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Conics
 Analytic Interpretation
A conic is the locus of a moving point such that ratio of its
distance from a fixed point to a fixed line is always a constant. Moving
𝑃
𝑀 point
Focus

distance from a fixed point = CONSTANT

i.e. 𝑆 (Focus)
distance from a fixed line

Directrix
Fixed line Fixed point
Conics → The collection of all points 𝑃 such that (Directrix)
𝐿
𝑃𝑆
= Constant = ECCENTRICITY (𝑒)
𝑃𝑀
 Analytic Interpretation

Distinguishing Conics w.r.t. eccentricity (𝑒):

Circle Parabola Ellipse Hyperbola

𝑒=0 𝑒=1 0<𝑒<1 𝑒>1

Non-degenerate conics
 Analytic Interpretation

Note:
𝑃 Moving
Directrix should not pass through the focus point
𝑀
to get non-degenerate conics.

𝑆 (Focus)

Fixed line
(Directrix) Fixed point

𝐿
 Analytic Interpretation

If the fixed point (focus) lies on the fixed line (directrix), then degenerate conics are created.

S. No. Condition Nature of Conic

1 𝑒=1 A pair of coincident lines

2 0<𝑒<1 Point

3 𝑒>1 Pair of Straight Lines

 Equation of a Conic:

𝑃 ℎ, 𝑘
𝑀
The locus of a moving point such that ratio of its distance from a
fixed point to a fixed line is always constant.

Here, 𝑃 ℎ, 𝑘 is a point; 𝑆 𝛼, 𝛽

𝑃𝑆
⇒ = 𝑒 (constant)
𝑃𝑀
𝐿: 𝑙𝑥 + 𝑚𝑦 + 𝑛 = 0
⇒ 𝑃𝑆 = 𝑒 × 𝑃𝑀

2 2
𝑙ℎ + 𝑚𝑘 + 𝑛
⇒ ℎ−𝛼 + 𝑘−𝛽 =𝑒×
𝑙 2 + 𝑚2
2
2 2 2
𝑙ℎ + 𝑚𝑘 + 𝑛
⇒ ℎ−𝛼 + 𝑘−𝛽 =𝑒 ×
𝑙 2 + 𝑚2

⇒ 𝑙 2 + 𝑚2 ℎ−𝛼 2
+ 𝑘−𝛽 2
= 𝑒 2 𝑙ℎ + 𝑚𝑘 + 𝑛 2
 Equation of a Conic:

𝑃 ℎ, 𝑘
𝑀
𝑙 2 + 𝑚2 ℎ−𝛼 2
+ 𝑘−𝛽 2
= 𝑒 2 𝑙ℎ + 𝑚𝑘 + 𝑛 2

To get the required equation of locus, replace ℎ → 𝑥 and 𝑘 → 𝑦. 𝑆 𝛼, 𝛽

⇒ 𝑙 2 + 𝑚2 ℎ−𝛼 2
+ 𝑘−𝛽 2
= 𝑒 2 𝑙𝑥 + 𝑚𝑦 + 𝑛 2

𝐿: 𝑙𝑥 + 𝑚𝑦 + 𝑛 = 0
𝑎𝑥 2 + 2ℎ𝑥𝑦 + 𝑏𝑦 2 + 2𝑔𝑥 + 2𝑓𝑦 + 𝑐 = 0

Equation of Conic
 Distinguishing Conics w.r.t General Equation:

𝑎𝑥 2 + 2ℎ𝑥𝑦 + 𝑏𝑦 2 + 2𝑔𝑥 + 2𝑓𝑦 + 𝑐 = 0

This 2nd degree general equation represents different conics depending upon the
value of ∆.

𝑎 ℎ 𝑔
where ∆ = 𝑎𝑏𝑐 + 2𝑓𝑔ℎ − 𝑎𝑓 − 𝑏𝑔 − 𝑐ℎ
2 2 2 Or ∆= ℎ 𝑏 𝑓
𝑔 𝑓 𝑐
 Distinguishing Conics w.r.t General Equation:

Case I. ∆ = 0; Degenerate Conic Case II. ∆ ≠ 0; Non - Degenerate Conic

S. No. Condition Nature of Conic S. No. Condition Nature of Conic

1 ℎ =0&𝑎 =𝑏 A Circle
1 ℎ2 = 𝑎𝑏 A pair of coincident lines
2 ℎ2 = 𝑎𝑏 A Parabola
2 2
ℎ < 𝑎𝑏 A Point
3 ℎ2 < 𝑎𝑏 An Ellipse
3 2
ℎ > 𝑎𝑏 Pair of Straight Lines
4 ℎ2 > 𝑎𝑏 A Hyperbola

𝑎 ℎ 𝑔
Where ∆ = ℎ 𝑏 𝑓
𝑔 𝑓 𝑐
Find locus of point which moves such that ratio of its distance from (1, 2)
and line 4𝑥 − 3𝑦 + 2 = 0 is 3.

Solution:
𝑃(ℎ, 𝑘)
1,2 lies on line 4𝑥 − 3𝑦 + 2 = 0

Locus is the pair of straight lines.

𝜃
𝑃𝑆 𝐿
⇒ = 3 𝑀 4𝑥 − 3𝑦 + 2 = 0
𝑃𝑀 𝑆(1, 2)

⇒ 𝑃𝑆 = 3 𝑃𝑀

2 2
4ℎ − 3𝑘 + 2
⇒ ℎ−1 + 𝑘−2 = 3
42 + 32

2
2 2
3 4𝑥 − 3𝑦 + 2
⇒ 𝑥−1 + 𝑦−2 =
25
 Parabola:

Locus of a moving point whose distance from a fixed point (FOCUS) is EQUAL to its
perpendicular distance from a fixed straight line (DIRECTRIX)

Here, locus of 𝑃 ≡ PARABOLA moving point

𝑃
⇒ 𝑃𝑆 = 𝑃𝑀
fixed
𝑆 point
𝑃𝑆 (FOCUS)
⇒ =1 𝑒=1 𝑀
𝑃𝑀

fixed line
(DIRECTRIX)
 The equation of parabola whose focus is 5, 3 & directrix is
3𝑥 − 4𝑦 + 1 = 0 is:

Solution:
𝑃(ℎ, 𝑘)
𝑃𝑆 = 𝑃𝑀
⇒ 𝑃𝑆 2 = 𝑃𝑀2 𝑆(5,3)

3ℎ − 4𝑘 + 1
2 𝑀
2 2
⇒ ℎ−5 + 𝑘−3 =
32 + 42

⇒ 25(ℎ2 + 25 − 10ℎ + 𝑘 2 + 9 − 6𝑘) = 9ℎ2 + 16𝑘 2 + 1 − 24ℎ𝑘 + 6ℎ − 8𝑘

⇒ 16𝑥 2 + 9𝑦 2 − 256𝑥 − 142𝑦 + 24𝑥𝑦 + 849 = 0 𝑙: 3𝑥 − 4𝑦 + 1 = 0

⇒ (4𝑥 + 3𝑦)2 −256𝑥 − 142𝑦 + 849 = 0

Required equation of the parabola

 Standard Equation of Parabola

When focus 𝑆(𝑎, 0) and direcxtrix 𝑙 ∶ 𝑥 + 𝑎 = 0 , equation of parabola is 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 whose

graph is as follows

Directrix 𝑌-axis
𝑌-axis
𝑁 𝑃(ℎ, 𝑘) Rightward
𝑀 Opening
Parabola
𝑋- axis focus
𝑂 𝑆(𝑎, 0) 𝑂 0,0 𝑆 𝑋-axis
𝑎>0

𝑥 = −𝑎
 Key Takeaways

Important Terms related to Parabola

𝑌-axis
Directrix
Axis of Symmetry:
Line passing through the focus and perpendicular to the Double
ordinate
directrix.
Vertex
Vertex:
Point of intersection of the conic and the axis. 𝑂 0,0 𝑆 𝑋-axis
focus
Double Ordinate:
Chord perpendicular to the axis. Axis of
Symmetry Focal chord
Focal Chord:
Any chord passing through the focus.
 Important Terms related to Parabola
𝑌-axis
Directrix 𝑇 𝐴 𝑥, 𝑦
Focal Distance:
𝑥 = −𝑎
Distance between any point on the curve and focus.
Focal Distance
Let 𝐴 𝑥, 𝑦 be a point on the parabola 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 Vertex
focus
⇒ 𝐴𝑆 = focal distance = 𝐴𝑇 = 𝑥 + 𝑎
𝑂 0,0 𝑆 𝑋-axis

Latus Rectum(L.R.):

Double ordinate passing through the focus is

called Latus Rectum.
 Important Terms related to Parabola

𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥; 𝑎 > 0
𝑌-axis
Directrix
Vertex 0,0 𝑥 = −𝑎

Focus 𝑎, 0
𝑃 𝑎, 2𝑎
Vertex
focus
Directrix 𝑥 = −𝑎
𝑂 0,0 𝑆 𝑋-axis
Axis 𝑦=0
𝑄 𝑎, −2𝑎
Length of L.R. 4𝑎

Focal Distance 𝑥, 𝑦 𝑥+𝑎

Note:
Vertex is the mid-point of the perpendicular line
segment joining the focus and the directrix.
 Different forms of Parabola

Equation 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 𝑦 2 = −4𝑎𝑥 𝑥 2 = 4𝑎𝑦 𝑥 2 = −4𝑎𝑦

𝑌 𝑌 𝑌 𝑌

𝑋
𝑋
𝑋 𝑋

Vertex (0, 0) (0, 0) (0, 0) (0, 0)

Focus 𝑎, 0 −𝑎, 0 0, 𝑎 0, −𝑎
Directrix 𝑥 = −𝑎 𝑥=𝑎 𝑦 = −𝑎 𝑦=𝑎

Axis 𝑋-axis 𝑋-axis 𝑌-axis 𝑌-axis

Length of L.R. 4𝑎 4𝑎 4𝑎 4𝑎

Ends of L.R. (𝑎 , ±2𝑎) (−𝑎 , ±2𝑎) (±2𝑎 , 𝑎) (±2𝑎 , −𝑎)

 For the parabola 𝑦 2 = 12𝑥, find:
𝑖 Focus 𝑖𝑖 Axis Of Parabola 𝑖𝑖𝑖 Equation of directrix
𝑖𝑣 Equation of L.R. 𝑣 Ends of L.R. 𝑣𝑖 Length of L.R.
𝑣𝑖𝑖 Focal distance of point 𝐴 𝑝, 𝑞
Solution:
𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 , 𝑦 2 = 12𝑥 ⇒ here, 𝑎 = 3
𝑌
Equation 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 𝑦 2 = 12𝑥 𝑇 𝐴 𝑝, 𝑞
(3, 6)
Focus (𝑎, 0) (3, 0)
Axis Of Parabola 𝑦=0 𝑦=0 𝑋 𝑥=3
Equation of directrix 𝑥 = −𝑎 𝑥 = −3 𝑂 0,0 𝑆 (3,0)
Equation of L.R. 𝑥=𝑎 𝑥=3

Ends of L.R. (𝑎, ±2𝑎) (3, ±6) 𝑥 = −3 (3, −6)

Length of L.R. 4𝑎 12

Focal distance of 𝐴 𝑝, 𝑞 𝑥+𝑎 𝑝+3

 If vertex of a parabola is 2, 1 and the equation of its directrix is
4𝑥 − 3𝑦 = 21, then the length of its latus rectum is:
Solution:

Vertex of Parabola: 2, −1 A

and directrix: 4𝑥 − 3𝑦 = 21
B
Distance of vertex from the directrix 8

8 + 3 − 21
𝑎= =2 C
25

∴ Length of latus rectum = 4𝑎 = 8

D
 Different forms of Parabola

Equation 𝑦−𝑘 2
= 4𝑎 𝑥 − ℎ 𝑥−ℎ 2
= 4𝑎 𝑦 − 𝑘
𝑌 𝑌 Axis of symmetry

Axis of symmetry
(ℎ, 𝑘) (ℎ, 𝑘)
𝑋
𝑂(0,0) 𝑋
𝑂(0,0)

Vertex (ℎ, 𝑘) (ℎ, 𝑘)

Focus ℎ + 𝑎, 𝑘 ℎ, 𝑘 + 𝑎

Directrix 𝑥 =ℎ−𝑎 𝑦 =𝑘−𝑎

Axis 𝑦=𝑘 𝑥=ℎ

Length of L.R. 4𝑎 4𝑎

Ends of L.R. (ℎ + 𝑎 , 𝑘 ± 2𝑎) (ℎ ± 2𝑎 , 𝑘 + 𝑎)

 If 𝑦 2 + 2𝑦 − 𝑥 + 5 = 0 represents a parabola. Find:
𝑖 Coordinates of vertex 𝑖𝑖 Axis of symmetry 𝑖𝑖𝑖 Coordinates of focus
𝑖𝑣 Equation of directrix 𝑣 Length of latus rectum.

Solution:
𝑌 𝑌′
2
𝑦 + 2𝑦 − 𝑥 + 5 = 0
𝑋
Parabola 𝑂(0,0)
𝑋′
𝑖 Vertex 𝑂′(4, −1)

⇒ 𝑦 2 + 2𝑦 + 1 2
− 1 2
−𝑥+5=0

⇒ (𝑦 + 1)2 = 𝑥 − 4

⇒ (𝑦 + 1)2 = 1 𝑥 − 4

Rightward opening parabola with axis parallel to 𝑋-axis & vertex ≡ 4, −1

Comparing with 𝑦 − 𝑘 2
= 4𝐴(𝑥 − ℎ)
 If 𝑦 2 + 2𝑦 − 𝑥 + 5 = 0 represents a parabola. Find:
𝑖 Coordinates of vertex 𝑖𝑖 Axis of symmetry 𝑖𝑖𝑖 Coordinates of focus
𝑖𝑣 Equation of directrix 𝑣 Length of latus rectum.

Solution:
𝑌 𝑌′
Comparing with 𝑦 − 𝑘 2
= 4𝐴(𝑥 − ℎ)
𝑋
Thus, the transformed equation of the parabola is: 𝑂(0,0)
2 𝑋′
𝑦 − −1 =1 𝑥−4 𝑂′(4, −1)

i.e. 𝑦′ 2
= 4𝐴 𝑥′ ; 𝑦′ = 𝑦 + 1, 𝑥′ = 𝑥 − 4
1
4𝐴 = 1 ⇒ 𝐴 =
4

𝑖𝑖 Axis of symmetry

Equation: 𝑦′ = 0

i.e. 𝑦 + 1 = 0 ⇒ 𝑦 = −1
 If 𝑦 2 + 2𝑦 − 𝑥 + 5 = 0 represents a parabola. Find:
𝑖 Coordinates of vertex 𝑖𝑖 Axis of symmetry 𝑖𝑖𝑖 Coordinates of focus
𝑖𝑣 Equation of directrix 𝑣 Length of latus rectum.

Solution:
𝑌 𝑌′
1
i.e. 𝑦′ 2
= 4𝐴 𝑥′ ; 𝑦′ = 𝑦 + 1, 𝑥′ = 𝑥 − 4 𝐴=
4
𝑋
𝑖𝑖𝑖 Coordinates of focus 𝑂(0,0)
𝑋′
Coordinates: (𝐴, 0) 𝑂′(4, −1)

⇒ 𝑥′ = 𝐴 & 𝑦′ = 0

⇒𝑥−4=𝐴 & 𝑦+1=0

⇒ 𝑥 = 𝐴 + 4 & 𝑦 = −1
1
⇒ 𝑥 = + 4 & 𝑦 = −1
4

17
i.e. , −1
4
 If 𝑦 2 + 2𝑦 − 𝑥 + 5 = 0 represents a parabola. Find:
𝑖 Coordinates of vertex 𝑖𝑖 Axis of symmetry 𝑖𝑖𝑖 Coordinates of focus
𝑖𝑣 Equation of directrix 𝑣 Length of latus rectum.

Solution:
𝑌 𝑌′
1
i.e. 𝑦′ 2
= 4𝐴 𝑥′ ; 𝑦′ = 𝑦 + 1, 𝑥′ = 𝑥 − 4 𝐴=
4
𝑋
𝑖𝑣 Directrix 𝑣 Latus Rectum 𝑂(0,0)
𝑋′
Equation : 𝑥 ′ = −𝐴 = 4𝐴 𝑂′(4, −1)
1 15
⇒𝑥−4=− =4×
1 𝑥=
4 4
4
15
⇒𝑥=
4 = 1 unit
 Parametric Coordinates

Let 𝑃 be any point on the parabola 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥. 𝑌

𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥
Then, 𝑃 ≡ 𝑎𝑡 2 , 2𝑎𝑡 ; 𝑡 ∈ ℝ
𝑃
(𝑎𝑡 2 , 2𝑎𝑡)
Since, for all real values of 𝑡,
𝑥 = 𝑎𝑡 2 & 𝑦 = 2𝑎𝑡 satisfy the equation of the parabola 𝑋
𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥
 Parametric Coordinates

Let 𝑃 be any point on the parabola 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥.

Then, 𝑃 ≡ 𝑎𝑡 2 , 2𝑎𝑡 ; 𝑡 ∈ ℝ

Parabola 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 𝑦 2 = −4𝑎𝑥 𝑥 2 = 4𝑎𝑦 𝑥 2 = −4𝑎𝑦

Parametric Coordinates 𝑎𝑡 2 , 2𝑎𝑡 −𝑎𝑡 2 , 2𝑎𝑡 2𝑎𝑡, 𝑎𝑡 2 2𝑎𝑡, −𝑎𝑡 2

𝑥 = 𝑎𝑡 2 𝑥 = −𝑎𝑡 2 𝑥 = 2𝑎𝑡 𝑥 = 2𝑎𝑡

Parametric Equation 𝑦 = 2𝑎𝑡 𝑦 = 2𝑎𝑡 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑡 2 𝑦 = −𝑎𝑡 2

Note: The parametric equations of the parabola 𝑦 − 𝑘 2

= 4𝑎 𝑥 − ℎ are 𝑥 = ℎ + 𝑎𝑡 2 & 𝑦 = 𝑘 + 2𝑎𝑡.
 If the locus of the point 4𝑡 2 − 1, 8𝑡 − 2 represents a parabola
then the equation of the latus rectum is:
Solution:
Given point is 4𝑡 2 − 1, 8𝑡 − 2 = ℎ, 𝑘 whose locus is a parabola.

⇒ ℎ = 4𝑡 2 − 1 & 𝑘 = 8𝑡 − 2
Solve both these equations simultaneously
to eliminate the parameter 𝑡
𝑘+2
∴ 𝑘 = 8𝑡 − 2 ⇒ 𝑡 =
8

Substitute this value of 𝑡 in ℎ = 4𝑡 2 − 1

𝑘+2 2
ℎ=4 −1
8
2
4 𝑘+2 2
⇒ℎ= − 1 ⇒ 16ℎ = 𝑘 + 2 − 16
64
2
∴ 16𝑥 = 𝑦 + 2 − 16
i.e. 𝑦 + 2 2
= 16 𝑥 + 1 is the equation of the parabola which is the required locus.
 If the locus of the point 4𝑡 2 − 1, 8𝑡 − 2 represents a parabola
then the equation of the latus rectum is:
Solution:

𝑦+2 2
= 16 𝑥 + 1 is the equation of the parabola which is the required locus.

⇒ 𝑦 ′ 2 = 4𝐴(𝑥′) ⇒ 4𝐴 = 16 or 𝐴 = 4 A

Equation of Latus Rectum is 𝑥 ′ = 𝐴

B
⇒ 𝑥+1=4
⇒𝑥=3
C

D
𝑥−3=0
 The locus of the mid-point of the line segment joining the focus of
the parabola 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 to a moving point of the parabola, is another
parabola whose directrix is:
JEE Main 2021
Solution:
Any point on the parabola 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 be (𝑎𝑡 2 , 2𝑎𝑡)
𝑎𝑡 2, 2𝑎𝑡
Let mid point of focus and variable point be 𝑄 ℎ, 𝑘
𝑎𝑡 2 + 𝑎
ℎ= ⇒ 2ℎ = 𝑎 𝑡 2 + 1
2
2𝑎𝑡 + 0 𝑘
𝑘= ⇒ 𝑘 = 𝑎𝑡 ⇒ 𝑡 =
2 𝑎
𝑘
Put 𝑡 = in 2ℎ = 𝑎 𝑡 2 + 1
𝑎
𝑘2 𝑘 2 + 𝑎2
⇒ 2ℎ = a + 1 ⇒ 2ℎ = 𝑎 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥
2 𝑎2

⇒ Locus of (ℎ, 𝑘) is 𝑦 2 = 𝑎 2𝑥 − 𝑎
 The locus of the mid-point of the line segment joining the focus of
the parabola 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 to a moving point of the parabola, is another
parabola whose directrix is:
JEE Main 2021
Solution:
⇒ Locus of (ℎ, 𝑘) is 𝑦 2 = 𝑎 2𝑥 − 𝑎
𝑎𝑡 2, 2𝑎𝑡
𝑎
⇒ 𝑦 2 = 2𝑎 𝑥 −
2
Its directrix is

𝑎 𝑎
𝑥− =− ⇒𝑥=0
2 2

𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥
 Normal Form of Equation of Parabola

Equation of parabola can be represented as: 𝑌

𝑥
𝑁 𝑃 𝑥, 𝑦
dist. of a point on parabola from axis 2
𝑦
= L.L.R. × distance of same point from tangent at vertex 4𝑎
𝑀 𝑋
𝑂(0,0)
2
𝑃𝑀 = 4𝑎 𝑃𝑁
 Position of a Point w.r.t. Parabola
𝑌
Outside
Open & Unbounded figure
Inside The Parabola Inside
A parabola divides the plane
into three disjoint parts: On The Parabola
𝑋
𝑆(focus)
Outside The Parabola

On the Parabola 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥

 Position of a Point w.r.t. Parabola

Consider the parabola 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥; 𝑎 > 0

𝑌 𝑌

𝑄(𝑥1 , 𝑦2 ) 𝑃(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 )

𝑃(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 )

𝑀 𝑋 𝑋

𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥

Case I: 𝑃(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) lies inside the parabola Case II: 𝑃(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) lies on the parabola
𝑦12 − 4𝑎𝑥1 < 0 𝑦12 − 4𝑎𝑥1 = 0
 Position of a Point w.r.t. Parabola

Consider the parabola 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥; 𝑎 > 0

𝑌
𝑃(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 )

𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥

Case III: 𝑃(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) lies outside the parabola

𝑦12 − 4𝑎𝑥1 > 0
 If 𝑎2 , 𝑎 − 2 be a point inside the region of the parabola 𝑦 2 = 2𝑥 bounded
by the chord joining the points 2, 2 and 8, −4 , then the number of all
possible integral values of 𝑎 is:

Solution: 𝑌
𝑦 2 = 2𝑥
Equation of line joining points 2, 2 , 8, −4 : 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 4
2, 2
Thus, for the point 𝑎2 , 𝑎 − 2 to lie inside the parabola 𝑦 2 − 2𝑥 = 0,
2
𝑎−2 − 2𝑎2 < 0
𝑋
2 2 2
⇒ 𝑎 − 4𝑎 + 4 − 2𝑎 < 0 ⇒ 𝑎 + 4𝑎 − 4 > 0 𝑂

⇒ 𝑎 ∈ −∞, −2 − 2 2 ∪ 2 2 − 2, ∞ ⋯ 𝑖
8, −4
Also, (𝑎2 , 𝑎 − 2) must lie on the side of the origin.

∴ Substituting in 𝑥 + 𝑦 − 4 < 0
𝑎2 + 𝑎 − 2 − 4 < 0 ⇒ 𝑎 ∈ −3, 2 ⋯ 𝑖𝑖

By 𝑖 & 𝑖𝑖 , 𝑎 ∈ 2 2 − 2, 2
−2 − 2 2 −3 2 2 − 2 2
Thus, number of integral values = 1
 Key Takeaways

Parametric Equation of Chord

Equation of chord joining points 𝑃 𝑎𝑡1 2 , 2𝑎𝑡1 and 𝑌 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥

𝑄 𝑎𝑡2 2 , 2𝑎𝑡2 :
𝑦2 − 𝑦1 2𝑎𝑡2 − 2𝑎𝑡1 2 𝑡2 − 𝑡1
Slope of chord = = = 𝑃 𝑎𝑡1 2 , 2𝑎𝑡1
𝑥2 − 𝑥1 𝑎𝑡22 − 𝑎𝑡12 𝑡2 − 𝑡1 𝑡2 + 𝑡1
𝑋
𝑂
2
Slope of chord is = 𝑡
1 +𝑡2
𝑄 𝑎𝑡2 2 , 2𝑎𝑡2
2
𝑦 − 2𝑎𝑡1 = 𝑥 − 𝑎𝑡12
𝑡! + 𝑡2

⇒ 𝑦𝑡1 + 𝑦𝑡2 − 2𝑎𝑡1 𝑡2 − 2𝑎𝑡12 = 2𝑥 − 2𝑎𝑡!2

⇒ 2𝑥 − 𝑦 𝑡1 + 𝑡2 + 2𝑎𝑡1 𝑡2 = 0
 16
Chord joining two distinct points 𝑃 𝛼 2 , 𝑘1 & 𝑄 𝑘2 , − ,
𝛼
(𝛼 being the parameter) on the parabola 𝑦 2 = 16𝑥 always passes
through a fixed point. Find the coordinates of the fixed point.
Solution:
16
Since, 𝑃 𝛼 2 , 𝑘1 & 𝑄 𝑘2 , − are points on parabola 𝑦 2 = 16𝑥
𝛼

𝑃 𝛼 2 , 𝑘1 ≡ 4𝑡12 , 8𝑡1

𝛼
⇒ 𝑡1 = ±
2

16
𝑄 𝑘2 , − ≡ 4𝑡22 , 8𝑡2
𝛼

2
⇒ 𝑡2 = −
𝛼

∴ 𝑡1 𝑡2 = ±1

1
⇒ 𝑡2 = ±
𝑡1
 16
Chord joining two distinct points 𝑃 𝛼 2 , 𝑘1 & 𝑄 𝑘2 , − ,
𝛼
(𝛼 being the parameter) on the parabola 𝑦 2 = 16𝑥 always passes
through a fixed point. Find the coordinates of the fixed point.
Solution:
⇒ 𝑡2 = ±
1 Equation of 𝑃𝑄: 2𝑥 − 𝑦 𝑡1 + 𝑡2 + 8𝑡1 𝑡2 = 0
𝑡1

1
⇒ 2𝑥 − 𝑦 𝑡1 ± ±8=0
𝑡1

1
⇒ 2 𝑥 ± 4 − 𝑦 𝑡1 ± =0
𝑡1

𝜆𝐿1 + 𝜆𝐿2 = 0 → Family of lines pass through point of

intersection of 𝐿1 = 0 and 𝐿2 = 0
Thus, the coordinates of fixed point is: ±4, 0
 Focal Chord

If 𝑃 𝑎𝑡1 2 , 2𝑎𝑡1 and 𝑄 𝑎𝑡2 2 , 2𝑎𝑡2 are extremities of a

focal chord of parabola 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥, then: 𝑌 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥

𝑡1 𝑡2 = −1
𝑃 𝑎𝑡1 2 , 2𝑎𝑡1
Proof:
𝑋
𝑂 𝑆 𝑎, 0
Equation of chord 𝑃𝑄 is:
𝑄 𝑎𝑡2 2 , 2𝑎𝑡2
2𝑥 − 𝑦 𝑡1 + 𝑡2 + 2𝑎𝑡1 𝑡2 = 0

Since it passes through focus 𝑎, 0

2𝑎 + 2𝑎𝑡1 𝑡2 = 0

⇒ 𝑡1 𝑡2 = −1
 Length of focal chord

Length of focal chord of point 𝑃(𝑡) is 𝑀

𝑃(𝑎𝑡 2 , 2𝑎𝑡)
1 2
𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 is 𝑎 𝑡 + . 𝛼
𝑡
𝑋
𝑂(0,0) 𝑆(𝑎, 0)
𝑁
𝑄
𝑎 2𝑎
𝑡 2,− 𝑡
𝑥 = −𝑎 𝑌

Length of the focal chord which makes an angle 𝛼 with the

positive direction of 𝑥-axis is 4𝑎 cosec 2 𝛼.
 Length of focal chord

Note:
Smallest focal chord is the one perpendicular to the axis of symmetry i.e. Latus Rectum.

⇒ 𝛼 = 90° 𝑌
𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥
∴ Its length = 4𝑎 cosec 2 90°
𝑃
= 4𝑎
𝛼
= Length of Latus Rectum 𝑋
𝑂(0,0)
= Minimum length of a focal chord
𝑄
 Properties of focal chord

Semi latus rectum is the harmonic mean of 𝑌

𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥
𝑆𝑃 and 𝑆𝑄. 𝑃

Where 𝑃 and 𝑄 are extremities of focal chord.

𝑆 𝑎, 0
𝑃𝑆 + 𝑄𝑆 𝑎, 𝑏, 𝑐 are in 𝑂
𝑋
2𝑎 = 2 ⋅ 2𝑎𝑐
𝑃𝑆 × 𝑄𝑆 H.P. if 𝑏 =
𝑎+𝑐
𝑄
⇒ 𝑃𝑆 , 2𝑎, 𝑄𝑆 are in H.P.
𝑥 = −𝑎
 The latus rectum of parabola whose focal chord is 𝑃𝑆𝑄 such
that 𝑆𝑃 = 3 and 𝑆𝑄 = 2 is given by

Solution:
2 ⋅ 𝑆𝑃 ⋅ 𝑆𝑄 A 24
2𝑎 =
𝑆𝑃 + 𝑆𝑄 5

12
⇒ 2𝑎 = B 12
5
5
24
Thus, length of latus rectum (4𝑎) =
5
C 6
5

D 23
5
 Key Takeaways

Position of a line w.r.t. Parabola

Parabola : 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 Solve simultaneously to 𝑌
Tangent line
Line : 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐 get points of intersection
2
𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐 = 4𝑎𝑥 ⇒ 𝑚2 𝑥 2 + 𝑐 2 + 2𝑐𝑚𝑥 = 4𝑎𝑥

⇒ 𝑚2 𝑥 2 + 2𝑥𝑚𝑥 − 4𝑎𝑥 + 𝑐 2 = 0
𝑂 𝑆
𝑋
2 2 2
⇒ 𝑚 𝑥 + 2𝑐𝑚 − 4𝑎 𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0

Quadratic in 𝑥

𝐷 > 0 ∶ Two real & distinct roots

Non-Intersecting Intersecting line
Intersecting line
line
Possible 𝐷 = 0 ∶ Real & repeated roots
cases Tangent line

𝐷 < 0 ∶ Imaginary roots

Non-intersecting line
 Key Takeaways

Position of a line w.r.t. Parabola

⇒ 𝑚2 𝑥 2 + (2𝑐𝑚 − 4𝑎)𝑥 + 𝑐 2 = 0
𝑌
Tangent line
Quadratic in 𝑥
2
𝐷 = 2𝑐𝑚 − 4𝑎 − 4 𝑐 2 𝑚2
2
= 4 𝑐𝑚 − 2𝑎 − 4𝑐 2 𝑚2
𝑂 𝑆
𝑋
= 4 𝑐 2 𝑚2 + 4𝑎2 − 4𝑎𝑐𝑚 − 𝑐 2 𝑚2

= 4 4𝑎2 − 4𝑎𝑐𝑚
Non-Intersecting Intersecting line
= 4 × 4𝑎 𝑎 − 𝑐𝑚 line

⇒ 𝐷 = 16𝑎 𝑎 − 𝑐𝑚
 Key Takeaways

Position of a line w.r.t. Parabola

Case I: Condition for intersecting line 𝑌

⇒ Two points of intersection

⇒ Two real and distinct roots

𝑂 𝑆
𝑋
⇒𝐷>0

⇒ 16𝑎 𝑎 − 𝑐𝑚 > 0 ⇒ 𝑎 > 𝑐𝑚

Intersecting line
Positive
 Key Takeaways

Position of a line w.r.t. Parabola

Case II: Condition for tangent line 𝑌

Tangent line
⇒ One point of intersection
⇒ One distinct root

⇒ Two real and repeated roots 𝑋

𝑂 𝑆
⇒𝐷=0
𝑎
⇒ 16𝑎 𝑎 − 𝑐𝑚 = 0 ⇒ 𝑎 − 𝑐𝑚 = 0 ⇒𝑐=
𝑚

Note :
𝑎
In 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐, on replacing 𝑐 with , the line
𝑚
becomes tangent to the parabola 𝑦 = 4𝑎𝑥.2
 Key Takeaways

Position of a line w.r.t. Parabola

Case III: Condition for non-intersecting line 𝑌

⇒ No point of intersection
⇒ No real roots

⇒ Two imaginary roots 𝑂 𝑆

𝑋

⇒𝐷<0

⇒ 16𝑎 𝑎 − 𝑐𝑚 < 0 ⇒ 𝑎 − 𝑐𝑚 < 0 Non-Intersecting

line
 The straight line 𝑦 = 2𝑥 + 𝜆 does not meet the parabola 𝑦 2 = 2𝑥 if

Solution:

𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐 doesn’t intersect the parabola 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 Iff 𝑎 − 𝑚𝑐 < 0 A 1

𝜆<
4
𝑦 = 2𝑥 + 𝜆 will never meet the parabola 𝑦 2 = 2𝑥 iff
B
𝑚=2 1 𝜆=4
𝑎=
𝑐=𝜆 2

1
⇒ − 2𝜆 < 0 C 1
2 𝜆>
4
1
⇒𝜆>
4
D
𝜆=1
 Key Takeaways

Equation of tangent

Point Form
Different forms of tangent equations: Parametric Form
Slope Form

Point form: 𝑌
The equation of tangent to the parabola
𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 at 𝑃(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) is 𝑦𝑦1 = 2𝑎 (𝑥 + 𝑥1 )
𝑃 𝑥1 , 𝑦1
𝑂
𝑋

Tangent 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥
Note: The equations of tangent of all standard parabolas at 𝑥1 , 𝑦1

Equations of Parabolas Tangent at 𝑥1 , 𝑦1

𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 𝑦𝑦1 = 2𝑎 𝑥 + 𝑥1

𝑦 2 = −4𝑎𝑥 𝑦𝑦1 = −2𝑎 𝑥 + 𝑥1

𝑥 2 = 4𝑎𝑦 𝑥𝑥1 = 2𝑎 𝑦 + 𝑦1
𝑥 2 = −4𝑎𝑦 𝑥𝑥1 = −2𝑎 𝑦 + 𝑦1
 𝑌

𝑃 𝑎𝑡 2 , 2𝑎𝑡
Parametric form:
The equation of tangent to the parabola
𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 at 𝑃(𝑎𝑡 2 , 2𝑎𝑡) is 𝑡𝑦 = 𝑥 + 𝑎𝑡 2 𝑂
𝑋

Slope form: tangent

𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥

The equation of tangent of slope 𝑚 to the

parabola
𝑎
𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 is given by 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 +
𝑚

Note:
𝑎 1
Comparing 𝑡𝑦 = 𝑥 + 𝑎𝑡 2 & 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + ⇒𝑚=
𝑚 𝑡

𝑃 ≡ 𝑎𝑡 2 , 2𝑎𝑡 becomes 𝑃 ≡ 𝑎 2𝑎
,
𝑚2 𝑚
 Parametric form:

Note: The equations of tangent of all standard parabolas at ′𝑡′

Equations of Parabolas Parametric co-ordinates ′𝑡′ Tangent at ′𝑡′

𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 𝑎𝑡 2 , 2𝑎𝑡 𝑡𝑦 = 𝑥 + 𝑎𝑡 2

𝑦 2 = −4𝑎𝑥 −𝑎𝑡 2 , 2𝑎𝑡 𝑡𝑦 = −𝑥 + 𝑎𝑡 2

𝑥 2 = 4𝑎𝑦 2𝑎𝑡, 𝑎𝑡 2 𝑡𝑥 = 𝑦 + 𝑎𝑡 2
𝑥 2 = −4𝑎𝑦 2𝑎𝑡, −𝑎𝑡 2 𝑡𝑥 = −𝑦 + 𝑎𝑡 2
 Equation of tangent
Note: The equations of tangent of all standard parabolas in slope form:

Point of contact in terms Equation of tangent in

Equations of Parabolas of slope 𝑚 terms of slope 𝑚
𝑎 2𝑎
𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 , 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 +
𝑎
𝑚2 𝑚 𝑚
𝑎 2𝑎
𝑦 2 = −4𝑎𝑥 − , − 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 −
𝑎
𝑚2 𝑚 𝑚

𝑥 2 = 4𝑎𝑦 2𝑎𝑚, 𝑎𝑚2 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 − 𝑎𝑚2

𝑥 2 = −4𝑎𝑦 −2𝑎𝑚, −𝑎𝑚2 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑎𝑚2
 1
If one end of focal chord 𝐴𝐵 of the parabola 𝑦 2 = 8𝑥 is at 𝐴 , −2 ,
2
then the equation of tangent to it at 𝐵 is
JEE MAIN 2020

Solution:
Let 𝑃𝑄 be the focal chord of the parabola 𝑦 2 = 8𝑥
⇒ 𝑃 𝑡1 = 2𝑡12 , 4𝑡1 and 𝑄 𝑡2 = 2𝑡22 , 4𝑡2
⇒ 𝑡1 𝑡2 = −1
1
∵ , −2 is one of the ends of the focal chord of the parabola
2
1
Let , −2 = 2𝑡22 , 4𝑡2
2
1
⇒ 𝑡2 = −
2

⇒ other end of focal chord will have parameter 𝑡1 = 2

⇒ The co-ordinate of the other end of the focal chord will be 8, 8
∴ The equation of the tangent will be given as → 8𝑦 = 4 𝑥 + 8
⇒ 𝑥 − 2𝑦 + 8 = 0
 The slope of the tangents drawn from a point 𝑃 4, 10 to the
parabola 𝑦 2 = 9𝑥 are

Solution: 𝑌 𝑃 4, 10 𝑇1
𝑦 2 = 9𝑥 ⇒ 4𝑎 = 9
9
⇒𝑎=
4

Let 𝑆 ≡ 𝑦 2 − 9𝑥 = 0 𝑋
𝑂
S𝑃 4,10 ≡ 102 − 9(4) > 0
𝑇2
⇒ 𝑃 lies outside the parabola. 𝑦 2 = 9𝑥

∴ Two tangents 𝑇1 and 𝑇2 can be drawn from

𝑃 to the given parabola.
 The slope of the tangents drawn from a point 𝑃 4, 10 to the
parabola 𝑦 2 = 9𝑥 are

Solution: 𝑌 𝑃 4, 10 𝑇1
Equation of tangent of slope 𝑚 ∶
𝑎 9
𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + ∵𝑎=
𝑚 4

⇒ 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 +
9 𝑋
4𝑚
𝑂

Passes through (4,10) 𝑇2

𝑦 2 = 9𝑥
9
⇒ 10 = 4𝑚 +
4𝑚
⇒ 40𝑚 − 16𝑚2 − 9 = 0

⇒ 16𝑚2 − 36𝑚 − 4𝑚 + 9 = 0

⇒ 4𝑚 4𝑚 − 9 − 1(4𝑚 − 9) = 0

1 9
𝑚= 𝑚=
4 4
The slope of the tangents drawn from a point 𝑃 4, 10 to the
parabola 𝑦 2 = 9𝑥 are

A 1 3
,
4 4

B 1 1
,
4 3

C 1 9
,
4 4

D 3 9
,
4 4
 PROPERTIES OF TANGENTS
𝑌 𝑇1
I. Tangents at 𝑃 𝑡1 and 𝑄(𝑡2 ) intersect at 𝑅 ≡ (𝑎𝑡1 𝑡2 , 𝑎(𝑡1 + 𝑡2 )).
𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥
A.M. of ordinates of
𝑃 and 𝑄
𝑃(𝑎𝑡12 , 2𝑎𝑡1 )
⇒ 𝑅 ≡ 𝑎 𝑡1 𝑡2 , 𝑎 𝑡1 + 𝑡2
𝑆 𝑋
𝑅
G.M. of Abscissas
of 𝑃 and 𝑄
𝑄
(𝑎𝑡22 , 2𝑎𝑡2 )
𝑇2
 PROPERTIES OF TANGENTS

II. The portion of tangent between the point of contact 𝑃 𝑡 and the point
where it meets the directrix 𝑄 𝑡 subtends right angle at the focus.

𝑌
𝑥 = −𝑎 𝑇

NOTE : Circle drawn with PQ as diameter

𝑃(𝑎𝑡 2 , 2𝑎𝑡 ) always passes through focus.

𝑋
𝑄 𝑆

𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥
 Properties of Tangents

𝑇1
III. The foot of the perpendicular drawn from focus upon any 𝑌
𝑃(𝑎𝑡 2 , 2𝑎𝑡 )
tangent lies on the tangent at vertex. Hence, circle described
Focal Radii
on any focal radii as diameter touches the tangent at vertex. 𝑄

𝑋
𝑅 𝑂 𝑆

Note: Circle described on any focal radii as diameter touches

the tangent at vertex.
𝑥 = −𝑎 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥
 Properties of Tangents

IV. Tangent drawn at the extremities of a focal chord 𝑌 𝑇1

𝑥 = −𝑎
are perpendicular and intersect on the directrix.
𝑃(𝑎𝑡12 , 2𝑎𝑡1 )

NOTE: Each point on the directrix will give perpendicular 𝑅

𝑋
tangents. 𝑆
𝑄 (𝑎𝑡22 , 2𝑎𝑡2 )
NOTE: A circle having any focal chord as diameter touches
the directrix.
𝑇2 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥
 Properties of Tangents:

The area of the triangle formed by three points on the

parabola is twice the area of the triangle formed by the
tangents at these points.

𝑌
𝑇1
𝑇2
𝑃
𝐴
𝐵
𝑄 𝐴𝑟 △ 𝑃𝑄𝑅 = 2 𝐴𝑟 △ 𝐴𝐵𝐶
𝑋
𝐶
𝑅

𝑇3
 If the focus of the parabola is (1,2) and feet of the perpendicular on
any two tangents drawn from the focus are 3,4 and (4,6), then
vertex of the parabola is ____ . 𝑇1
Solution:

Let 𝑆 ≡ 1,2
𝑇2
𝐴 ≡ 3,4 𝐴

𝐵 ≡ 4,6
𝑆 Axis of
The foot of the perpendicular drawn from focus symmetry
𝐵
upon any tangent lies on the tangent at vertex.
𝑆𝐴 ⊥ 𝑇1 and 𝑆𝐵 ⊥ 𝑇2

Vertex is the point of intersection of the tangent at

vertex and axis of symmetry.
 If the focus of the parabola is (1,2) and feet of the perpendicular on
any two tangents drawn from the focus are 3,4 and (4,6), then
vertex of the parabola is ____ . 𝑇1
Solution:

Let 𝑆 ≡ 1,2
𝑇2
𝐴 ≡ 3,4 𝐵 ≡ 4,6 𝐴

Equation of tangent at the vertex:

6−4 𝑆 Axis of
𝑦−4= 𝑥−3
4−3 symmetry
𝐵
⇒ 𝑦 = 2𝑥 − 2 … (𝑖)

𝑚Tangent = 2

Also, tangent at vertex ⊥ Axis of symmetry

1
⇒ 𝑚Axis = −
2
 If the focus of the parabola is (1,2) and feet of the perpendicular on
any two tangents drawn from the focus are 3,4 and (4,6), then
vertex of the parabola is ____ . 𝑇1
Solution:
1
⇒ 𝑦 = 2𝑥 − 2 … (𝑖) ⇒ 𝑚Axis = −
2
𝑇2
Axis passes through the focus 𝑆 1,2 . 𝐴

Using Point slope form,

𝑆 Axis of
1
Equation of Axis of symmetry : 𝑦 − 2 = −
2
𝑥−1 symmetry
𝐵
⇒ 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 3 ⋯ (𝑖𝑖)

Solving (𝑖) and (𝑖𝑖) simultaneously :

8 9
⇒𝑦= ∴𝑥=
5 5

9 8
∴ Vertex 𝑉 ≡ ,
5 5
 𝑦 = 𝑥 + 2 is any tangent to the parabola 𝑦 2 = 8𝑥. Find the point 𝑃 on
the tangent such that the other tangent from it is perpendicular to it.
Solution: 𝑌
𝑇1
𝑦 2 = 8𝑥 ⇒ 𝑎 = 2

Tangent drawn at the extremities of focal

chord are perpendicular and intersect on
𝑃
the directrix. 𝑋
𝑂
𝑃 lies on the directrix 𝑥 = −𝑎 = −2

∴ 𝑃 ≡ −2,0
𝑇2 𝑦 2 = 8𝑥
 Normal

The line perpendicular to the tangent at the point of

contact is called the normal to the parabola at that 𝑇: Tangent at 𝑃

point. 𝑃: Point of Contact

Point Form : 𝑁: Normal at 𝑃

The equation of normal to the parabola

𝑦
𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥
𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 at 𝑃(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) is 𝑦 − 𝑦1 = − 1 (𝑥
2𝑎
− 𝑥1 ).
 EQUATIONS OF NORMAL
𝑁
𝑌 𝑃(𝑎𝑡 2 , 2𝑎𝑡)
PARAMETRIC FORM :

The equation of normal to the parabola 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 at

𝑃(𝑡) ≡ 𝑃(𝑎𝑡 2 , 2𝑎𝑡) is given by 𝑦 = −𝑡𝑥 + 2𝑎𝑡 + 𝑎𝑡 3 .

SLOPE FORM
The equation of normal to the parabola 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥

𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 of slope 𝑚 is 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 − 2𝑎𝑚 − 𝑎𝑚3 .

NOTE:
Relation between 𝑡 (parameter) and 𝑚 (slope
of normal) 𝑡 = −𝑚
 EQUATIONS OF NORMAL

PARAMETRIC FORM

Equation of normals of standard parabolas at 𝑡 :

Parametric
S. No. Equation Co-ordinates Normal at 𝑡

1 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 𝑎𝑡 2 , 2𝑎𝑡 𝑦 + 𝑡𝑥 = 2𝑎𝑡 + 𝑎𝑡 3

2 𝑦 2 = −4𝑎𝑥 −𝑎𝑡 2 , 2𝑎𝑡 𝑦 − 𝑡𝑥 = 2𝑎𝑡 + 𝑎𝑡 3

3 𝑥 2 = 4𝑎𝑦 2𝑎𝑡, 𝑎𝑡 2 𝑥 + 𝑡𝑦 = 2𝑎𝑡 + 𝑎𝑡 3

4 𝑥 2 = −4𝑎𝑦 2𝑎𝑡, −𝑎𝑡 2 𝑥 − 𝑡𝑦 = 2𝑎𝑡 + 𝑎𝑡 3

 Equations of Normal
SLOPE FORM

Equations of normal, point of contact and

condition of normality in terms of slope 𝑚:
Equation of
Point of Contact Equation of Normal
Parabola

𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 𝑎𝑚2 , −2𝑎𝑚 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 − 2𝑎𝑚 − 𝑎𝑚3

𝑦 2 = −4𝑎𝑥 −𝑎𝑚2 , 2𝑎𝑚 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 2𝑎𝑚 + 𝑎𝑚3

2𝑎 𝑎 𝑎
𝑥 2 = 4𝑎𝑦 − , 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 2𝑎 +
𝑚 𝑚2 𝑚2

2𝑎 𝑎 𝑎
𝑥 2 = −4𝑎𝑦 ,− 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 − 2𝑎 −
𝑚 𝑚2 𝑚2
 Properties of Normal
𝑌

Normal other than axis of parabola never

passes through the focus.

𝑋
𝑁 𝑃 𝑆
 PROPERTIES OF NORMAL
𝑌 𝑁1 𝑁2

𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥
The point of intersection of normals at 𝑃 𝑡1 and 𝑄(𝑡2 ) is
𝑃(𝑎𝑡12 , 2𝑎𝑡1 )
2𝑎 + 𝑎 𝑡12 + 𝑡1 𝑡2 + 𝑡22 , −𝑎𝑡1 𝑡2 𝑡1 + 𝑡2
𝑋

𝑄
(𝑎𝑡22 , 2𝑎𝑡2 )
 Properties of Normal

Normal at 𝑃 𝑡1 meets the curve again at 𝑄 𝑡2 , then 𝑌

𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥
𝑁 𝑇
2
𝑡2 = −𝑡1 −
𝑡1
𝑃(𝑎𝑡12 , 2𝑎𝑡1 )

𝑋
𝑂

𝑄(𝑎𝑡22 , 2𝑎𝑡2 )
 Let the tangent to the parabola 𝑆: 𝑦 2 = 2𝑥 at the point 𝑃(2 , 2) meet the
𝑥-axis at 𝑄 and normal at it meet the parabola 𝑆 at the point 𝑅. Then
the area (in sq.units) of the triangle 𝑃𝑄𝑅 is equal to
Solution: 𝑃 2 ,2

Tangent to 𝑦 2 = 2𝑥 at 𝑃(2 , 2) is 𝑇 = 0

⇒ 2𝑦 = 𝑥 + 2
𝑄
∴ 𝑄(−2 , 0)

Normal at 𝑃(2 , 2) : 𝑦 + 2𝑥 = 6 meets 𝑅

9
the curve at 𝑅 , −3
2

2 2 1
1
Area of ∆𝑃𝑄𝑅 = −2 0 1
2 9
Τ2 −3 1

25
= sq.units
2
Let the tangent to the parabola 𝑆: 𝑦 2 = 2𝑥 at the point 𝑃(2 , 2) meet the
𝑥-axis at 𝑄 and normal at it meet the parabola 𝑆 at the point 𝑅. Then
the area (in sq.units) of the triangle 𝑃𝑄𝑅 is equal to

A 25
2

B 15
2

C 35
2

D
25
 𝐴 is a point on the parabola 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥. The normal at 𝐴 cuts the parabola
again at 𝐵. If 𝐴𝐵 subtends a right angle at the vertex of the parabola,
then find the slope of the normal.
Solution: 𝑌 𝑁
Given: 𝑦 = 4𝑎𝑥
2

Slope of normal 𝑁 = 𝑚 = −𝑡1 𝐴 (𝑡1 )

𝑚𝑂𝐴 × 𝑚𝑂𝐵 = −1 90°

𝑋
2 𝑂(0,0)
2𝑎𝑡1 − 0 2𝑎𝑡2 − 0 4𝑎 𝑡1 𝑡2
⇒ 2 × 2 = −1 ⇒ 2 2 2 = −1
𝑎𝑡1 − 0 𝑎𝑡2 − 0 𝑎 𝑡1 𝑡

⇒ 𝑡1 𝑡2 = −4 ⋯ (𝑖) 𝐵(𝑡2 )

2
Using property 𝐼𝐼: 𝑡2 = −𝑡1 − ⋯ 𝑖𝑖
𝑡1
Solving 𝑖 and 𝑖𝑖 : 𝑡12 = 2

⇒ 𝑡1 = ± 2 ∴𝑚=± 2
 Key Takeaways
Reflection Property of Parabola

Any ray parallel to the axis of the parabola Conversely, any ray (light ray) emanating from
will bounce off the parabola and pass the focus will reflect off the parabola in a
through the focus. straight line parallel to the axis.

𝑌 𝑌

𝑆 𝑆
𝑋 𝑋
𝑂 𝑂
 A ray of light moving parallel to the 𝑥-axis gets reflected from a parabolic
mirror whose equation is 𝑦 − 4 2
= 8 𝑥 + 1 . After reflection, the ray
passes through the point 𝛼, 𝛽 , find the value of 𝛼 + 𝛽 + 10.
Solution:
As we know that all rays of light parallel to axis of the 𝑌
𝑃
parabola are reflected through the focus of the parabola.
The equation of the given parabola is
2
𝑦−4 = 8(𝑥 + 1) ⇒ 𝑌 2 = 8𝑋 𝑋
𝑂 𝑆 𝑎, 0
Where 𝑌 = 𝑦 − 4 and 𝑋 = 𝑥 + 1
Now the focus of the parabola is (𝑎, 0)
∴ 𝑋 = 𝑎, 𝑌 = 0
⇒ 𝑥 + 1 = 2 and 𝑦 − 4 = 0

Hence, the focus is 1, 4

Thus 𝛼 = 1 and 𝛽 = 4

∴ 𝛼 + 𝛽 + 10 = 1 + 4 + 10 = 15
 Chord of Contact

𝑌
A chord joining two points of contact of a pair of a tangent
drawn from an external point. 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥
𝐴

Equation of chord of contact 𝐴𝐵 is 𝑇 = 0. 𝑃

(ℎ, 𝑘)
Chord of contact
For 𝑦 = 4𝑎𝑥, equation of chord of contact is: 𝑘𝑦 − 2𝑎(𝑥 + ℎ) = 0
2
𝑂 𝑋

Note:
𝐵
If 𝑃 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 is an external point to the parabola, then 𝑇 = 0
represents the equation of chord of contact w.r.t 𝑃.

If 𝑃 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 lies on the parabola, then 𝑇 = 0 represents the

equation of tangent through 𝑃 (point of contact).
 Chord Bisected at a Point

The unique chord having 𝑃(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) as its mid-point 𝑌

𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥
𝐴
𝐴𝐵 ≡ Chord having mid-point as 𝑃(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 )

Equation of 𝐴𝐵 is 𝑇 = 𝑆1 𝑃 𝑥1 , 𝑦1
𝑋
𝑂
For 𝑦 = 4𝑎𝑥 ,
2

𝑦𝑦1 − 2𝑎 𝑥 + 𝑥1 = 𝑦12 − 4𝑎𝑥1 𝐵

represents equation of the chord 𝐴𝐵 that is bisected

at the point 𝑃(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 )
 Equation of Pair of Tangents
𝑌

𝑇1 and 𝑇2 are pair of tangents drawn from 𝑃(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 )

an external point 𝑃 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 . 𝑋

Then, combined equation of 𝑇1 and 𝑇2 is:

𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥
𝑆𝑆1 = 𝑇 2

For 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 i.e. 𝑆 ≡ 𝑦 2 − 4𝑎𝑥 = 0

4𝑎 𝑥+𝑥1
We know, 𝑆1 ≡ 𝑦12 − 4𝑎𝑥1 = 0 and 𝑇 = 𝑦𝑦1 −
2

2
Then, 𝑆𝑆1 = 𝑇 2 i.e. 𝑦 2 − 4𝑎𝑥 𝑦12 − 4𝑎𝑥1 = 𝑦𝑦1 − 2𝑎 𝑥 + 𝑥1
represents the joint equation of 𝑇1 and 𝑇2
 Key Takeaways

Ellipse

An ellipse is the locus of a moving point such that the 𝑃10 𝑃9

𝑀 𝑃1
ratio of its distance from a fixed point (focus) and a 𝑃8
fixed line (directrix) is a positive constant which is
always less than 1 𝑃3 𝐹
0<𝑒<1 . 𝑃7
𝑃4 𝑃5 𝑃6
Let the fixed point be 𝐹 (focus) and the fixed line 𝐿: 𝑙𝑥 + 𝑚𝑦 + 𝑛 = 0
(directrix) be 𝐿: 𝑙𝑥 + 𝑚𝑦 + 𝑛 = 0.

Hence for an ellipse, there are two foci (𝐹1 and 𝐹2 )

and two directrices.
(𝐷1 : 𝑙𝑥 + 𝑚𝑦 + 𝑛 = 0 and 𝐷2 : 𝑙𝑥 + 𝑚𝑦 + 𝑛′ = 0).
Analytical Interpretation:

𝐹1 𝐹1 ′

𝐷1 : 𝑙𝑥 + 𝑚𝑦 + 𝑛 = 0 𝐷1′ : 𝑙𝑥 + 𝑚𝑦 + 𝑛′ = 0

• Hence, for an ellipse, there are two foci (𝐹1 and 𝐹2 ) and
two directrices (𝐷1 : 𝑙𝑥 + 𝑚𝑦 + 𝑛 = 0 and 𝐷2 : 𝑙𝑥 + 𝑚𝑦 + 𝑛′ = 0)
 𝑥2 𝑦2
Standard equation of an Ellipse 2 + =1 𝑎>𝑏
𝑎 𝑏2

𝑌
Centre 𝟎, 𝟎

Vertices ±𝒂, 𝟎

𝐹2 𝐹1 𝑋
Equation of major axis 𝒚 = 𝟎
axes minor axis 𝒙 = 𝟎
−𝑎 𝑎
𝑥= 𝑥=
𝑒 𝑒
Eccentricity 𝒃𝟐
𝒆= 𝟏 − 𝒂𝟐

Equation of 𝒙 = ±𝒆
𝒂
directrix

Coordinates of
±𝒂𝒆, 𝟎
foci

𝟐𝒃𝟐
Length of LR
𝒂
Horizontal vs Vertical ellipse:

Equation 𝒙𝟐 𝒚𝟐 𝒙𝟐 𝒚𝟐
𝟐 + = 𝟏; (𝒂 > 𝒃) 𝟐 + = 𝟏; (𝒂 < 𝒃)
of ellipse 𝒂 𝒃𝟐 𝒂 𝒃𝟐

𝑌 𝑏
𝑌 𝑦= 𝑒

Figure 𝐹1
𝐹2 𝐹1 𝑋 𝑋

𝐹2 −𝑏
−𝑎 𝑎 𝑦=
𝑥= 𝑥= 𝑒
𝑒 𝑒

Centre 𝟎, 𝟎 𝟎, 𝟎

Vertices ±𝒂, 𝟎 𝟎, ±𝒃
Horizontal vs Vertical ellipse:

Equation 𝒙𝟐 𝒚𝟐 𝒙𝟐 𝒚𝟐
𝟐 + 𝟐 = 𝟏; (𝒂 > 𝒃) 𝟐 + = 𝟏; (𝒂 < 𝒃)
of ellipse 𝒂 𝒃 𝒂 𝒃𝟐

Equation of major axis 𝒚 = 𝟎 major axis 𝒙 = 𝟎

axes minor axis 𝒙 = 𝟎 minor axis 𝒚 = 𝟎

Eccentricity 𝒃𝟐 𝒂𝟐
𝒆= 𝟏− 𝒆= 𝟏−
𝒂𝟐 𝒃𝟐

Equation of 𝒙=±
𝒂
𝒚=±
𝒃
directrix 𝒆 𝒆

Coordinates ±𝒂𝒆, 𝟎 𝟎, ±𝒃𝒆

of foci

Equation 𝒙𝟐 𝒚𝟐 𝒙𝟐 𝒚𝟐
𝟐 + = 𝟏; (𝒂 > 𝒃) 𝟐 + = 𝟏; (𝒂 > 𝒃)
of ellipse 𝒂 𝒃𝟐 𝒂 𝒃𝟐

Length of 𝟐𝒃𝟐 𝟐𝒂𝟐

LR 𝒂 𝒃
 For the ellipse 5𝑥 2 + 9𝑦 2 = 45. Find
𝑖 eccentricity (𝑖𝑖) Coordinates of centre, Vertices ,foci.
𝑖𝑖𝑖 Length of major axis, Minor axis, latus rectum.
𝑖𝑣 Equation of major axis,minor axis, Directrices.

Given : 5𝑥2 + 9𝑦2 = 45

Dividing by 45

5𝑥2 9𝑦2
⇒ + =1
45 45

𝑥2 𝑦2
⇒ + =1
9 5

⇒ 𝑎2 = 9 and 𝑏2 = 5 ⇒ 𝑎 = 3 and 𝑏 = 5
 𝑥2 𝑦2
⇒ + = 1 ⇒ 𝑎 = 3 and 𝑏 = 5
9 5

(𝑖) We have e2 = 1 − (𝑏/𝑎)2

5 2
⇒ 1 − 𝑒2 = ⇒𝑒=
9 3

(𝑖𝑖) Centre, Vertices & Foci :

𝑥2 𝑦2
For the ellipse 2 + = 1,
𝑎 𝑏2

• Center is 𝑂 ≡ 0,0
• Vertices are given by −𝑎, 0 and 𝑎, 0 .
⇒ −3,0 and (3,0)

• Coordinates of foci are given by 𝐹1 ≡ −𝑎𝑒, 0 , 𝐹2 ≡ 𝑎𝑒, 0

2 2
⇒ −3 . ,0 , 3. , 0 ⇒ −2,0 , 2,0
3 3
𝑖𝑖𝑖) Length of major axis = 2𝑎 = 6 units

Length of minor axis = 2𝑏 = 2 5 units

2𝑏2 2 .5 10
Length of latus rectum = =
3
= units
𝑎 3

𝑖𝑣) Equation of major axis : 𝑦 = 0

Equation of minor axis : 𝑥 = 0

Equation of directrices are :

𝑎 𝑎
𝐷1 : 𝑥 = − , 𝐷2 : 𝑥 =
𝑒 𝑒

⇒ 𝐷1 : 𝑥 = −4.5, 𝐷2 : 𝑥 = 4.5
 1
Equation of the ellipse with foci ±2, 0 and eccentricity is
2
a) 3𝑥 + 4𝑦 = 48
2 2
b) 4𝑥 + 3𝑦 = 48
2 2

c) 3𝑥 2 + 4𝑦 2 = 16 d) 4𝑥 2 + 3𝑦 2 = 16

1 𝑌
Given 𝑎𝑒 = 2 & 𝑒 = 2
𝐵(0, 𝑏)
3
⇒ 𝑎 = 4 & 𝑏 2 = 1 − 𝑒 2 𝑎2 = ⋅ 16
4 𝐹1 𝐹2
𝑋
⇒ 𝑏 2 = 12 𝐴 𝐴′
−𝑎, 0 (−2,0) (2,0) 𝑎, 0
∴ Equation of ellipse is :
𝐵′(0, −𝑏)
𝑥2 𝑦2
𝑎 2 + 𝑏2
=1

𝑥2 𝑦2
⇒ + =1
16 12

3𝑥 2 +4𝑦 2
⇒ =1 ⇒ 3𝑥 2 + 4𝑦 2 = 48
48
 1
Equation of the ellipse with foci ±2, 0 and eccentricity is
2

A
3𝑥 2 + 4𝑦 2 = 48

B
4𝑥 2 + 3𝑦 2 = 48

C
3𝑥 2 + 4𝑦 2 = 16

D
4𝑥 2 + 3𝑦 2 = 16
 𝑥2 𝑦2 1
Let the eccentricity of an ellipse + = 1, 𝑎 > 𝑏, be . If this ellipse
𝑎2 𝑏2 4
2
passes through the point −4 ,3 , then 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 is equal to:
5
JEE Main 2022
Solution:
2
2
−4
𝑥2 𝑦2 5 32
+ =1⇒ + 2=1
𝑎2 𝑏 2 𝑎2 𝑏

32 9
⇒ + = 1⋯ 𝑖
5𝑎2 𝑏 2
1
𝑎2 1 − 𝑒 2 = 𝑏 2 ⇒ 𝑎2 1 − = 𝑏2
16

⇒ 15𝑎2 = 16𝑏2

2
16𝑏2
⇒𝑎 =
15
 𝑥2 𝑦2 1
Let the eccentricity of an ellipse + = 1, 𝑎 > 𝑏, be . If this ellipse
𝑎2 𝑏2 4
2
passes through the point −4 ,3 , then 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 is equal to:
5
JEE Main 2022
Solution:

32 9 A B
⇒ 2 + 2 = 1⋯ 𝑖 31
5𝑎 𝑏

2
16𝑏2 C D
⇒𝑎 =
15

6 9
From (𝑖), + =1
𝑏2 𝑏2

⇒ 𝑏 2 = 15 & 𝑎2 = 16

∴ 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 = 16 + 15 = 31
(5)Focal Distance Property:
𝑎
−𝑥
𝑎 𝑒
Focal distance = 𝐹1 𝑃 = 𝑒𝑃𝑀1 = 𝑒 −𝑥 𝑥
𝑒 𝑃 𝑥, 𝑦
𝑎 𝑀2 𝑀1
𝐹2 𝑃 = 𝑒𝑃𝑀2 = 𝑒 +𝑥
𝑒

Now, 𝐹1 𝑃 + 𝐹2 𝑃 = 𝑒 𝑃𝑀1 + 𝑃𝑀2 𝐹2 𝑂 0,0 𝐹1

= 𝑒 𝑀1 𝑀2
𝑎 𝑎
2𝑎 𝑒 𝑒
=𝑒
𝑒

𝐹1 𝑃 + 𝐹2 𝑃 = 2𝑎

Focal Length = 𝑆1 𝑆2 = 𝐹1 𝐹2 = 2𝑎𝑒

If 5, 12 and 24, 7 are the foci of an ellipse passing through
origin, then find its eccentricity.

𝐹1 𝐹2 = 2𝑎𝑒
𝑃 0, 0
⇒ 2𝑎𝑒 = 24 − 5 2 + 7 − 12 2 = 386

⇒ 2𝑎𝑒 = 386 ⋯ 𝑖
𝐹1 5,12 𝐹2 24,7
The sum of focal radii = Length of major axis

⇒ 𝑃𝐹1 + 𝑃𝐹2 = 2𝑎

⇒ 2𝑎 = 52 + 122 + 242 + 72 = 13 + 25 = 38

⇒ 2𝑎 = 38 ⋯ 𝑖𝑖

⇒ 386 = 28𝑒
386
Dividing equation 𝑖 and 𝑖𝑖 , 𝑒 =
38
 Auxiliary circle

• The circle described on the major axis as diameter is called Auxiliary circle
of the given ellipse

• Equation of Auxiliary circle for ellipse

𝑥2
𝑎 2 +
𝑦2
𝑏2
=1:
(𝑖) 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 𝑎2 , If 𝑎 > 𝑏 (𝑖𝑖)𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 𝑏 2 , If 𝑎 < 𝑏
𝑌 𝑌
0, 𝑏

𝑋
−𝑎, 0 𝑂 𝑎, 0 𝑂
𝑋

0, 𝑏
 Eccentric angles and Eccentric circle:
𝑌
𝑥2 𝑦2
• 𝑄 is any point on ellipse
𝑎2
+
𝑏2
= 1 whose
parametric coordinates are 𝑄 ≡ (𝑎 cos 𝜃 , 𝑏 𝑠𝑖𝑛 𝜃) 𝑃(𝑎 cos 𝜃 , 𝑎 𝑠𝑖𝑛 𝜃)

• Points 𝑃 & 𝑄 are called corresponding points. 𝜃

𝑄(𝑎 cos 𝜃 , 𝑏 𝑠𝑖𝑛 𝜃)
𝑋
𝑂
• 𝜃 is angle made by 𝑂𝑃 with 𝑋 axis −𝑎, 0 𝑁 𝑎, 0
and 0 ≤ 𝜃 < 2𝜋
 𝑥2 𝑦2
Find the eccentric angle of a point on the ellipse + = 1 whose
6 2
distance from the centre is 2 units.

Coordinates of the point:

𝑃 ≡ 𝑎 cos 𝜃 , 𝑏 𝑠𝑖𝑛 𝜃 = 6 cos 𝜃 , 2 𝑠𝑖𝑛 𝜃 𝑌
Given that, 𝑂𝑃 = 2 𝑃(𝑎 cos 𝜃 , 𝑏 𝑠𝑖𝑛 𝜃)
2 2
6 cos 𝜃 − 0 + 2 sin 𝜃 − 0 =2 𝑋
𝑂
⇒ 6 cos2 𝜃 + 2 sin2 𝜃 = 2
Squaring on both sides:
6 cos2 𝜃 + 2 sin2 𝜃 = 4
⇒ 6 cos 2 𝜃 + 2 1 − cos2 𝜃 = 4
⇒ 4 cos 2 𝜃 = 2
1 1
⇒ cos 2 𝜃 = ⇒ cos 𝜃 = ±
2 2
𝜋 3𝜋 5𝜋 7𝜋
⇒𝜃= , , , ∵ 0 ≤ 𝜃 < 2𝜋
4 4 4 4
Position of point w.r.t ellipse:
𝑌
𝑖 𝐸 𝑃 >=<0
Outside 𝑆1 > 0

𝑃 lies On 𝑆1 = 0 𝑋
−𝑎, 0 𝐹2 𝑂 𝐹1 𝑎, 0
Inside 𝑆1 < 0

𝑖𝑖 . 𝑃𝐹1 + 𝑃𝐹2 > = < 2𝑎

Outside 𝑃𝐹1 + 𝑃𝐹2 > 2𝑎

𝑃 lies On 𝑃𝐹1 + 𝑃𝐹2 = 2𝑎

Inside 𝑃𝐹1 + 𝑃𝐹2 < 2𝑎

If 𝑃 1,2 , 𝑄 2,1 are 2 points , then find position of 𝑃 & 𝑄
𝑥2 𝑦2
w.r.t curves E: + = 1 & 𝑆: 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 9
9 4

For 𝑃 1, 2
12 22 1
𝐸: + −1= >0
9 4 9

S: 12 + 22 − 9 = −4 < 0

𝑃 1, 2 lies outside the ellipse but inside the circle

For Q 2, 1
22 12 25 11
𝐸: + −1= −1=− <0
9 4 36 36

S: 22 + 12 − 9 = −4 < 0

Q 2, 1 lies inside the ellipse as well as the circle

 Line and ellipse

Solving equation of line with ellipse

𝑥2 𝑦2
Ellipse : 2 + =1 Line: 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐
𝑎 𝑏2

𝑥 2 𝑏2 + 𝑎2 𝑚2 + 2𝑐𝑚𝑎2 𝑥 + 𝑎2 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 = 0 Let the determinant of

the quadratic be 𝐷

𝐷>0 𝐷=0 𝐷<0

𝑎𝑚2 + 𝑏 2 < 𝑐 2
𝑎𝑚2 + 𝑏 2 > 𝑐 2 𝑎𝑚2 + 𝑏 2 = 𝑐 2
Neither chord
Chord Tangent nor tangent
 Condition of tangency

𝑥2 𝑦2
Ellipse : 2 + = 1 Line: 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐
𝑎 𝑏2

⇒ 𝑐 2 = 𝑎 2 𝑚2 + 𝑏 2
𝑥2 𝑦2
𝑎 2 + 𝑏2
=1
𝑐 = ± 𝑎 2 𝑚2 + 𝑏 2

Condition of tangency
 Key Takeaways

Equations of Tangent

𝑌
Slope Form :
𝑃 𝑥1, 𝑦1
𝑥2 𝑦2
The line 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐 touches the ellipse + = 1.
𝑎2 𝑏2
If 𝑎2 𝑚2 + 𝑏 2 = 𝑐 2 𝑋
𝑂
⇒ 𝑐 = ± 𝑎 2 𝑚2 + 𝑏 2
𝑆=0
So, equation of tangent to an ellipse 𝑆 = 0 having slope ′𝑚′ is

𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 ± 𝑎2 𝑚2 + 𝑏 2

𝑥−𝑥0 2 𝑦−𝑦0 2
Equation of tangent having slope ′𝑚′ for ellipse + = 1 is:
𝑎2 𝑏2

𝑦 − 𝑦0 = 𝑚 𝑥 − 𝑥0 ± 𝑎2 𝑚2 + 𝑏 2
 Equation of tangent to an ellipse:

• Point form: If point 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 lies on

𝑥2
𝑎 2 +
𝑦2
𝑏2
= 1, then tangent Equation is 𝑇 = 0
𝑥𝑥1 𝑦𝑦1
Equation of tangent + =1
𝑎2 𝑏2

𝑥2 𝑦2
• Parametric form: Equation of tangent on Ellipse
𝑎 2 + 𝑏2
= 1 at point
𝑥 cos 𝜃 𝑦 sin 𝜃
𝑃 𝑎 cos 𝜃 , 𝑏 sin 𝜃 is + =1
𝑎 𝑏

• Point of contact: Equation of tangent to the Ellipse 𝑎𝑥 2

2 +
𝑦2
𝑏2
= 1 is 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 ±
𝑎2 𝑚2 + 𝑏 2 , then the point of contact is
𝑎2 𝑚 𝑏2
𝑃≡ − ,
± 𝑎 2 𝑚2 + 𝑏 2 ± 𝑎 2 𝑚2 + 𝑏 2
Let 𝐿 be a tangent line to the parabola 𝑦 2 = 4𝑥 − 20 at 6, 2 .
𝑥2 𝑦2
If 𝐿 is also a tangent to the ellipse + = 1, then the value
2 𝑏
of 𝑏 is equal to:
JEE MAIN 2021
Parabola Equation is: 𝑦 2 = 4𝑥 − 20

Tangent at 𝑃 6, 2 will be
A
𝑥+6 20
2𝑦 = 4 − 20
2

⇒ 2𝑦 = 2𝑥 + 12 − 20 B
14
⇒ 𝑥 − 𝑦 − 4 = 0⋯ 𝑖

This is also tangent to ellipse C

16
𝑥2 𝑦2
+ =1
2 𝑏
D
Applying 𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 𝑚2 + 𝑏 2 11
2
−4 = 2 1 + 𝑏 ⇒ 𝑏 = 14
 Key Takeaways

Director Circle
The locus of the points of intersection of perpendicular tangents 𝑌
𝑥2 𝑦2
𝑃
to an ellipse + = 1 is a concentric circle called director circle.
𝑎2 𝑏2

Its equation is given by 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 .

𝑋
𝑇1 𝑇2
𝑆=0
 Equation of Normal

Point Form:
𝑌
The equation of normal at 𝑃 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 on the ellipse 𝑆 = 0 is given by 𝑁
𝑥1 , 𝑦1
𝑎2 𝑥 𝑏 2 𝑦 𝑃
− = 𝑎2 − 𝑏 2
𝑥1 𝑦1
𝑋
𝑂
𝑇
𝑆=0
 Equation of Normal

Parametric Form: 𝑌
𝑁
The equation of normal at 𝑃 𝜃 on the ellipse 𝑆 = 0
𝑎 cos 𝜃 , 𝑏 sin 𝜃
𝑎2 𝑥 𝑏 2 𝑦 𝑃
2 2
𝑎 𝑥 𝑏 𝑦 − = 𝑎2 − 𝑏 2
⇒ − = 𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 𝑥1 𝑦1
𝑎 cos 𝜃 𝑏 sin 𝜃 𝑋
𝑂
𝑎𝑥 𝑏𝑦 𝑇
⇒ − = 𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 𝑒 2
cos 𝜃 sin 𝜃
𝑆=0

where 𝑃 𝜃 ≡ 𝑎 cos 𝜃 , 𝑏 sin 𝜃

 The tangent and normal to the ellipse 3𝑥 2 + 5𝑦 2 = 32 at the point
𝑃 2, 2 meet the 𝑥-axis at 𝑄 and 𝑅, respectively. Then the area (in
sq. units) of the triangle 𝑃𝑄𝑅 is:
JEE Main 2019
Solution:
Given, Equation of ellipse ⇒ 3𝑥 2 + 5𝑦 2 = 32

Differentiating both sides 6𝑥 + 10𝑦𝑦 ′ = 0

−3𝑥
𝑦′ =
5𝑦

′ 3
𝑦(2,2) =−
5
3
Equation of tangent at (2,2) is, 𝑦 − 2 = − 𝑥 − 2
5
⇒ 3𝑥 + 5𝑦 = 16
5
Equation of normal at 2, 2 is, 𝑦 − 2 = 𝑥−2
3
⇒ 5𝑥 − 3𝑦 = 4
 The tangent and normal to the ellipse 3𝑥 2 + 5𝑦 2 = 32 at the point
𝑃 2, 2 meet the 𝑥-axis at 𝑄 and 𝑅, respectively. Then the area (in
sq. units) of the triangle 𝑃𝑄𝑅 is:
JEE Main 2019
Solution:
4
𝑅= ,0
5
A 34
15
2 2
16 4 68 68
𝑄𝑅 = − = = and height = 2
3 5 15 15
B 16
3

1 68
∴ Area = × 𝑄𝑅 × 2 = 𝑄𝑅 =
2 15 C 14
3

D 68
15
 If the normal to the ellipse 3𝑥 2 + 4𝑦 2 = 12 at a point 𝑃 on it is
parallel to the line, 2𝑥 + 𝑦 = 4 and the tangent to the ellipse at 𝑃
passes through 𝑄 4, 4 then 𝑃𝑄 is equal to
JEE Main 2019
Solution:
𝑥2 𝑦2
Equation of ellipse + =1
4 3

Let point which is normal to the ellipse be 𝑃 2 cos 𝜃 , 3 sin 𝜃

∴ Equation of normal: 2𝑥sec 𝜃 − 3𝑦 cosec 𝜃 = 1

Equation of normal parallel to the line, 2𝑥 + 𝑦 = 4

2sec 𝜃
∴ = −2
3 cosec 𝜃

⇒ tan 𝜃 = − 3 ⋯ 𝑖

Similarly, equation of tangent at point 𝑃:

𝑥 ⋅ 2cos 𝜃 𝑦 ⋅ 3sin 𝜃
+ =1
4 3
 If the normal to the ellipse 3𝑥 2 + 4𝑦 2 = 12 at a point 𝑃 on it is
parallel to the line, 2𝑥 + 𝑦 = 4 and the tangent to the ellipse at 𝑃
passes through 𝑄 4, 4 then 𝑃𝑄 is equal to
JEE Main 2019
Solution:
𝑥 ⋅ 2cos 𝜃 𝑦 ⋅ 3sin 𝜃
+ =1
4 3
A 5 5
Tangent passes through point 𝑄 4, 4 2

∴ 4 3 cos 𝜃 + 8 sin 𝜃 = 2 3 ⋯ 𝑖𝑖
B
Solving equation 𝑖 and 𝑖𝑖 ,

2𝜋
⇒𝜃= C
3
3
∴ 𝑃 −1, & 𝑄 4, 4
2
D
5 5
Hence 𝑃𝑄 = unit
2
 Key Takeaways

Chord of Contact

𝑌
If the pair of tangents drawn from an external point 𝑃 𝑥1 , 𝑦1
𝑃 𝑥1 , 𝑦1
𝑥2 𝑦2
to the ellipse 𝑆: 2 + 2 = 1, touch it at the points 𝐴 & 𝐵, 𝐵
𝑎 𝑏
then 𝐴𝐵 is called chord of contact. 𝐴
𝑋
𝑂
Equation of chord of contact 𝐴𝐵 is 𝑇 = 0
𝑆=0
𝑥𝑥1 𝑦𝑦1
i.e. + 2 −1=0
𝑎2 𝑏
 Chord with Given Middle Point:
𝑌
𝑥2 𝑦2
The equation of chord of ellipse 𝑆: + − 1 = 0,
𝑎2 𝑏2

whose mid point is 𝑃 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 is 𝑇 = 𝑆1 ,

𝑃 𝑥1 , 𝑦1
𝑥𝑥1 𝑦𝑦1 𝑥1 2 𝑦1 2
i.e. 2 + 2 − 1 = 2 + 2 − 1 𝑋
𝑎 𝑏 𝑎 𝑏 𝑂
𝑥𝑥1 𝑦𝑦1 𝑥1 2 𝑦1 2 𝑆=0
OR 2 + 2 = 2 + 2
𝑎 𝑏 𝑎 𝑏

Pair of Tangents:

The equation of pair of tangents from a point 𝑃 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ellipse 𝑆 is:

𝑆𝑆1 = 𝑇 2
𝑥2 𝑦2 𝑥12 𝑦12
where 𝑆: 2 + − 1 = 0 𝑆1 : 2 + −1=0
𝑎 𝑏2 𝑎 𝑏2

𝑥𝑥1 𝑦𝑦1
𝑇: + −1=0
𝑎2 𝑏2
 Equation of Chord joining 𝑃 𝛼 & Q 𝛽 :

For an ellipse:
𝑃 𝛼
The equation of chord joining 𝑃 𝛼 & 𝑄 𝛽 is given by:
𝑄 𝛽
𝑥 𝛼+𝛽 𝑦 𝛼+𝛽 𝛼−𝛽
𝑃𝑄: cos + sin = cos
𝑎 2 𝑏 2 2

Point of Intersection of Tangents at 𝑃 𝛼 & Q 𝛽 :

𝑌
𝑃(𝛼)
⇒ Coordinates of 𝑅 is given by:
𝑅
𝛼+𝛽 𝛼+𝛽
𝑎 cos 𝑏 sin
2
𝛼−𝛽 , 𝛼−𝛽
2 𝑋
cos 2
cos 2
𝑄(𝛽)
 𝑥2 𝑦2
The locus of the middle points of chords of the ellipse + =1
16 25
passing through 𝑄 0, 5 is an ellipse, whose centre is ________.

Solution:
𝑌
𝑥2 𝑦2
Given: Ellipse: 𝑆 ≡ + −1=0
16 25
𝑄 0,5
Let 𝑃 ℎ, 𝑘 be the mid point of a chord.
Locus of mid points
Equation of chord is 𝑇 = 𝑆1 𝑃 𝑃
𝑥ℎ 𝑦𝑘 ℎ2 𝑘2
⇒ + −1= + −1 𝑃 𝑃
16 25 16 25
𝑋
Passing through 𝑄 0, 5

5𝑘 ℎ2 𝑘2
∴ = +
25 16 25

⇒ locus of 𝑃 ℎ, 𝑘 is

𝑦 𝑥2 𝑦2
= +
5 16 25
 𝑥2 𝑦2
The locus of the middle points of chords of the ellipse + =1
16 25
passing through 𝑄 0, 5 is an ellipse, whose centre is ________.

Solution:

⇒ 25𝑥2 + 16𝑦2 − 80𝑦 = 0

25
⇒ 25𝑥2 + 16 𝑦 2 − 5𝑦 + = 100
4
5 2
𝑥2 𝑦−
2
⇒ + 25 =1
4
4

5
Ellipse with centre 0,
2
 𝑥2 𝑦2
If tangents to the parabola 𝑦 2 = 4𝑎𝑥 intersect the ellipse + =1
𝑎2 𝑏2
at 𝐴 and 𝐵, then find the locus of point of intersection of tangents at
𝐴 and 𝐵.
Solution: 𝑌
Let the point of intersection of tangents be 𝑃 𝑥1 , 𝑦1
𝑃 𝑥1 , 𝑦1
𝐵
The equation of chord of contact 𝐴𝐵: 𝑇 = 0,
ℎ𝑥 𝑘𝑦 𝐴
i.e. 2 + 2 − 1 = 0 𝑎, 0
𝑎 𝑏 𝑋
𝑂
𝑏2ℎ 𝑏2
⇒𝑦=− 2 𝑥+
𝑎 𝑘 𝑘

Since, it is tangent to the parabola

𝑏2 𝑎 𝑏4ℎ
= ⇒− 2 2=𝑎
𝑘 𝑏2ℎ 𝑎 𝑘
− 2
𝑎 𝑘
𝑏4
Thus locus is : 𝑦 = − 3 𝑥
2
𝑎
 Properties Of Ellipse

𝑁 𝑌
Locus of feet of perpendicular from foci
𝑃
upon any tangent is an auxiliary circle.

𝐴 𝑂 𝐹 𝑎𝑒, 0 𝑋
𝐴′
𝑇

𝑆=0
 Properties Of Ellipse

Product of the lengths of perpendiculars from foci upon any tangent of an ellipse is equal to the
square of the semi minor axis.

𝑁 𝑌
𝑑1 . 𝑑2 = 𝑏 2
𝑃 𝑑1
𝑁′
𝑑2

𝐹2 𝑂 𝐹1 𝑋
𝑇
 Properties Of Ellipse

The portion of the tangent to an ellipse between the point of contact and the
directrix subtends a right angle at the corresponding focus.

𝑇 ∠𝑃𝐹𝑄 = 90°

𝑄
𝑋
𝑂 𝐹 𝑎𝑒, 0

𝑆=0 𝑎
𝑥=
𝑒
 Key Takeaways

Hyperbola
Hyperbola is the locus of a moving point such that the ratio of its distance from a fixed point
(focus) and a fixed line (directrix) is a constant which is always greater than 1 𝑒 > 1 .
Let the fixed point be 𝐹 (focus) and the fixed line (directrix) be 𝐿: 𝑙𝑥 + 𝑚𝑦 + 𝑛 = 0.

𝑀1

𝑀6 𝑃1
𝑃6

𝑀2 𝑃2

𝑀3 𝑃3
𝑃7 𝑀7 𝐹
𝑀8 𝑃4

𝑃8 𝑀5
𝑃5
𝑀10
𝐿: 𝑙𝑥 + 𝑚𝑦 + 𝑛 = 0
 Key Takeaways

Hyperbola

𝐷2 𝐷1
For a hyperbola, there are two foci
(𝐹1 and 𝐹2 ) and two directrices
(𝐷1 and 𝐷2 ) and 𝐶 is the centre.

𝐹2 𝐶 𝐹1
 Find the equation of the hyperbola whose focus is 1,2 ,
directrix is 2𝑥 + 𝑦 − 1 = 0 and eccentricity is 3.

Solution:
Given : Focus, 𝐹 ≡ 1,2 , 𝑒 = 3 & Directrix: 𝐿 ≡ 2𝑥 + 𝑦 − 1 = 0
Let 𝑃(ℎ, 𝑘) be a moving point. 𝑃 ℎ, 𝑘
𝑃𝐹
= 𝑒 ⇒ 𝑃𝐹 = 𝑒 ⋅ 𝑃𝑀 𝑀
𝑃𝑀 𝐹 1,2
2 2 |2ℎ+𝑘−1|
⇒ ℎ−1 + 𝑘−2 = 3⋅
5

⇒ 5 ℎ2 − 2ℎ + 1 + 𝑘2 − 4𝑘 + 4 = 3 4ℎ2 + 𝑘2 + 1 + 4ℎ𝑘 − 2𝑘 − 4ℎ 2𝑥 + 𝑦 − 1 = 0
⇒ 7ℎ2 + 12ℎ𝑘 − 2𝑘2 − 2ℎ + 14𝑘 − 22 = 0
Replace ℎ → 𝑥 and 𝑘 → 𝑦
⇒ 7𝑥2 + 12𝑥𝑦 − 2𝑦2 − 2𝑥 + 14𝑦 − 22 = 0

∆≠ 0, ℎ2 > 𝑎𝑏
Horizontal vs Vertical hyperbola:

𝒙𝟐 𝒚𝟐 𝒚𝟐 𝒙𝟐
Equation of hyperbola 𝒂 𝟐 − 𝒃𝟐
=𝟏
𝒃 𝟐 − 𝒂𝟐
=𝟏
𝑌 𝑌
𝐹1 0, 𝑏𝑒

𝑏
𝑦=
Figure 𝑋
𝑒
𝑋
𝐹2 −𝑎𝑒, 0 𝐹1 𝑎𝑒, 0 𝑦=
𝑏
−𝑒

𝑎 𝑎 𝐹2 0, −𝑏𝑒
𝑥 = −𝑒 𝑥= 𝑒

Centre 0, 0 0, 0

Vertices ±𝑎, 0 0, ±𝑏
Equation of transverse 𝑦=0 𝑥=0
axis
Equation of conjugate 𝑥=0 𝑦=0
axis
Horizontal vs Vertical hyperbola:

𝒙𝟐 𝒚𝟐 𝒚𝟐 𝒙𝟐
Equation of hyperbola 𝟐 − =𝟏 𝟐 − =𝟏
𝒂 𝒃𝟐 𝒃 𝒂𝟐

𝒃𝟐 𝒂𝟐
Eccentricity 𝒆= 𝟏+ 𝒆= 𝟏+
𝒂𝟐 𝒃𝟐
𝑎 𝑏
Equation of directrix 𝑥=±
𝑒
𝑦=±
𝑒

Coordinates of foci ±𝑎𝑒, 0 0, ±𝑏𝑒

2𝑏2 2𝑎2
Length of LR
𝑎 𝑏

Sum of focal distances

at any point 𝑃 on 𝐹1 𝑃 − 𝐹2 𝑃 = 2𝑎 𝐹1 𝑃 − 𝐹2 𝑃 = 2𝑏
hyperbola

𝑦2 𝑥2 𝑥2 𝑦2
Note: 2 − = 1 is said to be conjugate hyperbola for 2 − =1
𝑏 𝑎2 𝑎 𝑏2
 𝑦2 𝑥2
For the given hyperbola − = 1. Find
16 25
𝑎) Centre and Vertices
𝑏) Equation of Major and Minor axes
𝑐) Eccentricity and coordinates of Foci
𝑑) Equation of directrix
𝑒) Length of LR

𝑥2 𝑦2
2 − = −1 (Vertical hyperbola) 𝑎 = 5, 𝑏 = 4
5 42

𝑎) Center is 0, 0

Vertices≡ 0, ±𝑏 = 0,4 & 0, −4

𝑏) Equation of major axis is 𝑥 = 0 &

Equation of minor axis is 𝑦 = 0
25 41
𝑐) Eccentricity = 1+ =
16 4
41
Foci≡ 0, ±𝑏𝑒 = 0, ±4 × = 0, 41 & 0, − 41
4
 𝑦2 𝑥2
For the given hyperbola − = 1. Find
16 25
𝑎) Centre and Vertices
𝑏) Equation of Major and Minor axes
𝑐) Eccentricity and coordinates of Foci
𝑑) Equation of directrix
𝑒) Length of LR

𝑥2 𝑦2
2 − = −1 (Vertical hyperbola) 𝑎 = 5, 𝑏 = 4
5 42

𝑑) Equation of Directrix is
𝑏 16
𝑦=± ⇒𝑦=±
𝑒 41

𝑒) Length of LR is

2𝑎2 50 25
= =
𝑏 4 2
 Terms related to Hyperbola:

Focal Distance: 𝑌
The distance between the focus to any 𝑃 𝑀2 𝐵
𝑀1
point on the hyperbola is called focal
distance or focal radii. −𝑎𝑒, 0 𝑎𝑒, 0
𝑋
Result : 𝐹2 𝐴′ 𝑍2 𝑂 𝑍1 𝐴 𝐹1
−𝑎, 0 𝑎, 0
The difference of the focal distances of
𝑎 𝑎
any point on the hyperbola is equal to the 𝑥=− 𝐵′ 𝑥 =
length of the transverse axis. 𝑒 𝑒
𝐷2 𝐷1
i.e if 𝑃 ≡ 𝑥, 𝑦 be any point on the hyperbola then
𝑃𝐹1 − 𝑃𝐹2 = 2𝑎

Alternative definition of Hyperbola:

Hyperbola is the set of all points in a plane, the difference of whose
distances from two fixed points (foci) in the plane is a constant 2𝑎 .
 Key Takeaways

Auxiliary Circle
The circle described on the transverse axis as diameter is 𝑌

called the Auxiliary Circle of the given hyperbola.

𝐴′ 𝐴 𝑋
𝑥2 𝑦2
For − = 1, 𝐹2 𝑂 𝐹1
𝑎2 𝑏2

Equation of auxiliary circle: 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 𝑎2

𝑌

𝑥2 𝑦2
For 2 − = −1, 𝐹2
𝑎 𝑏2
𝐴′
Equation of auxiliary circle: 𝑋
𝑂
𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 𝑏2 𝐴
𝐹1
Parametric Form:

For Hyperbola :
𝑥2 𝑦2
𝑎 2 − 𝑏2
=1

The parametric Co-ordinates are:

𝑥 = 𝑎 sec 𝜃 , 𝑦 = 𝑏 tan 𝜃
Parametric Equations: 𝑌

The general equation of Hyperbola is:

𝑥2 𝑦2
𝑎 2 − 𝑏2
= −1 𝐵
𝑏
𝑋
The parametric Equation of hyperbola is given by: 𝑂
𝑥 = 𝑎 tan 𝜃 , 𝑦 = 𝑏 sec 𝜃 𝐵′
Position of a Point w.r.t. Hyperbola:
𝑥2 𝑦2
Let 𝑃 ≡ 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 be any point in the plane of the hyperbola: 2 − =1
𝑎 𝑏2

𝑥2 𝑦2 𝑥12 𝑦12 𝑥𝑥1 𝑦𝑦1

𝑆 ∶ 2− 2−1 𝑆1 ∶ 2 − 2 − 1 𝑇 ∶ − 2 −1
𝑎 𝑏 𝑎 𝑏 𝑎2 𝑏

𝑌 If 𝑆1 > 0, then the point lies inside the

hyperbola.
Exterior
Interior If 𝑆1 = 0, then the point lies on the
Interior 𝑆1 < 0
𝑆1 > 0 hyperbola.
𝑆1 > 0
𝑋 If 𝑆1 < 0, then the point lies outside the
𝐹2 𝐴′ 𝑂 𝐴 𝐹1
hyperbola.
On 𝑆1 = 0
 Key Takeaways

Asymptotes

If the distance between hyperbola and a line 𝑌

tends to zero when a one or both of 𝑥 and
𝑦 coordinates approach to infinity, then that
line is called ‘Asymptote’ to the hyperbola.
𝑋
Asymptote is tangent to hyperbola at infinity.
 Important points
𝑏
• Equation of two asymptotes 𝑦 = ± 𝑎 𝑥 → 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 𝑉:
𝑦2
𝑏 2 −
𝑥2
𝑎2
=1 𝑦= 𝑥
𝑏
𝑎
• Centre of hyperbola is point of intersection 𝑌
asymptotes. Centre is obtained by partial
differentiation.
𝑦2 𝑥2 𝛽2
• Conjugate hyperbola: 𝛼 2 − 𝛽2
= 1; 𝑒 2 = 1 +
𝛼2
𝐵1

• Hyperbola: 𝑥 2 𝑦2
= 1; 𝑒12 = 1 +
𝑏2 𝐴2 𝑂 𝐴1
𝑋
𝑎 2 − 𝑏2 𝑎2
𝐵2 −𝑏
𝑦= 𝑥
𝑦2 𝑥2 𝑎2 𝑎
Conjugate hyperbola: − = 1; 𝑒22 =1+
𝑏2 𝑎2 𝑏2
𝑥2 𝑦2
𝐻: 2 − =1
1 1 𝑎2 𝑏2 𝑎 𝑏2
+ = + =1
𝑒12 𝑒22 𝑎2 +𝑏2 𝑎2 +𝑏2

𝑒1−2 + 𝑒2−2 = 1
 Horizontal and vertical hyperbola having same 𝑎 & 𝑏

• CA and TA of one will be TA and CA of another

𝑌
𝑉:
𝑦2
𝑏 2 −
𝑥2
𝑎2
=1
such hyperbolas are conjugate hyperbola to
each other if 𝑎 and 𝑏 are same for both.
𝑥2 𝑦2
• For hyperbola
𝑎 2 −𝑏2
= 1, the conjugate 𝐵1
𝑦2 𝑥2
hyperbola will be − =1
𝑏2 𝑎2 𝑋
𝐴2 𝑂 𝐴1
• Both hyperbola will share same 𝐵2
asymptote.
𝑥2 𝑦2
𝐻: 2 − =1
𝑎 𝑏2
 Important points
𝑥2 𝑦2
• For hyperbola
𝑎 2 − 𝑏2
= 1, the conjugate
𝑌
𝑉:
𝑦2
𝑏 2 −
𝑥2
𝑎2
=1
𝑦2 𝑥2 𝑥2 𝑦2
hyperbola will be − =1⇒ − = −1
𝑏2 𝑎2 𝑎2 𝑏2
𝑥2 𝑦2
• Combined equation of asymptotes 𝑎 2 − 𝑏2
= 0.
𝐵1
𝑏
𝑦 = ± 𝑥 (Equation of two asymptotes)
𝑎
𝑋
• Hyperbola, conjugate hyperbola and asymptotes 𝐴2 𝑂 𝐴1
all three conics have same variable part and 𝐵2
constant part differ in a particular style.
Hyperbola constant+Conjugate Hyperbola constant
• Constant of asymptotes= 2 𝐻:
𝑥2
𝑎 2 −
𝑦2
𝑏2
=1
• Equation of:
➢ Hyperbola: 𝐻 = 0
➢ Asymptotes: 𝐻 + 𝜆 = 0; 𝜆 → ∆= 0
➢ Conjugate hyperbola: 𝐻 + 2𝜆 = 0
 Prove that angle between asymptotes of hyperbola
𝑥2 𝑦2
− = 1 is 2 sec −1 𝑒
𝑎2 𝑏2
𝑏
Given equation of hyperbola: 𝑦= 𝑥
𝑎
𝑥2 𝑦2 𝑌
− =1
𝑎2 𝑏2
𝑏
Equation of asymptotes: 𝑦 = ± 𝑥
𝑎
b2
Now, e2 = 1 + = 1 + tan2 𝜃 = sec 2 𝜃 𝜃
a2
𝑋
−1 𝑂 𝜃
⇒ 𝜃 = sec 𝑒
−𝑏
𝑦= 𝑥
𝑎
Now, the angle between the asymptotes is
2𝜃 = 2 sec −1 𝑒.
 Key Takeaways

Position of a line w.r.t. a Hyperbola

𝑥2 𝑦2
Consider a line 𝐿: 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐 and a hyperbola: 2 − =1 𝑌
𝑎 𝑏2

Solving line and hyperbola we get:

𝑋
𝑥 2 (𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐)2 𝐹2 𝐴′ 𝑂 𝐴 𝐹1
− =1
𝑎2 𝑏2

𝑏 2 − 𝑎2 𝑚2 𝑥 2 − 2𝑎2 𝑐𝑚𝑥 − 𝑎2 𝑐 2 + 𝑎2 𝑏2 = 0 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐

Discriminant of the above equation is:

𝐷 = 4𝑎2 𝑏2 𝑐 2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑎2 𝑚2
 Key Takeaways

Position of a line w.r.t. a Hyperbola

𝑌
𝐷 = 4𝑎2 𝑏2 𝑐 2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑎2 𝑚2

Case 𝑖 : 𝐿 meets the hyperbola at two distinct points 𝑋

𝐹2 𝐴′ 𝑂 𝐴 𝐹1
If line 𝐿 meets the hyperbola at two distinct points,
then equation has two distinct real roots.
𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐

∴ 𝐷 > 0 or 𝑐 2 > 𝑎2 𝑚2 − 𝑏 2
 Key Takeaways

Position of a line w.r.t. a Hyperbola

𝑌
𝐷 = 4𝑎2 𝑏2 𝑐 2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑎2 𝑚2

Case 𝑖𝑖 : 𝐿 touches the hyperbola at one point 𝑋

𝐹2 𝐴′ 𝑂 𝐴 𝐹1
If line 𝐿 touches the hyperbola at one point,
then equation has two equal roots. 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐

∴ 𝐷 = 0 or 𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 𝑚2 − 𝑏 2

Hence, equation of the line: 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 ± 𝑎2 𝑚2 − 𝑏 2

 Key Takeaways

Position of a line w.r.t. a Hyperbola

𝑌
𝐷 = 4𝑎2 𝑏2 𝑐 2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑎2 𝑚2

Case 𝑖𝑖𝑖 : 𝐿 doesn’t meet the hyperbola 𝑋

𝐹2 𝐴′ 𝑂 𝐴 𝐹1
If line 𝐿 doesn’t meet the hyperbola,
then equation has imaginary roots.
𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑐

∴ 𝐷 < 0 or 𝑐 2 < 𝑎2 𝑚2 − 𝑏 2
Equations of tangent to Hyperbola:
𝑥2 𝑦2
Consider a hyperbola ∶ 2 − =1
𝑎 𝑏2

Various forms of equations of tangents to the hyperbola are:

Parametric Form:
𝑥 sec 𝜃 𝑦 tan 𝜃
− =1
𝑎 𝑏

Slope Form:
𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 ± 𝑎2 𝑚2 − 𝑏 2
𝑏2
Tangents will exist only when 𝑎2 𝑚2 − 𝑏 2 > 0 ⇒ 𝑚2 >
𝑎2
𝑏
𝑚 >
𝑎

Point Form:
𝑥𝑥1 𝑦𝑦1
− =1
𝑎2 𝑏2
 𝑥2 𝑦2
Find the equation of tangent to hyperbola − =1
36 9

passing through 0,4 .

𝑥2 𝑦2 𝑌 𝑇1
Solution: − =1
36 9
02 42
Putting 0,4 − <0
36 9
∴ 0,4 lies outside the hyperbola
0,4
⇒ Two tangents. 𝑋
𝑆′ 𝐶 𝑆
Equation of tangent to hyperbola is

𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 ± 𝑎2 𝑚2 − 𝑏 2
𝑇2
⇒ 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 ± 36𝑚2 − 9
Tangent passes through 0,4

⇒ 4 = ± 36𝑚2 − 9
5
⇒ 16 = 36𝑚2 − 9 ⇒ 𝑚 = ± 6
∴ Equation of tangent is 𝑦−4 =± 𝑥
5
6
 Find the equation of the common tangents to hyperbolas
𝑥2 𝑦2 𝑥2 𝑦2
− = 1 and − = −1
𝑎2 𝑏2 𝑏2 𝑎2

Solution: 𝑥2 𝑦2 𝑥2 𝑦2
𝑏 2 − 𝑎2
= −1 ⇒
(−𝑏2 )
−
(−𝑎2 )
=1 𝑐=± −𝑏 2 𝑚2 − −𝑎2 ⋯ 𝑖

𝑥2 𝑦2
𝑎 2 − 𝑏2
=1 𝑐 = ± 𝑎2 𝑚2 − 𝑏 2 ⋯ 𝑖𝑖

Since, both lines represent the same

line equation hence, 𝑖 = 𝑖𝑖

Squaring and equating 𝑖 and 𝑖𝑖

𝑎2 𝑚2 − 𝑏 2 = −𝑏 2 𝑚2 + 𝑎2
 Find the equation of the common tangents to hyperbolas
𝑥2 𝑦2 𝑥2 𝑦2
− = 1 and − = −1
𝑎2 𝑏2 𝑏2 𝑎2

Solution: 𝑎2 𝑚2 − 𝑏 2 = −𝑏 2 𝑚2 + 𝑎2

⇒ 𝑎 2 𝑚2 − 1 + 𝑏 2 𝑚2 − 1 = 0

⇒ 𝑚2 = 1 ⇒ 𝑚 = ±1

Equation of common tangent:

𝑦 = 𝑥 + 𝑎2 − 𝑏 2
𝑦 = 𝑥 ± 𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 𝑦 = 𝑥 − 𝑎2 − 𝑏 2

𝑦 = −𝑥 + 𝑎2 − 𝑏 2
𝑦 = −𝑥 ± 𝑎2 − 𝑏 2
𝑦 = −𝑥 − 𝑎2 − 𝑏 2
 Chord Joining Two Points:

𝑄′
𝑥2 𝑦2
For a hyperbola − =1:
𝑎2 𝑏2
𝑃 𝑃′
Let 𝑃 𝜃1 , 𝑄 𝜃2 be two points on the hyperbola
ℎ, 𝑘
Chord of Contact of these points is given by:
𝐴′ 𝑂 𝐴
𝑥 𝜃1 −𝜃2 𝑦 𝜃1 +𝜃2 𝜃1 +𝜃2
cos − sin = cos
𝑎 2 𝑏 2 2
𝑄
The point of intersection of
𝜃 −𝜃 𝜃 +𝜃
𝑎 cos 1 2 𝑏 sin 1 2
tangents at 𝑃 & 𝑄 is ℎ, 𝑘 = 2
𝜃1 +𝜃2 , 2
𝜃1 +𝜃2
cos cos
2 2
 𝑌

Chord with given midpoint 𝐴

The equation of a chord of the

𝑥2 𝑦2 𝑃 𝑥1 , 𝑦1
hyperbola 𝑆: 2 − = 0 whose mid point
𝑎 𝑏2
𝑋
is 𝑃 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 is 𝑇 = 𝑆1
𝐵
𝑥𝑥1 𝑦𝑦1
where 𝑇 ≡ − −1
𝑎2 𝑏2
𝑥1 ⋅𝑥1 𝑦1 ⋅𝑦1
& 𝑆1 ≡ − −1
𝑎2 𝑏2

𝑥12 𝑦12
Or 𝑆1 ≡ 2 − −1
𝑎 𝑏2
Pair of Tangents
𝑌

The equation to the pair of tangents which can be drawn 𝑃 𝑥1 , 𝑦1

from any point (𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) to the hyperbola is
𝑋
𝑆𝑆1 = 𝑇2

𝑥𝑥1 𝑦𝑦1
where 𝑇 ≡ − −1
𝑎2 𝑏2

𝑥12 𝑦12
& 𝑆1 ≡ 2 − −1
𝑎 𝑏2
 Key Takeaways

Rectangular hyperbola: 𝑥𝑦 = 𝑐 2

When the centre of any rectangular hyperbola is at the origin and its
asymptotes coincide with the co-ordinate axes, its equation is 𝑥𝑦 = 𝑐 2 .

𝑋
𝑂
 Key Takeaways

Proof: 𝑥+𝑦 =0 𝑌 𝑥−𝑦 =0

The equation of a rectangular hyperbola is

𝑥 2 − 𝑦 2 = 𝑎2 and its asymptotes are 𝑥 − 𝑦 = 0
and 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 0. 135°
45°

The asymptotes are inclined at 45° and 135° 𝑋

respectively with the 𝑥 − axis.
 Key Takeaways

𝑥+𝑦 =0 𝑌 𝑥−𝑦 =0

Let the axes be rotated by 𝜃 = −45° without changing

the origin.
 Key Takeaways

𝑥+𝑦 =0 𝑌 𝑥−𝑦 =0 𝑥+𝑦 =0 𝑌 𝑥−𝑦 =0 45°

𝑋 𝑋

Let the axes be rotated by 𝜃 = −45° without changing the origin.

 Key Takeaways

𝑥+𝑦 =0 𝑥−𝑦 =0

𝑋 = 𝑥 cos −45° + 𝑦 sin −45° 𝑋′

𝑌 = −𝑥 sin −45° + 𝑦 cos −45°

𝑥−𝑦 𝑥+𝑦
⇒ 𝑋, 𝑌 ≡ ,
2 2
 Key Takeaways

𝑥−𝑦 𝑥+𝑦
⇒ 𝑋, 𝑌 ≡ ,
2 2

∴ Equation 𝑥 2 − 𝑦 2 = 𝑎2 reduces to

⇒ 𝑥 − 𝑦 × 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 𝑎2
𝑋′
𝑥−𝑦 𝑥+𝑦 𝑎2
⇒ × =
2 2 2
𝑎2
⇒ 𝑋𝑌 =
2

⇒ 𝑋𝑌 = 𝑐 2
 Rectangular hyperbola:

Equation of hyperbola 𝒙𝒚 = 𝒄𝟐 𝑌
𝑦=𝑥
Centre 0, 0
𝐹1
Vertices 𝑐 , 𝑐 & (−𝑐, −𝑐)
𝐴
Equation of transverse 𝑦=𝑥
axis 𝑂 𝑋
Equation of conjugate 𝑦 = −𝑥
axis

Eccentricity 𝒆= 𝟐

Equation of directrix 𝑥 + 𝑦 = ± 2𝑐

Coordinates of foci 2𝑐 , 2𝑐 & − 2𝑐 , − 2𝑐

Length of LR 2 2𝑐
 Rectangular hyperbola:

𝑌
Equation of hyperbola 𝒙𝒚 = 𝒄𝟐 𝑦=𝑥
𝑐 𝐹1
Parametric coordinates 𝑐𝑡,
𝑡

At (𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) : 𝑥𝑦1 + 𝑦𝑥1 = 2𝑐 2 𝐴

Equation of Tangent 𝑐
At 𝑐𝑡 , : 𝑥 + 𝑦𝑡 2 = 2𝑐𝑡 𝑂 𝑋
𝑡

At (𝑥1 , 𝑦1 ) : 𝑥𝑥1 − 𝑦𝑦1 = 𝑥12 − 𝑦12

Equation of Normal
𝑐
At 𝑐𝑡 , : 𝑡𝑦 = 𝑡 3 𝑥 + 1 − 𝑡 4 𝑐
𝑡
 Prove that area formed by the tangent of 𝑥𝑦 = 𝑐 2 with respect to
coordinate axes is always constant.

𝑌
Solution:
𝑥 𝑦
E.O.T: + =2
𝑥1 𝑦1
𝑇
𝑥 −intercept = 2𝑥1 𝑅 𝑃 𝑥1 , 𝑦1
𝑦 −intercept = 2𝑦1
𝑂 𝑄 𝑋
1
Area of triangle = × 2𝑥1 × 2𝑦1
2

= 2𝑥1 𝑦1

= 2𝑐 2 ∵ 𝑥1 𝑦1 = 𝑐 2
 Properties of Hyperbola Properties of Ellipse

Difference of the focal distances is a Sum of the focal distances is a

constant i.e., 𝑃𝐹1 − 𝑃𝐹2 = 2𝑎 constant i.e., 𝑃𝐹1 + 𝑃𝐹2 = 2𝑎

Locus of feet of perpendiculars drawn Locus of feet of perpendiculars drawn

from the foci upon any tangent to a from the foci upon any tangent to a
hyperbola is auxiliary circle and the hyperbola is auxiliary circle and the
product of perpendicular is 𝑑1 𝑑2 = 𝑏 2 product of perpendicular is 𝑑1 𝑑2 = 𝑏 2
𝑌
𝑁 𝑌

𝑃
𝑁′ 𝑑1
𝑑2 𝑑2
𝑋
𝑆′ 𝑆 𝐹2 𝑂 𝐹1 𝑋
𝑇
𝑑1
 Properties of Hyperbola Properties of Ellipse
The portion of the tangent to a The portion of the tangent to an ellipse
hyperbola between the point of contact between the point of contact and the
and the directrix subtends a right angle directrix subtends a right angle at the
at the corresponding focus. corresponding focus.
𝑌
𝑌

𝑈 𝑉

𝑄 𝑃 𝑆 ′ (−𝑎𝑒, 0) 𝑆(𝑎𝑒, 0) 𝑋
𝑆 ′ (−𝑎𝑒, 0) 𝑆(𝑎𝑒, 0) 𝑋
𝑎 𝑎
𝑥=− 𝑥=
𝑒 𝑒
𝑎 𝑎
𝑥=− 𝑥=
𝑒 𝑒
 Properties of Hyperbola Properties of Ellipse

Only one normal passes through a For an ellipse only one normal passes
hyperbola which is the transverse axis, through the focus which is the “major
every else normal doesn’t passes axis”, else every other normal does not
through the focus passes through the focus.

𝑌
𝑌 𝑇2
𝑇1
𝑄 𝑄

𝑁1 𝑁2
𝑁1 𝑃
𝑆′ 𝑃 𝑆 𝑋 𝑂 𝐹 𝑎𝑒, 0 𝑋
𝑆=0
𝑇2 𝑁2

𝑇1
 Properties of Hyperbola Properties of Ellipse
If an incoming light ray passing
The incident ray from focus 𝑆 after
through one focus 𝑆 strike convex
reflection by ellipse at point 𝑃 passes
side of the hyperbola, then it will get
through other focus 𝑆 ′ .
reflected towards other focus 𝑆′
𝑌 𝑌
Reflected
𝑁
ray 𝑃(𝑥1 , 𝑦1 )
𝛼 Incident ray

𝛼
𝑁
𝑋 𝑂 𝑋
𝑆′ 𝑆 𝑆′(−𝑎𝑒, 0) 𝑆(𝑎𝑒, 0)
(−𝑎𝑒, 0) (𝑎𝑒, 0)