PARUL UNIVERSITY

FACULTY OF IT AND COMPUTER SCIENCE

SUBJECT: BASIC MATHEMATICS

CHAPTER 6: COORDINATE GEOMETRY

6.1 Introduction
Coordinate Geometry is the branch of mathematics in which two numbers are
used to represent the position of a point with respect to two mutually
perpendicular number lines called coordinate axes.
The French mathematician and philosopher Rene Descaotes first published his
book La Geometric in 1673 in which he used algebra in the study of geometry.
This he did by representing points in the plane by ordered pairs of real number
called cartesian coordinates and representing lines and curves by algebraic
equations.
Coordinate Geometry is a system of Geometry where the position of points on
the plane is described using an ordered pair of numbers.

• Coordinate axes
The adjoining figure 3.1 shows two number lines 𝑋𝑜𝑋 ′ and 𝑌𝑜𝑌 ′ intersecting each
other at their zeros.

figure 6.1

1
 𝑋𝑜𝑋 ′ and 𝑌𝑜𝑌 ′ are called coordinate axes out of which 𝑋𝑜𝑋 ′ is called the x-axis,
𝑌𝑜𝑌 ′ is called y-axis and their point of intersection is called the origin.
Number lines 𝑋𝑜𝑋 ′ and 𝑌𝑜𝑌 ′ are sometimes also called rectangular axes as they
are perpendicular to each other.

Convention of Signs: The distance measured along 𝑂𝑋 and 𝑂𝑌 are taken as

positive and those along 𝑂𝑋 ′ and O𝑌 ′ are taken as negative as shown in figure
3.1.

• Coordinate of a point in a plane:

Let 𝑝 be a point in a plane. Let the distance of 𝑝 from the y-axis = a units, and the
distance of 𝑝 from the x-axis = b units. Then we say that the coordinates of 𝑝 are
(a, b) where a is called the x-coordinate or abscissa of 𝑝 and b is called the y-
coordinate or ordinate of 𝑝.

Figure 6.2

• Quadrants:

Let 𝑋 ′ 𝑂𝑋 and 𝑌𝑂𝑌 ′ be the coordinate axes.

2
 Figure 6.3
These axes decide the plane of the paper into four regions, called Quadrants.
The Region 𝑋𝑂𝑌, 𝑌𝑂𝑋 ′ ,𝑋 ′ 𝑂𝑌 ′ and 𝑌 ′ 𝑂𝑌 are respectively known as first, second,
third and fourth quadrant.

Using the convention of signs, we have the signs of the coordinates in various
quadrant given below.

Region Quadrant Nature of x and y Signs of coordinates

𝑋𝑂𝑌 1st 𝑥 > 0, 𝑦 > 0 (+,+)

𝑌𝑂𝑋 ′ 2nd 𝑥 < 0, 𝑦 > 0 (-,+)

𝑋 ′ 𝑂𝑌 ′ 3rd 𝑥 < 0, 𝑦 > 0 (-,-)

(+,-)
𝑌 ′ 𝑂𝑌 4th 𝑥 > 0, 𝑦 < 0

• Remarks:
1. (𝑥, 𝑦) and (𝑦, 𝑥) do not represent the same point unless 𝑥 = 𝑦
e.g., (5,4) and (4,5) represent two different points.
2. Since at origin the value of 𝑥 − 𝑐𝑜𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑠 is 0 and the value of 𝑦 − 𝑐𝑜𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒
is also 0. Therefore, the coordinates of origin = (0,0).
3. Since for every point on 𝑥 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠, its distance from 𝑥 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠 is 0 i.e., 𝑦 −
𝑐𝑜𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒 is 0. Therefore, the coordinate of a point on 𝑥 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠 are taken as
(𝑥, 0).
4. In the same way, for every point on 𝑦 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠 its distance from 𝑦 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠 is zero
i.e., 𝑥 − 𝑐𝑜𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒 is 0. Therefore, the coordinate of a point on 𝑦 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠 are
taken as (0, 𝑦)

3
 SOLVED EXAMPLES

Example 1: In which quadrant do the given point lie.

(i) (4, −2) (ii) (−3,7) (iii) (−1, −2) (iv) (3,6)
Solution: (i) Fourth quadrant
(ii) Second quadrant
(iii) Third quadrant
(iv) First quadrant
Example 2: On which axis do the given point lie?
(i) (7, 0) (ii) (0, − 3) (iii) (0, 6) (iv) (−5 , 0)

Solution:(i) In (7, 0), we have 𝑦 − 𝑐𝑜𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒 is 0

∴ (7, 0) lies on the 𝑥 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠.

(ii) In(0, −3) we have 𝑥 − 𝑐𝑜𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒 is 0.

∴ (0, −3) lies on the 𝑦 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠.

(iii) In (0,6) we have 𝑥 − 𝑐𝑜𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒 is 0.

∴ (0,6) lies on the 𝑦 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠.

(iv) In (−5,0) we have 𝑦 − 𝑐𝑜𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒 is 0.

∴ (−5,0)lies on the x−𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠.

6.2 Distance between two points:

The distance between the points (x1, y1) and (x2,y2) (or the length of the line
segment joining them) is

√(𝑥1 − 𝑥2 )2 + (𝑦2 − 𝑦1 )2

• Notes: 1) Distances are always positive, or zero if the points coincide. The
distance from A to B is the same as the distance from B to A.
2) The distance of a point P(𝑥, 𝑦) from the origin O(0,0) is given by

𝑂𝑃 = √(𝑥 − 0)2 + (𝑦 − 0)2 = √𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2

4
 SOLVED EXAMPLES

Example 1: Find the distance between 𝐴(1, 3) and 𝐵(0, − 4).

Solution: Using distance formula 𝑑 = 𝐴𝐵 = √(𝑥1 − 𝑥2 )2 + (𝑦1 − 𝑦2 )2

= √(1 − 0)2 + (3 + 4)2
= √1 + 49 = √50 = √25 × 2 = 5√2

Example 2: Find the distance between 𝐴(7, − 5) and 𝐵(3, − 2).

Solution: Using distance formula 𝑑 = 𝐴𝐵 = √(𝑥1 − 𝑥2 )2 + (𝑦1 − 𝑦2 )2

= √(7 − 3)2 + (−5 + 2)2
= √16 + 9 = √25 = 5

Example 3: 𝑑[(3,2), (−1,1)] = __________

Solution: Using distance formula 𝑑 = √(𝑥1 − 𝑥2 )2 + (𝑦1 − 𝑦2 )2

= √(3 + 1)2 + (2 − 1)2
= √16 + 1
= √17

Example 4:If 𝐴(−5,4) and 𝐵(7, −1) then 𝐴𝐵 = ________

Solution: Using distance formula 𝑑 = √(𝑥1 − 𝑥2 )2 + (𝑦1 − 𝑦2 )2

= √(−5 − 7)2 + (4 + 1)2
= √144 + 25
= √169 = √13
Example 5: If the distance between (5,7) and (−3, 𝑚) is 10. find the values of 𝑚.

Solution: Using distance formula 𝑑 = √(𝑥1 − 𝑥2 )2 + (𝑦1 − 𝑦2 )2

10 = √(5 + 3)2 + (7 − 𝑚)2
(10)2 = 64 + (49 − 14𝑚 + 𝑚2 )
100 − 64 − 49 = 𝑚2 − 14𝑚
𝑚2 − 14𝑚 + 13 = 0
⇒ 𝑚2 − 13𝑚 − 𝑚 + 13 = 0
⇒ 𝑚(𝑚 − 13) − 1(𝑚 − 13) = 0
⇒ (𝑚 − 13)(𝑚 − 1) = 0
⇒ 𝑚 = 13 𝑜𝑟 1
6.3 Mid-point of any two points:

5
 Suppose point A has coordinates (𝑥1 , 𝑦1 )and the point B has coordinates
(𝑥2 , 𝑦2 ). then the midpoint 𝑀 of 𝐴𝐵 is
𝑥1 + 𝑥2 𝑦1 + 𝑦2
𝑀=( , )
2 2

𝑥1 +𝑥2 𝑦1 +𝑦2
𝐴(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) M( , ) 𝐵(𝑥2 , 𝑦2 )
2 2

SOLVED EXAMPLES

Example 1: Find the mid-point of 𝐴(−2, −1) and 𝐵(4,3)

𝑥1 +𝑥2 𝑦1 +𝑦2
Solution: By using Mid-point formula, 𝑀 = ( , )
2 2

−2 + 4 −1 + 3
=( , )
2 2
2 2
= ( , ) = (1,1)
2 2
Example 2: Find the mid-point of 𝐴(4,2) and 𝐵(6, −2)
𝑥1 +𝑥2 𝑦1 +𝑦2
Solution: By using Mid-point formula, 𝑀 = ( , )
2 2

4+6 2−2
=( , )
2 2
10 0
=( , ) = (5,0)
2 2
Example 3: If the mid-point of line segment 𝐴𝐵 is (1,1) and 𝐵(4,3), then find the
coordinate of 𝐴(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ).
𝑥 +𝑥 𝑦 +𝑦
Solution: By using Mid-point formula, 𝑀 = ( 1 2 2 , 1 2 2)
𝑥1 + 4 𝑦1 + 3
(1,1) = ( , )
2 2
𝑥 +4 𝑦 +3
⇒ 12 = 1 and 12 = 1
⇒ 𝑥1 + 4 = 2 and 𝑦1 + 3 = 2

6
 ⇒ 𝑥1 = 2 − 4 and 𝑦1 = 2 − 3
⇒ 𝑥1 = −2 and 𝑦1 = −1

6.4 Collinear points:

Three points 𝐴(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ), 𝐵(𝑥2 , 𝑦2 ) and 𝐶(𝑥3 , 𝑦3 ) are said to be collinear if they lie

on the same line.

• Step Knowledge:
In order to show that three given points 𝐴, 𝐵 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐶 are collinear, we
finddistance 𝐴𝐵,𝐵𝐶 and 𝐶𝐴
If the sum of any two of these distances is equal to the third distance then the
given points are collinear.

I.e.,
A B C

If 𝐴𝐵 + 𝐵𝐶 = 𝐶𝐴 then points are said to be collinear.

SOLVED EXAMPLES

Example 1: Prove that the points 𝐴(1,4), 𝐵(3, −2) and 𝐶(−3,16) are collinear.

Solution:By using distance formula,

𝐴𝐵 = √(1 − 3)2 + (4 + 2)2

= √4 + 36 = √40 = 2√10

𝐵𝐶 = √(3 + 3)2 + (−2 − 16)2

= √36 + 324 = √360 = 6√10

and 𝐶𝐴 = √(−3 − 1)2 + (16 − 4)2

= √16 + 144 = √160 = 4√10

∴ 𝐴𝐵 + 𝐶𝐴 = 2√10 + 4√10 = 6√10 = 𝐵𝐶, Hence points are collinear.

7
 Example 2: Prove that the points 𝐴(−1,4), 𝐵(2,3) and 𝐶(8,1) are collinear

Solution:By using distance formula,

𝐴𝐵 = √(−1 − 2)2 + (4 − 3)2

= √9 + 1 = √10

𝐵𝐶 = √(2 − 8)2 + (3 − 1)2

= √36 + 4 = √40 = 2√10

and 𝐶𝐴 = √(8 + 1)2 + (1 − 4)2

= √81 + 9 = √90 = 3√10

∴ 𝐴𝐵 + 𝐵𝐶 = √10 + 2√10 = 3√10 = 𝐶𝐴, Hence points are collinear.

6.5 Section Formula

The coordinates of the point 𝑃(𝑥, 𝑦) which divides the line segment joining
𝐴(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) and 𝐵(𝑥2 , 𝑦2 ) internally in the ratio 𝑚: 𝑛 are given by
𝑚𝑥2 +𝑛𝑥1 𝑚𝑦2 +𝑛𝑦1
𝑥= , 𝑦=
𝑚+𝑛 𝑚+𝑛

The coordinates of the point 𝑃(𝑥, 𝑦) which divides the line segment
joining𝐴(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) and 𝐵(𝑥2 , 𝑦2 ) externally in the ratio 𝑚: 𝑛 are given by
𝑚𝑥2 −𝑛𝑥1 𝑚𝑦2 −𝑛𝑦1
𝑥= , 𝑦=
𝑚−𝑛 𝑚−𝑛

SOLVED EXAMPLES

Example 1: Find the coordinates of the point which divide the line segment
joining the points (6,3) and (−4,5) in the ration 3: 2 (i) internally and (ii) externally.

Solution: Here, 𝐴(6,3) , 𝐵(−4,5) and 𝑚: 𝑛 = 3: 2

8
 Let 𝑃 be the required point.

(i) for internal division, we have

𝑚𝑥2 +𝑛𝑥1 3×(−4)+2×6 𝑚𝑦2 +𝑛𝑦1 3×5+2×3 21
𝑥= = = 0, 𝑦 = = =
𝑚+𝑛 3+2 𝑚+𝑛 3+2 5

(ii) for external division, we have

𝑚𝑥2 −𝑛𝑥1 3×(−4)−2×6 𝑚𝑦2 −𝑛𝑦1 3×5−2×3
𝑥= = = −24, 𝑦 = = =9
𝑚−𝑛 3−2 𝑚−𝑛 3−2

Example 2: Find the coordinates of the point which divides the line segment
joining the points (4, – 3) and (8, 5) in the ratio 3:1 internally.

Solution:Let𝑃(𝑥, 𝑦) be the required point.

m1x2+m2x1 m1y2+m2y1
Using the section formula, ( , )
m2+m1 m2+m1

We get;
3(8)+1(4) 3(5)+1(−3)
x= =7, y= =3
3+1 3+1

Therefore, (7,3) is the required point.

Example 3: In what ratio the point (−2,3) divide the line segment joining the

points (−3,5) and (4, −9)

Solution: Let the required ratio be 𝑘: 1

Comparing 𝑥 − 𝑐𝑜𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒

𝑚𝑥2 + 𝑛𝑥1 𝑘 × 4 + 1 × (−3) 4𝑘 − 3

𝑥= ⇒ −2 = ⇒ −2 =
𝑚+𝑛 𝑘+1 𝑘+1
1
⇒ −2𝑘 − 2 = 4𝑘 − 3 ⇒ 6𝑘 = 1 ⇒ 𝑘 =
6
Comparing 𝑦 − 𝑐𝑜𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒

𝑚𝑦2 + 𝑛𝑦1 𝑘 × (−9) + 1 × 5 1

𝑦= ⇒3= ⇒ 3𝑘 + 3 = −9𝑘 + 5 ⇒ 12𝑘 = 2 ⇒ 𝑘 =
𝑚+𝑛 𝑘+1 6

9
Hence, the required ratio is 1: 6.

6.6 LOCUS and Equation to ALOCUS

LOCUS: The curve described by a point which moves under given condition or
conditions is called its LOCUS

For example:

Suppose 𝐶 is a point in the plane of the paper and 𝑃 is a variable point in the
plane of the paper such that its distance from 𝐶 is always equal to 𝑟(𝑠𝑎𝑦).
Obviously, all the positions of the moving point 𝑃 lie on the circumference of a
circle whose radius is 𝑟. The circumference of this circle is therefore the Locus of
the point 𝑂when it moves under the condition that its distance from point 𝐶 is
always equal to constant 𝑟.

• Equation of the locus of a point:

The equation of the locus of a point is the relation which is satisfied by the

coordinates ofevery point on the locus of the point.

SOLVED EXAMPLES

Example 1: Find the equation of a point 𝑃(𝑥, 𝑦) is moving under the condition

𝑃𝐴2 + 𝑃𝐵 2 = 100, where 𝐴(3,4) and 𝐵(−3, −4).

Solution: Given 𝑃𝐴2 + 𝑃𝐵 2 = 100

(𝑥 − 3)2 + (𝑦 − 4)2 + (𝑥 + 3)2 + (𝑦 + 4)2 = 100

𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 + 36 + 𝑦 2 − 8𝑦 − 16 + 𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 + 9 + 𝑦 2 + 8𝑦 + 16 = 100

2𝑥 2 + 2𝑦 2 + 50 = 100

𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 50, which is a required equation.

10
 Example 2: Find the equation to the locus of a point which equidistance from

the points 𝐴(1,3) and 𝐵(−2,1)

Solution: Let 𝑃(𝑥, 𝑦) be any point on the locus. Then

𝑃𝐴 = 𝑃𝐵 ⇒ 𝑃𝐴2 = 𝑃𝐵 2 ⇒ (𝑥 − 1)2 + (𝑦 − 3)2 = (𝑥 + 2)2 + (𝑦 − 1)2

⇒ 𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 + 1 + 𝑦 2 − 6𝑦 + 9 = 𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 4 + 𝑦 2 − 2𝑦 + 1

⇒ 6𝑥 + 4𝑦 = 5

Hence, locus(𝑥, 𝑦) is 6𝑥 + 4𝑦 − 5 = 0.

Example 3: Find the locus of a points 𝑃 such that the sum of the squares of

𝑥 − 𝑐𝑜𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒 and 𝑦 − 𝑐𝑜𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒 is equal to the product of 𝑥 − 𝑐𝑜𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒 and

𝑦 − 𝑐𝑜𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒.

Solution: Let 𝑃(ℎ, 𝑘) be any point on the locus.

∴ ℎ is 𝑥 − 𝑐𝑜𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒 and 𝑘 is 𝑦 − 𝑐𝑜𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒.

By the given geometric condition, we get ℎ2 + 𝑘 2 = ℎ𝑘

Hence, locus of (ℎ, 𝑘) is 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 𝑥𝑦.

6.7 Introduction to the straight lines

A straight line is the locus of all those points which are collinear with two given
points. Since, we know that one and only one line can be drawn from any two
given points. So straight line Is a curve such that every point on the line segment
joining any two points on it lies on it.

• Notes:
1) Every first degree in 𝑥, 𝑦 represents a straight line.

2) The 𝑥 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠 and all lines parallel to it are called horizontal lines.

3) The 𝑦 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠 and all lines parallel to it are called vertical lines.

11
 • Slope or Gradient of a line:
The gradient is a measure of the steepness of line.
The gradient of a line is defined to be the gradient of any interval within the line.
This definition depends on the fact that two intervals on a line have the same
gradient.
Suppose 𝐴(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) and 𝐵(𝑥2 , 𝑦2 ) are two points on the line. Then, by definition,
the gradient of the interval AB is;
𝑦2 −𝑦1 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑦
m= =
𝑥2 −𝑥1 𝑐ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑥

SOLVED EXAMPLES

Example 1:A line passes through the points (1, 2) and (5, 10). Find its gradient.
Solution: Here,(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) = (1,2) and (𝑥2 , 𝑦2 ) = (5,10)
𝑦 −𝑦
Therefore, Gradient = m =𝑥2−𝑥1
2 1

10−2 8
= =4=2
5−1

Example 2: If slope of the line passing through (𝑥1 , 5) and (3,4) is 5 then find the

value of 𝑥1 .

Solution: Here,(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) = (𝑥1 , 5) and (𝑥2 , 𝑦2 ) = (3,4)

𝑦 −𝑦 4−5
Therefore, slope = m =𝑥2−𝑥1 ⇒ 5 = 3−𝑥 ⇒ 15 − 5𝑥1 = −1
2 1 1

16
⇒ 16 = 5𝑥1 ⇒ 𝑥1 =
5

• General Equation of a line

General form of an Equation of a line is given by 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 + 𝑐 = 0

e.g., 2𝑥 + 3𝑦 + 5 = 0 represents a general equation of a line.

• Notes:
𝑐
1) The x − 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡 of an equation of a line 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 + 𝑐 = 0 is given by − 𝑎
𝑐
i.e., 𝑥 − 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡 = − 𝑎

12
 𝑐
2) The 𝑦 − 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡 of an equation of a line 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 + 𝑐 = 0 is given by − 𝑏
𝑐
i.e., 𝑦 − 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡 = − 𝑏
𝑎
3) The slope of an equation of a line 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 + 𝑐 = 0 is given by − 𝑏

𝑎
i.e., slope= 𝑚 = − 𝑏

SOLVED EXAMPLES

Example 1: Find 𝑥 − 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡, 𝑦 − 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡 and slope of a line

3𝑥 − 5𝑦 + 8 = 0

Solution: Given 3𝑥 − 5𝑦 + 8 = 0 by comparing with 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 + 𝑐 = 0 we have

𝑎 = 3, 𝑏 = −5 and 𝑐 = 8

𝑐 8
∴ 𝑥 − 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡 = − =−
𝑎 3
𝑐 8 8
𝑦 − 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡 = − =− =
𝑏 (−5) 5
𝑏 (−5) 5
and slope= − 𝑎 = − =3
3

Example 2:Find𝑥 − 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡, 𝑦 − 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡 and slope of a line 2𝑥 + 3𝑦 − 4 = 0

Solution: Given 2𝑥 + 3𝑦 − 4 = 0 by comparing with 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 + 𝑐 = 0 we have

𝑎 = 2, 𝑏 = 3 and 𝑐 = −4

𝑐 (−4)
∴ 𝑥 − 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡 = − =− =2
𝑎 2
𝑐 (−4) 4
𝑦 − 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡 = − =− =
𝑏 3 3
𝑏 3 3
and slope= − 𝑎 = − 2 = − 2

13
 Example 3: Find the equation of a line whose 𝑦 − 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡 is 𝑐 and slope is

𝑚.

Solution:

Figure 6.4

Let the given line meet 𝑦 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠 in 𝐴 and Let

𝑃(𝑥, 𝑦) be any point on it. As the 𝑦 − 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡 of the line is𝑐

∴ coordinates of 𝐴 are (0, 𝑐)

Now the slope between the points 𝐴(0, 𝑐) and 𝑃(𝑥, 𝑦) is:
𝑦2 − 𝑦1 𝑦 − 𝑐 𝑦 − 𝑐
𝑚= = =
𝑥2 − 𝑥1 𝑥 − 0 𝑥

𝑚𝑥 = 𝑦 − 𝑐 ⇒ 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐, which is a standard form of an equation of a line.

• Remarks:

1) If 𝑐 becomes zero, the equation 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐 reduces to 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 which is the

equation of a line through the origin

14
 2) If 𝑚 = 0, 𝑐 ≠ 0, then equation 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐 reduces to 𝑦 = 𝑐 which is an
equation of a line parallel to 𝑥 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠 at a distance 𝑐 from it.

3) If 𝑚 = 0, 𝑐 = 0, then equation becomes 𝑦 = 0 which represents the 𝑥 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠.

6.8 Slope-point form of an equation

To find the equation of a line passing through the given point

(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) and having slope 𝑚:

Figure 6.5

Let the point(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) be represented by 𝑄.

Let 𝑃(𝑥, 𝑦) be any point on the line.

Then the slope between 𝑃 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑄 is:

𝑦 −𝑦 𝑦−𝑦
𝑚 = 𝑥2−𝑥1 = 𝑥−𝑥1
2 1 1

⇒ 𝑚(𝑥 − 𝑥1 ) = 𝑦 − 𝑦1

∴ 𝑦 − 𝑦1 = 𝑚(𝑥 − 𝑥1 ), is known as a slope-point form.

15
 SOLVED EXAMPLES

Example 1:Find the equation of the line through (3,4) with slope 5.

Solution: Let 𝑃(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) = 𝑃(3,4) be the given point and slope= 𝑚 = 5.

Then by Slope-point form of an equation is:

𝑦 − 𝑦1 = 𝑚(𝑥 − 𝑥1 ) ⇒ 𝑦 − 4 = 5(𝑥 − 3)
⇒ 𝑦 − 4 = 5𝑥 − 15
⇒ 5𝑥 − 𝑦 − 15 + 4 = 0
⇒ 5𝑥 − 𝑦 − 11 = 0, which is a required equation.

Example 2: Find the equation of a line passing through point 𝑃(1,2) and having

slope 1.

Solution:Let𝑃(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) = 𝑃(1,2) be the given point and slope= 𝑚 = 1.

Then by Slope-point form of an equation is:

𝑦 − 𝑦1 = 𝑚(𝑥 − 𝑥1 ) ⇒ 𝑦 − 2 = 1(𝑥 − 1)

⇒𝑦−2=𝑥−1

⇒𝑥−𝑦−1+2= 0

⇒ 𝑥 − 𝑦 + 1 = 0, which is a required equation.

6.9 Two-point form of an equation

To find the equation of the straight line passing through two points:

16
 Figure 6.6

Let the two given points be 𝑄(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) and 𝑅(𝑥2 , 𝑦2 ).

Let 𝑃(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) be any point on the line.

From Figure, ∆𝑅𝑄𝑆 and ∆𝑄𝑇𝑃 both are similar

∴ Slope between 𝑅 and 𝑄 = Slope between 𝑄 and 𝑃

𝑦2 − 𝑦1 𝑦 − 𝑦1
⇒ =
𝑥2 − 𝑥1 𝑥 − 𝑥1
𝑦 −𝑦
⇒ 𝑦 − 𝑦1 = 𝑥2−𝑥1 (𝑥 − 𝑥1 ), which is known as Two-point form of an equation.
2 1

SOLVED EXAMPLES

Example 1: Find the equation of line passing through 𝐴(5,7) and 𝐵(−2,1).

Solution: Let 𝐴(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) = 𝐴(5,7) and 𝐵(𝑥2 , 𝑦2 ) = 𝐵(−2,1)

We know that the two-point form of an equation:

𝑦2 − 𝑦1
𝑦 − 𝑦1 = (𝑥 − 𝑥1 )
𝑥2 − 𝑥1

1−7
⇒𝑦−7= (𝑥 − 5)
−2 − 5

17
 −6
⇒𝑦−7= (𝑥 − 5)
−7
⇒ −7(𝑦 − 7) = −6(𝑥 − 5)

⇒ −7𝑦 + 49 = −6𝑥 + 30

⇒ 6𝑥 − 7𝑦 + 49 − 30 = 0

⇒ 6𝑥 − 7𝑦 + 19 = 0.

Example 2: Find the equation of line passing through 𝐴(1,3) and 𝐵(4, −2).

Solution: Let 𝐴(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) = 𝐴(1,3) and 𝐵(𝑥2 , 𝑦2 ) = 𝐵(4, −2)

We know that the two-point form of an equation:

𝑦2 − 𝑦1
𝑦 − 𝑦1 = (𝑥 − 𝑥1 )
𝑥2 − 𝑥1

−2 − 3
⇒𝑦−3= (𝑥 − 1)
4−1
−5
⇒𝑦−3= (𝑥 − 5)
3
⇒ 3(𝑦 − 3) = −5(𝑥 − 5)

⇒ 3𝑦 − 9 = −5𝑥 + 25

⇒ 5𝑥 − 3𝑦 − 9 − 25 = 0

⇒ 5𝑥 − 3𝑦 − 34 = 0.

6.10 Intercept from of an equation

To find the equation of the line which cuts off intercepts 𝑎 and 𝑏 on 𝑥 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠 and
𝑦 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠 respectively.

18
 Figure 6.7

Let the line meet 𝑥 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠 at point 𝐴 and 𝑦 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠 at point 𝐵. As the respective

intercepts are 𝑎 and 𝑏. So 𝑂𝐴 = 𝑎 and 𝑂𝐵 = 𝑏.

∴ Coordinates of 𝐴 and 𝐵 are (𝑎, 0) and (0, 𝑏) respectively.

Now, by using two-point form of an equation is:

𝑥−𝑎 𝑦−0 𝑥−𝑎 𝑦 𝑥 𝑦

= ⇒ = ⇒− +1=
0−𝑎 𝑏−0 −𝑎 𝑏 𝑎 𝑏
𝑥 𝑦
⇒ 𝑎 + 𝑏 = 1, which is known as intercept form of an equation.

SOLVED EXAMPLES

Example 1: Find the equation of the straight line which makes equal intercepts
on the axes and passes through the point (3, −5).

Solution: Let the equation of the straight line be

𝑥 𝑦
+𝑏 =1 (1)
𝑎

The line (1) makes equal intercepts on the axes, i.e., 𝑎 = 𝑏.

𝑥 𝑦
∴ + = 1 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 𝑎
𝑎 𝑎
If this line passes through the point (3, −5), then

19
3 − 5 = 𝑎 ⇒ 𝑎 = −2.

Hence, the required equation is 𝑥 + 𝑦 = −2 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 + 𝑦 + 2 = 0.

Example 2: Find the equation of the straight line, the portion of which intercepted
between the axes is divided by the point (−2,6) in the ratio 3: 2

Solution: Let the equation of the straight line be

𝑥 𝑦
+ =1 (1)
𝑎 𝑏

The line (1) meet 𝑥 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠 at the point 𝐴(𝑎, 0) and 𝑦 − 𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑠 at the point

𝐵(0, 𝑏).

Then the point (−2,6) divides the line 𝐴𝐵 is the ratio 3: 2

By section formula, we have

2𝑎 + 3 × 0 2 × 0 + 3 × 𝑏 2𝑎 3𝑏
(−2,6) = ( , ) ⇒ −2 = 𝑎𝑛𝑑 6 = ⇒ 𝑎 = −5 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑏 = 10
2+3 2+3 5 5
Putting the values of 𝑎 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑏 in (1), the required equation of the line is
𝑥 𝑦
+ 10 = 1 ⇒ 𝑦 − 2𝑥 = 10.
−5

• Summery:
In the below table the summery of all the forms of an equation are mentioned:

Equation of the straight line

Form Equation

General Form 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 + 𝑐 = 0

Standard Form 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐

Slope-point Form 𝑦 − 𝑦1 = 𝑚(𝑥 − 𝑥1 )

Two-point Form 𝑦2 − 𝑦1
𝑦 − 𝑦1 = (𝑥 − 𝑥1 )
𝑥2 − 𝑥1

20
 Intercept Form 𝑥 𝑦
+ =1
𝑎 𝑏

6.11 Parallel and Perpendicular lines

• Two lines are said to be a parallel lines if
𝑚1 = 𝑚2

For example: The red line and blue line are parallel in both these examples:

Example 1 Example 2

• Two lines are said to be perpendicular lines if

𝑚1 𝑚2 = −1
For example: The red line and blue line are perpendicular in both these
examples:

Example 1 Example 2

SOLVED EXAMPLES

Example 1: Prove that the lines 2𝑥 + 3𝑦 + 6 = 0 and 4𝑥 + 6𝑦 + 9 = 0 are parallel

to each other.

Solution: Given 𝑙1 : 2𝑥 + 3𝑦 + 6 = 0 and 𝑙2 : 4𝑥 + 6𝑦 + 9 = 0

21
 2 4 2
Slope 𝑚1 = − 3 and Slope 𝑚2 = − 6 = − 3

Here, 𝑚1 = 𝑚2 ⇒ lines are parallel.

Example 2:Prove that the lines 3𝑥 + 7𝑦 + 9 = 0 and 7𝑥 − 3𝑦 + 10 = 0 are

perpendicular to each other.

Solution: Given 𝑙1 : 3𝑥 + 7𝑦 + 9 = 0 and 𝑙2 : 7𝑥 − 3𝑦 + 10 = 0

3 7 7
Slope 𝑚1 = − 7 and Slope 𝑚2 = − (−3) = 3

Here, 𝑚1 𝑚2 = −1 ⇒ lines are perpendicular.

Example 3: Find the equation of line passing through (1,1) and parallel to

2𝑥 − 3𝑦 + 1 = 0.

Solution: Let 𝑃(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) = (1,1) and 𝑙1 : 2𝑥 − 3𝑦 + 1 = 0

2
Then Slope 𝑚1 = 3

Now, we wish to find the equation of a line which is parallel to 𝑙1 and passing

through (1,1).
2
For parallel lines, 𝑚1 = 𝑚2 ⇒ 𝑚2 = 3

2
∴ The equation of a line passing through (1,1) having slope 3 is given by:

2
𝑦 − 𝑦1 = 𝑚(𝑥 − 𝑥1 ) ⇒ 𝑦 − 1 = (𝑥 − 1)
3
⇒ 3𝑦 − 3 = 2𝑥 − 2

⇒ 2𝑥 − 3𝑦 + 1 = 0, which is a required equation.

Example 4: Find the equation of line passing through (1,4) and perpendicular to

3𝑥 + 5𝑦 − 7 = 0

Solution: Let 𝑃(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) = (1,4) and 𝑙1 : 3𝑥 + 5𝑦 − 7 = 0

22
 3
Then Slope 𝑚1 = − 5

Now, we wish to find the equation of a line which is parallel to 𝑙1 and passing
through (1,4).
5
For parallel lines, 𝑚1 𝑚2 = −1 ⇒ 𝑚2 = 3

5
∴ The equation of a line passing through (1,4) having slope 3 is given by:

5
𝑦 − 𝑦1 = 𝑚(𝑥 − 𝑥1 ) ⇒ 𝑦 − 4 = (𝑥 − 1)
3
⇒ 3𝑦 − 12 = 5𝑥 − 5

⇒ 5𝑥 − 3𝑦 + 7 = 0, which is a required equation.

6.12 Angle between two points

The angle between two lines 𝑙1 : 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 + 𝑐 = 0 and 𝑙2 : 𝑝𝑥 + 𝑞𝑦 + 𝑟 = 0 having

slopes
𝑎 𝑝
𝑚1 = − 𝑏 and 𝑚2 = − 𝑞 respectively can be given by

𝑚1 − 𝑚2
𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜃 = | |
1 + 𝑚1 𝑚2

Notes:

1) If two lines are parallel then 𝑚1 = 𝑚2 ⇒ 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜃 = 0 ⇒ 𝜃 = 0

𝜋
2) if two lines are perpendicular then 𝑚1 𝑚2 = −1 ⇒ 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜃 = ∞ ⇒ 𝜃 = 2

SOLVED EXAMPLES

Example 1: Find the angle between 2𝑥 + 3𝑦 − 6 = 0 and 5𝑥 + 10𝑦 − 11 = 0

Solution: Given lines𝑙1 : 2𝑥 + 3𝑦 − 6 = 0 and 𝑙2 : 5𝑥 + 10𝑦 − 11 = 0

2 5 1
∴ Slopes are 𝑚1 = − 3 and 𝑚2 = − 10 = − 2

23
 The angle between 𝑙1 and 𝑙2 is given by
𝑚1 − 𝑚2
𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜃 = | |
1 + 𝑚1 𝑚2
2 1 1
−3 + 2 −2
=| 2 1
|=| 4 |
1 + (− 3) (− 2) 3

3 3
= ⇒ 𝜃 = 𝑡𝑎𝑛−1
8 8
Example 2: Find the angle between lines passing through 𝐴, 𝐵 and 𝐵, 𝐶 where
𝐴(−2,1), 𝐵(2,3) and 𝐶(−2, −4)
3−1 2 1
Solution: The slope of the line passing through 𝐴, 𝐵 is 𝑚1 = 2+2 = 4 = 2

−4−3 −7 7
The slope of the line passing through 𝐵, 𝐶 is 𝑚2 = −2−2 = −4 = 4

∴ The angle between lines 𝐴, 𝐵 and 𝐵, 𝐶 is given by

𝑚1 − 𝑚2
𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜃 = | |
1 + 𝑚1 𝑚2
1 7 10
−4 −
2 8
=| 1 7
|=| 15 |
1 + (2) (4) 8

2 2
= ⇒ 𝜃 = 𝑡𝑎𝑛−1
3 3

24