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CHAPTER

6 Conic Sections

Animation 6.1: Conic Section

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The theory of conics plays an important role in modern space mechanics, occeangraphy
6.1 INTRODUCTION and many other branches of science and technology.
We first study the properties of a Circle. Other conics will be taken up later.
Conic sections or simply conics, are the curves obtained by cutting a (double)
right circular cone by a plane. Let RS be a line through the centre C of a given circle and
6.1.1 Equation of a Circle
perpendicular to its plane. Let A be a fixed point on RS. All lines through A and points on the
circle generate a right circular cone. The lines are called rulings or generators of the cone.
The set of all points in the plane that are equally distant from a fixed point is called a
The surface generated consists of two parts, called nappes, meeting at the fixed point A,
circle. The fixed point is called the centre of the circle and the distance from the center of
called the vertex or apex of the cone. The line RS is called axis of the cone.
the circle to any point on the circle is called the radius of the circle.
If the cone is cut by a plane perpendicular to the axis of the cone, then the section is a
If C(h,k) is centre of a circle, r its radius and P(x, y) any point on the circle, then the circle,
circle.
denoted S(C ; r) in set notation is

S ( C; r )
= {=
P ( x, y ): CP r}
By the distance formula, we get

( x - h) + ( y - k ) = r
2 2
CP =

( x - h) + ( y - k ) =
2 2
or r 2 (1)
is an equation of the circle in standard form.
If the centre of the circle is the origin, then (1) reduces to
x2 + y2 = r2 (2)
If r = 0, the circle is called a point circle which consists
of the centre only.
The size of the circle depends on how near the plane is to the vertex of the cone. If the Let P(x, y) be any point on the circle (2) and let the
plane passes through the vertex A, the intersection is just a single point or a point circle. If inclination of OP be q as shown in the figure. It is clear that
the cutting plane is slightly tilted and cuts only one nappe of the cone, the resulting section
is an ellipse. If the intersecting plane is parallel to a generator of the cone, but intersects x = r cos q 
(3)
its one nappe only , the curve of intersection is a parabola. If the cutting plane is parallel y = r sinq 

to the axis of the cone and intersects both of its nappes, then the curve of intersection is a
The point P(r cosq, r sin q) lies on (2) for all values of
hyperbola.
q. Equations (3) are called parametric equations of the
The Greek mathematicians Apollonius’ (260-200 B.C.) and Pappus (early fourth
circle (2).
century) discovered many intersecting properties of the conic sections. They used the
methods of Euclidean geometry to study conics. We shall not study conics from the point
Example 1: Write an equation of the circle with centre (-3, 5) and radius 7.
of view stated above, but rather approach them with the more powerful tools of analytic
Solution: Required equation is
geometry.

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(x + 3)2 + (y - 5)2 = 72
or x2 + y2 + 6x - 10y - 15 = 0  -12 -18 
Thus centre of the circle =( - g ,- f ) = , 
 5 5 
6.1.1 General Form of an Equation of a Circle 144 324
Radius of the circle= g 2 + f 2 - c= + -2
25 25
Theorem: The equation 418 418
= =
x2 + y2 +2gx + 2fy + c = 0 (1) 25 5
represents a circle g, f and c being constants.
Equation (1) can be written as: 6.1.2 Equations of Circles Determined by Given Conditions
(x2 + 2gx + g2) + (y2 + 2fy + f2) = g2+ f2 - c
The general equation of a circle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 contains three independent
( )
2 2 2
or  x - ( - g )  +  y - ( - f )=
2 2
g + f -c
constants g, f and c, which can be found if the equation satisfies three given conditions. We
which is standard form of an equation of a circle with centre (-g, - f) and radius discuss different cases in the following paragraphs.
g2 + f 2 - c .
The equation (1) is called general form of an equation of a circle. 1. A Circle Passing Through Three Non-collincar Points.
If three non-collinear points, through which a circle passes, are known, then we can
Note: find the three independent constants f, g and c occurring in the general equation of a circle.
1. (1) is a second degree equation in which coefficient of each of x2 and y2 is 1.
2. (1) contains no term involving the product xy. Example 3: Find an equation of the circle which passes through the points A(5,10), B(6,9)
and C(-2,3).
Thus a second degree equation in which coefficients of x2 and y2 are equal and there is
no product term xy represents a circle. Solution: Suppose equation of the required circle is
If three non-collinear points through which a circle passes are known, then we can find x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 (1)
the three constants f, g and c in (1). Since the three given points lie on the circle, they all satisfy (1). Substituting the three
points into (1), we get
Example 2: Show that the equation: 25 + 100 + 10g + 20f + c = 0
5x2 + 5y2 + 24x + 36y + 10 = 0 ⇒ 10g + 20f + c + 125 = 0 (2)
represents a circle. Also find its centre and radius. 36 + 81 +12g + 18f + c + 117 = 0
Solution: The given equation can be written as: ⇒ 12g + 18f + c + 117 = 0 (3)
4 + 9 - 4g + 6f + c = 0
2 2 24 36
x + y + 5 x + 5 y + 2 =0 -4g + 6f + c + 13 = 0 (4)
which is an equation of a circle in the general form. Here Now we solve the equations (2), (3) and (4).
12 18 Subtracting (3) from (2), we have
=g =,f = ,c 2
5 5 -2g + 2f + 8 = 0
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or g - f - 4 = 0 (5) 3. A circle passing through two points and equation of tangent at one of these
Subtracting (4) from (2), we have. points is known.
14g + 14f + 112 = 0 (6)
or g+f+8=0 Example 5: Find an equation of the circle passing through the point (-2, -5) and touching
From (5) and (6), we have, the line 3x + 4y - 24 = 0 at the point (4, 3).
f = -6 and g = -2.
Inserting the values of f and g into (2), we get c = 15 Solution: Let the circle be
Thus equation of the circle is: x2 + y2 - 4x - 12y + 15 = 0 x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 (1)
The points (-2, -5 ) and (4, 3) lie on it. Therefore
2. A circle passing through two points and having its centre on a given line. -4g - 10f + c + 29 = 0 (2)
8g + 6f + c + 25 = 0 (3)
Example 4: Find an equation of the circle having the join of A (x1, y1) and B (x2, y2) as a The line
diameter. 3x + 4y - 24 = 0 (4)
Touches the circle at (4, 3).
Solution: Since AB is a diameter of the circle, its A line through (4, 3) and perpendicular to (4) is
midpoint is the centre of the circle. The radius of the
4
circle is known and standard form of an equation of the y - 3= ( x - 4) or 4 x - 3 y - 7= 0
3
circle may be easily written. However, a more elegant
This line being a normal through (4, 3) passes through the centre (-g, -f) of the
procedure is to make use of the plane geometry. If
circle (1). Therefore
P(x, y) is any point on the circle, then m∠APB = 900
-4 g + 3f - 7 = 0 (5)
Thus the lines AP and BP are perpendicular to each
From (2) - (3), we get
other.
-12g - 16f + 4 = 0
y - y1 y - y2 or 3g + 4f - 1 = 0 (6)
=Slope of AP = and Slope of BP
x - x1 x - x2 Solving (5) and (6), we have g = -1, f = 1. Inserting these values of g and f into (3),

we find c = -23. Equation of the required circle is
By the condition of perpendicularity of two lines, we get
x2 + y2 - 2x + 2y - 23 = 0
y - y1 y - y2
× -1
=
x - x1 x - x2 4. A circle passing through two points and touching a given line.

or (x - x1) (x - x2) + (y - y1)(y - y2) = 0
Example 6: Find an equation of the circle passing through the points A(1, 2) and B(1, -2)
This is required equation of the circle.
and touching the line x + 2y + 5 = 0.

Solution: Let O(h, k) be the centre of the required circle. Then

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2. Find the centre and radius of the circle with the given equation
OA = radius of the circle.
= OB (a) x2 + y2 +12x - 10y = 0

i.e., (h - 1)2 + (k - 2)2 = (h - 1)2 + (k + 2)2 (b) 5x2 + 5y2 + 14x + 12y - 10 = 0
or 8k = 0 i.e., k = 0 (c) x2 + y2 - 6x + 4y + 13 = 0
(d) 4x2 + 4y2 - 8x +12y - 25 = 0
Hence OA = OB
3. Write an equation of the circle that passes through the given points
= ( h - 1) + 4
2
(a) A(4, 5), B(-4, -3 ), C(8, -3)
Now length of perpendicular from (h, k) i.e., (h, 0) to the line (b) A(-7, 7), B(5, -1), C(10, 0)
x + 2y + 5 = 0 equals the radius of the circle and is given by (c) A(a, 0), B(0, b), C(0, 0)
(d) A(5, 6), B(-3, 2), C(3, -4)
h+5 4. In each of the following, find an equation of the circle passing through
5 (a) A(3, -1), B(0, 1) and having centre at 4x - 3y - 3 = 0
(b) A(-3, 1) with radius 2 and centre at 2x - 3y + 3 = 0
h+5
( h - 1)
2
Therefore, = OA = +4 (c) A(5,1) and tangent to the line 2x - y - 10 = 0 at B(3, -4)
5
(d) A(1, 4), B(-1, 8) and tangent to the line x + 3y - 3 = 0
5. Find an equation of a circle of radius a and lying in the second quadrant such that it
( h + 5)
2

=( h - 1) + 4 or 4h 2 - 20h =0 is tangent to both the axes.

2
or i.e., h =0 ,5
5 6. Show that the lines 3x - 2y = 0 and 2x + 3y - 13 = 0 are tangents to the circle
Thus centres of the two circles are at (0, 0) and (5, 0). x2 + y2 + 6x - 4y = 0
Radius of the first circle = 5 ; Radius of the second circle = 20 7. Show that the circles
Equations of the circles are x2 + y2 + 2x - 2y - 7 = 0 and x2 + y2 - 6x + 4y + 9 = 0 touch externally.
x2 + y2 = 5 and (x - 5)2 + y2 = 20 8. Show that the circles
i.e., x2 + y2 = 5 and x2 + y2 - 10x + 5 = 0 x2 + y2 + 2x - 8 = 0 and x2 + y2 - 6x + 6y - 46 = 0 touch internally.
9. Find equations of the circles of radius 2 and tangent to the line
EXERCISE 6.1 x - y - 4 = 0 at A(1, -3).

1. In each of the following, find an equation of the circle with 6.2 TANGENTS AND NORMALS
(a) centre at (5, -2) and radius 4
A tangent to a curve is a line that touches the curve without cutting through it.
(b) centre at ( )
2 ,-3 3 and radius 2 2
dy
We know that for any curve whose equation is given by y = f(x) or f(x, y) = 0, the derivative
(c) ends of a diameter at (-3, 2) and (5, -6). is slope of the tangent at any point P(x, y) to the curve. The equation of the tangent to
dx
the curve can easily be written by the pointslope formula. The normal to the curve at P is
the line through P perpendicular to the tangent to the curve at P. This method can be very

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conveniently employed to find equations of tangent and normal to the circle Theorem: The point P(x1, y1) lies outside, on or inside the circle
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 at the point P(x1, y1). x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 according as
Here f(x, y) = x2 + y2 +2gx + 2fy + c = 0 (1)
>
x 2 + y 2 + 2 gx + 2 fy + c =
Differentiating (1) w.r.t. x, we get 1 1 1 1 0
<

dy dy dy x+g Proof. Radius r of the given circle is

2 x + 2 y + 2g + 2 f 0 or
= =
-
dx dx dx y+ f

r= g 2 + f 2 - c.
dy  x +g The point P(x1, y1) lies outside, on or inside the circle, according as:
 = - 1 = Slope of the tangent at (x1 , y1 )
dx  ( 1 1)
x ,y y1 + f
Equation of the Tangent at P is given by >
m CP =  r
<

y - y1 =
-
x1 + g
y1 + f
( x - x1 ) (Point-slope form) i.e., according as: }
>
( x1 + g ) 2 + ( y1 + f ) 2 =< g2 + f 2 - c

or y ( y1 + f ) - y12 - y1 f =
- x ( x1 + g ) + x12 + x1 g or according as : >
x12 + 2 gx1 + g 2 + y12 + f 2 + 2 fy1 < }
= g2 + f 2 - c

}

or xx1 + yy1 + gx + fy = x12 + y12 + gx1 + fy1 or according as : > 0.
x12 + y12 + 2 gx1 + 2 fy1 +c <
=


2 2
or xx1 + yy1 + gx + fy + gx1 + fy1 + c = x1 + y1 + gx1 + fy1 + gx1 + fy1 + c Example 1: Determine whether the point P(-5, 6) lies outside, on or inside the circle:
(adding gx1 + fy1 + c to both sides) x2 + y2 + 4x - 6y - 12 = 0
or xx1 + yy1 + g(x + x1) + f(y + y1) + c = 0
since (x1, y1) lies on (1) and so Solution: Putting x = -5 and y = 6 in the left hand member of the equation of the circle,
x 2 + y12 + 2 gx1 + 2 fy1 + c =0 we get
1
25 + 36 - 20 - 36 - 1 2 = -7 < 0
Thus xx1 + yy1 + g(x + x1) + f(y + y1) + c = 0 , is the required equation of the tangent.
Thus the point P(-5, 6) lies inside the circle.
To find an equation of the normal at P, we note that slope of the normal is
Theorem: The line y = mx + c intersects the circle x2 + y2 = a2
y1 + f in at the most two points.
(negative reciprocal of slope of the tangent)
x1 + g Proof: It is known from plane geometry that a line can meet a
Equation of the normal at P(x1, y1) is circle in at the most two points.
y1 + f To prove it analytically, we note that the coordinates of the
y=- y1 (x - x1 )
x1 + g points where the line

y = mx + c (1)
or (y - y1)(x1 + g) = (x - x1)(y1 + f), is an equation of the normal at (x1, y1).
intersects the circle
x2 + y2 = a2 (2)
are the simultaneous solutions of the equations (1) and (2).

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Substituting the value of y from equation (1) into equation (2), we get
x2 + (mx + c)2 = a2 8 9
Thus the points of intersection are P(2,1) and Q  , 
or x2(1 + m2) + 2mcx + c2 - a2 = 0 (3) 5 5
Length of the chord intercepted
This being quadratic in x, gives two values of x say x1 and x2. Thus the line intersects
2 2
the circle in at the most two points. For nature of the points we examine the discriminant 8  9  4 16 2
= PQ =  - 2  +  - 1 = + =
of (3). 5  5  25 25 5
The discriminant of (3) is (2mc)2 - 4(1 + m2) (c2 - a2)
Theorem: Two tangents can be drawn to a circle from any point P(x1, y1). The tangents
= 4m2 c2 - 4(1 + m2)(c2 - a2)
are real and distinct, coincident or imaginary according as the point lies outside, on or inside
= 4m2 c2 - 4m2 c2 - 4(c2 - a2 - a2m2)
the circle.
= 4 [- c2 + a2(1 + m2)]
These points are
Proof: Let an equation of the circle be x2 + y2 = a2
(i) Real and distinct, if a2(1 + m2) - c2 > 0
We have already seen that the line
(ii) Real and coincident if a2(1 + m2) - c2 = 0
(iii) Imaginary if a2(1 + m2) - c2 < 0 y =mx + a 1 + m 2
Condition that the line may be a tangent to the circle. is a tangent to the given circle for all values of m. If it passes through the point
The line (1) is tangent to the circle (2) if it meets the circle in one point. P(x1, y1),then
2
i.e., if c2 = a2(1 + m2) or c = ±a 1 + m2 y1 = mx1 + a 1 + m
is the condition for (1) to be a tangent to (2). or (y1 - mx1)2 = a2(1 + m2)
or m 2 ( x12 - a 2 ) - 2mx1 y1 + y12 - a 2 =
0
Example 2: Find the co-ordinates of the points of intersection of the line 2x + y = 5 and This being quadratic in m, gives two values of m and so there are two tangents from
the circle x + y + 2x - 9 = 0. Also find the length of the intercepted chord.
2 2
P(x1, y1) to the circle. These tangents are real and distinct, coincident or imaginary according
as the roots of (2) are real and distinct, coincident or imaginary
Solution: From 2x + y = 5, we have
y = (5 - 2x). } > 0
i.e., according as x12 y12 - ( x12 - a 2 )( y12 - a 2 ) <
=
Inserting this value of y into the equation of the circle, we get
x2 + (5 - 2x)2 + 2x - 9 = 0
or x12 a 2 + y1=
2 2
a + a4 <}
> 0 or x12 += > 0
y12 - a 2 < }
or 5x2 - 18x + 16 = 0 i.e., according as the point P(x1, y1) lies outside, on or inside the circle x2 + y2 - a2 = 0

18 ± 324 - 320 18 ± 2 8 Example 3: Write equations of two tangents from (2, 3) to the circle x2 + y2 = 9.
⇒ x= = = 2,
10 10 5
When x = 2, y = 5 - 4 = 1 Solution. Any tangent to the circle is
8 16 9 y =mx + 3 1 + m 2
When x = , y =5 - =
5 5 5 If it passes through (2, 3), then

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Example 5: Find a joint equation to the pair of tangents drawn from (5, 0) to the circle:
3 = 2m + 3 1 + m 2
(1) x2 + y2 = 9 (1)
or (3 - 2m)2 = 9(1 + m2)
or 9 - 12m + 4m2 = 9 + 9m2 Solution: Let P(h,k) be any point on either of the two tangents drawn from A(5,0) to the
-12 given circle (1). Equation of PA is
or 5m 2 +=
12m 0 i.e.,
= m 0,
5 k -0
Inserting these values of m into (1), we have equations of the tangents from (2,3) to -0
y= ( x - 5) or kx - (h - 5) y =
- 5k 0 (2)
h-5
the circle as : Since (2) is tangent to the circle (1), the perpendicular distance of (2) from the centre of the
circle equals the radius of the circle.
For m = 0 : y = 0. x + 3 1 + 0
or y = 3
-5k
i.e., =3
2 2
-12 -12 144 -12 39 k + (h - 5)
For m= : y= x + 3 1+ = x+
5 5 25 5 5 or 25k 2= 9[k 2 + (h - 5) 2 ] or 16k 2 - 9(h - 5) 2 = 0

or 5 y + 12 x - 39 =
0. Thus (h,k) lies on
9(x - 5)2 - 16y2 = 0 (3)
Example 4: Write equations of the tangents to the circle But (h,k) is any point of either of the two tangents.
x + y - 4x + 6y + 9 = 0
2 2
(1) Hence (3) is the joint equations of the two tangents.
at the points on the circle whose ordinate is -2.
6.2.1 Length of the tangent to a circle
Solution: Substituting y = -2 into (1), we get (Tangential Distance)
x2 - 4x + 1 = 0
Let P(x1, y1) be a point outside the circle
4 ± 16 - 4
or x
= = 2± 3 x2 + y2 +2gx + 2fy + c = 0 (1)
2
We know that two real and distinct tangents can be drawn to the circle from an external
The points on the circle with ordinate -2 are
point P. If the points of contact of these tangents with the circle are S and T, then each of
(2 + 3, -2),(2 - 3, -2) the length PS and PT is called length of the tangent or tangential distance from P to the
Equations of the tangents to (1) at these points are circle (1).
(2 + 3) x - 2 y - 2( x + 2 + 3) + 3( y - 2) + 9 =0 The centre of the circle has coordinates
and (2 - 3) x - 2 y - 2( x + 2 - 3) + 3( y - 2) + 9 =0 (-g, -f). Join PO and OT. From the right triangle OPT
we have,
i.e., 3 x + y - 2 3 - 1 =0
and - 3 x + y + 2 3 - 1 =0 length of the tangent ==
PT OP 2 - OT 2

= ( x1 + g ) 2 + ( y1 + f ) 2 - ( g 2 + f 2 - c)

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For m =-2 : -2 x - y =0 or 2 x + y =0
= x12 + y12 + 2 gx1 + 2 fy1 + c (2)

It is easy to see that length of the second tangent PS also equals (2). 1 1 5
For=
m : x - y += 0 or x - 2 y = +5 0
2 2 2
Example 6: Find the length of the tangent from the point P(-5, 10) to the circle Tangential distance = 1 + 4 - 4 + 4= 5
5x2 + 5y2 + 14x + 12y - 10 = 0
Example 8: Tangents are drawn from (-3,4) to the circle x2 + y2 = 21. Find an equation
Solution: Equation of the given circle in standard form is of the line joining the points of contact (The line is called the chord of contact).

14 12
x2 + y 2 + x+ y-2=0 (2) Solution: Let the points of contact of the two tangents be P(x1, y1) and Q(x2, y2)
5 5
An equation of the tangent at P is
Square of the length of the tangent from P(-5,10) to the circle (1) is obtained by xx1 + yy1 = 21 (1)
substituting -5 for x and 10 for y in the left hand member of (1) An equation of the tangent at Q is
∴ Required length = (-5) 2 + (10) 2 - 14 + 24 - 2 =133 xx2 + yy2 = 21 (2)

Since (1) and (2) pass through (-3 ,4 ), so
Example 7: Write equations of the tangent lines to the circle x2 + y2 + 4x + 2y = 0 -3x1 +4y1 = 21 (3)
drawn from P(-1,2). Also find the tangential distance. and -3x2 + 4y2 =21 (4)
(3) and (4) show that both the points P(x1, y1) , Q(x2, y2) lie on -3x + 4y = 21 and so it is
Solution: An equation of the line through P(-1,2) having slope m is the required equation of the chord of contact.
y - 2 = m(x + 1) or mx - y + m + 2 = 0. (1)
Centre of the circle is C(-2,-l). EXERCISE 6.2
Radius = 4 + 1 = 5
If (1) is tangent to the circle, then its distance from the centre of the circle equals the 1. Write down equations of the tangent and normal to the circle
radius of the circle. Therefore (i) x2 + y2 = 25 at (4 , 3) and at (5 cos q, 5 sin q)

-2m + 1 + m + 2  10 
(ii) 3 x 2 + 3 y 2 + 5 x - 13 y + 2 =0 at 1, 
= 5  3
m2 + 1
2. Write down equations of the tangent and normal to the circle
or (-m + 3)2 = 5(m2 +1)
4x2 + 4y2 - 16x + 24y - 117 = 0
or 4m2 + 6m - 4 = 0 or 2m2+ 3m - 2 = 0
at the points on the circle whose abscissa is -4.
-3 ± 9 + 16 -3 ± 5 1 3. Check the position of the point (5 , 6) with respect to the circle
m= = = -2,
4 4 2 (i) x2 + y2 = 81 (ii) 2x2 + 2y2 + 12x - 8y + 1 = 0
4. Find the length of the tangent drawn from the point (-5 , 4) to the circle
Equations of the tangents are from equation (1)
5x2 + 5y2 - 10x + 15y - 131 = 0
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5. Find the length of the chord cut off from the line 2x + 3y = 13 by the circle
x2 + y2 = 26 y12 2 2
+ 2 x a2
x= or x 2 (=
x12 + y12 ) a 2 x12
6. Find the coordinates of the points of intersection of the line x + 2y = 6 with the circle: x1
x2 + y2 - 2x - 2y - 39 = 0 or a 2 x 2 = a 2 x12 ( x12 + y12 =
x2 )
7. Find equations of the tangents to the circle x2 + y2 = 2
i.e., x = ± x1
(i) parallel to the line x - 2y + 1 = 0
(ii) perpendicular to the line 3x + 2y = 6  y1 
If
= 1,
x x= then y y1=
 y .x 
8. Find equations of the tangents drawn from  x1 
(i) (0 , 5) to x2 + y2 = 16
Similarly when x = -x1, then y = -y1
(ii) (-1 ,2 ) to x2 + y2 + 4x + 2y = 0
Thus B has coordinates (-x1 , -y1).
(iii) (-7, -2 ) to (x + 1)2 + (y - 2)2 = 26
Also find the points of contact Length of diameter AB = ( x1 + x1 ) 2 + ( y1 + y1 ) 2
9. Find an equation of the chord of contact of the tangents drawn from (4 , 5) to the circle = 4( x12 + y12 )= 4a 2 = 2a

2x2 + 2y2 - 8x + 12y + 21 = 0
Theorem 2: Perpendicular dropped from the centre of a circle on a chord bisects the
6.3 ANALYTIC PROOFS OF IMPORTANT chord.
PROPERTIES OF A CIRCLE
Proof: Let x2 + y2 = a2 be a circle, in which AB is a chord with
A line segment whose end points lie on a circle is called a chord of the circle. A diameter end points A(x1 , y1), B(x2 , y2) on the circle and OM is perpendicular
of a circle is a chord containing the centre of the circle. from the centre to the chord. We need to show that OM bisects
the chord AB.
Theorem: Length of a diameter of the circle x2 + y2 = a2 is 2a.
y2 - y1
Slop of AB =
Proof: Let AOB be a diameter of the circle
x2 - x1
x2 + y2 = a2 (1)
O(0,0) is center of (1). -( x2 - x1 ) x1 - x2
Slop of perpendicular=
to AB = = m (say)
Let the coordinates of A be (x1, y1). y2 - y1 y2 - y1
Equation of AOB is So equation of OM with slope m and point O(0,0) on it, is given by

y1 ( x1 - x2 )
y = x (2) =y-0 ( x - 0) (point - slope form)
x1 ( y2 - y1 )
 x -x 
Substituting the value of y from (2) into (1), we have or y =  1 2  x (1)
 y2 - y1 

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(1) is the equation of the perpendicular OM from centre to the chord. We will show that it Theorem 3:
bisects the chord i.e., intersection of OM and AB is the midpoint of AB. The perpendicular bisector of any chord of a circle passes through the centre of the
Equation of AB is circle.

y1 - y2 Proof: Let x2 + y2 = a2 be a circle and A(x1 , y1),

y=
- y1 ( x - x1 ) (2)
x1 - x2 B(x2 , y2) be the end points of a chord of this circle. Let M be the mid point of AB, i.e.
The foot of the perpendicular OM is the point of intersection of (1) and (2). Inserting the
 x + x y + y2 
value of y from (1) into (2), we have M 1 2, 1 
 2 2 
x1 - x2 y1 - y2
- x - y1
= ( x - x1 ) y2 - y1
y1 - y2 x1 - x2 The slop of AB =
x2 - x1
 y - y2 x1 - x2  x1 ( y1 - y2 )
or x 1 + = - y1 The slope of perpendicular bisector of AB is
 x1 - x2 y1 - y2  x1 - x2
x  y1 + y2 - 2 y1 y2 + x1 + x2 - 2 x1 x2  x y - x y
2 2 2 2
 x -x 
or = 2 1 1 2 - 2 1 
( x1 - x2 ) ( y1 - y2 ) x1 - x2  y2 - y1 
or
2 2
x(2a - 2 x1 x2 - 2 y1 y2 ) =x2 y1 - x1 y1 y2 - x2 y1 y2 + x1 y2
2
So, equation of perpendicular bisector in point-slope form, is
2 2 2 2 2
or 2 x(a - x1 x2 - y1 y2 )= x2 (a - x1 ) - y1 y2 ( x1 + x2 ) + x1 (a - x2 )
y1 + y2  x - x  x +x 
=
2
a ( x1 + x2 ) - x1 x2 ( x1 + x2 ) - y1 y2 ( x1 + x2 ) y- -  2 1  x - 1 2 
= (1)
2 y2 - y1   2 
2 
= ( x1 + x2 ) (a - x1 x2 - y1 y2 )
We check whether the centre (0,0) of the circle lies on (1) or not
(The points (x1 , y1) and (x2 , y2) lie on the circle)

x +x y1 + y2 -( x2 - x1 )  x1 + x2 
or x= 1 2 0 - = 0 - 
2 2 ( y2 - y1 )  2 

Putting
x +x
x = 1 2 into (1) , we get or
 y + y2  ( x1 + x2 )
2
- 1  ( y2 - y1 ) = ( x2 - x1 )
 2  2
2 2
( x1 - x2 ) ( x1 + x2 ) x1 - x2 or
2 2 2 2 2 2
- ( y2 - y1 ) = x2 - x1 or x1 + y1 = x2 + y2
2 2
= y = .
y2 - y1 2 2( y2 - y1 ) or a2 = a2 which is true
2 2
 x12 + y12 =a
2
 Hence the perpendicular bisector of any chord passes through the centre of the circle.
y -y ( y2 - y1 )( y2 + y1 )  2 
or y
= = 2 1
 x2 + y2 =
2
a
2

2( y2 - y1 ) 2( y2 - y1 )
 2 2 2 2 Theorem 4:
y + y2 ⇒ x1 - x2 = y1 - y2  The line joining the centre of a circle to the midpoint of a chord is perpendicular to the
or y= 1
2 chord.
 x1 + x2 y1 + y2 
So,  ,  is the point of intersection of OM and AB which is the midpoint of AB.
 2 2  Proof: Let A(x1 , y1) , B(x2 , y2) be the end points of any chord the circle x2 + y2 = a2. O(0, 0)
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2 2
 x + x y + y2   y + y2  x +x 
2
y1 + y2 + x1 + x2 + 2 x1 x2 + 2 y1 y2
2 2 2
is centre of the circle and M  1 2 , 1  is the midpoint of ∴ OM=  1
2
- 0  +  1 2 - 0= 
 2 2   2   2  4
AB. Join the centre O with the mid point M. We need to show 2 2 2 2
( x + y1 ) + ( x2 + y2 ) + 2 x1 x2 + 2 y1 y2
that OM is perpendicular to AB i.e., product of slopes of AB and = 1
4
OM is -1. 2 2
a + a + 2 x1 x2 + 2 y1 y2
= (  A and B lie on the circle.)
y2 + y1 4
y2 - y1 -0 y + y 2
2 2 2a + 2 x1 x2 + 2 y1 y2
Slope of AB
= m= ; Slope of OM
= m= = 2 1
OM =
1
x2 - x1
2
x2 + x1
- 0 x2 + x1 4
2 2
a + x1 x2 + y1 y2
= (1)
2 2 2
y2 - y1 y2 + y1 y2 - y1
m1m2
∴= .= (1) 2
2
a + x3 x4 + y3 y4
x2 - x1 x2 + x1 x22 - x12 Similarly ON = (2)
2

As A and B lie on the circle, so We know that AB = CD
2 2
( chords are congruent)
2 2 2 2 2 2

x1 + y1 a
= and =
x2 + y2 a 2 2 2
or ( x2 - x1 ) + ( y2 - y1 ) = ( x4 - x3 ) + ( y4 - y3 )
2

2 2 2 2
Their subtraction gives x1 - x2 + y1 - y2 =
0 2 2 2 2 2 2
or x2 + x1 + y2 + y1 - 2 x1 x2 - 2 y1 y2 = x4 + x3 - 2 x3 x4 + y4 + y3 - 2 y3 y4
2 2

2 2 2 2 2 2
or y2 - y1 = -( x2 - x1 ) (2)
x1 - x2 = 2 2 2 2
or a + a - 2 x1 x2 - 2 y1 y2 = a + a - 2 x3 x4 - 2 y3 y4 ( x1 + y1 = a etc)
2 2 2

Putting this value in (1), we get 2 2

or 2a - 2 x1 x2 - 2 y1 y2 =2a - 2 x3 x4 - 2 y3 y4 Challenge!
2 2 or x1 x2 + y1 y2 = x3 x4 + y3 y4 (3) State and prove the
(x - x )
m1m2 = - 22 12 = -1 2 2
( x2 - x1 ) or OM = ON converse of this Theorem.
So OM is perpendicular to AB.
Theorem 6: Show that measure of the central angle of a
Theorem 5: Congruent chords of a circle are equidistant from the centre. minor arc is double the measure of the angle subtended in the
corresponding major arc.
Proof: Let x2 + y2 = a2 be the circle in which AB and CD are
two congruent chords i.e., AB = CD and the coordinates of Proof: Let the circle be x2 + y2 = a2.
A, B, C and D be as in the figure. Also let OM and ON be the A(a cosq1 , a sinq1) and B(a cosq2 , a sinq2) be end points of a
perpendicular distances of the chords from the centre (0, 0) minor arc AB. Let P (a cosq , a sinq) be a point on the major arc.
of the circle. Central angle subtended by the minor arc AB is ∠ AOB = q2 - q1.
We know from Theorem 2 that M and N are the midpoints
1
of AB and CD respectively. We need to show m∠APB = (q 2 - q1 )
2

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2 2
y - y2
q + q1 q - q1 m1m2 = 12
a (sin q - sin q1 ) 2cos sin 2
x1 - x2 (1)
= m1 slope
= of AP = 2 2
a ( cosq - cosq1 ) -2sin q + q1 sin q - q1
Since A( x1 , y1 ) and P
( x2 , y2 ) lie on the circle, we have
2 2
x1 + y1 = a ⇒ x1 = a - y1 
2 2 2 2 2 2
 q + q1   π q + q1   (2)
= - cot   = tan  +  2 2 2 2 2 2
 2  2 2 

x2 + y2 = a ⇒ x2 = a - y2 

Similarly, (by symmetry) 2 2
Substituting the values of x and x2 from (2) into (1), we get
1

 π q + q2 
=m2 slope of
= BP tan  +  y1 - y2
2 2
y1 - y2
2 2

2 2  m1m2 = 2 2 2 2
= 2 2
= -1
(a - y1 ) - (a - y2 ) -( y1 - y2 )
 π q + q2   π q + q1 
tan  +  - tan  +  Thus AP ^
BP and so m∠APB =
90

m2 - m1 2 2  2 2 
tan ∠APB
= =
1 + m1m2  π q + q1   π q + q2 
1 + tan  +  .tan  + 
2 2  2 2 
Theorem 8: The tangent to a circle at any point of the circle is perpendicular to the
 π q + q 2 π q + q1  q -q 
= tan  + - - =
 tan  2 1  radial segment at that point.
2 2 2 2   2 
1
Hence m∠APB = (q 2 - q1 )
2 Proof: Let PT be the tangent to the circle x2 + y2 = a2 at any point P(x1 , y1) lying on it.
We have to show that the radial segment OP ^ PT.
Theorem 7: An angle in a semi-circle is a right angle. Differentiating x2 + y2 = a2, we have

dy dy x
Proof: Let x2 + y2 = a2 be a circle, with centre O. Let AOB be any diameter of the circle and 2 x + 2 y. 0⇒
= =
-
dx dx y
P(x2 , y2) be any point on the circle.
dy - x1
We have to show that m∠APB= 900. Slope of the tangent at=
P =

dx P y1
Suppose the coordinates of A are (x1 , y1).
y1 - 0 y1
Then B has coordinates Slope of =
OP =

x1 - 0 x1
(-x1 , -y1). (Theorem 1)
- x1 y1
Product of slopes of OP and PT = . = -1
y1 - y2
y1 x1
Slope of
= AP = m1 , say
x1 - x2 Thus OP ^ PT.
y1 + y2
Slope of
= BP = m2 , say Challenge!
x1 + x2
State and prove the
converse of this Theorem.
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Theorem 9: The perpendicular at the outer end of a radial segment is tangent to the
Suppose PM denotes the distance of a point P(x, y) from the line L. The set of all points
circle.
P in the plane such that
PF
Proof: Let PT be the perpendicular to the outer end of the radial segment OP of the circle = e. (a positive constant)
PM
x2 + y2 = a2. We have to show that PT is tangent to the circle at P. Suppose the coordinates of
is called a conic section.
P are (x1 , y1).
(i) If e = 1, then the conic is a parabola.
Since PT is perpendicular to OP so
(ii) If 0 < e < 1, then the conic is an ellipse.
-1 -1 - x1
Slope of PT
= = = (iii) If e > 1, then the conic is a hyperbola.
slope of OP y1 y1
x1 The fixed line L is called a directrix and the fixed point F is called a focus of the conic.
- x1 The number e is called the eccentricity of the conic.
Equation of PT is y - =y1 ( x - x1 )
y1
2
or yy1 - y =- xx1 + x1
2 6.4 PARABOLA
2 2 2
or yy1 + xx1 = y1 + x1 = a (  P lies on the circle)
2
We have already stated that a conic section is a parabola if e = 1.
or yy1 + xx1 - a = 0
We shall first derive an equation of a parabola in the standard form and study its
Distance of PT from O (centre of the circle)
important properties.
y (0) + x (0) - a 2 a
2
2
1 1 a If we take the focus of the parabola as F (a, 0), a > 0 and its directrix as line L whose
= = = = a (radius of the circle)
2
x +y
2
a
2 a equation is x = -a, then its equation becomes very simple.
Let P(x, y) be a point on the parabola. So, by definition
Thus PT is tangent to the circle at P(x1 , y1).
PF
= 1.=
or PF PM
EXERCISE 6.3 PM

1. Prove that normal lines of a circle pass through the centre of the circle. Now PM = x + a (1)

2. Prove that the straight line drawn from the centre of a circle perpendicular to a
tangent passes through the point of tangency. 2
and PF = ( x - a ) + ( y - 0)
2

3. Prove that the mid point of the hypotenuse of a right triangle is the circumcentre of Substituting into (1), we get
the triangle. 2 2
( x - a ) + y =x + a
4. Prove that the perpendicular dropped from a point of a circle on a diameter is a mean
or 2 2
( x - a) + y = ( x + a)
2
proportional between the segments into which it divides the diameter.

2 2 2 2
or y = ( x + a ) - ( x - a ) = 4ax or y = 4ax (2)
In the following pages we shall study the remaining three conics. which is standard equation of the parabola.
Let L be a fixed line in a plane and F be a fixed point not on the line L.
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Definitions with either a = 0 or b = 0 but not both zero, represents a parabola. The equation can be
(i) The line through the focus and perpendicular to the directrix is called axis of the analyzed by completing the square.
parabola. In case of (2), the axis is y = 0.
(ii) The point where the axis meets the parabola is called vertex of the parabola. Clearly 6.4.2 Other Standard parabolas
the equation (2) has vertex A(0,0). The line through A and perpendicular to the axis
of the parabola has equation x = 0. It meets the parabola at coincident points and so There are other choices for the focus and directrix which also give standard equations
it is a tangent to the curve at A. of parabolas.
(iii) A line joining two distinct points on a parabola is called a chord of the parabola. (i) If the focus lies on the y-axis with coordinates F(0,a) and directrix of the parabola is
A chord passing through the focus of a parabola is called a focal chord of the y = -a, then equation of the parabola is
parabola. The focal chord perpendicular to the axis of the parabola (1) is called x2 = 4ay (3)
latusrectum of the parabola. It has an equation x = a and it intersects the curve at The equation can be derived by difinition.
the points where (ii) If the focus is F(0, -a) and directrix is the line y = a, then equation of the parabola is
y 2 = 4a 2 or y = ±2a x2 = -4ay (4)
Thus coordinates of the end points L and L’ of the latusrectum are Opening of the parabola is upward in case of (3) and downward in case of (4). Both the
L(a, 2a ) and L′(a, -2a ). curves are symmetric with respect to the y-axis.
The length of the latusrectum is LL′ = 4a. The graphs of (3) and (4) are shown below.
(iv) The point (at2 , 2at) lies on the parabola y2 = 4ax for any real t.
x = at2 , y = 2at
are called parametric equations of the parabola y2 = 4ax.

6.4.1 General Form of an Equation of a Parabola.

Let F(h,k) be the focus and the line lx + my + n =0 be the directrix of a parabola. An
equation of the parabola can be derived by the definition of the parabola . Let P(x , y) be a
point on the parabola. Length of the perpendicular PM from P(x , y) to the directix is given by; (iii)
If the focus of the parabola is F(-a, 0), and its directrix is the line x = a, then equation
of the parabola is
lx + my + n y2 = -4ax
PM =
2 2
l +m
The curve is symmetric with respect to the x-axis
( lx + my + n )
2
2 2
By definition, (x - h) + (y - k ) = 2 2 and lies in the second and third quadrants only. Opening of
l +m
the parabola is to the left as shown in the figure
is an equation of the required parabola.
A second degree equation of the form
ax2 + by2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0
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6.4.3 Graph of the Parabola Here 4a = 16 or a = 4.

The focus of the parabola lies on the y-axis and its
y2 = 4ax opening is downward. Coordinates of the focus = (0, -4).
We note that corresponding to each positive value of x there are two equal and opposite Equation of its axis is x = 0
values of y. Thus the curve is symmetric with respect to the x-axis. Length of the latusrectum is 16 and y = 0 is tangent to
The curve passes through the origin and x = 0 is tangent the parabola at its vertex. The shape of the curve is as shown
to the curve at (0,0). If x is negative, then y2 is negative in the figure.
and so y is imaginary. Thus no portion of the curve lies
on the left of the y-axis. As x increases, y also increases Example 2. Find an equation of the parabola whose focus is F (-3, 4) and directrix is
numerically so that the curve extends to infinity and 3x - 4y + 5 = 0.
lies in the first and fourth quadrants. Opening of the
parabola is to the right of y-axis. Solution: Let P(x , y) be a point on the parabola. Lentgh of the perpendicular PM from
Sketching graphs of other standard parabolas is P(x , y) to the directrix 3x - 4y + 5 = 0 is
similar and is left as an exercise.
3x - 4 y + 5
PM
Summary of Standard Parabolas

2
3 + (-4)
2

[Link]. 1 2 3 4 2 2
By definition, PF PM
= = or PF PM
Equation y = 4ax
2
y =-4ax
2
x = 4ay
2
x = -4ay
2

Focus (a, 0) (-a, 0) (0, a) (0, -a) 2 2

2
(3 x - 4 y + 5)
Directrix x = -a x=a y = -a y=a or ( x + 3) + ( y - 4) =
25
Vertex (0,0) (0,0) (0,0) (0,0) or 25(x + 6x + 9 + y - 8y + 16) = 9x2 + 16y2 + 25 - 24xy + 30x - 40y
2 2

Axis y=0 y=0 x=0 x=0 or 16x2 +24xy + 9y2 + 120x - 160y +600 = 0
Latusrectum x=a x = -a y=a y = -a
is an equation of the required parabola.

Example 3. Analyze the parabola

Graph x2 - 4x - 3y + 13 = 0
and sketch its graph.

Solution. The given equation may be written as

x2 - 4x + 4 = 3y - 9 (1)
Example 1: Analyze the parabola x2 = -16y and draw its graph. or (x - 2)2 = 3(y - 3)
Let x - 2 = X , y - 3 = Y (2)
Solution. We compare the given equation The equation (2) becomes X2 = 3Y (3)
with x2 = -4ay
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-3 Since y can take up only non-negative values, PF is minimum when y = 0. Thus P

which is a parabola whose focus lies on X = 0 and whose directix is Y = coincides with A so that of all points on the parabola, its vertex A is closest to the focus.
4
Thus coordinates of the focus of (3) are
-3 Example 4. A comet has a parabolic orbit with the sun at the focus. When the comet is
= X 0= ,Y
4 100 million km from the sun, the line joining the sun and the comet makes an angle of 600
3 with the axis of the parabola. How close will the comet get to the sun?
i.e.,=x-2 0 and
= y -3
4
15 Solution. Let the sun S be the origin . If the vertex of the parabola has coordinates (-a,0)
or x 2,=
= y
4 then directrix of the parabola is

Thus coordinates of the focus of the parabola x = -2a, (a >0)
if the comet is at P(x, y), then
 15 
(1) are  2,  by definition PS = PM
 4
i,e., x2 + y2 = (x + 2a)2
Axis of (3) is X = 0 or x - 2 = 0 is the axis of (1) .
or y2 = 4ax + 4a2 is orbit of the comet
Veitex of (3) has coordinates
2 2
X = 0, Y = 0 Now PS= x +y
or x - 2 = 0, y - 3 = 0 = x + 2a = 100,000,000
i.e., x = 2, y = 3 are coordinates of the vertex of (1). The comet is closest to the sun when it is at A.
Equation of the directrix of (3) is Now x = PS cos 600
-3 -3 9 PS x + 2a
=Y i.e. =
y -3 =or y is an equation of the directrix of (1).
x
= =
4 4 4 2 2
Magnitude of the latusrectum of the parabola (3) and also of (1) is 3. x + 2a 2 x + 2a
or = or 2 ,( x =
= -2a =
2a )
The graph of (1) can easily be sketched and is as shown in the above figure. x 1 2a
100,000,000
Theorem: The point of a parabola which is closest to the focus is the vertex of the or =2
2a
parabola. or a = 25,000,000
Proof: Let the parabola be Thus the comet is closest to the sun when it is 25,000,000 km from the sun.
x2 = 4ay , a > 0
with focus at F(0, a) and P(x, y) be any point on the Reflecting Property of the parabola.
parabola. A frequently used property of a parabola is its reflecting property. If a light source is
2 2 placed at the focus of a parabolic reflecting surface then a light ray travelling from F to a point
PF = x + ( y - a)
P on the parabola will be reflected in the direction PR parallel to the axis of the parabola.
2
= 4ay + ( y - a ) The designs of searchlights, reflecting telescopes and microwave antenas are based


= y+a on reflecting property of the parabola.
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2. Write an equation of the parabola with given elements.

Another application of the parabola is in a (i) Focus (-3, 1) ; directrix x = 3
Suspension bridge. The main cables are of parabolic shape. (ii) Focus (2, 5) ; directrix y = 1
The total weight of the bridge is uniformly distributed (iii) Focus (-3, 1) ; directrix x - 2y - 3 = 0
along its length if the shape of the cables is parabolic. (iv) Focus (1, 2) ; vertex (3, 2)
Cables in any other shape will not carry the weight evenly. (v) Focus (-1, 0) ; vertex (-1, 2)
(vi) Directrix x = -2 ; Focus (2, 2)
(vii) Directrix y = 3 ; vertex (2, 2)
Example 6. A suspension bridge with weight uniformly distributed along the length has (viii) Directrix y = 1, length of latusrectum is 8. Opens downward.
two towers of 100 m height above the road surface and are 400 m apart. The cables are (ix) Axis y = 0, through (2, 1) and (11, -2)
parabolic in shape and are tangent to road surface at the centre of the bridge. Find the (x) Axis parallal to y-axis, the points (0, 3), (3, 4) and (4, 11) lie on the graph.
height of the cables at a point 100 m from the centre.
3. Find an equation of the parabola having its focus at the origon and directrix, parallel
to the (i) x-axis (ii) y-axis.
Solution. The parabola formed by the P cables
has A(0, 0) as vertex and focus on the y-axis. 4. Show that an equation of the parabola with focus at (acosa, asina) and directrix
An equation of this parabola is x2 = 4ay. x cos a + ysina + a = 0 is
The point Q(200,100) lies on the parabola and (xsina - ycosa)2 = 4a(xcosa + ysina)
so
5. Show that the ordinate at any point P of the parabola is a mean proportional
(200)2 = 4a x 100
between the length of the latus rectum and the abscissa of P.
or a = 100
Thus an equation of the parabola is 6. A comet has a parabolic orbit with the earth at the focus. When the comet is 150,000
x2 = 400y. (1) km from the earth, the line joining the comet and the earth makes an angle of 300
To find the height of the cables when x = 100, we have from (1) with the axis of the parabola. How close will the comet come to the earth?
(100)2 = 400y
7. Find an equation of the parabola formed by the cables of a suspension bridge
or y = 25
whose span is a m and the vertical height of the supporting towers is b m.
Thus required height = 25 m
8. A parabolic arch has a 100 m base and height 25 m. Find the height of the arch at
EXERCISE 6.4 the point 30 m from the centre of the base.

9. Show that tangent at any point P of a parabola makes equal angles with the line
1. Find the focus, vertex and directrix of the parabola. Sketch its graph.
PF and the line through P parallel to the axis of the parabola, F being focus.
(i) y2 = 8x (ii) x2 = -16y (iii) x2 = 5y
(These angles are called respectively angle of incidence and angle of reflection).
(iv) y2 = -12x (v) x2 = 4 (y - 1) (vi) y2 = -8(x - 3)
(vii) (x - 1)2 = 8(y + 2) (viii) y = 6x2 - 1
(ix) x + 8 - y2 + 2y = 0 (x) x2 - 4x - 8y + 4 = 0
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6.5 ELLIPSE AND ITS ELEMENTS 2 2 2 2 2 c

or x (1 - e ) + y = a (1 - e ). where = a
e
We have already stated that a conic section is an ellipse if e < 1. x
2
y
2

Let 0 < e < 1 and F be a fixed point and L be a fixed line not containing F. Let P(x, y) be or 2
+ 2 2
1
= (1)
a a (1 - e )
a point in the plane and PM be the perpendicular distance of P from L. If we write b = a (1 - e2), then (1) takes the form
2 2

The set of all points P such that

2 2
x y
1
+ 2 = (2)
PF a
2
b
=e
PM which is an equation of the ellipse in the standard form.
is called an ellipse.
The number e is eccentricity of the ellipse, F a focus and L a directrix. c
Moreover, eccertricity of the ellipse is e = .
a
We have b2 = a2 (1 - e2)
6.5.1 Standard Form of an Ellipse (i) From the relation b2 = a2 (1 - e2), we note that b < a

c
(ii) Since we set = a , the focus F has coordinates (-ae, 0) and equation of the
-c e
Let F(-c, 0) be the focus and line x = 2
be the directix of an ellipse with eccentricity e,
e -a
directrix is x = .
(0 < e < 1). Let P(x, y) be any point on the ellipse and suppose that PM is the perpendicular e
distance of P from the directrix. Then
a
(iii) If we take the point (ae, 0) as focus and the line x = as directrix, it can be
c e
PM = x + 2 seen easily that we again obtain equation (2). Thus the ellipse (2) has two foci
e

The condition PF = e PM takes the analytic form a
(-ae, 0) and (ae, 0) and two directrices x = ± .
e

(iv) The point (acosq, bsinq) lies on (2) for all real q. x = acosq, y = bsinq are
c
2 called parametric equations of the ellipse (2).
2 2  2
( x + c) + y = e  x + 2  (v) If in (2), b = a then it becomes
 e 
x2 + y2 = a2
which is a circle. In this case b2 = a2(1 - e2) = a2 and so e = 0. Thus circle is a special case
of an ellipse with eccenctricty 0 and foci tending to the centre.
Definitions: Let F ’ and F be two foci of the ellipse
2 2
2 2 2 2c 2 2 2 2 c 2
or x + 2cx + c + y = e x + 2cx + 2 or x (1 - e ) + y = 2 (1 - e ) x y
2 2
e e 2
1
+ 2 = (1)
a b

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6.5.2 Graph of an Ellipse

Let an equation of the ellipse be

x2 y 2
+ 1
=
a 2 b2

Since only even powers of both x and y occur in (1), the curve is symmetric with respect
to both the axes.
From (1), we note that

x2 y2
≤ 1 and 2 ≤ 1
(i) The midpoint C of FF ’ is called the centre of the ellipse. In case of (1) coordinates of a2 b
2
C are (0,0). i.e., x ≤ a and y 2 ≤ b 2
2

(ii) The intersection of (1) with the line joining the foci are obtained by setting y = 0 or -a ≤ x ≤ a and -b≤ y ≤b
into (1). These are the points A’(-a, 0) and A(a, 0). The points A and A’ are called Thus all points of the ellipse lie on or within the rectangle (2). The curve meets the
vertices of the ellipse. x-axis at A(-a, 0) and A’ (a, 0) and it meets the y-axis at B(0,-b), B’ (0, b). The graph of the ellipse
(iii) The line segment AA’ = 2a is called the major axis of the ellipse. The line through can easily be drawn as shown in the following figure.
the centre of (1) and perpendicular to themajor axis has its equation as x = 0. It
meets (1) at points B’ (0, b) and B (0,-b). The line segment BB’=2b is called the
minor axis of the ellipse and B’, B are some-times called thecovertices of the
ellipse. Since b2 = a2(1 - e2) and e < 1, the length of the major axis is greater than
the length of the minor axis. (See figure)
(iv) Foci of an ellipse always lie on the major axis.
(v) Each of the focal chords LFL‘ and NF'N' perpendicular to the major axis of an
ellipse is called a latusrectum of the ellipse. Thus there are two laterarecta of an
2
2b
ellipse. It is an easy exercise to find that length of each latusrectum is
a
{See problem 5}.

(vi) If the foci lie on the y-axis with coordinates (0,-ae) and (0,ae), then equation of the The graph of the ellipse
ellipse is
2 2 x2 y 2
x y + = 1, a > b
2
+ 2 = 1. a > b. b2 a 2
b a
can be sketched as in the case of (1). Its shape is shown in above figure (ii).
The reader is urged to derive this equation.
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Summary of standard Ellipses Example 1. Find an equation of the ellipse having centre at (0,0), focus at (0,-3) and one
vertex at (0,4). Sketch its graph.
x2 y 2 x2 y 2
Equation + = 1, a > b + = 1, a > b
a 2 b2 b2 a 2 Solution. The second vertex has coordinates (0, -4).
c2 = a2 - b2 c2 = a2 - b2 Length of the semi-major axis is
Foci (±c, 0) (0, ±c) a = 4
c c Also c = 3
Directrices x= ± y= ±
e2 e2 From b2 = a2 - c2, we have
Major axis y=0 x=0 b2 = 16 - 9 = 7
Vertices (±a, 0) (0, ±a) 7 which is length of
b =
Convertices (0, ±b) (±b, 0) the semi-minor axis.
Centre (0, 0) (0, 0) Since the foci lie on the y-axis;
c c equation of the ellipse is
Eccentricity e= <1 e= <1
a a
y 2 x2
+ 1
=
16 7

The graph is as shown above.

Example 2. Analyze the equation

4x2 + 9y2 = 36
and sketch its graph.
Graph
Solution: The given equation may be written as

x2 y 2
+ =1
9 4

which is standard form of an ellipse.
Semi-major axis a = 3
Semi-minor axis b = 2
Note: In each ellipse
From b2 = a2 - c2 , we have
Length of major axis = 2a, Length of minor axis = 2b
c2 = b2 - a2 = 9 - 4 = 5
2b 2 or c= ± 5
Length of Latusrectum = , Foci lie on the major axis
a Foci: F (- 5,0), F ′( 5,0); Vertices: A(-3,0), A′(3,0)

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c 5 Vertices of (2) are

Covertices: B(0, -2), B′(0,2) ; Eccentricity = = .
a 3 X =0, Y =±3 i.e., x =1, y =-1 ± 3
or (1,-4) and (1,2)
c 5 9 2b 2 4
Directrices: x =
± 2= ± =
± ; Length of latusrectum = = are the vertices of (1).
e 5 5 a 3
9 Covertices of (2) are
The graph is as shown above. X = ± 2, Y = 0
i.e., x - 1 = ±2, y + 1 = 0
Example 3. Show that the equation or (-1, -1) and (3, -1)
9x2 - 18x + 4y2 + 8y - 23 = 0 (1) are the covertices of (1).
represents an ellipse. Find its elements and sketch its graph. The graph of (1) is as shown.

Solution: We complete the squares in (1) and it becomes Example 4. An arch in the form of half an ellipse is 40 m wide and 15 m high at the
(9x2 - 18x + 9) + (4y2 + 8y + 4) - 36 = 0 centre. Find the height of the arch at a distance of 10 m from its centre.
or 9(x - 1)2 + 4(y + l)2 = 36
Solution: Let the x-axis be along the base of the arch and the y-axis pass through its centre.
( x - 1) 2 ( y + 1) 2
or + 1
= (2) An equation of the ellipse representing the arch is
4 9

If we set x - 1 = X, y + 1 = Y into (2), it becomes x2 y2

2
+ 2
1
= (1)
20 15
X2 Y2
2
1
+ 2 = (3) Let the height of an arch at a distance of 10 m from the centre be y. Then the points
2 3
(10, y) lies on (1)
which is an ellipse with major axis along X = 0 i.e., along the line, x - l = 0 For x = 10, we have
(i.e. a line parallel to the y-axis)
Semi-major axis = 3, Semi-minor axis = 2 2
y2 1  3
=1 - =  ,
152 4  2 


c = 9 - 4 = 5 , Eccentricity = . 15 3
Centre of (2) is X = 0, Y = 0 so that y =
2
or x - 1, y = -1 i.e., (1, -1) is centre of (1) 15 3
The foci of (2) are Required height = m.
2
X = 0, Y = ± 5
i.e., x - 1 =0, y + 1 =± 5
i.e., (1, -1 + 5) and (1, - 1 - 5) are foci of (1).

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EXERCISE 6.5 6. The major axis of an ellipse in standard form lies along the x-axis and has length
4 2 . The distance between the foci equals the length of the minor axis. Write an
1. Find an equation of the ellipse with given data and sketch its graph: equation of the ellipse.
(i) Foci (±3,0) and minor axis of length 10 7. An astroid has elliptic orbit with the sun at one focus. Its distance from the sun
(ii) Foci (0,-1) and (0,-5) and major axis of length 6. ranges from 17 million miles to 183 million miles. Write an equation of the orbit
(iii) Foci (-3 3,0) and vertices (±6,0) of the astroid.
(iv) Vertices (-1,1), (5,1); foci (4,1) and (0,1) 8. An arch in the shape of a semi-ellipse is 90m wide at the base and 30m high at the
centre. At what distance from the centre is the arch 20 2 m high?
3  9. The moon orbits the earth in an elliptic path with earth at one focus. The major and
(v) Foci (± 5,0) and passing through the point  , 3 
2  minor axes of the orbit are 768,806 km and 767,746 km respectively. Find the
3 greatest and least distances (in Astronomy called the apogee and perigee
(vi) Vertices (0, ±5), eccentricity .
5 respectively) of the moon from the earth.
(vii) Centre (0,0), focus (0, -3), vertex (0,4)
(viii) Centre (2, 2), major axis parallel to y-axis and of length 8 units, minor axis
6.6 HYPERBOLA AND ITS ELEMENTS
parallel to x-axis and of length 6 units.
(ix) Centre (0, 0), symmetric with respect to both the axes and passing through
We have already stated that a conic section is a hyperbola if e > 1. Let e > 1 and F be
the points (2, 3) and (6, 1).
a fixed point and L be a line not containing F. Also let P(x, y) be a point in the plane and
(x) Centre (0, 0), major axis horizontal, the points (3, 1), (4, 0) lie on the graph.
PM be the perpendicular distance of P from L.
2. Find the centre, foci, eccentricity, vertices and directrices of the
The set of all points P(x, y) such that
ellipse, whose equation is given:
(i) x2 + 4y2 = 16 (ii) 9x2 + y2 = 18 PF
= e >1 (1)
(2 x - 1)2 2
( y + 2) PM
(iii) 25x2 + 9y2 = 225 (iv)
+ 1
=
4 16 is called a hyperbola.
(v) x2 + 16x + 4y2 - 16y + 76 = 0 F and L are respectively focus and directrix of the hyperbola e is the eccentricity.
(vi) 25x2 + 4y2 - 250x - 16y + 541 = 0
3. Let a be a positive number and 0 < c < a. Let F(-c, 0) and F ’(c, 0) be two given points. 6.6.1 Standard Equation of Hyperbola
Prove that the locus of points P(x, y) such that
c
PF + PF ′ = 2a , is an ellipse. Let F(c, 0) be the focus with c > 0 and x = be the directrix of the hyperbola.
e2
4. Use problem 3 to find equation of the ellipse as locus of points P(x, y) such that the
Also let P(x, y) be a point on the hyperbola, then by definition
sum of the distances from P to the points (0, 0) and (1, 1) is 2.
5. Prove that the lactusrectum of the ellipse. PF
=e
PM
x2 y 2 2b 2
+ 1 is
=
a 2 b 2 a
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meets the x-axis at points with y = 0 and x = ±a. The points A(-a, 0 and A’(a, 0) are called
2  2c 2
2
c2 vertices of the hyperbola. The line segament AA’ = 2a is called the transverse (or focal)
i.e. (x - c) + y = e  x - 2  or x 2 - 2cx + c 2 + y 2 = e 2 x 2 - 2cx +
 e  e2 axis of the hyperbola (3). The equation (3) does not meet the y-axis in real points. However
 1  c2 2 the line segment joining the points B(0, -b) and B’(0, b) is called the conjugate axis of
2 2 2 2
or x (e - 1) - y = c 1 - 2 = 2 (e - 1) (2) the hyperbola. The midpoint (0,0) of AA’ is called the centre of the hyperbola.
 e  e
In case of hyperbola (3), we have
c
Let us set a = , so that (2) becomes c
e b2 = a2(e2 - 1) = c2 - a2. The eccentricity e= >1
a
2 2 2 2 2 x2 y2 so that, unlike the ellipse, we may have b > a or b < a or b = a
x (e - 1) - y =
- a (e - 1) 0 or =
- 1
a 2 a 2 (e 2 - 1)
x2 y 2
x2 y 2 (ii) The point (a sec q, b tan q) lies on the hyperbola 2 - 2 = 1 for all real values of q.
or - =1 (3) a b
a 2 b2 The equations x = a sec q, y = b tan q are called parametric equations of the hyperbola.
where b2 = a2(e2 - 1) = c2 - a2 a c = ae
(3) is standard equation of the hyperbola. b 2
(iii)
Since y =
± x - a 2 , when | x | ,so that x 2 - a 2 → x 2 , we have
a
It is clear that the curve is symmetric with respect to both the axes.
If we take the point (-c, 0) as focus b x2 y 2
y=± x i.e. - = 0 (2)
a a 2 b2
-c
and the line x = as directrix, then it The lines (2) do not meet the curve but distance of any point on the curve from any of
e2
is easy to see that the set of all points the two lines approaches zero. Such lines are called asymptotes of a curve. Joint equation
P(x, y) such that of the asymptotes of (3) is obtained by writing 0 instead of 1 on the right hand side of the
PF = e PM standard form (3). Asymptotes are very helpful in graphing a hyperbola.
is hyperbola with (3) as its equation. The ellipse and hyperbola are called central conics because each has a centre of
Thus a hyperbola has two foci and two symmetry.
directrices.
If the foci lie on the y-axis, then roles of x and y are interchanged in (3) and the equation 6.6.2 Graph of the hyperbola
of the hyperbola becomes 2 2
x - y = 1 (1)
2 2
y 2 x2 a b
1.
- 2 =
a 2
b The curve is symmetric with respect to both the axes. We rewrite (1) as
y 2 x2 b2 2
Definition: The hyperbola 2
2
= 2
- 1 or y = 2
( x - a2 )
b a a
x2 y 2 b 2 2
2
1
- 2 = (1) or y= ± x -a (2)
a b a
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If x < a , then y is imaginary so that no portion of the curve lies between -a < x < a. For Centre (0, 0) (0, 0)

b 2 b
x ≥ a, =
y x - a2 ≤ x
a a
b Graph
so that points on the curve lie below the corresponding points on the line y = x in
a
first quadrant.

b 2 -b
y= - x - a2 ≥ x if x ≥ a
a a
-b Example 1. Find an equation of the hyperbola whose foci are (±4, 0) and vertices (±2, 0).
and in this case the points on the curve lie above the line y = x in fourth quadrant.
a Sketch its graph.
If x 7 a, then by similar arguments,

b 2 Solution: The centre of the hyperbola is the origin

=y x - a 2 lies below the corresponding point
a and the transverse axis is along the x-axis. Here
-b c = 4 and a = 2 so that b2 = c2 - a2 = 16 - 4 = 12.
on y = x in second quadrant.
a Therefore, the equation is
-b 2
If y
= x - a 2 , then points on the curve lie x2 y 2
a - =1.
b 4 12
above the correspondent point on y = x in The graph of the curve is as shown.
a
third quadrant. Thus there are two branches of
the curve. Moreover, from (2) we see that as x → ∞, y → ∞ so that the two branches extend Example 2. Discuss and sketch the graph of the equation
to infinity 25x2 - 16y2 = 400 (1)
Solution: The given equation is
Summary of Standard Hyperbolas x2 y 2 x2 y 2
= - 1 or = - 1
x2 y 2 y 2 x2 16 25 4 2 52
Equation - 1
= - = 1
a 2 b2 a 2 b2
which is an equation of the hyperbola with
Foci (±c, 0) (0, ±c) transverse axis along the x-axis.
c c Here a = 4, b = 5
Directrices x= ± y= ±
e2 e2 From b2 = c2 - a2 , we have
Transverse axis y=0 x=0 c 2 = 34 or c = ± 34
Vertices (±a, 0) (0, ±a) Foci of the hyperbola are: (± 34,0)
c c Vertices: (±4, 0)
Eccentricity e= >1 e= >1
a a Ends of the conjugate axes are the points (0, ±5)
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We write x - 1 = X, y + 1 = Y in (2), to have

c 34
Eccentricity: e= = X2 Y2
a 4 2
- 2 = 1 (3)
1 2
b 5 so that it is a hyperbola with centre at X = 0, Y = 0 i.e., the centre of (1) is (1, -1).
The curve is below the lines y =± x x= ± x
a 4 The transverse axis of (3) is Y = 0 i.e., y + 1 = 0 is the transverse axis of (1). Vertices of
which are its asymptotes. The sketch of the curve is as shown. (3) are: X = ±1, y = 0
i.e. x - 1 = ±1, y + 1 = 0 or (0, -1) and (2, -1)
Example 3. Find the eccentricity, the coordinates of the vertices and foci of the Here a = 1 and b = 2 so that, we have c = a 2 + b2 = 5
asymptotes of the hyperbola

y 2 x2 c
- =1 (1) Eccentricity e= = 5
16 49 a
Also sketch its graph.
Foci of (3) are: ± 5 ,Y =
X = 0

Solution. The transverse axis of (1) lies along the y-axis. Coordinates of the vertices are i.e., 1 ± 5 and y =
x= -1
(0,±4). i.e., (1 + 5, -1) and (1 - 5, -1)
Here a = 4, b = 7 so that from c2 = a2 + b2, we get are foci of (1).
c2 = 16 + 49 or c = 65
Foci are: (0, ± 65)
Ends of the conjugate axis are (±7, 0)
c 5 1
Equations of the directrices of (3) are: X =
± 2=± =
±
c 65 e 5 5
Eccentricity= =
a 4 1 1 1
x = ±7, y = ±4
or x -1 = ± or x =1+ and x =1-
5 5 5
The graph of the curve is as shown. The sketch of the curve is as shown.

Example 4. Discuss and sketch the graph of the equation EXERCISE 6.6
4x2 - 8x - y2 - 2y - 1 = 0 (1)
1. Find an equation of the hyperbola with the given data. Sketch the graph of each.
Solution: Completing the squares in x and y in the given equation, we have (i) Centre (0, 0), focus (6, 0), vertex (4, 0)
4(x2 - 2x +1) - (y2 + 2y +1) = 4 (ii) Foci (±5, 0), vertex (3, 0)
or 4(x - 1)2 - (y + 1)2 = 4
(iii) Foci (2 ± 5 2, -7) , length of the transverse axis 10.
( x - 1) 2 (y + 1) 2 (iv) Foci (0, ±6), e = 2.
or - 1
= (2)
12 22 (v) Foci (0, ±9), directrices y = ±4
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(vi) Centre (2, 2), horizontal transverse axis of length 6 and eccentricity e = 2 conic at some point on the conic, we shall first find the slope of the tangent at the given
(vii) Vertices (2, ±3), (0, 5) lies on the curve.
dy
(viii) Foci (5, -2), (5,4) and one vertex (5, 3) point by calculating from the equation of the conic at that point and then using the
dx
2. Find the centre, foci, eccentricity, vertices and equations of directrices of each of point - slope form of a line, it will be quite simple to write an equation of the tangent.
the following: Since the normal to a curve at a point on the curve is perpendicular to the tangent through
x2 y 2 the point of tangency, its equation can be easily written.
(i) x - y = 9
2 2
(ii) - = 1
4 9
y 2 x2 Example 1. Find equations of the tangent and normal to
y2
(iii) - = 1 (iv) - x2 = 1 (i) y2 = 4ax (1)
16 9 4
( x - 1) 2 ( y - 1) 2 ( y + 2) 2 ( x - 2) 2 x2 y 2
(v) - = 1 (vi) - = 1 (ii) + =1 (2)
2 9 9 16 a 2 b2
(vii) 9 x 2 - 12 x - y 2 - 2 y + 2 =0 (viii) 4 y 2 + 12 y - x 2 + 4 x + 1 =0 x2 y 2
(iii) - =1 (3)
(ix) x 2 - y 2 + 8 x - 2 y - 10 =
0 (x) 9 x 2 - y 2 - 36 x - 6 y + 18 =
0 a 2 b2
3. Let 0 < a < c and F ’ (-c, 0), F(c, 0) be two fixed points. Show that the set of points at the point (x1, y1).
P(x, y) such that
x2 y2 Solution: (i). Differentiating (1) w.r.t. x, we get
PF - PF ′ =
±2a, is the hyperbola - 1
=
a2 c2 - a2 dy dy
(F, F ’ are foci of the hyperbola)
= 2y 4=
a or 2a
dx dx
4. Using Problem 3, find an equation of the hyperbola with foci (-5, -5) and (5, 5),
dy  2a
vertices (-3 2, -3 2) and (3 2,3 2) .  = Slope of the tangent at (x1, y1)
dx  ( x1 , y1 ) y1
5. For any point on a hyperbola the difference of its distances from the points (2, 2) and
(10, 2) is 6. Find an equation of the hyperbola. Equation of the tangent to (1) at (x1, y1) is
6. Two listening posts hear the sound of an enemy gun. The difference in time is one 2a
second. If the listening posts are 1400 feet apart, write an equation of the hyperbola y - y1 = ( x - x1 ) or yy1 - y12 = 2ax - 2ax1 or yy1 - 2ax = y12 - 2ax1
y1
passing through the position of the enemy gum. (Sound travels at 1080 ft/sec).
Adding -2ax, to both sides of the above equation, we obtain
yy1 = 2a ( x + x1 ) = y12 - 4ax1
6.7 TANGENTS AND NORMALS
Since ( x1 , y1 ) lies
= on y 2 4ax, so y=
2
1 - 4ax1 0
Thus equation of the required tangent is
We have already seen in the geometrical interpretation of the derivative
yy1 = 2a(x + x1).
dy
of a curve y = f(x) or f(x, y) = 0 that represents the slope of the tangent line to - y1
dx Slope of the normal = (negative reciprocal of slope of the tangent)
the curve at the point (x, y). In order to find an equation of the tangent to a given 2a

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Equation of the normal is

xx1 yy1 a 2 x b2 y
- y1 2 + 2 =1 and + =a 2 + b 2 , respectively.
y -=
y1 ( x - x1 ) a b x1 y1
2a
x2 y 2 Remarks
(ii) + = 1
a 2 b2 An equation of the tangent at the point (x1, y1) of any conic can be written by making
Differentiating the above equation, w.r.t. x, we have
replacements in the equation of the conic as under:
b2 x Replace x2 by xx1
2 x + 2 y dy =
0 or
dy
=
- 2
a 2 b 2 dx dx a y y2 by yy1
dy  -b 2 x1 1
or = x by ( x + x1 )
dx  ( x1 , y1 ) a 2 y1 2
Equation of the tangent to (2), at (x1, y1) is 1
y by ( y + y1 )
2
-b 2 x1
y=
- y1 ( x - x1 )
a 2 y1
Example 1. Write equations of the tangent and normal to the parabola x2 = 16y at the
yy1 y12 - xx1 x12 xx1 yy1 x 2 y12 point whose abscissa is 8.
or - = 2 + 2 or + = +
b2 b2 a a a 2 b2 a 2 a 2
x12 y12 Solution: Since x = 8 lies on the parabola, substituting this value of x into the given equation,
Since (x1 , y1 ) lie on (2) so, 2 + 2 = 1
a b we find
xx1 yy1 64 = 16y or y=4
Hence an equation of the tangent to (2) at (x1 , y1 ) is + 1
=
a 2 b2 Thus we have to find equations of tangent and normal at (8, 4).
a 2 y1 Slope of the tangent to the parabola at (8, 4) is 1. An equation of the tangent the
Slope of the normal at (x1 , y1 ) is 2 .
b x1 parabola at (8, 4) is
Equation of the normal at (x1, y1) is y - 4 = x - 8
or x-y-4=0
a 2 y1 Slope of the normal at (8, 4) is -1. Therefore, equation of the normal at the given
y -=
y1 ( x - x1 )
b 2 x1 point is
or b 2 x1 y - b 2 x1 y1 = a 2 y1 x - a 2 x1 y1 or a 2 y1 x - b 2 x1 y = x1 y1 (a 2 - b 2 ) y - 4 = -(x - 8)
Dividing both sides of the above equation by x1 y1, we get or x + y - 12 = 0

a 2 x b2 y 2 2
- =a 2 - b 2 , as an equation of the normal. Example 2. Write equations of the tangent and normal to the conic x + y =1 at the
x1 y1 8 9
(iii) Proceeding as in (ii), it is easy to see that equations of the tangent and normal point  8 ,1 .
to (3) at (x1, y1) are 3 
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Solution: The given equation is ordinates of the points of intersection. Thus the line (1) cuts the parabola (2) in two points.
9x2 +8y2 - 72 = 0 (1) In order that (1) is a tangent to (2), the points of intersection of a line and the parabola must
Differentiating (1) w.r.t. x, we have be conicident. In this case, the roots of (3) should be real and equal.
This means that the discriminant of (3) is zero. Thus
8  4(mc - 2a)2 - 4m2c2 = 0 i.e., -4mca + 4a2 = 0
This is slope of the tangent to (1) at  ,1 .
3 
Equation of the tangent at this point is a
or c= , is. the required condition for (1) to be a tangent to (2). Hence
m
 8
y - 1 =-3 . x -  =-3 x + 8 or 3x + y - 9 =0 . a
 3 y mx + , is a tangent to y2 = 4ax for all nonzero values of m.
=
m
(ii) To determine the points of intersection of
8  1
The normal at  ,1 has the slope . y = mx + c (1)
3  3
x2 y 2
Equation of the normal is and + =1 (2)
a 2 b2
1 8 8 we solve (1) and (2) simultaneously. Putting the value of y from
y -1 =  x -  or 3y - 3 = x - or 3 x - 9 y + 1 = 0 (1) into (2), we have
3 3 3
x 2 (mx + c) 2
+ 1
=
Theorem: To show that a straight line cuts a conic, in general, in two points and to find the a2 b2
condition that the line be a tangent to the conic. or (a2m2 + b2)x2 + 2mca2 x + a2c2 - a2b2 = 0 (3)
Let a line y = mx + c cut the conics which is a quardratic in x and it gives the abscissas of the two points where (1) and (2)
intersect. The corresponding values of y are obtained by setting the values of x
x2 y 2 x2 y 2 obtained from (3) into (1). Thus (1) and (2) intersect in two points. Now (1) is a
(i) y = 4ax (ii) + 1
= (iii) - 1
=
a 2 b2 a 2 b2 tangent to (2) if the point of intersection is a single point.
We shall discuss each case separately. This requires (3) to have equal roots. Hence (1) is a tangent to (2) if
(i) The points of intersection of (2mca2)2 - 4(a2m2 + b2)(a2c2 - a2b2) = 0
y = mx + c (1) i.e., m2c2a2 - (a2m2 + b2)(c2 - b2) = 0
and y2 = 4ax (2) or m2c2a2 - a2m2c2 + a2m2b2 - b2c2 + b4 = 0
are obtained by solving (1) and (2) simultaneously for x and y. Inserting the value of or c2 = a2m2 + b2
y from (1) into (2), we get or c= ± a 2m2 + b2
(mx + c)2 = 4ax Putting the value of c into (1), we have
or m2x2 + (2mc - 4a)x + c2 = 0 (3)
y =± mx a 2m2 + b2
which being a quadratic in x gives two values of x. These values are the x coordinates of
the common points of (1) and (2). Setting these values in (1), we obtain the corresponding which are tangents to (2) for all non-zero values of m.
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(iii) We replace b2 by -b2 in (ii) and the line y = mx + c is a tangent to Example 5. Find equations of the tangents to the ellipse

x2 y 2 x2 y 2
± a 2m2 - b2
1 if c =
- 2 = + = 1 (1)
128 18
2
a b
which are parallel to the line 3x + 8y + 1 = 0. Also find the points of contact.
x2 y 2
Thus y =±
mx a m -b 2 2 2
are tangents to the hyperbola: 2 - 2 =1 for all non-zero
a b -3
values of m. Solution: The slope of the required tangents is . Equations of the tangents are
8
2
Example 4. Find an equation of the tangent to the parabola y2 = -6x which is parallel -3  3 -3
y= x ± 128. -  + 18 = x±6
to the line 2x + y + 1 = 0. Also find the point of tangency. 8  8 8
Thus the two tangents are
Solution: Slope of the required tangent is m = -2 3x + 8y + 48 = 0 (2)
In the parabola y2 = -6x (1) and 3x + 8y - 48 = 0 (3)
We solve (1) and (3) simultaneously to find the point of contact. Inserting the value of
-6 -3
=
a = y from (3) into (1), we get
4 2
Equation of the tangent is 2
 -3  9 2 9
2  x + 6 2 x + 36 - x
x 8 x
y =
mx +
a
= -2 x +
3 +  = 1 or + 64 2 = 1
m 4 128 18 128 18
i.e., 8x + 4y - 3 = 0 (2) x2 x2 x x2 x
or += +2- 1 or = - +1 0
128 128 4 64 4
-8 x + 3
Inserting the value of y from (2) viz y = into (1), we have x 
2
-3
4 or - 1 0 i.e., x 8 and so x+6 3
 = = =
8  8
2
 -8 x + 3  Thus (8, 3) is the point of tangency of (3).
  = -6 x It can be seen in a similar manner that point of contact of (2) is (-8, -3).
4 
or 64x2 - 48x + 9 = -96x or 64x2 +48x + 9 = 0
Example 6. Show that the product of the distances from the foci to any tangent to the
-3
or (8x + 3)2 = 0 i.e., x= hyperbola
8
Putting this value of x into (2), we get
x2 y 2
2 - 2 = 1 (1)
 -3  a b
-8   + 3
 8  3 is constant.

= y =
4 2
 -3 3  Solution: The line
The point of tangency is  ,  .
 8 2 y =+
mx a 2m2 - b2 (2)

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is a tangent to (1). Example 7. Find the points of intersection of the ellipse

Foci of (1) are F(-c, 0) and F ’(c, 0).
Distance of F(-c, 0) from (2) is x2 y2 x2 y 2
= + 1 (1) = and the hyperbola - 1 (2)
43 43 7 14
3 4
-cm + a 2 m 2 - b 2 Also sketch the graph of the two conics.
d1 =
1 + m2
Distance of F ‘(c, 0) from (2) is Solution: The two equations may be written as
3x2 + 4y2 = 43 (1) and 2x2 - y2 =14 (2)
cm + a 2 m 2 - b 2 Multiplying (2) by 4 and adding the result to (1), we get
d 2 = 11x2 = 99 or x = ±3
1 + m2
Setting x = 3 in to (2), we have 18 - y2 = 14 or y = ±2
a 2m2 - b2 - c 2m2 a 2m2 - c 2 + a 2 - c 2m2 Thus (3, 2) and (3, -2) are two points of intersection
d1 × d 2 = 2
= 2
as b 2 = c 2 - a 2
1+ m 1+ m of the two conics
a2 - c2 Putting x = -3 into (2), we get

= c2 - a2 since c>a y = ±2
= c2 Therefore (-3, 2) and (-3, -2) are also points of
which is constant. intersection of (1) and (2). The four points of intersection
are as shown in the figure.
Intersection of Two Coincs
Suppose we are given two conics Example 8. Find the points of intersection of the conics
y = 1 + x2 (1)
x2 y 2 and y = 1 + 4x - x2 (2)
2
1 (1)
- 2 =
a b Also draw the graph of the conics.
and y2 = 4ax (2)
To find the points common to both (1) and (2), we need to solve (1) and (2) Solution. From (1), we have
simultaneously. It is known from algebra, that the simultaneous solution set of two x= ± y -1

equations of the second degree consists of four points. Thus two conics will always intersect Inserting these values of x into (2), we get
in four points. These points may be all real and distinct, two real and two imaginary or all y = 1 ± 4 y - 1 - ( y - 1)

imaginary. Two or more points may also coincide. Two conics are said to touch each other if
or 2 y - 2 =±4 y - 1 or (y - 1) 2 =4(y - 1)
they intersect in two or more coincident points.
or (y - 1) (y - 1 - 4) = 0
Therefore, y = 1,5
When y = 1, x = 0
When y = 5, x = ±2
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But (-2,5) does not satisfy (2). 2. Write equation of the tangent to the given conic at the indicated point
Thus (0,1) and (2,5) are the points of (i) 3x2 = -16y at the points whose ordinate is -3.
intersections of (1) and (2). y = 1 + x2 is a parabola (ii) 3x2 - 7y2 = 20 at the points where y = -1.
with vertex at (0,1) and opening upward, (iii) 3x2 - 7y2 + 2x - y - 48 = 0 at the point where x = 4.
y = 1 + 4x - x2 may be written as y - 5 = -(x - 2)2 which 3. Find equations of the tangents to each of the following through the given point:
is a parabola with vertex. (2,5) and opening downward (i) x2 + y2 = 25 through (7 ,-1)
(ii) y2 = 12x through (1, 4)
(iii) x2 - 2y2 = 2 through (1, -2)
Example 9. Find equations of the common tangents to the two conics 4. Find equations of the normals to the parabola y2 = 8x which are parallel to the line
2x + 3y = 10.
x2 y 2 x2 y 2
= + 1 and= + 1
16 25 25 9 x2
5. Find equations of the tangents to the ellipse 1 which are parallel to the line
+ y2 =
4
Solution. The tangents with slope m, to the two conics are respectively given by 2x - 4y + 5 = 0.
6. Find equations of the tangents to the conic 9x2 - 4y2 = 36 parallel to 5x - 2y + 7 = 0.
y =± mx 16m 2 + 25 and y =±
mx 25m 2 + 9
7. Find equations of the common tangents to the given conics
For a tangent to be common, we must have
(i) x2 = 80y and x2 + y2 = 81
16m2 + 25 = 25m2 + 9
(ii) y2 =16x and x2 = 2y
4 8. Find the points of intersection of the given conics
or 9m = 16 or m= ±
3
Using these values of m, equations of the four common tangents are: x2 y 2 x2 y 2
(i) + =1 and - = 1
18 8 3 3
4 (ii) x2 + y2 = 8 and x2 - y2 = 1
y =
± x ± 481
3 (iii) 3x2 - 4y2 = 12 and 3y2 - 2x2 = 7
(iv) 3x2 + 5y2 = 60 and 9x2 + y2 = 124
EXERCISE 6.7 (v) 4x2 + y2 = 16 and x2 + y2 + y + 8 = 0

1. Find equations of the tangent and normal to each of the following at the indicated
6.8 TRANSLATION AND ROTATION OF AXES
point:
(i) y2 = 4ax at (a t2, 2a t)
Translation of Axes
x2 y 2 In order to facilitate the investigation of properties of a curve
(ii) + 1
= at (a cos q, b sin q)
a 2 b2 with a given equation, it is sometimes necessary to shift the origin
x2 y 2 O(0, 0) to some other point O’ (h, k). The axes O‘X , O’Y drawn through O’ remain parallel to
(iii) - 1
= at (a sec q, b tan q) the original axes Ox and Oy. The process is called translation of axes.
a 2 b2

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We have already obtained in Chapter 4 Example 2: By transforming the equation

formulas showing relationships between the x2 + 4y2 - 4x + 8y + 4 = 0 (1)
two sets of coordinates of a point referred to referred to a new origin and axes remaining parallel to the original axes, the first degree
the two sets of coordinate axes. terms are removed. Find the coordinates of the new origin and the transformed equation.
Recall that if a point P has coordinates (x,
y) referred to the xy-system and has coordinates Solution. Let the coordinates of the new origin be (h, k). Equations of transformation are
(X, Y) referred to the translated axes O’X, O’Y x = X + h , y=Y+k
through O’(h, k) , then Substituting these values of x, y into (1), we get
(X + h)2 + 4(Y + k)2 - 4(X + h) + 8(Y + k) + 4 = 0
or X2 + 4Y2 + X(2h - 4) + Y(8k + 8) + h2 + 4k2 - 4h + 8k + 4 = 0 (2)
(h, k) is to be so chosen that first degree terms are removed from the transformed
x X + h
= equation.
 (1)
y= Y + k  Therefore, 2h - 4 = 0 and 8k + 8 = 0 giving h = 2 and k = -1. New origin is O‘ (2, -1).

These are called equations of transformation. Putting h = 2, k = -1 into (2), the transformed equation is X2 + 4Y2 - 4 = 0.
From (1), we have
Rotation of Axes
X= x - h  To find equations for a rotation of axes about the origin through an angle q(0 < q < 900).
 (2)
Y= y - k  (origin remaining unaltered).

Let the axes be rotated about the origin
(1) and (2) will be used to transform an equation in one system into the other system.
through an angle q. The new axes OX, OY are as
The axes Ox and Oy are referred to as the original (or old) axes and O‘X, O’Y are called
shown in the figure.
the translated axes (or new axes).
Let P be any point in the plane with
coordinates P(x, y) referred to the xy-system and
Example 1: Transform the equation x2 + 6x - 8y + 17 = 0 (1)
P(X, Y) referred to the XY-system. In either system
referred to O‘(-3, 1) as origin, axes remaining parallel to the old axes.
the distance r between P and O is the same.
Draw PM ^ Ox and PQ ^ OX. Let a be the
Solution. Equations of transformation are
inclination of OP with OX. From the figure, we have
x = X - 3
y = Y + 1
X = OQ = r cos a, Y = QP = r sin a (1)
Substituting these values of x, y into (1), we have
and x = r cos(q + a), y = r sin (q + a)
(X - 3)2 + 6(X - 3 ) - 8 (Y + 1) + 17 = 0
or X2 - 6X + 9 + 6X - 18 - 8Y - 8 + 17 = 0 = x r cosq cos a - r sin q sin a 
or X2 - 8Y = 0 is the required transformed equation. or  (2)
= y r sin q cos a + r cosq sin a 

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Substituting the values of r cos a, r sin a from (1) into (2), we get Since this equation is to be free from the product term XY, the coefficient of XY
is zero, i.e. -10sinq cosq +2 3(cos 2q - sin 2q )+14sinq cosq = 0
= x X cosq - Y sin q 
or 2sin 2q +2 3cos 2q = 0
= y X sin q + y cosq 
-2 3
as the required equations of transformation for a rotation of axes through an angle q. or tan 2q = = tan 1200 or q = 600
2
Example 3: Find an equation of 5x2 - 6xy + 5y2 - 8 = 0 with Thus axes be rotated through an angle of 600 so that XY term is removed from
respect to new axes obtained by rotation of axes about the origin through an angle of 1350. the transformed equation.
Setting q = 600 into (1), the transformed equation is (after simplification)
Solution. Here q = 135. Equations of transformation are 8X2 + 4Y2 - 16 = 0 or 2X2 + Y2 - 4 = 0

-X Y -1
x = X cos1350 - Y sin1350 = - = (X + Y) EXERCISE 6.8
2 2 2
X Y 1
x = X sin1350 + Y cos1350 = - = (X -Y) 1. Find an equation of each of the following with respect to new parallel axes obtained
2 2 2
Substituting these expressions for x, y into the given equation, we have by shifting the origin to the indicated point:
(i) x2 + 16y - 16 = 0, O’ (0, 1)
2 2
 X +Y   X +Y X -Y   X -Y  (ii) 4x2 + y2 + 16x - 10y + 37 = 0, O’ (2, 5)
5 -  - 6 - .  + 5  -8 =0
 2   2 2   2  (iii) 9x2 + 4x2 + 18x - 16y - 11 = 0, O’ (-1, 2)
(iv) x2 - y2 + 4x + 8y - 11 = 0, O’ (-2, 4)
5 2 5
or ( X + 2 XY + Y 2 ) + 3( X 2 - Y 2 ) + ( X 2 - 2 XY + Y 2 ) - 8 =
0 (v) 9x2 - 4y2 + 36x + 8y - 4 = 0, O’ (2, 1)
2 2
2. Find coordinates of the new origin (axes remaining parallel) so that first degree
or 8X2 + 2Y2 - 8 = 0 or 4X2 + Y2 = 4
terms are removed from the transformed equation of each of the following. Also find
is the required transformed equation.
the transformed equation:
(i) 3x2 - 2y2 + 24x + 12y + 24 = 0
Example 4: Find the angle through which the axes be rotated about the origin so that
(ii) 25x2 + 9y2 + 50x - 36y - 164 = 0
the product term XY is removed from the transformed equation of 5x 2 + 2 3 xy + 7x 2 - 16 = 0 .
(iii) x2 - y2 - 6x + 2y + 7 = 0
Also find the transformed equation.
3. In each of the following, find an equation referred to the new axes obtained by
rotation of axes about the origin through the given angle:
Solution. Let the axes be rotated through an angle q. Equations of transformation are
(i) xy = 1, q = 450
x = X cos q - Y sin q ; y = X sin q + Y cos q
(ii) 7x2 - 8xy + y2 - 9 = 0, q = arctan 2
Substituting into the given equation, we get
2
5(Xcosq - Ysinq ) 2 +2 3(Xcosq - Ysinq )(Xsinq +Ycosq ) (iii) 9 x 2 + 12 xy + 4 y 2 - x -= q arctan
y 0, =
3
+ 7(X sin q + y cos q)2 - 16 = 0 (1)
(iv) x 2 - 2 xy + y 2 - 2 2 x - 2 2 y + 2 = 0, q = 45°
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4. Find measure of the angle through which the axes be rotated so that the product we can write (1) as
term XY is removed from the transformed equation. Also find the transformed equation:
(i) 2x2 + 6xy + 10y2 - 11 = 0 (ii) xy + 4x - 3y - 10 = 0  2 G G2   2 F F 2  G2 F 2
or A x + x + ′
 - B  y - ′ y + ′2  = - - C = M (say)
(iii) 5x - 6xy + 5y - 8
2 2
=0  A 4 A2   B 4 B  4 A 4 B′
2 2
 G   F 
or A x +  - B ′  y -  =M
6.9 THE GENERAL EQUATION OF  2A   2 B′ 
G F
SECOND DEGREE or AX 2 - B′Y 2 =M , where X = x+ , Y=
y-
2A 2 B′
Standard equations of conic sections, namely circle, parabola, ellipse and hyperbola X2 Y2
have already been studied in the previous sections. Now we shall take up the general equation or - 1
=
( ) ( )
2 2
M A M B′
of second degree viz.
Ax2 + By2 + Gx + Fy + C = 0 (1) and this is standard equation of a hyperbola in XY-coordinates system.
The nature of the curve represented by (1) can be determined by examining the (iv) If A = 0 or B = 0 (both cannot be zero since in that case the equation (1)
coefficients A, B in the above equation. The following cases arise: reduces to a linear equation). Assume A ≠ 0 and B = 0.
(i) If A = B ≠ 0, equation (1) may be written as The equation (1) becomes Ax2 + Gx + Fy + C = 0

G F C  G G2  G2
A( x 2 + y 2 ) + Gx =
+ Fy + C 0 or x2 + y 2 + x += y+ 0 or A x2 + x +  =- Fy - C +
A A A  A 4 A2  4A
 G F  G2 F 2 C  G 
2
 C G2 
which represents a circle with centre at  - ,-  and radius + - . or A x + -F  y + -
 2 A 2 A  4 A 2
4 A A  = 
 2A   F 4 AF 
(ii) If A ≠ B and both are of the same sign, then we have G C G2
or AX =2
- FY , where X =+x , Y =+
y -
(Ax2 + Gx) + (By2 + Fy) + C = 0 2A F 4 AF
which is standard equation of a parabola in XY-coordinates system.
 2 G G2   2 F F 2  G2 F 2 We summarize these results as under:
or A x + x + 2 
+ B y + y + 2 
= + -C Let an equation of second degree be of the form Ax2 + By2 + Gx + Fy + C = 0.
 A 4 A   B 4 B  4 A 4 B
2 2 It represents:
 G   F  G2 F 2
or A x +  + B y +  = + -C (2) (i) a circle if A = B ≠ 0
 2A   2B  4 A 4B
G F (ii) an ellipse if A ≠ B and both are of the same sign
If we write X = x+ ,Y =y+ , then (2) can be written as (iii) a hyperbola if A ≠ B and both are of opposite signs
4A 2B
(iv) a parabola if either A = 0 or B = 0.
2 G2 F 2
2 X2 Y2
AX + BY = + - C = K (say) or + = 1
4 A 4B ( K A )2 ( K B )2
6.9.1 Classification of Conics by the Discriminant
which is standard equation of an ellipse in XY-coordinate system.
(iii) If A ≠ B and both have opposite signs (say A is positive and B is negative), The most general equation of the second degree
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ax2 + 2hxy + by2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 (1)

Example 1: Discuss the conic 7 x 2 - 6 3 xy + 13 y 2 - 16 =
0 (1)
represents a conic. The quantity h - ab is called the discriminant of (1). Nature of the conic
2
and find its elements.
can be determined by the discriminant as follows. (1) represents:
(i) an ellipse or a circle if h2 - ab < 0
Solution. In order to remove the term involving xy, the angle through which axes be
(ii) a parabola if h2 - ab = 0
rotated is given by
(iii) a hyperbola if h2 - ab > 0
The equation (1) can be transformed to the form -6 3
tan
= 2q
= 3 or q =30°
AX2 + BY2 + 2GX + 2Fy + C = 0 (2) 7 - 13
if the axes are rotated about the origin through an angle q, (0 < q < 90°) where q is given by Equations of transformation are
3X - Y 
2h = x X cos30° - Y sin
= 30° 
tan 2q = 2
a - b  (2)
X + 3Y 
If a = b or a = 0 = b, then the axes are to be rotated through an angle of 450. = y X sin 30° + Y cos30
= ° 
2 
Equations of transformation (as already found) are Substituting these expressions in to the equation (1), we get

= x X cosq - Y sin q  2 2
(3)  3X - Y   3 X - Y  X + 3Y   X + 3Y 
= y X sin q + Y cosq  7   - 6 3   + 13  16
 =
2 2 2 2
Substitution of these values of x, y into (1) will result in an equation of the form (2) in       
which product term XY will be missing. Nature of the conic (2) has already been discussed in which simplifies to
the last article.
X2 Y2
Solving equations (3) for X, Y we find = 2
4 X + 16Y 16 2
or = + 1 (3)
4 1
This is an ellipse.
=X x cosq + y sin q 
(4) Solving equations (2) for X and Y, (or as already found in (4) of 7.7.1, we have
Y=- x sin q + y cosq 

These equations will be useful in numerical problems. 3x + y -x + 3y
=X = , Y
2 2
Note: Under certain conditions equation (1) may not represent any conic. In such a case
Centre of the ellipse (3) is X = 0, Y = 0
we say (1) represents a degenerate conic.
One such degenerate conic is a pair of straight lines represented by (1) if i.e., = 3x + y 0 and = - x + 3y 0
giving x = 0, y = 0. Thus centre of (1) is (0, 0)
Length of the major axis = 4, length of minor axis = 2
a h g
Vertices of (3) are: X = ±2, Y = 0
h b f = 0.
g f c 3x + y -x + 3y
i.e., ±2
= and 0
=
2 2
The proofs of the above observations are beyond our scope and are omitted.
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Solving these equations for x, y, we have X = 0, Y = 0

( 3 , 1),(- 3, -1) , as vertices of (1). x+ y -x + y
i.e.,
= 0,= and 0
3x + y -x + 3y 2 2
±1 .i.e.,
Ends of the minor axis are X = 0 and Y = 0 and
= = ±1 . Solving these or x = 0, y = 0 is the centre of (1)
2 2
Equation of the focal axis: Y = 0 i.e. y = x.
1 - 3  1 3 Equation of the conjugate axis: X = 0 i.e. y = -x.
equations, we get  ,  and  - , 
2 2   2 2  Eccentricity = 2
as ends of the minor axis of (1). ±2 2 . 2
Foci of (3): X = 0
Y=
Equation of the major axis: Y = 0, i.e., -x + 3y =0 or x + y =± 4 2
Equation of the minor axis: X = 0, i.e., 3 x+ y=
0 and -x + y = 0
Solving the above equations for x, y, we have the foci of (1) as (2 2, 2 2) and (-2 2, - 2 2)
Example 2: Analyze the conic xy = 4 and write its elements.
± 2 2,
Vertices of (3): X = 0
Y=

Solution: Equation of the conic is x+ y

i.e., =± 2 2 and - x + y =0
xy - 4 = 0 (1) 2
Here a = 0 = b, so we rotate the axes through an angle of 450. Equations of Solving these equations, we have the foci of (1) as
transformation are (2 2, 2 2) and (-2 2, - 2 2)
X -Y  ± 2 2,
Vertices of (3): X = 0
Y=
= x X cos 45° - Y sin
= 45°
2 
 (2) x+ y
X +Y  = ±2 2 and - x + y =0
= y X sin 45° - Y cos
= 45°

2  2
Substituting into (1), we have Solving these equations, we have
 X - Y  X + Y  (2, 2) , (-2, -2) as vertices of (1).
  -4 = 0
 2  2  Asymptotes of the hyperbola (3) are given by X2 - Y2 = 0

or X -Y =8
2 2 or X - Y = 0 and X+Y=0

X2 Y2 x+ y -x + y x+ y -x + y
- =1 (3) i.e., - = 0 and - =0
8 8 2 2 2 2
which is a hyperbola. i.e., x = 0 and y = 0 are equations of the asymptotes of (1).
Solving equations (2) for X, Y, we have
Example 3: By a rotation of axes, eliminate the xy-term in the equation
x+ y -x + y
= X = , Y 9x2 + 12xy + 4y2 + 2x - 3y = 0 (1)
2 2
Identify the conic and find its elements.
Centre of the hyperbola (3) is
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Solution: Here a = 9, b = 4, 2h = 12. The angle q through which axes be rotated to given by
1
12 12 or 2
13 X= - 13 Y 0 or
= X2 Y
q
tan 2= = 13
9-4 5 which is a parabola.
2 tan q 12
or = 3x + 2 y -2 x + 3 y
1 - tan q
2
5 Solving equation (2) for X, Y, we have X = ,Y =
13 13
or 5 tan q = 6 - 6tan2 q Elements of the parabola are:
or 6 tan2 q + 5 tan q - 6 = 0
1
Focus:
= X 0,=Y
-5 ± 25 + 144 -5 ± 13 2 -3 4 13
=tan q = = ,
12 12 3 2 3x + 2 y -2 x + 3 y 1
i.e.,
= 0=
and
2 13 13 4 13
Since q lies in the first quadrant, tan q = - is not admissible.
3
2 2 3 1 3  1 3 
tan q = 3
⇒ sin q = , cosq = - , y =i.e., Focus =
Solving these equations, we have x = - , 
13 13 26 52  26 52 
Equations of transformation become
Vertex: X=0, Y = 0 i.e., 3x + 2y = 0 and -2x + 3y = 0
3 2 
x = X cosq - Y sin q = X- Y i.e., x = 0, y = 0 i.e., (0, 0)
13 13 Axis: X = 0 i.e., 3x + 2y = 0
 (2)
2 3 
y = X sin q + Y cosq = X+ Y
13 13  x-intercept = -
2
,
3
y -intercept = .
Substituting these expressions for x and y into (1), we get 9 4
9 12 4 Example 4: Show that 2x2 - xy + 5x - 2y + 2 = 0 represents a pair of lines. Also find an
(3 X - 2Y ) 2 + (3 X - 2Y )(3 X + 3Y ) + (2 X + 3Y ) 2
( 13) 2
13 13 equation of each line.
2 3 1 5
+ (3 X - 2Y ) - (2 X + 3Y ) =
0 Solution: Here a = 2, b = 0, h =- , g= , f =
-1, c = 2.
13 13 2 2

9 12 1 5
(9 X 2 - 12 XY + 9Y 2 ) + (6 X 2 + 5 XY - 6Y 2 )
or 2 -
13 13 a h g 2 2
4 1
+ (4 X 2 + 12 XY - 9Y 2 ) - 13Y = 0 h b f = - 0 -1
13 2
g f c
 81 72 16  2  108 60 48  5
or +  X +- +  XY -1 2
 + + 2
 13 13 13   13 13 13 
 36 72 36  2 1 5  5
+ - +  Y - 13Y =
0 =  -1 +  + 1 -2 + 
 13 13 13  2 2  4

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2 2
3 3
= ax1 + 2 hx1 y1 + gx1 + by1 + fy1
= - =0 Adding gx1 + fy1 + c to both sides of the above equation and regrouping the terms,
4 4
The given equation represents a degenerate conic which is a pair of lines. The given we have
equation is axx1 + h(xy1 + yx1) + byy1 + g(x + x1) + f(y + y1) + c
2x2 + x(5 - y) + (-2y + 2) = 0 = = ax12 + 2hx1 y1 + by12 + 2 gx1 + 2 fy1 + c
= 0
y - 5 ± ( y - 5) 2 - 8(-2 y + 2)
or x= since the point (x1, y1) lies on (1).
4
Hence an equation of the tangent to (1) at (x1, y1) is
y - 5 ± y 2 - 10 y + 25 + 16 y - 16 axx1 + h(xy1 + yx1) + byy1 + g(x + x1) + f(y + y1) + c = 0
=
4
y - 5 ± ( y + 3) Note: An equation of the tangent to the general equation of the second degree at the
=
4
point (x1, y1) may be obtained by replacing
2y - 2
= , -2 x2 by xx1
4
y2 by yy1
Equations of the lines are 2x - y + 1 = 0 and x + 2 = 0.
2xy by xy1 + yx1
2x by x + x1
Tangent
2y by y + y1
Find an equation of the tangent to the conic
in the equation of the conic.
ax2 + 2hxy + by2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 (1)
at the point (x1, y1)
Differentiating (1) w.r.t. x, we have Example 5: Find an equation of the tangent to the conic x2 - xy + y2 - 2 = 0 at the point
whose ordinate is 2.
dy dy dy
2ax + 2hy + 2hx + 2by + 2 g + 2 f 0
=
dx dx dx
Solution: Putting y = 2 into the given equation, we have
dy ax + hy + g
or = - x 2 - 2 x =
0
dx hx + by + f
dy  ax + hy1 + g x( x - =
2) 0 =x 0, 2
or  = - 1
dx  ( x1 , y1 ) hx1 + by1 + f The two points on the conic are (0, 2) and ( 2, 2) .
Equation of the tangent at (x1, y1) is Tangent at (0, 2) is

ax + hy1 + g 1
y - y1 =
- 1 ( x1 , y1 ) 0.x - ( x. 2 + 0.y) + 2 y - 2 =0
hx1 + by1 + f 2
or x - 2y + 2 2 =
0
or ( x - x1 )(ax1 + hy1 + g ) + ( y - y1 )(hx1 + by1 + f ) =
0
Tangent at ( 2, 2) is
or axx1 + hxy1 + gx + + hx1 y + by1 y + fy
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1
2 x - ( 2 x + 2 y ) + 2 y - 2 =0
2
or 2 x+ 2 y-4=0

EXERCISE 6.9

1. By a rotation of axes, eliminate the xy-term in each of the following equations.

Identify the conic and find its elements:
(i) 4x2 - 4xy + y2 - 6 = 0
(ii) x2 - 2xy + y2 - 8x - 8y = 0
(iii) x 2 + 2 xy + y 2 + 2 2 - 2 2 y + 2 =0
(iv) x + xy + y - 4 = 0
2 2

(v) 7 x 2 - 6 3 xy + 13 y 2 - 16 =
0
(vi) 4x2 - 4xy + 7y2 + 12x + 6y - 9 = 0
(vii) xy - 4x - 2y = 0
(viii) x2 + 4xy - 2y2 - 6 = 0
(ix) x2 - 4xy - 2y2 + 10x + 4y = 0

2. Show that (i) 10xy + 8x - 15y - 12 = 0 and

(ii) 6x2 + xy - y2 - 21x - 8y + 9 = 0
each represents a pair of straight lines and find an equation of each line.

3. Find an equation of the tangent to each of the given conics at the indicated point.
(i) 3x2 - 7y2 + 2x - y - 48 = 0 at (4, 1)
(ii) x2 + 5xy - 4y2 + 4 = 0 at y = -1
(iii) x2 + 4xy - 3y2 - 5x - 9y + 6 = 0 at x = 3.

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