical about x-axis, therefore there exists another focus at point
(ae, 0) of the hyperbola. (Similar to ellipse).
Corresponding to these foci, there are two directrices whose equations are x = a/e and x =
a/e.
The quantity x12/a2 y12/b2 = 1 is positive, zero or negative, according as the point (x1, y1)
lies within, upon or without the curve.
Parametric Coordinates
We can express the coordinate of a point of the hyperbola x 2/a2 y2/b2 = 1 in terms of a
single parameter, say .
In the adjacent figure OM = a sec and PM = b tan . Thus any point on the curve, in
parametric form is x = a secq, y = b tan.
In other words, (a sec , b tan ) is a point on the hyperbola for all values of . The point (a
sec, b tan) is briefly called the point .
The tangent at any point (x1, y1) on the curve is xx1/a2 yy1/b2 = 1.
The tangent at point is x sec/a y tan/b = 1.
The straight line y = mx + c is a tangent to the curve, if c 2 = a2 m2 b2. In other words, y =
mx + a2m2b2 touches the curve for all those values of m when m > b/a or m < b/a.
Equation of the normal at any point (x1, y1) to the curve is xx1/x1/a2 = yy1/y1(b)2.
The
equation
of
the
chord
through
the
points 1 and 2 is
The equation of the normal at is ax cos + by cot = a2 + b2.
Through a given point, four normals (real or imaginary) can be drawn to a hyperbola.
The tangent drawn at any point bisects the angle between the lines, joining the point to
the foci, whereas the normal bisects the supplementary angle between the lines.
Equation of the director circle is x 2 + y2 = a2 b2. That means if a2 > b2, there would exist
several points such that tangents drawn from them would be mutually perpendicular. If a 2 <
b2, no such point exist. For a2 = b2, centre is the only point from which two perpendicular
tangents (asymptotes) to the hyperbola can be drawn.
From any point (x1, y1) in general two tangents can be drawn to hyperbola. The equation of
the pair of tangents is
(x1/a2 y2/b2 1) (x12/a2 y12/b2 1) (xx1/a2 yy1/b2 1)2 or SS1 = T2
The equation of the chord of contact is xx1/a2 yy1/b2 1 = 0 or T = 0.
The equation of the chord bisected at the point (x1, y1) is
xx1/a2 yy1/b2 1 = x12/a2 y12/b2 1 or T = S1.
Equation of the chord the points (a sec , b tan ) and (a sec ?, b tan ?) is
x/a cos ?/2 y/b sin +?/2 = cos +?/2.
Solution:
Let S(1, 1) be focus and P(x, y) be any point on the hyperbola. From P draw
PM perpendicular to the directrix then PM =2x+y1/22+12 = 2x+y1/5
Also from the definition of the hyperbola, we have
SP/PM = e SP = ePM
(x1)2+(y1)2 = 3 (2x+y1/5)
(x 1)2 + (y 1)2 = 3 (2x+y1)2/5
5[(x2+12x)+(y2 + 1 2y)]=3(4x2 + y2 + 1 + 4xy 4x 2y)
7x2 2y2 + 12xy 2x 4y 7 = 0
Illustration:
Find the directrix, foci and eccentricity of the hyperbola
ax2 y2 = 1
Solution:
The given hyperbola is
ax2 y2 = 1
or
x2/(1/a) y2/1 = 1
(1)
Illustration:
(? a = 1/a, e = 1/a+1)
Find the locus of a point, the difference of whose distances from two fixed
points is constant.
Solution:
Let two fixed points be S (ae, 0) and S (ae, 0). Let P(x, y) be a moving point
such that
SP SP = Constant = 2a (say).
Then [(xae)2 + (y0)2] [x+ae]2+(y0)2 = 2a
[(xae)2+y2] = + 2a + [(x+ae)2+y2
(x ae)2 + y2 = 4a2 + (x + a2)2 + y2 + 4a [(xae)2+y2]
(x ae)2 (x + ae)2 4a2 = + 4a [(xae)2+y2]
4aex 4a2 = + 4a [(xae)2+y2]
(ex + a)2 = (x + ae)2 + y2
(e2 1)x2 y2 = a2(e2 1)
x2/a2y2/b2 = 1 taking b2 = a2(e2 1)
This is a hyperbola.
Illustration:
If A, B, C are three points on the hyperbola xy = c2 and AC is perpendicular to
BC, prove that AB is parallel to the normal to the curve at C.
Solution:
Let the three points A, B, C respectively be (ct1, c/t1), (ct2, c/t2) and (ct3, c/t3).
Since AC is perpendicular to BC,
(c/t3c/t1/ct3ct1) = 1 t1t2 = 1
(1)
(2)
Illustration:
Find the equation of the hyperbola the distance between whose foci is 16,
whose eccentricity is 2 and whose axis is along the x-axis centre being the
origin.
Solution:
We have b2 = a2(e2 1) = a2 b = a.
Also 2ae = 16 ae = 8 a = 42.
Hence the equation of the required hyperbola is
x2/32 y2/32 = 1 x2 y2 = 32.
Illustration:
The perpendiculars drawn from the centre of a hyperbola x2/a2 y2/b2 = 1
upon the tangent and normal at any point of the hyperbola meet them in Q
and R. Find the locus of Q and R.
Solution:
Tangent at any point P(a sec , b tan ) is sec y/b tan = 1. (1)
Equation of the line through centre (origin) perpendicular to (1) is y = a
sin /b x
sin = by/ax
Eliminating from (1), we get x/a cos y/b cos (by/ax) = 1.
x2 + y2 = ax cos (x2 + y2)2 = a2x2(1 b2y2/a2x2)
Or (x2 + y2)2= a2x2 b2y2, which is the locus of Q.
Normal at the point P (a sec , b tan ) is ax cos + by
cot = a2 + b2
(2)
(3)
Ellipse Vs Hyperbola
Enquiry: How do we get formulae for hyperbola if we know the
formulae for ellipse?
Most of the results obtained in the case of the ellipse x 2/a2 y2/b2 = 1 hold
good for the hyperbola x2/a2 y2/b2 = 1, when only the sign of b 2 is changed.
The proofs of these results can be derived exactly in the same manner as
they were derived for ellipse. So let us see some final results.
1. Tangent at (x1, y1) to the hyperbola x2/a2 y2/b2 = 1 is xx1/a2 yy1/b2= 1 i.e.
T = 0.
2. Equation of tangent in terms of m is y = mx + (a2m2b2).
3. Equation of the normal at (x 1, y1) to the hyperbola is xx 1/(x1/a2)yy1/
(y1/b2).
4. Equation of pair of tangents drawn from point (x 1, y1) to the
hyperbolax2/a2 y2/b2 = 1 is given by SS1 = T2
Where S = x2/a2 y2/b2 = 1
S1 = x12/a2 y12/b2 = 1
T = xx1/a2 yy1/b2 = 1
5. The Chord of Contact of tangents from (x 1, y1) to the hyperbola x2/a2
y2/b2 = 1 is given by T = 0 i.e. xx1/a2 yy1/b2 = 1.
6. The Polar of Pole (x1, y1) to the hyperbola x2/a2 y2/b2 = 1 is given by T = 0
i.e. xx1/a2 yy1/b2 = 1.
Try to get above results yourself using traditional methods similar to the
ellipse.
Enquiry: Can we represent a hyperbola mathematically in form of one
parameter and is there any geometrical significance of that parameter like
eccentric angle in case of ellipse?
Yes. Before that let us understand the concept of the auxiliary circle of a
hyperbola. The circle described on the transverse axis of hyperbola as its
diameter is called its auxiliary circle.
We know that the line AA joining the vertices A(a, 0) and A(a, 0) of the
hyperbola x2/a2 y2/b2 = 1 is called the transverse axis.
The equation of the auxiliary circle, described on AA as diameter, is
(x a) [x (a)] + (y 0)] + (y 0)(y 0) = 0
or
x2 + y2 = a2
Now let us draw the foot N of any ordinate NP of the hyperbola draw a
tangent NU to this circle, and join CU. The
CU = CN cos NCU
i.e.
x = CN = a sec NCU
So that NP : NU = b : a
So the ordinate of the hyperbola is therefore in a constant ratio to the length
of the tangent drawn from its foot to the auxiliary circle.
When it is desirable to express the co-ordiantes of any point of the curve in
terms of one parameter than we use
x = a sec ?, and y = b tan ?
Note:
This angle ? is not so important an angle for the hyperbolas the eccentric
angle is for the ellipse.
Propositions of a Hyperbola:
Diameter of a hyperbola
The locus of the middle point of a system of parallel chords of a hyperbola is
called its diameter.
The equation of the diameter is y = b2x/(a2m), where m is the slope of the
system of parallel chords.
Note:
Conjugate Diameters:
Two diameters of a hyperbola which bisect chords parallel to each other are
called conjugate diameters.
The diameters y = mx and y = m1x of the hyperbola x2/a2 y2/b2 = 1 are
conjugate if mm1 = b2/a2.
Director circle of a hyperbola
The director circle is the locus of the point of intersection of a pair of
perpendicular tangents to a hyperbola.
Equation of the director circle of the hyperbola x2/a2 y2/b2 = 1 is x2 + y2 =
a2 b2 i.e. a circle whose centre is origin and radius is (a2b2).
Note:
(1)
Remarks:
The equation of the hyperbola and that of its pair of asymptotes differ by a
constant. For example, if S = 0 is the equation of the hyperbola, then the
combined equation of the asymptotes is given by S + K = 0. The constant K
is obtained from the condition that the equation S + K = 0 represents a pair
of lines. Finally the equation of the corresponding conjugate hyperbola is S +
2K = 0.
Any line drawn parallel to the asymptote of the hyperbola would meet the
curve only at one point.
Illustration:
Find the hyperbola whose asymptotes are 2x y = 3 and 3x + y 7 = 0 and
which passes through the point (1, 1).
Solution:
The equation of the hyperbola differs from the equation of the asymptotes by
a constant.
The equation of the hyperbola with asymptotes 3x + y 7 = 0 and 2x y
= 3 is (3x + y 7) (2x y 3) + k = 0. It passes through
(1, 1) k = 6.
Hence the equation of the hyperbola is (2x y 3)(3x + y 7) = 6.
Illustration:
Find the angle between the asymptotes of the hyperbola x 2/a2y2/b2 = 1, then
length of whose latus rectum is 4/3 and which passes through the point (4,
2).
Solution:
Illustration:
Prove that the chords of the hyperbola x2/a2y2/b2 = 1, which touch its
conjugate hyperbola are bisected at the point of contact.
Solution:
Let P(x1, y1) be the mid-point of the chord of the given hyperbola, so that the
equation of the chords is xx1/a2yy1/b2 = x12/a2y12/b2.
(1)
will
have
equal
roots.
y12/b2 =
0 or (x12/a2y12/b2)(x12/a2
Alternative solution:
(2)
Rectangular hyperbola
If the asymptotes of a hyperbola are at right angles to each other, it is called
a rectangular hyperbola.
(1)
(1)
(2)
(i)
In a hyperbola b2 = a2 (e2 1). In the case of rectangular hyperbola (i.e.,
when b = a) result become a2 = a2(e2 1) or e2 = 2 or e =2
i.e. the eccentricity of a rectangular hyperbola =2
(ii) In case of rectangular hyperbola a = b i.e., the length of transverse axis
= length of conjugate axis.
Hence it is also called an equilateral hyperbola.
Intersection
of
a
Circle
Rectangular Hyperbola
and
A rectangular hyperbola and a circle meet in four points. The mean of these
four points is the middle point of the centres of the hyperbola and that of the
circle.
Let the rectangular hyperbola be xy = c 2 and the equation of the circle be
x2 + y2 + 2gcp + 2fy + k = 0. Any point on the hyperbola is (cp, c/p). If it lies
on the circle, then c2p2 + c2/p2 + 2gcp + 2fc/p + k = 0.
c2p4 + 2gcp3 + kp2 + 2fcp + c2 = 0.
This is fourth degree equation in p, which has four roots. Hence the circle and
the hyperbola intersect in four points. If p 1, p2, p3, p4 are the roots of this
equation, then
p1 + p2 + p3 + p4 = 2gc/c2 = 2g/c cp1 + cp2 + cp3 + cp4 = 2g
x1+x2+x3+x4/4 = g/2
Also 1/p1 + 1/p2 + 1/p3 + 1/p4 = p1p2p3/p1p2p3p4 = 2fc/c2/c2/c2 = 2f/c
c/p1 + c/p2 + c/p3 + c/p4 = 2f y1+y2+y3+y4/4 = f/2.
Hence the mean of the four points is (g/2, f/2) which is the mid-point of the
centre of the hyperbola and that of the circle.
Illustration:
Solution:
The line AB passes through the centre of the circle. Hence AB is the diameter
of the circle and the mid-point of AB is the centre of the circle. Let the coordinates of A, B, C, D be respectively (x 1, y1) (x2, y2), (x3, y3) and (x4, y4). Let
the centres of the hyperbola and the circle be (h, k) and (g, f).
Then x1+x2x3+x4/4 = h+g/2. But g = x1+x2/2
2g+x3/x4/4 h+g/2 x3+x4/2 = h
Similarly y3+y4/2 = k.
Hence (h, k) is the mid-point of CD.
Enquiry: As the asymptotes of a rectangular hyperbola are mutually
perpendicular, can we find the equation of a hyperbola whose asymptotes are
the co-ordinate axes?
Let transverse and conjugate axes as axes of co-ordinates (XOX and YOY in
the above figure), the equation of rectangular hyperbola is
X 2 Y2 = a2
(1)
Let Ox and Oy be the asymptotes, each making as angle of /4 with the coordinate axes. Rotate the axes through as angle of /4 with the co-ordinate
axes. To find the equation of the rectangular hyperbola referred to
asymptotes as axes. We have to substitute for X and Y in (1) the xcos(/4)
ysin(/4) and ycos(/4) + xsin(/4) respectively.
The shape of the above rectangular hyperbola referred to asymptotes as coordinate axes is as shown is the adjacent figure.
Note:
1. Parametric co-ordinates of any point on the rectangular hyperbola xy =
c2 is (ct, c/t) where t is the parameter.
2. Equations of tangent and normal at any point (ct, c/t) on the rectangular
hyperbola xy = c2 are x + yt2 = 2ct and xt3 yt ct4 + c = 0 respectively.
Conjugate hyperbola
A hyperbola whose transverse and conjugate axes respectively are the
conjugate and transverse axes of a given hyperbola is called the conjugate
hyperbola of the given hyperbola. The asymptotes of these two hyperbolas
are also the same.
Equation of a conjugate hyperbola is x2/a2 y2/b2 = 1
of the given hyperbola x2/a2 y2/b2 = 1
(1)
Its transverse and conjugate axes are along y and x axes respectively.
Note:
Illustration:
If e1 and e2 are the eccentricities of the hyperbola x2/a2 y2/b2 = 1 and its
conjugate hyperbola, prove that e12 + e22 = 1.
Solution:
(1)
(2)
e12 + e22 = 1.
Example:
C is a centre of the hyperbola x2/a2y2/b2 = 1 and the tangent at any point P meets
asymptotes in the point Q and R. Find the equation to locus of the centre of the circle
circumscribing the triangle CQR.
Solution:
x2/a2y2/b2 = 1
(1)
Let P any point on it as (a sec ?, b tan ?), then the equation of tangent at P is
(2)
x/a = y/b
(3)
(4)
(acos?/1sin?, bcos?/1sin?)
(acos?/1+sin?, bcos?/1+sin?)
Let O be the centre of the circle passing through C, Q and R having its coordinates as (h,
k). Then clearly OC = OQ
h2 + k2 = (hacos?/1sin?)2 + (kbcos?/1sin?)2
h2 + k2 = (hacos?/1sin?)2 + (kbcos?/1sin?)2
(5)
Similarly OC = OR
(6)
to get the locus of the point O we have to eliminate f from (5) and (6), so multiplying the
two we get
Example:
A straight line is drawn parallel to the conjugate axis of a hyperbola meets it and the
conjugate hyperbola in the points P and Q. Find the locus of point of intersection of
tangents at P and Q.
Solution:
x2/a2y2/b2 = 1
(1)
y2/b2x2/a2 = 1
(2)
Let p be any point (a sec ?, b tan ?) on P. The equation of the line parallel to the
conjugate axis (1) i.e. y-axis passes through P will be
x = a sec ?
(3)
The line (3) will cut the conjugate hyperbola (2) at Q where x = a sec ? and hence y = b
(1+sec2?), therefore the coordinates of Q will be {asec?, b(1+sec 2?)}
or
(4)
(5)
Squaring we have,
Example:
From a point A, perpendiculars AB and AC are drawn to two straight lines OB and OC. If
the area OBAC is constant, find the locus of A.
Solution:
Let the bisectors of the angles BOC be taken as axis. So the equations of OB and OC are
respectively.
x cos + y sin = 0
AB = Perpendicular from A on OB
(1)
and similarly
AC = Perpendicular from A on C
= h cos k sin
(2)
(h x) sin + (y k) cos = 0
(3)
(h x) sin (y k) cos = 0
= 00+hcos+ksin/cos2+sin2
= h sin k cos
= h sin + k cos .
= 1/2 OB AB + 1/2 OC AC
= 1/2 [h sin kcos][h cos + k sin] + 1/2 [h cos k sin] [h sin + k cos]
Therefore the locus of the point (h, k) will be x2 y2 = a2, which is hyperbola.
Show that the line 4x 3y = 9 touches the hyperbola 4x2 9y2 = 27.
Solution:
b2 = 27/9 = 3
c = 3
(1)
(2)
Hence proved.
Example:
Prove that the angle subtended b any chord of a rectangular hyperbola at the
centre is the supplement of the angle between the tangents at the end of the
chord.
Solution:
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(By (3))
Hence proved.
Example:
The normal to the hyperbola 16x 2 9y2 = 144 meets the axes in M and N. MP
and NP and are drawn at right angles to the axes. Find the locus of P.
Solution:
The equation to the hyperbola is
x2/a2 y2/b2 = 1
(1)
Let L be any point on it having the coordinates (3 sec ?, 4 tan ?) then the
equation to the normal at this point will be given by
3x sin ? + 4y = (9 + 16) tan ?
(2)
Let this normal cut the axis of x at M whose coordinates are (x, 0) and the
axis of y at N whose coordinates are (0, y) solving (2) with y = 0, we get
x = 9+16/3cos? = 25/3cos?
(3)
(4)
If four points (x1, y1), (x2, y2), (x3, y3) and (x4, y4) are concyclic then
These points are (ae, 0), (ae, 0), (a, b tan ?/2) and (a, b cot f/2)
= (2ae)
= (2aeb) [(a2 e2 a2 b2) cot ?/2 + 9a2e2 b2 a2) tan ?/2] = 0
points S, S, R and Q are conclycic.
Example:
On a level plain the crack of the rifle and the thud of the ball striking the
target are heared at the same instant, prove that the locus of the hearer is a
hyperbola.
Solution:
Suppose A to be the target and B to be the firing point and let the hearer be
at a point P. If V1 and V2 be the velocity of the sound and bullet respectively,
then the time taken by the bullet in reaching from B to the target A =
BA/v2 and the time taken by the sound in reaching from A to P = AP/v1.
Again the time taken by the sound in reaching from B to P = BP/v1.
As by hypothesis the sound reaches the hearer at P, simultaneously, the time
taken by the sound to reach upto the position P from then target together
with the time taken by the bullet to reach the target must be same as the
time taken by the sound in reaching from the rifle upto P.
Hence BA/v2 + AP/v1 = BP/v1
BA/v2 = BP/v1 AP/v1 = 1/v1 (BP AP)
BP AP = v1/v2 AB
As v1, v2 and AB are constants, hence
BP AP = Constant
Therefore the locus of the point P is the hyperbola having foci at A and B and
transverse axis equal to v1/v2 AB
Example:
Prove that the locus of the pole of a chord of the hyperbola which subtends a
right angles at the vertex, is, x = a2b2/a2+b2.
Solution:
The coordinates of the vertex are (a, 0). Transferring the origin to this point,
the equation of the hyperbola x2/a2y2/b2 becomes;
(x+a)2/a2 y2/b2 = 1
x2/a2y2/b2 = 2x/a
b2x2 a2y2 = 2ab2x
(1)
(2)
(3)
The equation of the lines joining the points of intersection of the hyperbola
and the chord to the origin is obtained by making (1) homogeneous with the
help of (3). Hence on simplification, this equation becomes
(a2b2 ab2h) (b2x2 a2y2) = 2ab2x(b2xh a2yk)
If they are at right angles, the sum of the coefficients of x2 and y2 must be
zero; hence
b2 a2 + 2b2h/ah = 0
generalizing for (h, k), we get the required locus as
x = a a2b2/a2+b2
Example:
Find the locus of intersection of tangent to a hyperbola, which meet at a
constant angle .
Solution:
Let the equation to the hyperbola be
x2/a2y2/b2 = 1
(1)
or
(2)
Example:
Find the equation to the hyperbola whose asymptotes are the straight lines x
+ 3y 1= 0 and 2x y + 7 = 0, and which passes through the point (1, 2).
Solution:
Equation to the asymptotes are given as
x + 3y 1 = 0
and
2x y + 7 = 0
(1)
(2)
(3)
As the equation to the hyperbola will differ from (3) only by a constant, it
may be given by
(x + 3y 1)(2x y + 7) =
(4)
(where is a constant)
(1, 2) lies on the curve given by (4), we have
(1 + 6 1)(2 2 + 7) =
= 42
Hence the equation to the hyperbola will be
(x + 3y 1)(2x y + 7) = 42
2x2 xy + 6xy + 7x 3y2 + 21y 2x + y 7 = 42
3D Geometry
The moving power of mathematical invention is not reasoning but
imagination. A.DEMORGAN
We constantly describe both the shapes and positions of three dimensional objects. For
example, one simple way to describe a 3D object is to approximate its shape as a
mesh of triangles. Each triangle is de?ned by three vertices, and the positions of each of
these vertices will have to be described by three coordinates [x,y,z]t.
In this chapter, we shall study the direction cosines and direction ratios of a line
joining two points and also discuss about the equations of lines and planes in space
under different conditions, angle between two lines, a line and a plane, shortest
distance between two skew lines and distance of a point from a plane.
Lower level geometry of planes and graphical two dimensional coordinates moves into a
three dimensional space in three dimensional geometry.
Topics Covered:
Coordinates of a Point in
Space:
x-axis = {( x, y, z) | y = z = 0}
y-axis = {(x, y, z) | x = z = 0}
z-axis = {(x, y, z) | x = y = 0}
xy plane = {(x, y, z) | z = 0}
yz plane = {(x, y, z) | x = 0}
zx plane = {(x, y, z) | y = 0}
OP = x2 + y2 + z2
x1 = x x', y1 = y y', z1 = z
z'
Example -1:
If the origin is shifted (1, 2, 3) without changing the directions of
the axes then find the new coordinates of the point (0, 4, 5) with
respect to new frame.
Solution:
x' = x x1,
y' = y y1
z' = z z1
x' = 0 1 = 1
y' = 4 2 = 2
z' = 5 + 3 = 8
The coordinates of the point w.r.t. to new coordinate frame is (-1, 2, 8).
Note:
Distance between the points P(x1, y1, z1) and Q (x2, y2, z2) is
The point dividing the line joining P(x1, y1, z1) and Q(x2, y2, z2) in m : n ratio is
The coordinates of centroid of a triangle having vertices A (x1, y1, z1), B (x2, y2, z2) and
C (x3, y3, z3) is G (x1 + x2 + x3 / 3, y1 + y2 + y3 / 3, z1 + z2 + z3 / 3).
Example -2:
Find the coordinates of the point which divides the line joining
points (2, 3, 4) and (3, 4, 7) in ratio 3 : 5.
Solution:
Example -3:
are collinear.
Prove that the three points A (3, 2, 4), B (1, 1, 1) and C (1, 4, 2)
Solution:
The general coordinates of a point R which divides the line joining A (3, 2, 4)
and B (1, 1, 1) in the ratio : 1 are ( + 3 / + 1, 2 / + 1, + 4 / + 1)
(1)
If C (1, 4, 2) lies on the line AB, then for some value of m the coordinates
of the point R will be the same as those of C.
Then, + 3 / + 1 = 1 => = 2
Putting = 2 in (1) the coordinates of R are (1, 4, 2) which are also the
coordinates of C.
DIRECTION COSINES OF A
LINE
If , , be the angles which a given directed line makes
with the positive directions of the co-ordinate axes, then
cos, cos, cos are called the direction cosines of the
given line and are generally denoted by l, m, n respectively.
Thus, l = cos, m = cos and n = cos
By the definition it follows that the direction cosine of the
axis of x are respectively cos0, cos90, cos 90i.e. (1, 0,
0).
Similarly direction cosines of the axes of y and z are
respectively (0, 1, 0) and (0, 0, 1).
Similarly y = mr and z = nr
Hence from (1)
Direction Ratios:
If a, b, c are three numbers proportional to the direction cosine l, m, n of a straight
line, then a, b, c are called its direction ratios. They are also called direction
numbers or direction components.
Hence by definition, we have
1/a = m/b = n/c = k (say)
=> l = ak, m = bk, n = ck => k2(a2 + b2 + c2) = l2 + m2 + n2 = 1
=> k = 1 / a2 + b2 + c2 = 1/a2
l = a/a2. Similarly m = b/a2 and n = n/a2
where the same sign either positive or negative is to be chosen throughout.
Note:
Direction cosines of a line are unique but direction ratios of a line in no way
unique but can be infinite.
Parallel Lines:
Since parallel lines have the same direction, it follows that the direction cosines of two or more parallel
straight lines are the same. So in case of lines, which do not pass through the origin, we can draw a
parallel line passing through the origin and direction cosines of that line can be found.
CXmhaU -4:
Find the direction cosines of two lines which are connected by the relations l5m
+ 3n = 0 and 7l2 + 5m2 3n2 = 0.
hb :
l5m + 3n = 0 => l = 5m 3n
(1)
(2)
l = 5m 3n = m or 1/m = 1
Thus, m/n = 2/3 and i/m = 1/2 giving i/1 = m/2 = n/3 = 1/v1 2 + 22 + 32 = 1/v14
The direction cosines of the other line are 1/v14, 2/v14, 3/v14.
The direction ratios of line PQ joining P (x1, y1, z1) and Q(x2, y2,
z2) are x2 x1 = a(say), y2 y1 = b (say) and z2 z1 = c (say).
CXmhaU -5:
Find the direction ratios and direction cosines of the line joining the points
A(6, 7, 1) and B(2, 3, 1).
hb :
a 2 + b 2 + c2 = 9
Let be the angle between two straight lines AB and AC whose direction
cosines are given whose direction cosines are l1, m1, n1 and l2, m2,
n2 respectively, is given by cosq = l1l2 + m1m2 + n1n2
If direction ratios of two lines are a1, b1, c1 and a2, b2, c2 are given, then angle
between two lines is given by
cos =
Particular Results:
Condition of perpendicularity:
Condition of parallelism:
l1m2 l2m1 = 0, m1n2 m2n1 = 0 and n1l2 n2l1 = 0 => I1/l2 = m1/m2 = n1/n2
CXmhaU -6:
hb :
Show that two lines having direction ratios 1, 3, 2 and 2, 2, 2 are perpendicular.
Projection of a
Line:
Projection of the line joining two point P (x1,
y1, z1) and Q (x2, y2, z2) on another line
whose direction cosines are l, m, n is
AB = l(x2 x1) + m(y2 y1) + n(z2 z1)
CXmhaU -7:
Find out perpendicular distance of point P (0, 1, 3) from straight line passing
through A (1, 3, 2) and having direction ratios 1, 2, 2.
hb :
Area of a Triangle
THE PLANE
Definition: Consider the locus of a point P(x, y, z). If x, y, z are allowed to vary without any restriction
for their different combinations, we have a set of points like P. The surface on which these points lie, is
called the locus of P. It may be a plane or any curved surface. If Q be any other point on its locus and all
points of the straight line PQ lie on it, it is a plane. In other words if the straight line PQ, however small
and in whatever direction it may be, lies completely on the locus, it is a plane, otherwise any curved
surface.
Equation of Plane in Different Forms:
Equation of the plane in Normal form is lx + my + nz = p where p is the length of the normal from
the origin to the plane and (l, m, n) be the direction cosines of the normal.
The equation to the plane passing through P(x1, y1, z1) and having direction ratios
(a, b, c) for its normal is a(x x1) + b(y y1) + c (z z1) = 0
The equation of the plane passing through three non-collinear points (x1, y1, z1),
=0
The equation of the plane whose intercepts are a, b, c on the x, y, z axes respectively is x/a + y/b
+ z/c = 1 (a b c 0)
Equation of YZ plane is x = 0,
Equation of ZX plane is y = 0,
Equation of XY plane is z = 0,
Four points namely A (x1, y1, z1), B (x2, y2, z2), C (x3, y3, z3) and D (x4, y4, z4) will be coplanar if one
point lies on the plane passing through other three points.
CXmhaU -8: Find the equation to the plane passing through the point (2, -1, 3) which is the foot of the
perpendicular drawn from the origin to the plane.
hb :
=> 2x y + 3z 14 = 0
Angle between the planes is defined as angle between normals of the planes drawn from any point to the
planes.
Angle between the planes a1x + b1y + c1z + d1 = 0 and a2x + b2y + c2z + d2 = 0
is
Note:
If a1a2 +b1b2 +c1c2 = 0, then the planes are perpendicular to each other.
If a1/a2 = b1/b2 = c1/c2 then the planes are parallel to each other.
hb :
CXmhaU -10:
axis.
hb :
Find the equation of the plane passing through (2, 3, 4), (1, 1, 3) and parallel to x-
(1)
a + 4b 7c = 0
(2)
Perpendicular Distance:
The length of the perpendicular from the point P(x1, y1, z1) to the plane ax + by + cz + d = 0 is |ax1 + by1 +
cz1 + d / a2 + b2 + c2|.
Family of Planes:
Equation of plane passing through the line of intersection of two planes u = 0 and v = 0 is
u + v = 0.
CXmhaU -11:
Find the equation of plane passing through the intersection of planes 2x 4y + 3z +
5= 0, x + y + z = 6 and parallel to straight line having direction cosines (1, 1, 1).
hb :
(2x 4y + 3z + 5) + (x + y z 6) = 0
i.e. (2 + )x + (4 + )y + z(3 ) + (5 6)
=0
i.e. x + 7y 6z 23 = 0.
So, equation (1) represents straight line which is obtained by intersection of two planes.
Equation of straight line passing through point P (x1, y1, z1) and whose direction cosines are l, m, n
is xx1 = y y1/m = z z1 / n
Equation of straight line passing through two points P (x1, y1, z1) and Q (x2, y2, z2) isxx1 / x2 x1 =
yy1 / y2 y1 = z y1 / z2 z1
Note:
The general coordinates of a point on a line is given by (x 1 + lr, y1 + mr, z1 + nr) where r is
distance between point (x1, y1, z1) and point whose coordinates is to be written.
CXmhaU 10. Find the equations of the straight lines through the point (a, b, c) which are
(a) parallel to z-axis
(b) perpendicular to z-axis
10. (i) Equation of straight lines parallel to z-axis have = 90 0, = 900, = 00
=> l = 0, m = 0, n = 1
Therefore equation of straight line is parallel to z-axis and passing through (a, b, c) is x a / 0 = y
b/0=zc/1
(ii)
Then equation of straight lines perpendicular to z axis and passing through (a, b, c) is xa / cos
= y b / sin = z c / 0
=> x a / l = y b / m = z c / 0.
CXmhaU -12:
Find the coordinates of the point where the line joining the points (2, 3, 1) and (3,
4, 5) cuts the plane 2x + y + z = 7.
hb :
x2 / 1 = y + 3 / 1 = z 1 / 6 = r (say)
Note:
If equation of straight line is given in general form, it can be changed into symmetrical form. The
method is described in following Example.
CXmhaU -13:
3x + 2y z 4 = 0= 4x + y 2z + 3.
hb :
3x + 2y z 4 = 0, 4x + y 2z + 3 = 0
(1)
Let l, m, n be the direction cosines of the line. Since the line is common to both the planes,
it is perpendicular to the normals to both the planes.
Hence 3l + 2m n = 0, 4l + m 2n = 0
1/4+1 = m4+6 = n/38 i.e. 1/3 = m/2 = n/5 = 1/(3)2 + 22 + (5)2 = 1/38
Now to find the coordinates of a point on a line. Let us find out the point where it meets the
plane z = 0. Putting z = 0 in the equation given by (1), we have
3x + 2y 4 = 0, 4x + y + 3 = 0
i.e. .
(1)
(2)
Any point on line (1) is P (x1 + l1r1, y1 + m1r1, z1 + n1r1) and on line (2) is
This line is perpendicular to both given line. By using condition of perpendicularity we obtain 2 equations
in r1 and r2.
So by solving these, values of r1 and r2 can be found. And subsequently point P and Q can be found. The
distance PQ is shortest distance.
Note:
If any straight line is given in general form then it can be transformed into symmetrical form and
we can further proceed.
CXmhaU -14:
Find the shortest distance between the lines , x3/3 = y 8/1 = z3/1, x + 3/3
= y+7/2 = z6/4 . Also find the equation of line of shortest distance.
hb :
= x+3 / 3 = y + 7 / 2 = z 6 / 4 = r2 (say)
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
THE SPHERE
A sphere is a locus of a point which moves in space such that its distance from a fixed point is constant.
Fixed point is called centre of sphere and constant distance is called radius of sphere.
Diameter form: Equation of a sphere whose extremities of diameter are A (x 1, y1, z1) and B (x2,
y2, z2) is (x x1) (x x2) + (y y1) (y y2) + (z z1) (z z2) = 0.
CXmhaU 13. Find the equation of the sphere which passes through the points (1, 3, 4), (1, 5, 2) and (1,
3, 0) and whose centre is on the plane x + y + z = 0.
hb :
(1)
(2)
(1, - 5, 2) => 2 u - 10 v + 4 w + d = - 30
(3)
(4)
CXmhaU -15:
Find the equation of the sphere whose centre is (2, 3, 4) and which passes through
the point (1, 2, 1).
hb :
SOLVED PROBLEMS
OBJECTIVE
1.
The angle between two lines whose direction cosines are given by the equation l + m + n =
0, l2 + m2 + n2 = 0 is
hb :
(A) /3
(B) 2/3
(C) /4
if l = 0, then m + n = 0 i,e. m = n
=> l/0 = m/1 = n/1, giving the direction ratios of one line.
If m = 0, then l + n = 0 i.e. l = n
=> l/0 = m/1 = n/1, giving direction ratios of the other lines.
2.
The equation of the plane which contains the line of intersection of the planes x + y + z 6
= 0 and 2x + 3y + z + 5 = 0 and perpendicular to the xy plane is:
hb :
(A) x 2y + 11 = 0
(B) x + 2y + 11 = 0
(C) x + 2y 11 = 0
(D) x 2y 11 = 0
i.e. 0 . x + 0 . y + z = 0
By condition of perpendicularity
0.(1 + 2) + 0. (1 + 3) + (1 + ) .1 = 0 i.e. = 1
3.
The coordinates of the foot of the perpendicular drawn from the origin to the plane 3x + 4y
6z + 1 = 0 are :
hb :
(1)
The direction ratios of the normal to the plane (1) are 3, 4, 6. So equation of the line
through (0, 0, 0) and perpendicular to the plane (1) are
(2)
The coordinates of any point P on (2) are (3r, 4r, 6r). If this point lie on the plane (1), then
Putting the value of r coordinates of the foot of the perpendicular P are (3/61, 4/61,
6/61).
4.
The distance of the point (1, 2, 3) from the plane x y + z = 5 measured parallel to the
line x/2 = y/3 = z/6 is:
(A) 7 unit
(B) 4 unit
(C) 1 unit
(D) 2 unit
hb :
Here we are not to find perpendicular distance of the point from the plane but distance
measured along with the given line. The method is as follow:
The equation of the line through the point (1, 2, 3) and parallel to given line is
= the distance between the points (1, 2, 3) and (9/7, 11/7, 15/7)
5.
(A) (3, 5, 2)
(B) (3, 2, 5)
(C) (5, 3, 2)
(D) (2, 5, 3)
hb :
As it is clear from the figure that PQ will
be perpendicular to the plane and foot of this
perpendicular is mid point of PQ i.e. N.
So, direction ratios of line PQ is 2, 1,
1
=> Equation of line PQ = x1/2 = y3/
1 = z4/1 r (say)
Any point on line PQ is (2r + 1, r + 3, r
+ 4)
If this point lies on the plane, then
2(2r + 1) (r + 3) + (r + 4) + 3 =
0 => r = 1
coordinate of foot of perpendicular N
= (1, 4, 3)
As N is middle point of PQ
=> x1 = 3, y1 = 5, z1 = 2
6.
The equation of the sphere which passes through the points (1, 0, 0), (0, 1, 0) and (0, 0, 1)
and has its radius as small as possible is :
hb :
(1)
As sphere passes through points (1, 0, 0), (0, 1, 0) and (0, 0, 1). So we have
1 + 2u + d = 0, 1 + 2v + d = 0, 1 + 2w + d = 0
On solving u = v = w = 1/2 (d + 1)
r = u2 + v2 + w2 d
for r to be minimum
7.
a:
A point moves so that the ratio of its distances from two fixed points is constant. Its locus is
(A) plane
(C) circle
(D) sphere
hb :
Let the coordinates of moving point P be (x, y, z). Let A (a, 0, 0) and B (a, 0, 0) be two
fixed points. According to given condition
8.
hb :
The ratio in which yzplane divides the line joining (2, 4, 5) and (3, 5, 7)
(A) -2 : 3
(B) 2 : 3
(C) 3 : 2
(D) -3 : 2
9.
A line makes angles , , , with the four diagonals of a cube then cos2 +
2
2
cos + cos + cos2 =
(A) 1
(B) 4/3
(C) 3/4
hb
(1, 1, 1)
(D) 4/5
10.
The points (0, -1, -1), (-4, 4, 4), (4, 5, 1) and (3, 9, 4) are
(A) collinear
(B) coplanar
hb :
Equation of the plane passing through the points (0, -1, -1), (-4, 4, 4) and (4, 5, 1)
is
=0
. (1)
11.
A variable plane passes through a fixed point (a, b, c) and meets the coordinate axes in A,
B, C. The locus of the point common to plane through A, B, C parallel to coordinate planes is
hb :
Now the points of intersection of the plane with the coordinate axes are A(, 0, 0), B(0, ,
0) & C(0, 0, )
=> Equation to planes parallel to the coordinate planes and passing through A, B & C are x
= , y = and z = .
12.
Of these statements:
hb :
13.
The equation of the plane containing the line x = /l, y = /m and z =/n is a(x ) +
b(y ) + c(z ) = 0, where al + bm + cn is equal to
(A) 1
(B) 1
(C) 2
(D) 0
hb :
Since straight line lies in the plane so it will be perpendicular to the normal at the given
plane. Since direction cosines of straight line are l, m, n and direction ratios of normal to the plane are a,
b, c. So, al + bm + cn = 0.
14.
The shortest distance between the two straight lines x4/3 / 2 = y+6/5 / 3 = z3/2 /
4 and 5y+6/8 = 2z3/9 = 3x4/5 is
hb :
(A) 29
(B) 3
(C) 0
(D) 610
Since these two lines are intersecting so shortest distance between the lines will be 0.
15.
A straight line passes through the point (2, 1, 1). It is parallel to the plane 4x + y +
z + 2 = 0 and is perpendicular to the line x/1 = y/2 = z5/1. The equations of the straight line are
hb :
4l + m + n = 0
l 2m + n = 0
16.
sphere is
If centre of a sphere is (1, 4, 3) and radius is 3 units, then the equation of the
(A) x2 + y2 + z2 2x 8y + 6z + 17 = 0
(D) x2 + y2 + z2 + 2x + 8y 6z 17 = 0
hb :
17.
If equation of a sphere is 2(x2 + y2 + z2) 4x 8y + 12z 7 = 0 and one extremity of
its diameter is (2, 1, 1), then the other extremity of diameter of the sphere will be
hb :
(B) (0, 9, 7)
(C) (0, 5, 7)
The centre of the sphere is (1, 2, 3) so if other extremity of diameter is (x 1, y1, z1), then
18.
The direction cosines of the line which is perpendicular to the lines with direction cosines
proportional to (1, 2, 2), (0, 2, 1) is
hb :
Therefore a - 2 b - 2 c = 0
And 2 b + c = 0
=> c = - 2 b
a - 2 b + 4b = 0 => a = - 2 b
Therefore direction ratios of the required line are <- 2b, b, - 2b> = <2, - 1, 2>
19.
hb :
The points (4, 7, 8), (2, 3, 4), (1, 2, 1) and (1, 2, 5) are :
(B) collinear
(D) concyclic
So, AB parallel to CD
20.
The equation of the plane parallel to the plane 4x 3y + 2z + 1 = 0 and passing through the
point (5, 1, 6) is :
(A) 4x - 3y + 2z - 5 = 0
(B) 3x - 4y + 2z - 5 = 0
(C) 4x - 3y + 2z + 5 = 0
(D) 3x - 4y + 2z + 5 = 0
hb :
so, 20 - 3 - 12 + k = 0 k = - 5
21.
A plane is passed through the middle point of the segment A (2, 5, 1), B (6, 1, 5) and is
perpendicular to this line. Its equation is :
hb :
(A) 2x - y + z = 4
(B) 2x - y + z = 4
(C) x - 3y + z = 5
(D) x - 4y + 2z = 5
22.
A plane meets the co-ordinates axes in A, B, C such that the centroid of triangle ABC is (a, b, c).
The equation of the plane is :
hb :
The plane meets the co-ordinate axes at A, B, C such that centroid of the triangle ABC is (a, b, c)
So, X-intercept = 3 a
=> Y-intercept = 3 b
=> Z-intercept = 3 c
23.
hb :
(A) 2
(B) 2
(C) 3
(D) 3
(- 1, 2, - 1) and (- 3, 4, - 3)
24.
(A) zero
(C) constant
hb :
(B) one
=l+m+n
which is constant.
25.
The angle between straight lines whose direction cosines are (1/2, 1/2, 1/2) and(1/3, 1/3,
1/3) is
hb :
26.
Which one of the following is best condition for the plane ax + by + cz + d = 0 to intersect the x
and y axes at equal angle
hb :
(B) a = b
(C) a = b
(D) a2 + b2 = 1
27.
hb :
28.
hb :
If P (2, 3, 6) and Q (3, 4, 5) are two points, the direction cosines of line PQ are
29.
hb :
The ratio in which yzplane divide the line joining the points A(3, 1, 5) and B(1, 4, 6) is
(A) 3 : 1
(B) 3 : 1
(C) 1 : 3
(D) 1 : 3
30.
A straight line is inclined to the axes of x and z at angels 450 and 600 respectively, then the
inclination of the line to the y-axis is
hb :
(A) 300
(B) 450
(C) 600
(D) 900
l2 + m2 + n2 = 1
=> m2 = 1/4
=> m = 1/2
31.
hb :
cos = a2 + a2 + a2 / a2 + a2 + a2 a2 + a2 + a2 of side is a
= 1/3.
32.
Given that A (3, 2, 4), B (5, 4, 6) and C (9, 8, 10) are collinear. The ratio in which B divides AC
(A) 1 : 2
(B) 2 : 1
(C) 1 : 2
(D) 2 : 1
hb :
9 + 3/+1 = 5 => 9 - 5 = 2
=> = 1/2.
33.
If P1P2 is perpendicular to P2P3, then the value of k is, where P1(k, 1, 1), P2(2k, 0, 2) and P3(2 +
2k, k , 1)
hb :
(A) 3
(B) 3
(C) 2
(D) 2
Therefore 2 k - k - 3 = 0
=> k = 3.
34.
A is the point (3, 7, 5) and B is the point (3, 2, 6). The projection of AB on the line which joins the
points (7, 9, 4) and (4, 5, 8) is
(A) 26
(B) 2
(C) 13
(D) 4
hb :
Distances of the line joining (7, 9, 4) and (4, 5, - 8) is < 3/13, 4/13, 12/13 >
Exercise # 1
35.
The shortest distance of the point from the x-axis is equal to(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three
Dimen._P.C6.1Q.1)
Ans.
(C)
hb . Foot of perpendicular drawn from P to x-axis will have its coordinates as (x, 0, 0).
36.
The point of intersection of the xy plane and the line passing through the points and is:
(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.1Q.4)
(A)
(13/5, 23/5, 0)
(B)
(13/5, 23/5, 0)
(C)
(13/5, 23/5, 0)
(D)
(13/5, 23/5, 0)
Ans.
(B)
Z=0
=> x3/2 = y4/3 = 1/5
=> x=3 2/5 = 13/5, y = 4 + 3/5 = 23/5
37.
The projections of the line segment AB on the coordinate axes are 9, 12, -8 respectively. The
direction cosines of the line segment AB are:(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.1Q.5)
Ans.
(A)
38.
The direction cosines of two mutually perpendicular lines are l 1,m1,n1 andl2,m2,n2. The direction
cosines of the line perpendicular to both the given lines will be:(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three
Dimen._P.C6.1Q.6)
Ans.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)
(D)
We must have,
Thus
n = l1m2 l2m1
39.
A directed line segment angles ,, with the coordinate axes. The value ofcos2 is always
equal to:(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.1Q.7)
Ans.
(A)
-1
(B)
(C)
-2
(D)
(A)
cos2 = (2cos21)
= 2l23
= 1
40.
Ans.
(A)
(C)
(B)
(D)
(D)
xy + yz = 0
=> x(y+z) = 0
X = 0, y + z = 0
41.
The plane 2x 3y + 6z 11 = 0 makes an angle (a) with x-axis. The value of a is equal to:
(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.2Q.10)
Ans.
(A)
3/2
(B)
2/3
(C)
2/7
(D)
3/7
(C)
42.
Ans.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)
none of these
(B)
Clearly, given planes have a common line of intersection namely the z-axis.
43.
The equation of a plane passing through (1, 2, -3), (0, 0, 0) and perpendicular to the plane 3x 5y
+ 2z = 11, is:(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.2Q.13)
Ans.
(A)
3x + y + 5/3 z = 0
(B)
4x + y + 2z = 0
(C)
3x y + z/3
(D)
x+y+z=0
(D)
Ax + by + cz = 0.
We have 3a 5b + 2c = 0, a + 2b 3c = 0
=> a : b : c = 11 : 11 : 11
Thus plan is
x+y+z=0
44.
The direction ration of a normal to the plane passing through (1, 0, 0), (0, 1, 0) and making an
angle /4 with the plane x + y = 3 are:(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.2Q.15)
(A)
(1, 2, 1)
(B)
(1, 1,2)
(C)
Ans.
(1,1,2)
(D)
(2, 1, 1)
(B)
.=> a = b = 1
Also,
=> c = 1/2
(1,1,2) or
(1,1,2)
45.
The equation of a plane passing through the line of intersection of the planes x + y + z = 5, 2x y
+ 3z = 1 and parallel to the line y = z = 0 is:(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.2Q.16)
(A)
3x z = 9
(B)
3y z = 9
(C)
x 3z = 9
(D)
y 3z = 9
Ans.
(B)
Since, (1 + 2a) = 0
a = 1/2
i.e.,
3y z = 9
46.
The angle between lines whose direction cosines are given by l + m + n = 0, l2 + m2 n2 = 0, is:
(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.2Q.17)
(A)
/2
(B)
/3
(C)
/6
(D)
None of these
Ans.
(D)
.l + m + n = 0, l2 + m2 n2 = 0
We also have
l2 + m2 + n2 = 1
=> 2n2 = 1
Also,
l2 + m2 = n2 = ((l+m))2
47.
Centroid of the tetrahedron OABC, where , , and O is the origin is (1, 2, 3). The value of is equal
to:(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.3Q.19)
Ans.
(A)
75
(B)
80
(C)
121
(D)
None of these
(A)
We have
4 = a + 1 + 2 + 0,
=> a = 1,
8=2+b+1+0
=> b = 5,
12 = 3 + 2 + c + 0.
=> c = 7,
a2 + b2 + c2 = 1 + 25 + 49 = 75
48.
The equation of the plane passing through the points (2, -1, 0), (3, -4, 5) and parallel to the line 2x
= 3y = 4z is:(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.3Q.20)
Ans.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)
(D)
Give line is 2x = 3y = 4z
i.e.,
Ax + by + cz = 1.
We have
6a + 4b + 3c = 0
2a b = 1
3a 4b + 5c = 1.
49.
A plane passes through the point . If the distance of this plane from the origin is maximum, then
its equation is:(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.4Q.1)
Ans.
(A)
x + 2y 3z + 4 = 0
(C)
2y - x + 3z = 0
(B)
x + 2y + 3z = 0
(D)
(B)
and .OA = 1 + 4 = 0 = 14
x - 2y + 3z = 0
x + 2y + 3z = 14.
50.
The shortest distance of the plane 12 + 4y + 3z = 327, from the sphere , is equal to:
(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.4Q.3)
Ans.
(A)
39 units
(B)
26 sq. units
(C)
13 units
(D)
None of these
(C)
Center and radius of given sphere are (2, 1, 3) and 13 unit respectively.
51.
The lines x = ay + b, z = cy + d and x = ay + b, z = cy + d will be mutually perpendicular
provided:(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.4Q.5)
(A)
(a + a)(b + b)(c + c)
(B)
aa + cc + 1 = 0
(C)
aa + bb + cc + 1 = 0
(D)
(a + a) (b + b) (c + c) + 1 = 0
Ans.
(B)
52.
The straight lines x2/1 = y3/1 = z4/k and x1/k = y4/2 = z5/1, will intersect provided:
(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.4Q.6)
Ans.
(A)
k = {3, -3}
(B)
k = {0, -1}
(C)
k = {-1, 1}
(D)
k = {0, -3}
(D)
P1 = (r1 + 2, r1 + 3, kr1+4)
r1 + 2 = kr2 + 1,
r1 + 3 = 2r2 + 1,
kr1 + 4 = r2 + 5,
r1 + kr2 + 1 = 0, r1 = 2r2 + 1,
k2 + 3k = 0
.=> k = {3,0}
53.
The plane ax + by + cz = d, meets the coordinate axes at the points, A, B and C respectively. Area
of triangle ABC is equal to:(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.4Q.7)
(A)
d2a2 + b2 + c2 / |abc|
(B)
d2a2 + b2 + c2 / 2|abc|
(C)
d2a2 + b2 + c2 / 4 |abc|
(D)
None of these
Ans.
(B)
54.
Equation of the plane passing through (-1, 1, 4) and containing the line x1/3 = y2/1 = z/5, is:
(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.4Q.9)
(A)
9x 22y + 2z + 23 = 0
(C)
9x + 22y - 3z = 1
(B)
(D)
x + 22y + z = 25
22y 9x + z = 35
Ans.
(D)
Equation of any plane containing the line x1/3 = y2/1 = z/5 will be
a(x1) + b (yz) + cz = 0
where,
3a + b + 4c = 0
. (i)
2a b + 4c = 0
. (ii)
9(x 1) + 22(y 2) + z = 0
i.e.,
22y 9x + z = 35
55.
Equation of the plane containing the lines x/1 = y2/3 = z+4/1 and x4/2 = y/3 = z/1 is,:
(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.5Q.10)
Ans.
(A)
x + y 4z = 6
(B)
x - y + 4z = 6
(C)
x + y + 4z = 6
(D)
None of these
(D)
Equation of any plane containing the line x/1 = y2/3 = z+4/1 is ax + b (y2) + c (z+4) = 0
where a + 3b c = 0
2a 3b + c = 0
and
4a b(0 2) + c(0 + 4) = 0
a = 0, b = 0, c = 0.
56.
Equation of the plane such that foot of altitude drawn from (-1, 1, 1) to the plane has the
coordinate (3, -2, -1), is:(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.5Q.11)
Ans.
(A)
x+y+z=0
(B)
4x - 3y 2z = 20
(C)
3x + y z = 8
(D)
4x + 3y z = 7
(B)
4, 3, 2
4x 3y 2z = d
i.e,,
d = 12 + 6 + 2 = 20
4x 3y 2z = 20.
57.
The distance of the point (-1, 2, 6) from the line x2/6 = y3/3 = z+ 4/4, is equal to:
(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.5Q.13)
Ans.
(A)
7 units
(B)
9 units
(C)
10 units
(D)
12 units
(A)
Direction ration of the line segment PQ, where Q = (1, 2, 6), are
=>
r1 = 1.
Thus, P = (4, 0, 0)
Required distance = 9 + 4 + 36
= 7 units.
58.
The point of intersection of the lines x+1 / 3 = y + 3/5 = z + 5 / 7 and x2/1 = y4/3 = z6/5 is:
(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.5Q.14)
Ans.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)
(B)
3r1 1 = r2 + 2,
5r1 3 = 3r2 + 4.
7r1 5 = 5r1 + 6.
Ans.
(A)
1 unit
(B)
2 units
(C)
3 units
(D)
4 units
(B)
We have,
x + y + 2z 3 = 0, x + 2z 2 + 3/2 y = 0
Y = 2.
60.
The length of projection, of the line segment joining the points (1, -1, 0) and (-1, 0, 1), to the plane
2x + y + 6z = 1, is equal to:(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three Dimen._P.C6.5Q.17)
Ans.
(A)
255/61
(B)
237/61
(C)
137/61
(D)
155/61
(B)
2, 1, 1.
Length of projection
= (AB) sin
61.
Reflection of the line x1/1 = y2/3 = z3/1 in the plane x + y + z = 7 is:(Ref.P.K.Sharma_Three
Dimen._P.C6.5Q.18)
Ans.
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)
(C)
Given line passes through (1, 2, 4) and this point also lies on the given plane.
i.e,
a + b + c = 4,
and
=> a = , b = 5 + , c = 5 +
=> 10 + 3 = 4
=> = 2
Thus, Q = (2, 3, 3)
3, 1, 1