5B Lesson Worksheet 8.0 (Refer to Book 5B P.8.

3)

Objective: To review the distance between a point and a line, and the distance between two parallel lines.

Distance between a Point and a Line

1. In the figure, find the distance between point P 2. In the figure, ABCD is a rectangle. Find the
and the straight line L. distance between point D and BC.
L 15 m
A D
4.8 cm S
P 17 m
2.6 cm 8m
3 cm P distance between B
R a point P and a
C
straight line L
Review Ex: 1
Q
= PN
L
Distance between P and L N

=( )
=

3. In the figure, AB ⊥ AD and A 9 cm B 4. In the figure, △ XYZ is an X

AD ⊥ DC. Find the distance 13 cm
equilateral triangle of side
between B and DC. 2 3 cm. Find the distance
D 14 cm C between X and YZ.
Y Z
Let E be a point on ( ) such that
Let ( ) be a point on ( ) such that
( )⊥( ).
( )⊥( ).
EC = ( )−( )
1 1
= [( )−( )] cm ( )= ( )= ×( ) cm
2 2
= a
c

In △ BEC, b
( 2
) +( ) =(2
) 2 a2 + b2 = c2

( )= ( )2 − ( ) 2 cm
=

5. In the figure, PQR is a triangle. y

(a) Find the height of △ PQR with QR as the base.

Q(2 , 5)

(b) Find the area of △ PQR. P(6 , 3)

x
O
R(2 , −1)

47
Distance between Two Parallel Lines

6. In the figure, MN // PQ // RS. Find the distance between PQ and RS. S

Q
Distance between PQ and RS
4 cm
= [( )−( )] cm distance R
N
between two
= parallel lines 6 cm P

7. In the figure, straight lines L1 and L3: y = 5 are equidistant from the y

straight line L2: y = 2. L3: y = 5

(a) Find the distance between L2 and L3. L2: y = 2

(b) Find the equation of L1. x
O
L1
The equation of a
horizontal line passing
through (h , k) is y = k.
Review Ex: 2

8. In the figure, X(12 , 4) and Y(−12 , −3) are points on straight lines L1 and L2 y
L2 L1
respectively. If XY ⊥ L1 and XY ⊥ L2, find the distance between L1 and L2.
X(12 , 4)
Distance between two points x
(x1 , y1) and (x2 , y2) O
Y(−12 , −3)
= ( x2 − x1 )2 + ( y2 − y1 )2

Level Up Question

9. In the figure, A(8 , 4) and B(10 , 0) are points on straight line L and the y
L
x-axis respectively. Straight line L1 passes through P(a , b), where L // L1, A(8 , 4)
P
PA = PB, PA ⊥ L and PB ⊥ the x-axis.
(a) Find the coordinates of P. x
O B(10 , 0)
(b) Find the distance between L and L1.

48
 5B Lesson Worksheet 8.2 (Refer to Book 5B P.8.5)

Objective: To describe and sketch the locus of points satisfying given conditions.

Relationship between a Moving Point and Fixed Point(s)

(a) A moving point and a fixed point P P

Condition: A moving point P maintains a fixed distance r r

of r from a fixed point O. O O

locus of P
Locus: A circle with centre O and radius r.
(b) A moving point and two fixed points
P P
Condition: A moving point P maintains an equal distance
from two fixed points A and B, i.e. PA = PB. A B A B
locus of P
Locus: The perpendicular bisector of the line segment AB.

1. The figure shows a rectangle ABCD. A moving 2. In the figure, AB = AC. A moving point P
point P maintains a fixed distance of 1 cm from D. maintains an equal distance from B and C, i.e.
(a) Sketch the locus of P. PB = PC.
Ex 8A: 1, 2

Step 1: Use a ruler to 2.4 cm (a) Sketch the locus of P.

A B
draw several points
which are 1 cm Step 1: Use a pair of A
from D. compasses to draw
2 cm
Step 2: Use a curve to join several points such
all the points drawn. that PB = PC.
Step 2: Use a ruler to join
D C all the points drawn. B C

(b) Describe the locus of P. (b) Describe the locus of P.

The locus is a ( ) with centre ( ) The locus is the ( )
and radius ( ) cm. of the ( ).

Consider rectangle WXYZ as shown in the figure. [Nos. 3–4]

3. A moving point P maintains an equal distance 4. A moving point P maintains a fixed distance of
from Z and Y, i.e. PZ = PY. 1.2 cm from X.
(a) Sketch the locus of P. (a) Sketch the locus of P.

Z W Z W

Y X Y X

(b) Describe the locus of P. (b) Describe the locus of P.

49
Relationship between a Moving Point and a Fixed Line or a Fixed Line Segment

(c) A moving point and a line locus of P

P P
Condition: A moving point P maintains a fixed distance
d d
of d from a fixed line L. L L
d d
Locus: A pair of parallel lines which are parallel to L, one on
P P
either side of L and each at a distance of d from L. locus of P

(d) A moving point and a line segment

Condition: A moving point P maintains a fixed distance locus of P
P P
d
of d from a fixed line segment AB. d d
Locus: A closed figure formed by two line segments, which A B A B
are parallel to AB with the same length as AB and d
each at a distance of d from AB, and two semi-circles
of radii d and with centres A and B respectively.

5. In the figure, a moving point P maintains a 6. In the figure, a moving point Q maintains a fixed
fixed distance of 1 cm from the fixed line L. distance of 1.5 cm from the fixed line L.
(a) Sketch the locus of P. (a) Sketch the locus of Q.
Ex 8A: 3

Step 1: On one side of L,

mark several points
1 cm from L.
Step 2: On the other side
of L, mark several
points 1 cm from L.
Step 3: Use a ruler to join
the points drawn
on each side. L L
(b) Describe the locus of P.
(b) Describe the locus of Q.
The locus is a pair of ( )
which are ( ), one on either
side of ( ) and each at a distance of
( ) cm from ( ).

7. In the figure, a moving point P maintains a fixed
Ex 8A: 6 Step 1: On the left and right of
distance of 1 cm from the line segment AB. the line segment AB,
draw several points such
(a) Sketch the locus of P. A that the distance of each
point from AB is 1 cm.
(b) Describe the locus of P. Step 2: For the region above
A, draw several points
The locus is a ( ) figure formed by which are 1 cm from A.
( ) line segments, which are ( ) Step 3: For the region below
B, draw several points
to AB with the same length as ( ) and each B which are 1 cm from B.
Step 4: Join all the points drawn.
at a distance of ( ) from AB, and two
( ) of radii ( ) and with centres
( ) and ( ) respectively.

50
8. In the figure, ABCD is a rectangle, where AB = 2.4 cm and BC = 1.6 cm.
A moving point Q lies outside the rectangle and it maintains a fixed
A D
distance of 1.2 cm from the line segment AD.
(a) Sketch the locus of P.
(b) Describe the locus of P.
The locus consists of ( ) line segment and ( ) semi-circles
B C
outside the rectangle. The line segment has the same length as
( ), parallel to ( ) and at a distance of ( ) from AD.
The ( ) semi-circles are of radii ( ) and with centres
( ) and ( ) respectively.

Relationship between a Moving Point and Two Fixed Lines

(e) A moving point and two parallel lines

Condition: A moving point P maintains an equal distance L1 L1
P P
from two fixed parallel lines L1 and L2.
locus of P
Locus: A straight line parallel to L1 and L2, and equidistant L2 L2
from L1 and L2.
(f) A moving point and two intersecting lines
Condition: A moving point P maintains an equal distance P locus of P
L1 L1
from two fixed intersecting lines L1 and L2.
P
Locus: A pair of straight lines passing through the point of P
L2 locus of P L2
intersection of L1 and L2. They are the two angle
bisectors of the angles formed between L1 and L2.

9. The figure shows a square EFGH. A moving 10. The figure shows a parallelogram ABCD. A
point P lies inside the square and it is moving point Q lies inside the parallelogram and it
equidistant from the line segments EF and HG. is equidistant from the line segments AD and BC.
(a) Sketch the locus of P. (a) Sketch the locus of Q.
Ex 8A: 5

E F A B

H G D C

(b) Describe the locus of P. (b) Describe the locus of Q.

The locus is the ( ) joining
the ( ) of ( ) and ( ).

51
 11. In the figure, XY = XZ. A point P moves inside 12. The figure shows a rhombus ABCD. A point P
△ XYZ and it maintains an equal distance moves inside the rhombus and it maintains an
from XY and XZ. equal distance from AD and CD.
Ex 8A: 4

(a) Sketch the locus of P. (a) Sketch the locus of P.

Y B
Step 1: Use a pair of compasses
to draw several points
which are equidistant
X A C
from XY and XZ.
Step 2: Use a ruler to join all
the points drawn.
Z D
(b) Describe the locus of P. (b) Describe the locus of P.
The locus is the ( ) of
∠( ) inside △( ).

Relationship between a Moving Point and a Fixed Point and a Fixed Line
(g) A moving point and a fixed point and a fixed line
Q Q
Condition: A moving point P maintains an equal distance from L L
F F
a fixed point F and a fixed line L, i.e. PF = PQ. P P
Locus: A parabola. locus of P

13. In the figure, CDEF is a rectangle. M and N are 14. In the figure, WXYZ is a rectangle. M and N are the
the mid-points of CD and FE respectively. A mid-points of ZY and WX respectively. A point P
point P moves inside the rectangle and it is moves inside the rectangle and it is equidistant
equidistant from M and the line segment FE. from M and the line segment WX.
Ex 8A: 8

(a) Sketch the locus of P. (a) Sketch the locus of P.

Step 1: Mark the mid-point of Step 1: Mark the mid-point of 2 cm
MN. (Note that C M D N X
MN. (Note that W
CM = CF = DM = DE.) ZM = ZW = YM = YX.)
Step 2: Draw a parabola from 1.2 cm Step 2: Draw a parabola from 1 cm
C to D passing through Z to Y passing through
the point obtained in F E Z M Y
N the point obtained in
Step 1. 2.4 cm Step 1.

(b) Describe the locus of P. (b) Describe the locus of P.

The locus is a ( ), which lies
inside ( ). The ( )
opens ( ) with ( ) and ( )
as the end points.

Level Up Question

15. The figure shows a line segment MN of length 2.8 cm. A point P moves
such that the area of △ PMN = 1.4 cm2. Sketch and describe the locus of P. N

52
New Century Mathematics (Second Edition) 5B

8 Locus

Consolidation Exercise 8A

Level 1
1. The figure shows an equilateral triangle ABC of side 3 cm. A moving B
point P maintains a fixed distance of 3 cm from C. Sketch and describe
the locus of P.
A 3 cm C

2. In the figure, AB is a line segment of length 2 cm. A moving point P 2 cm

A B
maintains a fixed distance from A and that fixed distance is equal to half
of the length of AB. Sketch and describe the locus of P.

3. In the figure, ABCD is a rectangle. A moving point P maintains an equal A B

distance from A and D. Sketch and describe the locus of P.

D C

4. In the figure, A and B are points on an inclined plane such that AB = 10 cm. P

A ball with centre P and radius 1 cm rolls down from A to B along the A
plane. Sketch and describe the locus of P. B

5. In the figure, ABCD is a square of side 2 cm. A point P moves inside the A B
square ABCD, and it maintains an equal distance from B and D.
2 cm
(a) Sketch and describe the locus of P.
(b) Describe the geometric relationship between the locus of P and BD. D C

6. The figure on the right is formed by two identical trapeziums ADFE and A B
E
BCFE, where AD // EF // BC. A point P moves inside AEBCFD, and it
maintains an equal distance from AD and BC. Sketch and describe the
locus of P. F
D C

7. In the figure, ABCD is a rhombus. P is a point inside the rhombus. When A

P moves, it maintains an equal distance from AB and BC.
D B
(a) Sketch and describe the locus of P.
(b) Describe the geometric relationship between the locus of P and ∠ABC. C

8. In the figure, the length of a line segment AB is 4 cm. A moving point P 4 cm

A B
maintains a fixed distance of 2 cm from the line segment AB. Sketch and
describe the locus of P.
53
9. In the figure, L is a vertical line and B is a fixed point on L. A is a fixed L
point on the right of L and AB ⊥ L. A moving point P maintains an
equal distance from A and the line L.
(a) Sketch and describe the locus of P. B A

(b) Does the perpendicular bisector of AB intersect the locus of P?

Explain your answer.

10. The figure shows a clock. The length of the hour-hand is 15 cm. Let 11 12 1
P be the tip of the hour-hand. If it is 9 o’clock now, sketch and describe 10 2
9 3
the locus of P during the next 3 hours.
8 4
7 6 5

Level 2
11. In the figure, A and B are two fixed points on a plane. A
(a) A moving point P maintains a fixed distance from the mid-point of
AB and that fixed distance is equal to half of the length of AB.
(b) A point Q moves such that AQ2 + QB2 = AB2. Sketch and describe
the locus of Q. B

12. The figure shows a square ABCD of side 5 cm. A point P lies outside A B
the square ABCD. The point P moves such that it maintains a fixed
distance of 2 cm from the line segment AB. Sketch and describe the
locus of P.

D 5 cm C

13. In the figure, AB is a line segment of length 7 cm. A point P moves 7 cm

such that the area of △PAB is 14 cm . Sketch and describe the locus
2
A B

of P.

14. In the figure, ABCD is a rectangle. AB = 8 cm and AD = 6 cm. A point A 8 cm B

P moves inside the rectangle such that the area of △PAD is 9 cm . 2

6 cm
(a) Sketch and describe the locus of P.
(b) Find the area of △PBC. D C

15. In the figure, ABEF and BCDE are two squares of sides 4 cm. A point P A B 4 cm C
moves inside the rectangle ACDF, and it is equidistant from E and AC.
4 cm
(a) Sketch and describe the locus of P.
(b) A point Q moves inside the rectangle ACDF, and it is equidistant F E D
from B and FD. How many points of intersection are there between
the locus of P and the locus of Q? Explain your answer.

54
 16. The figure shows a regular hexagon ABCDEF. A B
(a) A point P moves inside ABCDEF, and it maintains an equal
distance from AB and BC. Sketch and describe the locus of P.
F C
(b) A point Q moves inside ABCDEF, and it maintains an equal
distance from D and F. John claims that the locus obtained in (a)
and the locus of Q are the same. Do you agree? Explain your E D

answer.
(c) A moving point R maintains an equal distance from D and E. It
is given that the locus of R and the locus obtained in (a) intersect
at a point S. Describe the geometric relationship between S and
ABCDEF.

17. In the figure, AB is a fixed line segment and ∠ACB = 30°. P is a point C

above AB. The point P moves such that ∠APB = 30°.

(a) Sketch and describe the locus of P. 30°
(b) If AB = 4 cm, find the area enclosed by the locus of P and the line
segment AB in terms of π.
√
(Leave the radical sign ‘ ’ in the answer.)

A B

* 18. In the figure, A' is the image of A when reflected in a straight line L.
When a point P moves, no point on L is equidistant from P and A. A' A
Sketch and describe the locus of P.

* 19. A P' B'

L
P 3 cm B A' P"
In the figure, △PAB is an equilateral triangle of side 3 cm. PB lies on a straight line L. △PAB
undergoes the following two rotations along L, where A' and P" lie on L.
I. △PAB rotates clockwise about B to become △BP'A' first.
II. Then △BP'A' rotates clockwise about A' to become △A'B'P".
(a) Sketch and describe the locus of P during the two rotations.
(b) Find the total distance travelled by P during the two rotations in terms of π.

55
Answers
Consolidation Exercise 8A
1. a circle with centre C and radius 3 cm and B respectively.
2. a circle with centre A and radius 1 cm 13. two straight lines parallel to AB and at a
3. the perpendicular bisector of the line distance of 4 cm from AB
segment AD 14. (a) a line segment of length 6 cm inside
4. a line segment of 10 cm, parallel to AB and ABCD, parallel to AD and at a distance
at a distance of 1 cm from AB of 3 cm from AD
5. (a) line segment AC (b) 15 cm2
(b) The locus of P is perpendicular to BD 15. (a) a parabola which lies inside ACDF and
and bisects BD. opens downward with D and F as the
6. line segment EF end points
7. (a) line segment BD (b) 1
(b) The locus of P is the angle bisector of 16. (a) line segment BE
∠ABC. (b) yes
8. A closed figure formed by two line segments (c) S is the circumcentre of the hexagon
and two semi-circles. The two line segments ABCDEF.
are 4 cm long, parallel to AB and at a 17. (a) The locus of P is an arc passing through
distance of 2 cm from AB. The two semi-
circles are of radii 2 cm and with centres A
⌢
A, B and C with the angle at the centre
subtended by ACB equal to 300°,
and B respectively. excluding the points A and B.
9. (a) a parabola opening to the right with the  40π 
(b)  + 4 3  cm 2
mid-point of AB as the vertex  3 
(b) yes 18. a straight line passing through A and A',

10.
1
4
of a circle with radius 15 cm
excluding points A and A'

⌢ ⌢
19. (a) The locus of P consists of two arcs PAP'
⌢
11. (a) a circle with AB as a diameter and P'B'P" . The arc PAP' is of radius

(b) a circle with AB as a diameter

12. The locus consists of a line segment and two
3 cm and with centre B, where
⌢
∠PBP' = 120°. The arc P'B'P" is of
radius 3 cm and with centre A', where
semi-circles outside the square. The line
∠P'A'P" = 120°.
segment is 5 cm long, parallel to AB and at a
(b) 4π cm
distance of 2 cm from AB. The two semi-
circles are of radii 2 cm and with centres A

56
5B Lesson Worksheet 8.3 (Refer to Book 5B P.8.17)

Objective: To describe the locus of points with algebraic equations, including equations of straight lines,
circles and parabolas.

Describing Locus with an Algebraic Equation

The locus is a circle. The locus is a straight line. The locus is a parabola.
2
( x − h) + ( y − k ) = r2 2
ax + by + c = 0 y = ax2 + bx + c
y locus of P y y locus of P
locus of P

x x x
O O O

Distance between two points (x1 , y1) and (x2 , y2) = ( x2 − x1 )2 + ( y2 − y1 ) 2

Instant Example 1 Instant Practice 1

In the figure, a moving point y In the figure, a moving point y
P(x , y) P(x , y)
P(x , y) maintains a fixed distance 2 P(x , y) maintains a fixed distance x
O 3
of 2 from B(1 , 0). Find the
O B(1 , 0)
x of 3 from C(0 , −2). Find the C(0 , −2)
equation of the locus of P. equation of the locus of P.

∵ PB = 2  The condition for P ∵ PC = ( )

∴ 2
( x − 1) + ( y − 0) 2
=2 ∴ [x − ( )]2 + [ y − ( )]2 = ( )
2 2 2 2
(x − 1) + y = 4  Square both sides. x + [y + ( )] = ( )
∴ The equation of the locus of P is ∴ The equation of the locus of P is
2 2
(x − 1) + y = 4. .
y locus of P y
P(x , y)
The locus of P is a P(x , y) The locus of P is
2 x
circle with centre B O 3
and radius 2. x
O B(1 , 0) . C(0 , −2)

In each of the following, Q is a point in a rectangular coordinate plane. A moving point P(x , y) maintains a
fixed distance of d from Q. Find the equation of the locus of P. [Nos. 1–2]
1. Q(4 , −1) and d = 5 2. Q(−8 , −3) and d = 6
Ex 8B: 1−4

∵ PQ = ( )
∴ [x − ( )]2 + [ y − ( )]2 = ( )

58
 16. The figure shows a regular hexagon ABCDEF. A B
(a) A point P moves inside ABCDEF, and it maintains an equal
distance from AB and BC. Sketch and describe the locus of P.
F C
(b) A point Q moves inside ABCDEF, and it maintains an equal
distance from D and F. John claims that the locus obtained in (a)
and the locus of Q are the same. Do you agree? Explain your E D

answer.
(c) A moving point R maintains an equal distance from D and E. It
is given that the locus of R and the locus obtained in (a) intersect
at a point S. Describe the geometric relationship between S and
ABCDEF.

17. In the figure, AB is a fixed line segment and ∠ACB = 30°. P is a point C

above AB. The point P moves such that ∠APB = 30°.

(a) Sketch and describe the locus of P. 30°
(b) If AB = 4 cm, find the area enclosed by the locus of P and the line
segment AB in terms of π.
√
(Leave the radical sign ‘ ’ in the answer.)

A B

* 18. In the figure, A' is the image of A when reflected in a straight line L.
When a point P moves, no point on L is equidistant from P and A. A' A
Sketch and describe the locus of P.

* 19. A P' B'

L
P 3 cm B A' P"
In the figure, △PAB is an equilateral triangle of side 3 cm. PB lies on a straight line L. △PAB
undergoes the following two rotations along L, where A' and P" lie on L.
I. △PAB rotates clockwise about B to become △BP'A' first.
II. Then △BP'A' rotates clockwise about A' to become △A'B'P".
(a) Sketch and describe the locus of P during the two rotations.
(b) Find the total distance travelled by P during the two rotations in terms of π.

55
Answers
Consolidation Exercise 8A
1. a circle with centre C and radius 3 cm and B respectively.
2. a circle with centre A and radius 1 cm 13. two straight lines parallel to AB and at a
3. the perpendicular bisector of the line distance of 4 cm from AB
segment AD 14. (a) a line segment of length 6 cm inside
4. a line segment of 10 cm, parallel to AB and ABCD, parallel to AD and at a distance
at a distance of 1 cm from AB of 3 cm from AD
5. (a) line segment AC (b) 15 cm2
(b) The locus of P is perpendicular to BD 15. (a) a parabola which lies inside ACDF and
and bisects BD. opens downward with D and F as the
6. line segment EF end points
7. (a) line segment BD (b) 1
(b) The locus of P is the angle bisector of 16. (a) line segment BE
∠ABC. (b) yes
8. A closed figure formed by two line segments (c) S is the circumcentre of the hexagon
and two semi-circles. The two line segments ABCDEF.
are 4 cm long, parallel to AB and at a 17. (a) The locus of P is an arc passing through
distance of 2 cm from AB. The two semi-
circles are of radii 2 cm and with centres A
⌢
A, B and C with the angle at the centre
subtended by ACB equal to 300°,
and B respectively. excluding the points A and B.
9. (a) a parabola opening to the right with the  40π 
(b)  + 4 3  cm 2
mid-point of AB as the vertex  3 
(b) yes 18. a straight line passing through A and A',

10.
1
4
of a circle with radius 15 cm
excluding points A and A'

⌢ ⌢
19. (a) The locus of P consists of two arcs PAP'
⌢
11. (a) a circle with AB as a diameter and P'B'P" . The arc PAP' is of radius

(b) a circle with AB as a diameter

12. The locus consists of a line segment and two
3 cm and with centre B, where
⌢
∠PBP' = 120°. The arc P'B'P" is of
radius 3 cm and with centre A', where
semi-circles outside the square. The line
∠P'A'P" = 120°.
segment is 5 cm long, parallel to AB and at a
(b) 4π cm
distance of 2 cm from AB. The two semi-
circles are of radii 2 cm and with centres A

56
5B Lesson Worksheet 8.3 (Refer to Book 5B P.8.17)

Objective: To describe the locus of points with algebraic equations, including equations of straight lines,
circles and parabolas.

Describing Locus with an Algebraic Equation

The locus is a circle. The locus is a straight line. The locus is a parabola.
2
( x − h) + ( y − k ) = r2 2
ax + by + c = 0 y = ax2 + bx + c
y locus of P y y locus of P
locus of P

x x x
O O O

Distance between two points (x1 , y1) and (x2 , y2) = ( x2 − x1 )2 + ( y2 − y1 ) 2

Instant Example 1 Instant Practice 1

In the figure, a moving point y In the figure, a moving point y
P(x , y) P(x , y)
P(x , y) maintains a fixed distance 2 P(x , y) maintains a fixed distance x
O 3
of 2 from B(1 , 0). Find the
O B(1 , 0)
x of 3 from C(0 , −2). Find the C(0 , −2)
equation of the locus of P. equation of the locus of P.

∵ PB = 2  The condition for P ∵ PC = ( )

∴ 2
( x − 1) + ( y − 0) 2
=2 ∴ [x − ( )]2 + [ y − ( )]2 = ( )
2 2 2 2
(x − 1) + y = 4  Square both sides. x + [y + ( )] = ( )
∴ The equation of the locus of P is ∴ The equation of the locus of P is
2 2
(x − 1) + y = 4. .
y locus of P y
P(x , y)
The locus of P is a P(x , y) The locus of P is
2 x
circle with centre B O 3
and radius 2. x
O B(1 , 0) . C(0 , −2)

In each of the following, Q is a point in a rectangular coordinate plane. A moving point P(x , y) maintains a
fixed distance of d from Q. Find the equation of the locus of P. [Nos. 1–2]
1. Q(4 , −1) and d = 5 2. Q(−8 , −3) and d = 6
Ex 8B: 1−4

∵ PQ = ( )
∴ [x − ( )]2 + [ y − ( )]2 = ( )

58
Instant Example 2 Instant Practice 2
In the figure, M(−4 , 0) and y In the figure, X(0 , 3) and Y(5 , 0) y
N(0 , 2) are two points in a P(x , y) are two points in a rectangular P(x , y)
X(0 , 3)
rectangular coordinate plane. A N(0 , 2) coordinate plane. A point P(x , y)
moving point P(x , y) maintains x moves such that PX = PY. Find x
O Y(5 , 0)
M(−4 , 0) O
an equal distance from M and the equation of the locus of P.
N, i.e. PM = PN. Find the
∵ ( )=( )
equation of the locus of P.
∴ [x − ( 2
)] + [ y − ( )]2
∵ PM = PN
= [x − ( )]2 + [ y − ( )]2
2 2 2 2
∴ [ x − (−4)] + ( y − 0) = ( x − 0) + ( y − 2) x2 + [ y − ( )]2 = [x − ( )]2 + y2
2 2 2 2
(x + 4) + y = x + (y − 2) x2 + y2 − ( )y + ( ) = x2 − ( )x + ( ) + y2
x2 + 8x + 16 + y2 = x2 + y2 − 4y + 4 ( )x − ( )y − ( )=0
8x + 4y + 12 = 0 ( )x − ( )y − ( )=0
2x + y + 3 = 0 ∴ The equation of the locus of P is
∴ The equation of the locus of P is .
2x + y + 3 = 0.
y
locus of P y
The locus of P is P(x , y)
X(0 , 3)
P(x , y)
The locus of P is the
perpendicular bisector N(0 , 2) . x
O Y(5 , 0)
of MN.
x
M(−4 , 0) O

3. A(0 , 6) and B(3 , 4) are two points in a 4. R(7 , −4) and S(8 , 1) are two points in a
rectangular coordinate plane. A moving point rectangular coordinate plane. A moving point
P(x , y) is equidistant from A and B. Find the P(x , y) maintains an equal distance from R and S.
equation of the locus of P. Find the equation of the locus of P.
Ex 8B: 5−9

∵ ( )=( )
∴ [x − ( )]2 + [ y − ( )]2
= [x − ( )]2 + [ y − ( )]2

Make a sketch:
In this question, no y locus of P y
figure is given. Make
A(0 , 6)
a sketch and check if
the answer obtained B(3 , 4) x
O
has the correct slope x
O
and y-intercept.

59
Instant Example 3 Instant Practice 3
In the figure, a moving point y In the figure, a moving point y
P(x , y) maintains an equal P(x , y)
x P(x , y) maintains an equal N(0 , 8)
O
distance from M(0 , −1) and M(0 , −1) distance from N(0 , 8) and the y=3
the x-axis. Find the equation line y = 3. Find the equation x
P(x , y) O
of the locus of P. of the locus of P.

Let Q be a point on the x-axis such that PQ is Let Q be a point on the line Sketch the locus of P.
perpendicular to the x-axis. ( ) such that PQ is y

PQ = 0 − y = −y  P is below the x-axis. ( ) the P(x , y)

N
PM = ( x − 0) 2 + [ y − (−1)]2 y line ( ). y=3
x
= x 2 + ( y + 1) 2 O Q
x
PQ = ( )−( ) O

∵
locus of P 2 2
PM = PQ M PN = [x − ( )] + [ y − ( )] The locus of P is a

∴
P(x , y)
2 2 ( ) which
2
x + ( y + 1) 2
= −y = ( ) +( )
∵
opens ( ).
The locus of P is a parabola PN = ( )
x2 + (y + 1)2 = (−y)2
∴
which opens downward.
x2 + y2 + 2y + 1 = y2 ( )2 + ( )2 = ( )
2 2 2
x + 2y + 1 = 0 ( ) +( ) =( )2
∴ The equation of the locus of P is x2 + y2 − ( )y + ( ) = y2 − ( )y + ( )
2 2
x + 2y + 1 = 0. x −( )y + ( )=0
∴ The equation of the locus of P is
.

5. In the figure, a moving y 6. In the figure, a moving y

point P(x , y) maintains P(x , y) point P(x , y) maintains an y=2
an equal distance from equal distance from D(3 , −4) x
O
W(−5 , 6) P(x , y)
W(−5 , 6) and the x-axis. x and the line L: y = 2. Find
O D(3 , −4)
Find the equation of the the equation of the locus of
locus of P. P.
Ex 8B: 11−14, 17, 18

Let Q be a point on the ( ) such that

PQ is ( ) the ( ).
PQ = ( )−( )=( )

60
7. A(−3 , −9) is a point in a rectangular coordinate 8. L: 3x + 2y − 6 = 0 is a straight line in a rectangular
plane. A moving point P(x , y) maintains a coordinate plane. P is a moving point such that it
fixed distance from A. The fixed distance is maintains a fixed distance from L and P lies
equal to the distance between A and the y-axis. above L. Denote the locus of P by Γ.
(a) Find the equation of the locus of P. (a) Describe the geometric relationship between
(b) A moving point Q(x , y) maintains a fixed L and Γ.
distance from A. The fixed distance is (b) If Γ passes through (2 , 1), find the equation
larger than the distance between P and A of Γ.
by 2. Find the equation of the locus of Q.
(a) Γ is ( ) L.
(b) Slope of Γ = slope of ( )

Sketch the locus of Γ.

y

(2 , 1)
x
O L

Level Up Question

9. In the figure, L: y = 10 is a straight line in a rectangular coordinate plane. y
(a) A moving point P(x , y) maintains an equal distance from L and L: y = 10
the x-axis. Find the equation of the locus of P.
(b) A moving point Q(x , y) maintains an equal distance from B(−2 , 0) B(−2 , 0)
x
and L. Find the equation of the locus of Q. O

(c) Does the locus of P intersect the locus of Q? Explain your answer.

61
New Century Mathematics (Second Edition) 5B

8 Locus

Consolidation Exercise 8B

Level 1
1. In the figure, A(−2 , 0) is a point on the x-axis. A moving point P(x , y) P(x , y) y
maintains a fixed distance of 2 from A. Find the equation of the locus
2
of P.
x
A(−2 , 0) O

2. In the figure, A(−1 , 1) and B(2 , 3) are two points in a rectangular y

B(2 , 3)
coordinate plane. A point P(x , y) moves such that PA = AB. Find the
equation of the locus of P. P(x , y)

A(−1 , 1)
x
O

In each of the following, A is a point in a rectangular coordinate plane. A moving point P(x , y) maintains a
fixed distance of d from A. Find the equation of the locus of P. [Nos. 3–4]
3. A(12 , 9) and d = 14 4. A(7 , −4) and d = 21

5. In the figure, A(4 , −3) and B(4 , 7) are two points in a rectangular y

coordinate plane. A moving point P(x , y) maintains an equal distance B(4 , 7)

from A and B, i.e. PA = PB.

P(x , y)
(a) Find the equation of the locus of P.
(b) Describe the geometric relationship between the locus of P and x
O
the line y = 1. A(4 , −3)

6. C(−5 , 6) and D(−2 , 6) are two points in a rectangular coordinate plane. A moving point P(x , y)
maintains an equal distance from C and D, i.e. PC = PD.
(a) Find the equation of the locus of P.
(b) Describe the geometric relationship between the locus of P and the x-axis.

7. In the figure, E(1 , −2) and F(−3 , 4) are two points in a rectangular y
F(−3 , 4)
coordinate plane. A moving point P(x , y) maintains an equal distance
P(x , y)
from E and F.
(a) Describe the locus of P. x
O
(b) Find the equation of the locus of P. E(1 , −2)

62
8. In the figure, U and V are two points in a rectangular coordinate plane. y
A moving point P(x , y) maintains an equal distance from U and V. V(1 , 4)

(a) Find the equation of the locus of P.

(b) The equation of a straight line L is y = 3x + 2. Describe the P(x , y)
x
geometric relationship between the locus of P and L. O
U(−1 , −2)

In each of the following, A and B are two points in a rectangular coordinate plane. A moving point P(x , y)
maintains an equal distance from A and B. Find the equation of the locus of P. [Nos. 9–10]
9. A(1 , 1) and B(0 , 6) 10. A(−2 , −5) and B(1 , −4)

A(3 , 2) and B(6 , 6) are two points in a rectangular coordinate plane. Find the equation of the locus of a
moving point P(x , y) satisfying each of the following conditions. [Nos. 11–12]
11. 3AP = PB 12. AP : PB = 2 : 1

13. In the figure, F(1 , 2) is a point in a rectangular coordinate plane. A y

F(1 , 2)
moving point P(x , y) maintains an equal distance from F and the x-axis.
P(x , y)
(a) Describe the locus of P.
(b) Find the equation of the locus of P. x
O

14. In the figure, F(6 , −2) is a point in a rectangular coordinate plane. A y

moving point P(x , y) maintains an equal distance from F and the x-axis. x
O
(a) Find the equation of the locus of P.
F(6 , −2)
(b) Find the y-intercept of the locus of P.
P(x , y)

In each of the following, F is a point in a rectangular coordinate plane. A moving point P(x , y) maintains an
equal distance from F and the x-axis. Find the equation of the locus of P. [Nos. 15–16]
15. F(−7 , 7) 16. F(−4 , −3)

y
17. In the figure, a moving point P(x , y) maintains an equal distance from x = −6 x=4
the vertical line x = 4 and x = −6.
(a) Find the equation of the locus of P. P(x , y)
(b) Is (−2 , 5) a point on the locus of P? Explain your answer. x
O

Level 2
18. In the figure, A(3 , 2) is a point in a rectangular coordinate plane. A y

moving point P(x , y) maintains a fixed distance of 5 from A. A(3 , 2)

(a) Find the equation of the locus of P.

5
(b) If Q(x , y) is a point on the line segment AP such that x
O
AQ : QP = 3 : 2, find the equation of the locus of Q.
(c) Describe the geometric relationship between the loci of P and Q. P(x , y)
63
19. F(−5 , 2) is a point in a rectangular coordinate plane. A moving point P(x , y) maintains an equal
distance from F and the line y = −2.
(a) Find the equation of the locus of P.
(b) Does the locus of P pass through (4 , 10)? Explain your answer.

20. F(4 , 1) is a point in a rectangular coordinate plane. A moving point P(x , y) maintains an equal distance
from F and the line y = 4.
(a) Find the equation of the locus of P.
 (b) Using the method of completing the square, find the coordinates of the vertex of the locus of P.

21. F(6 , 3) is a point in a rectangular coordinate plane. A point P(x , y) maintains an equal distance from
the point F and the line y = 5. The locus of P intersects the x-axis at two points A and B.
(a) Find the equation of the locus of P.
(b) If R is a point on the locus of P and R lies above the x-axis, can the area of △RAB exceed 16?
Explain your answer.

22. In the figure, A(8 , 6) and B(2 , −2) are two points in a rectangular y
A(8 , 6)
coordinate plane. A point P(x , y) moves such that ∠APB = 90°.
(a) Find the equation of the locus of P. P(x , y)
x
(b) Describe the locus of P. O
B(2 , −2)

23. A(7 , −1) and B(4 , 5) are two points in a rectangular coordinate plane. A point P(x , y) moves such that
PA ⊥ PB.
(a) Find the equation of the locus of P.
(b) Does (6 , −1) lie on the locus of P? Explain your answer.

24. A(3 , 7) and B(−5 , 1) are two points in a rectangular coordinate plane. A point P(x , y) moves such that
AP2 + PB2 = AB2.
(a) Find the equation of the locus of P.
(b) If a point Q lies on the locus of P and the x-coordinate of Q is −1, find the possible coordinates of Q.

25. In a rectangular coordinate plane, a moving point P(x , y) maintains a fixed distance of 4 from the line
y = −3 and P lies above the line y = −3.
(a) Find the equation of the locus of P.
(b) A(3 , −4) is reflected to A' with the locus of P as the axis of reflection. A' is then rotated clockwise
about the origin O through 90° to B. Find the coordinates of B.

26. A(−5 , 13) and B(−3 , −1) are the end points of a diameter of a circle C.
(a) Find the equation of C in the standard form.
(b) P(x , y) is a moving point in the rectangular coordinate plane such that AP = PB.
(i) Find the equation of the locus of P.
(ii) If the locus of P cuts C at Q and R, find the perimeter of △AQR.
(Leave the radical sign ‘ √’ in the answer.)
64
 27. The line L: 4x + 3y − 12 = 0 cuts the x-axis and the y-axis at the points A and B respectively. C(c , 0) is
a point on the x-axis such that the area of △ABC is twice the area of △OAB.
(a) Find the values of c.
(b) Take c as the larger value obtained in (a). P(x , y) is a moving point on the right of L in the
rectangular coordinate plane such that the area of △PAB is equal to that of △ABC.
(i) Describe the geometric relationship between the locus of P and L.
(ii) Find the equation of the locus of P.

 * 28. A(0 , 2), B(14 , 10) and C(16 , 0) are three points in a rectangular coordinate plane. G is the centroid of △ABC.
(a) Find the coordinates of G.
(b) A point P(x , y) moves such that PG = PC.
(i) Find the equation of the locus of P.
(ii) Describe the geometric relationship between the locus of P and the line segment BG.
(iii) Does the height of △PBG with BG as the base change when P moves? Explain your answer.
* 29. A(−1 , −3) is rotated anticlockwise about the origin O through 90° to A'. B' is the image when
B(−9 , −1) is reflected in the y-axis. A point P(x , y) moves such that A'P ⊥ PB'.
(a) Write down the coordinates of A' and B'.
(b) Find the equation of the locus of P.
 (c) Find the coordinates of the circumcentre of △A'PB'.
 (d) Let Q be the centroid of △A'PB'. When P moves, find the equation of the locus of Q.
 * 30. In the figure, two lines L1: x = 3 and L2: x − 3 y = 0 intersect at a point A. A y
L1: x = 3
point P(x , y) lies below L2 and on the left of L1, where x < 3. When P moves,
it maintains an equal distance from L1 and L2. Denote the locus of P by Γ. A L2: x − 3 y = 0
(a) Find the inclination of Γ. Hence, find the equation of Γ, where x < 3.
(b) C is a circle with centre G lying below the x-axis. L1 touches C and L2 x
O
is the tangent to C at Q(−3 , − 3 ).
(i) Find the equation of C.
(ii) If Γ intersects the x-axis at R, find the ratio of the area of
△QGR to that of △QRA.
(Leave the radical sign ‘√’ in the answers if necessary.)

 * 31. In the figure, A(−15 , 0), B(5 , 0) and C(−3 , 12) are three points in a y
rectangular coordinate plane. H is the orthocentre of △ABC. C

(a) Find the coordinates of H.

H
(b) A moving point P(x , y) maintains an equal distance from B and H.
(i) Find the equation of the locus of P.
x
(ii) Do the locus of P and the straight line passing through A and C A O B

intersect? Explain your answer.

(iii) Suppose the locus of P intersects BC and the x-axis at D and E
respectively. Find the ratio of the area of △BDE to that of the
quadrilateral DEAC.
65
Answers
Consolidation Exercise 8B
1. (x + 2)2 + y2 = 4 (b) The locus of P is a circle with centre
2. (x + 1)2 + (y − 1)2 = 13 (5 , 2) and radius 5, excluding points A
2 2
3. (x − 12) + (y − 9) = 196 and B.
4. (x − 7)2 + (y + 4)2 = 21 23. (a) x2 + y2 − 11x − 4y + 23 = 0, excluding
5. (a) y = 2 points A(7 , −1) and B(4 , 5)
(b)The locus of P is parallel to the line y = 1. (b) no
7 24. (a) x2 + y2 + 2x − 8y − 8 = 0
6. (a) x = −
2 (b) (−1 , −1), (−1 , 9)
(b) The locus of P is perpendicular to the x-
25. (a) y = 1
axis.
(b) (6 , −3)
7. (a) the perpendicular bisector of EF
26. (a) (x + 4)2 + (y − 6)2 = 50
(b) 2x − 3y + 5 = 0
(b) x − 7y + 46 = 0
8. (a) x + 3y − 3 = 0
(c) 20 + 2 50 (or 20 + 10 2 )
(b) The locus of P is perpendicular to L.
27. (a) −3, 9
9. x − 5y + 17 = 0
(b) (i) The locus of P is a straight line
10. 3x + y + 6 = 0
parallel to L and passing through C.
11. 8x2 + 8y2 − 42x − 24y + 45 = 0
(ii) 4x + 3y − 36 = 0
12. 3x2 + 3y2 − 42x − 44y + 275 = 0
28. (a) (10 , 4)
13. (a) The locus of P is a parabola opening
(b) (i) 3x − 2y − 35 = 0
upward.
(ii) The locus of P is parallel to the
(b) x2 − 2x − 4y + 5 = 0
line segment BG.
14. (a) x2 − 12x + 4y + 40 = 0
(iii) no
(b) −10
29. (a) A': (3 , −1), B': (9 , −1)
15. x2 + 14x − 14y + 98 = 0
(b) x2 + y2 − 12x + 2y + 28 = 0, excluding
2
16. x + 8x + 6y + 25 = 0
points A'(3 , −1) and B'(9 , −1)
17. (a) x = −1 (b) no
(c) (6 , −1)
18. (a) (x − 3)2 + (y − 2)2 = 25
(d) (x − 6)2 + (y + 1)2 = 1, excluding points
2 2
(b) (x − 3) + (y − 2) = 9
(5 , −1) and (7 , −1)
(c) The loci of P and Q are concentric
30. (a) inclination of Γ : 60°,
circles.
equation of Γ : 3 x − y − 2 3 = 0
19. (a) x2 + 10x − 8y + 25 = 0
(b) (i) (x + 1)2 + (y + 3 3 )2 = 16
(b) no (ii) 3 : 1
20. (a) x2 − 8x + 6y + 1 = 0 31. (a) (−3 , 8)
 5
(b)  4 ,  (b) (i) x − y + 3 = 0 (ii) no
 2
(iii) 4 : 2
21. (a) x2 − 12x + 4y + 20 = 0 (b) no
22. (a) x2 + y2 − 10x − 4y + 4 = 0, excluding
points A(8 , 6) and B(2 , −2)

66