CONIC SECTION

CONIC SECTION

(ii) Section of a right circular cone by a plane parallel

1. CONIC SECTIONS
to its base is a circle as shown in the fig. 3.
A conic section, or conic is the locus of a point which
moves in a plane so that its distance from a fixed point is
in a constant ratio to its perpendicular distance from a
fixed straight line.
• The fixed point is called the Focus.
• The fixed straight line is called the Directrix.
• The constant ratio is called the Eccentricity
denoted by e.
• The line passing through the focus & perpendicular
to the directrix is called the Axis.
• A point of intersection of a conic with its axis is
(iii) Section of a right circular cone by a plane parallel
called a Vertex.
to a generator of the cone is a parabola as shown
2. SECTION OF RIGHT CIRCULAR CONE BY in the fig. 4.
DIFFERENT PLANES
A right circular cone is as shown in the fig. 1

(iv) Section of a right circular cone by a plane neither

parallel to any generator of the cone nor
perpendicular or parallel to the axis of the cone is
an ellipse or hyperbola as shown in the fig. 5 & 6.
(i) Section of a right circular cone by a plane passing
through its vertex is a pair of straight lines passing
through the vertex as shown in fig. 2

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CONIC SECTION

3 D View : PARABOLA
5. DEFINITION AND TERMINOLOGY
A parabola is the locus of a point, whose distance from a
fixed point (focus) is equal to perpendicular distance from
a fixed straight line (directrix).

3. GENERAL EQUATION OF A CONIC :

FOCAL DIRECTRIX PROPERTY

The general equation of a conic with focus (p, q) &

directrix lx + my + n = 0 is :
Four standard forms of the parabola are
(l² + m²)[(x – p)² + (y – q)²] = e²(lx + my + n)² { y² = 4ax ; y² = –4ax ; x² = 4ay ; x² = –4ay
ax² + 2hxy + by² + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 For parabola y² = 4ax :
(i) Vertex is (0, 0) (ii) Focus is (a, 0)
4. DISTINGUISHING VARIOUS CONICS (iii) Axis is y = 0 (iv) Directrix is x + a = 0
Focal Distance : The distance of a point on the parabola
The nature of the conic section depends upon the position
from the focus.
of the focus S w.r.t. the directrix & also upon the value of
Focal Chord : A chord of the parabola, which passes
the eccentricity e. Two different cases arise. through the focus.
Case (I) When The Focus Lies On The Directrix. Double Ordinate : A chord of the parabola perpendicular
to the axis of the symmetry.
In the case '{ abc + 2fgh – af 2 – bg2 – ch2 = 0 & the
Latus Rectum : A double ordinate passing through the
general equation of a conic represents a pair of straight focus or a focal chord perpendicular to the axis of parabola
lines if : is called the Latus Rectum (L.R.).
For y² = 4ax. Ÿ Length of the latus rectum = 4a
e > 1  { h2 > ab, the lines will be real and distinct
Ÿ ends of the latus rectum are
intersecting at S.
L(a, 2a) & L' (a, –2a).
e = 1 { h2 > ab, the lines will coincident.
e < 1 { h2 < ab, the lines will be imaginary.
Case (II) When The Focus Does Not Lie On Directrix.
a parabola : e = 1, ' z 0, h² = ab (i) Perpendicular distance from focus on directrix
= half the latus rectum
an ellipse : 0 < e < 1; 'z 0, h² < ab
(ii) Vertex is middle point of the focus & the point
a hyperbola : e > 1; 'z 0, h² > ab of intersection of directrix & axis.
rectangular hyperbola : e > 1 ; 'z 0, h² > ab; a + b = 0 (iii) Two parabolas are said to be equal if they have
the same latus rectum.

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CONIC SECTION

6. POSITION OF A POINT RELATIVE TO A PARABOLA 9. TANGENTS TO THE PARABOLA y² = 4ax

The point (x1 y1) lies outside, on or inside the parabola (i) y y1 = 2a (x + x1) at the point (x1, y1) ;
y2 = 4ax according as the expression y12 – 4ax1 is positive,
zero or negative. a § a 2a ·
(ii) y = mx + (m z 0) at ¨ 2 , ¸
m ©m m ¹
7. LINE & A PARABOLA
(iii) t y = x + at2 at point (at2, 2at).
The line y = mx + c meets the parabola y² = 4ax in :
• two real points if a > mc
• two coincident points if a = mc
• two imaginary points if a < mc
Ÿ condition of tangency is, c = a/m.
Length of the chord intercepted by the parabola on the Point of intersection of the tangents at the point t1 & t2
line y = mx + c is : is [at1 t2, a(t1 + t2)].

§ 4 · 2
¨ 2 ¸ a(1 + m )(a - mc) 10. NORMALS TO THE PARABOLA y2 = 4ax
©m ¹

–y 1
(i) y – y1= (x – x1) at (x1, y1)
2a
(ii) y = mx – 2am – am3 at point (am2, – 2am)
(iii) y + tx = 2at + at3 at point (at2, 2at).
Length of the focal chord making an angle D with
the x-axis is 4 a cosec2D.

8. PARAMETRIC REPRESENTATION
(i) Point of intersection of normals at t1 & t 2
The simplest & the best form of representing the
are, a (t12 + t22 + t1t2 + 2) ; – at1 t2 (t1 + t2)
co-ordinates of a point on the parabola is (at2, 2at) i.e.
the equations x = at2 & y = 2 at (ii) If the normals to the parabola y² = 4ax at the
point t1 meets the parabola again at the point
together represents the parabola y2 = 4ax, t being the
parameter. § 2·
t2 then t2 = – ¨¨ t1  ¸¸
The equation of a chord joining t1 & t2 is © t1 ¹
2x – (t1 + t2)y + 2 at1t2 = 0.
(iii) If the normals to the parabola y2 = 4ax at the
points t1 & t2 intersect again on the parabola at
the point 't3' then t1t2 = 2 ; t3 = –(t1 + t2) and the
line joining t1 & t2 passes through a fixed point
(–2a, 0).

If t1 and t2 are the ends of a focal chord of the parabola y2 11. PAIR OF TANGENTS
= 4ax then t1t2 = –1.
The equation to the pair of tangents which can be drawn
Hence the co-ordinates at the extremities of a focal chord from any point (x1 y1) to the parabola y2 = 4ax is given by:
§ a 2a · SS1 = T2 where :
can be taken as : (at2, 2at) & ¨ 2 , ¸
©t t ¹ S { y2 – 4ax ; S1 = y12 – 4ax1 ; T { y y1 – 2a(x + x1).

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CONIC SECTION

12. DIRECTOR CIRCLE b2

Eccentricity : e 1 , (0 < e < 1)
a2
Locus of the point of intersection of the perpendicular
tangents to a curve is called the director circle. For Foci : S { (a e, 0) & S' { (–a e, 0)
parabola y2 = 4ax it's equation is
a a
x + a = 0 which is parabola's own directrix. Equations of Directrices : x &x 
e e
13. CHORD OF CONTACT Major Axis : The line segment A'A in which the foci
S' & S lie is of length 2a & is called the major axis
Equation to the chord of contact of tangents drawn from (a > b) of the ellipse. Point of intersection of major axis
a point P(x1, y1) is yy1 = 2a (x + x1) ; (i.e., T = 0) with directrix is called the foot of the directrix (Z).
Minor Axis : The y-axis intersects the ellipse in the
points B' { (0, –b) and B { (0, b). The line segment
B'B of length 2b (b < a) is called the minor axis of
the ellipse.
Principal Axis : The major and minor axis together are
The area of the triangle formed by the tangents from
called principal axis of the ellipse.
the point (x1, y1) & the chord of contact is
Vertices : A' { (–a, 0) & A { (a, 0).
(y12 – 4ax1)3/2 ÷ 2a.
Focal Chord : A chord which passes through a focus is
called a focal chord.
14. CHORD WITH A GIVEN MIDDLE POINT
Double Ordinate : A chord perpendicular to the major
Equation of the chord of the parabola y2 = 4ax whose axis is called a double ordinate.
middle point is : (x1 y1) is : Latus Rectum : The focal chord perpendicular to the
major axis is called the latus rectum.
2a
y – y1 = y (x – x1) { T = S1. Length of latus rectum (LL’) :
1

2b 2 (minor axis)2
ELLIPSE = = 2a(1 – e2)
a major axis

15. STANDARD EQUATION AND DEFINITIONS = 2e (distance from focus to the corresponding directrix).
Centre :
Standard equation of an ellipse referred to its principal The point which bisects every chord of the conic drawn
axes along the co-ordinate axes is through it is called the centre of the conic. C { (0, 0)

x2 y2 x 2 y2
+ = 1 where a >b & b2 = a2 (1 – e2). the origin is the centre of the ellipse  1
a2 b2 a 2 b2

(i) If the equation of the ellipse is given as

x2 y2
 1 and nothing is mentioned then the
a 2 b2
rule is to assume that a > b.
(ii) If b > a is given, then the y-axis will become
major axis and x-axis will become the minor axis
and all other points and lines will change
accordingly.

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CONIC SECTION

16. AUXILIARY CIRCLE/ECCENTRIC ANGLE 18. POSITION OF A POINT W.R.T. AN ELLIPSE

A circle described on major axis as diameter is called The point p (x1, y1) lies outside, inside or on the ellipse
the auxiliary circle. Let Q be a point on the auxiliary
circle x2 + y2 = a2 such that QP produced is perpendicular according as ;
to the x-axis then P & Q are called as the Corresponding
Points on the ellipse and the auxiliary circle respectively. x 12 y12
 – 1 >0 (outside)
'T' is called the Eccentric Angle of the point P on the a2 b2
ellipse (–S < T d S).

x 12 y12
 – 1 < 0 (inside)
a2 b2

x 12 y12
 – 1 = 0 (on)
a2 b2

19. LINE AND AN ELLIPSE

x 2 y2
The line y = mx + c meets the ellipse  1 in
A( PN) b Semi major axis a 2 b2
A(QN) a Semi major axis
two points real, coincident or imaginary according as
c² is < = or > a2m2 + b2.

x 2 y2
Hence y = mx + c is tangent to the ellipse  1
a2 b2
If from each point of a circle perpendiculars are drawn
upon a fixed diameter then the locus of the points if c2 = a2m2 + b2.
dividing these perpendiculars in a given ratio is an
ellipse of which the given circle is the auxiliary circle. 20. TANGENTS
17. PARAMETRIC REPRESENTATION
(a) Slope form y = mx ± a2 m2 + b 2 is tangent to
The equation x = a cos T & y = b sin T together represent
the ellipse for all values of m.
x 2 y2
the ellipse  1
a 2 b2
xx1 yy 1
(b) Point form + = 1 is tangent to the ellipse
Where T is a parameter. Note that if a 2
b2
P(T) { (a cos T, b sin T) is on the ellipse then;
at (x1 y1).
Q (T) { (a cos T, a sin T) is on the auxiliary circle.
The equation to the chord of the ellipse joining two
xcosθ ysinθ
points with eccentric angles D and E is given by (c) Parametric for + = 1 is tangent to
a b
x α+β y α+β α-β .
cos + sin = cos the ellipse at the point (a cos T, b sin T).
a 2 b 2 2

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CONIC SECTION

23. DIAMETER (NOT IN SYLLABUS)

The locus of the middle points of a system of parallel

chords with slope 'm' of an ellipse is a straight line
(i) There are two tangents to the ellipse having the passing through the centre of the ellipse, called its
same m, i.e. there are two tangents parallel to
b2
any given direction. These tangents touches the diameter and has the equation y = – x
ellipse at extremities of a diameter. a2m
(ii) Point of intersection of the tangents at the point
D & E is :

§ D E DE ·
¨ cos sin ¸
¨a 2 ,b 2 ¸
¨ cos D  E cos D  E ¸ All diameters of ellipse passes through its centre.
¨ ¸
© 2 2 ¹

(iii) The eccentric angles of point of contact of two IMPORTANT HIGHLIGHTS

parallel tangents differ by S.
x 2 y2
Referring to the ellipse  2 1
a2
21. NORMALS
(a) If P be any point on the ellipse with S & S' as
(i) Equation of the normal at (x1 y1) is to foci then l(SP) + l(S'P) = 2a.
(b) The tangent & normal at a point P on the ellipse
a2 x b 2y
- = a2 – b2 = a2e2. bisect the external and internal angles between
x1 y1
the focal distances of P. This refers to the well
(ii) Equation of the normal at the point (acos T, bsin T) known reflection property of the ellipse which
is; states that rays from one focus are reflected
through other focus & vice-versa. Hence we
T – by cosecT
ax secT T = (a2 – b2).
can deduce that the straight lines joining each
(iii) Equation of a normal in terms of its slope 'm' is focus to the foot of the perpendicular from the
other focus upon the tangent at any point P meet
(a 2 - b 2 )m
y = mx - on the normal PG and bisects it where G is the
a2 + b2 m2 point where normal at P meets the major axis.

22. DIRECTOR CIRCLE (c) The product of the length's of the perpendicular
segments from the foci on any tangent to the
Locus of the point of intersection of the tangents which ellipse is b² and the feet of these perpendiculars
meet at right angles is called the Director Circle. The lie on its auxiliary circle and the tangents at
equation to this locus is x2 + y2 = a2 + b2 i.e. a circle these feet to the auxiliary circle meet on the
whose centre is the centre of the ellipse & whose radius ordinate of P and that the locus of their point
is the length of the line joining the ends of the major of intersection is a similar ellipse as that of the
& minor axis. original one.
(d) The portion of the tangent to an ellipse between
the point of contact & the directrix subtends a
right angle at the corresponding focus.
(e) If the normal at any point P on the ellipse with
centre C meet the major and minor axes in G
Pair of tangents, Chord of contact, Pole & Polar, Chord
& g respectively & if CF be perpendicular upon
with a given Middle point are to be interpreted as they
this normal then :
are in Parabola/Circle.

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CONIC SECTION

(i) PF. PG = b2 2
b2 § C.A ·
(ii) PF. Pg = a2 Eccentricity (e) : e2
= 1 + 2 = 1+¨ ¸
a © T.A ¹
(iii) PG. Pg = SP. S'P
(C.A o Conjugate Axis;
(iv) CG. CT = CS2
T.A o Transverse Axis)
(v) locus of the mid point of Gg is another Foci : S { (ae, 0) & S' { (–ae, 0).
ellipse having the same eccentricity as
that of the original ellipse. a a
Equations of Directrix : x &x 
[Where S and S' are the foci of the ellipse and e e
T is the point where tangent at P meet the major Transverse Axis : The line segment A'A of length 2a
axis] in which the foci S' & S both lie is called the transverse
axis of the hyperbola.
* The circle on any focal distance as diameter
touches the auxiliary circle. Perpendiculars from Conjugate Axis : The line segment B'B between
the centre upon all chords which join the ends the two points B' { (0, –b) & B { (0, b) is called
of any perpendicular diameters of the ellipse are as the conjugate axis of the hyperbola.
of constant length. Principal Axes : The transverse & conjugate axis
together are called Principal Axes of the hyperbola.
* If the tangent at the point P of a standard ellipse
meets the axis in T and t and CY is the Vertices : A { (a, 0) & A' { (–a, 0)
perpendicular on it from the centre then : Focal Chord : A chord which passes through a focus is
(i) T t. PY = a2 – b2 and called a focal chord.
Double Ordinate : A chord perpendicular to the
(ii) least value of T t is a + b.
transverse axis is called a double ordinate.
HYPERBOLA Latus Rectum (l) L : The focal chord perpendicular to
the transverse axis is called the latus rectum.
The Hyperbola is a conic whose eccentricity is greater
2b 2 (C.A.)2
thatn unity (e > 1). A= = = 2a (e2 – 1)
a T.A.

24. STANDARD EQUATION & DEFINITION (S)

l (L.R.) = 2 e (distance from focus to directrix).

Centre : The point which bisects every chord of the

conic drawn through it is called the centre of the conic.
C { (0, 0) the origin is the centere of the hyperbola

x y
 1
a b

x2 y 2 Since the fundamental equation to the hyperbola only

Standard equation of the hyperbola is - =1,
a2 b2 differs from that to the ellipse in having –b2 instead
of b2 it will be found that many propositions for the
where b2 = a2 (e2 – 1). hyperbola are derived from those for the ellipse by
simply changing the sign of b2.

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CONIC SECTION

25. RECTANGULAR OR EQUILATERAL HYPERBOLA

The particular kind of hyperbola in which the lengths

of the transverse and conjugate axis are equal is called
an Equilateral Hyperbola. Note that the eccentricity of
the rectangular hyperbola is 2.

26. CONJUGATE HYPERBOLA

Two hyperbolas such that transverse & conjugate axes

of one hyperbola are respectively the conjugate & the
transverse axes of the other are called Conjuagate
Hyperbolas of each other.

x2 y2 x2 y2
e.g. – =1 & – + = 1 are conjugate 28. PARAMETRIC REPRESENTATION
a2 b2 a2 b2
hyperbolas of each other.
The equation x = a sec T & y = b tan T together

x2 y2
represents the hyperbola  1 where T is a
a 2 b2
parameter.
(a) If e 1 and e 2 are the eccentricities of the Note that if P(T) { (a secT, b tan T) is on the hyperbola
hyperbola and its conjugate then e1–2 + e2–2 = 1. then ;
(b) The foci of a hyperbola and its conjugate are Q (T) { (a cos T, a tan T) is on the auxiliary circle.
concyclic and form the vertices of a square. The equation to the chord of the hyperbola joining two
(c) Two hyperbolas are said to be similiar if they points with eccentric angles D and E is given by
have the same eccentricity.
x –β y +β α+β .
(d) Two similiar hyperbolas are said to be equal if cos – sin = cos
a 2 b 2 2
they have same latus rectum.
(e) If a hyperbola is equilateral then the conjugate
hyperbola is also equilateral.
29. POSITION OF A POINT 'P' W.R.T. A HYPERBOLA

27. AUXILIARY CIRCLE x12 y12

The quantity S1  1 is positive, zero or
a2 b2
A circle drawn with centre C & T.A. as a diameter is negative according as the point (x1, y1) lies inside, on
called the Auxiliary Circle of the hyperbola. Equation or outside the curve.
of the auxiliary circle is x2 + y2 = a2.
Note from the figure that P & Q are called the 30. LINE AND A HYPERBOLA
"Corresponding Points" on the hyperbola and the
auxiliary circle. The straight line y = mx + c is a secant, a tangent or
In the hyperbola any ordinate of the curve does not meet
x 2 y2
the circle on AA' as diameter in real points. There is passes outside the hyperbola  1 according as
therefore no real eccentric angle as in the case of the a 2 b2
ellipse. : c2 > or = or < a2m2 – b2, respectively.

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CONIC SECTION

31. TANGENTS x 2 y2 ax by
 1 is + = a2 + b2 = a2e2.
a 2 b2 secθ tanθ
(i) Slope Form : y = mx + a 2 m 2 - b 2 can be taken (iii) Equation of a normal in terms of its slope 'm' is

x 2 y2 (a 2 + b 2 )m
as the tangent to the hyperbola  1 y = mx - .
a2 b2 a2 - b 2m2
(ii) Point Form : Equation of tangent to the

x2 y2
hyperbola  1 at the point (x1 y1) is
a 2 b2

xx1 yy 1
- =1 Equation to the chord of contact, polar, chord with a
a2 b 2
given middle point, pair of tangents from an external
(iii) Parametric Form : Equation of the tangent to the point is to be interpreted as in parabola/circle.
x2 y2
hyperbola  1 at the point (a sec T, b tan T) 33. DIRECTOR CIRCLE
a2 b2

xsecθ ytanθ The locus of the intersection point of tangents which are
- = 1.
a b at right angles is known as the Director Circle of the
hyperbola. The equation to the director circle is :
x2 + y2 = a2 – b2.
If b2 < a2 this circle is real.
If b2 = a2 (rectangular hyperbola) the radius of the circle
is zero and it reduces to a point circle at the origin. In
(i) Point of intersection of the tangents at T1 & T2 is : this case the centre is the only point from which the
tangents at right angles can be drawn to the curve.
T1  T 2
cos
§ T  T2 · If b2 > a2, the radius of the circle is imaginary, so that
x a 2 ,y b tan¨ 1 ¸
T1  T 2 there is no such circle & so no pair of tangents at right
cos © 2 ¹
2 angle can be drawn to the curve.

(ii) If |T1 + T 2| = S, then tangents at these points 34. DIAMETER (NOT IN SYLLABUS)
(T1 & T2) are parallel.
(iii) There are two parallel tangents having the same The locus of the middle points of a system of parallel
slope m. These tangents touches the hyperbola chords with slope 'm' of an hyperbola is called its
at the extremities of a diameter. diameter. It is a straight line passing through the centre

b2
32. NORMALS of the hyperbola and has the equation y = + x
a2m
(i) The equation of the normal to the hyperbola

x 2 y2
 1 at the point P (x1 , y 1) on it is
a 2 b2

a2 x b 2y All diameters of the hyperbola passes through its centre.

+ = a2 + b2 = a2e2
x1 y1

(ii) The equation of the normal at the point P (a sec

T, b tan T) on the hyperbola

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CONIC SECTION

(v) Asymptotes are the tangent to the hyperbola from

35. ASSYMPTOTES (NOT IN SYLLABUS)
the centre.
Definition : If the length of the perpendicular let fall (vi) A simple method to find the co-ordinates of the
from a point on a hyperbola to a straight line tends to centre of the hyperbola expressed as a general
zero as the point on the hyperbola moves to infinity equation of degree 2 should be remembered as :
along the hyperbola, then the straight line is called the Let f(x y) = 0 represents a hyperbola.
Asymptote of the hyperbola.
wf wf
Find & . Then the point of intersection
wx wy

wf wf
of 0& 0 gives the centre of the
wx wy
hyperbola.

36. RECTANGULAR HYPERBOLA (xy = c2)

It is referred to its asymptotes as axes of co-ordinates.

Vertices : (c, c) and (–c, –c) ;

x y x y
Equation of Asymptote :  0 and  0
a b a b

x 2 y2
Pairs of Asymptotes :  0
a 2 b2
Foci : ( 2c, 2c) & (  2c,  2 c),

Directrices : x + y = ± 2c

Latus Rectum (l) : l = 2 2 c = T.A. = C.A.

Parametric equation x = ct, y = c/t, t  R – {0}
(i) A hyperbola and its conjugate have the same
asymptote. Equation of a chord joining the points P(t1) & Q(t2) is
x + t1t2y = c(t1 + t2).
(ii) The equation of the pair of asymptotes different
form the equation of hyperbola (or conjugate x y
hyperbola) by the constant term only. Equation of the tangent at P (x1 y1) is + = 2 and
x1 y1
(iii) The asymptotes pass through the centre of the
hyperbla and are equally inclined to the x
transverse axis of the hyperbola. Hence the at P(t) is + ty = 2c.
t
bisectors of the angles between the asymptotes
are the principle axes of the hyperbola. Equation of the normal at P(t) is xt3 – yt = c(t4 – 1).

(iv) The asymptotes of a hyperbola are the diagonals Chord with a given middle point as (h, k) is kx + hy =
of the rectangle formed by the lines drawn 2hk.
through the extremities of each axis parallel to
the other axis.

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CONIC SECTION

(v) If from any point on the asymptote a straight

IMPORTANT HIGHLIGHTS
line be drawn perpendicular to the transverse
axis, the product of the segments of this line,
(i) Locus of the feet of the perpendicular drawn
intercepted between the point and the curve is
x 2 y2 always equal to the square of the semi conjugate
from focus of the hyperbola  1 upon
a2 b2 axis.
any tangent is its auxiliary circle i.e. (vi) Perpendicular from the foci on either asymptote
x2 + y2 = a2 & the product of the feet of these meet it in the same points as the corresponding
perpendiculars is b2. directrix and the common points of intersection
lie on the auxiliary circle.
(ii) The portion of the tangent between the point of
contact & the directrix subtends a right angle at (vii) The tangent at any point P on a hyperbola
the corresponding focus.
x 2 y2
(iii) The tangent & normal at any point of a hyperbola  1 with centre C, meets the asymptotes
a 2 b2
bisect the angle between the focal radii. This
in Q and R and cuts off a ' CQR of constant
spell the reflection property of the hyperbola as
area equal to ab from the asymptotes and the
"An incoming light ray" aimed towards one
portion of the tangent intercepted between the
focus is reflected from the outer surface of the
asymptote is bisected at the point of contact. This
hyperbola towards the other focus. It follows that
implies that locus of the centre of the circle
if an ellipse and a hyperbola have the same foci,
circumscribing the ' CQR in case of a
they cut at right angles at any of their common
rectangular hyperbola is the hyperbola itself and
point.
for a standard hyperbola the locus would be the
curve, 4(a2x2 – b2y2) = (a2 + b2)2.
(viii) If the angle between the asymptote of a hyperbola

x2 y2
 1 is 2T then the eccentricity of the
a2 b2
hyperbola is secT.
(ix) A rectangular hyperbola circumscribing a triangle
also passes through the orthocentre of this triangle.

§ c·
If ¨¨ ct i , ¸¸ i = 1, 2, 3 be the angular points P,,
© ti ¹

§ c ·
Q, R then orthocentre is ¨¨ ,ct1 t 2 t 3 ¸¸.
© t 1t 2 t 3 ¹
x2 y2
Note that the ellipse  1 & the (x) If a circle and the rectangular hyperbola xy =
a2 b2 c2 meet in the four points, t1, t2, t3 and t4, then
x2 y2 (a) t1 t2 t3 t4 = 1
hyperbola  = 1
a 2  k 2 k 2  b2 (b) the centre of the mean position of the four
points bisects the distance between the centre of
(a > k > b > 0) are confocal and therefore
the circle through the points t1, t2, and t3 is :
orthogonal.
(iv) The foci of the hyperbola and the points P and ­° c § 1 · c§1 1 1 ·½°
Q in which any tangent meets the tangents at ® ¨¨ t1  t 2  t 3  ¸¸, ¨¨    t1  t 2  t 3 ¸¸¾
°̄ 2 © t1t 2 t 3 ¹ 2 © t1 t 2 t 3 ¹°¿
the vertices are concyclic with PQ as diameter
of the circle.

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 CONIC SECTION

SOLVED EXAMPLES

PARABOLA Example - 2

Find the equation of the parabola with its vertex at (3, 2)

Example - 1 and its focus at (5, 2).

Find the equation of the parabola with latus rectum

Sol. Let Vertex A (3, 2) and focus is S (5, 2)
joining the points (3, 6) and (3, –2)
22
Slope of AS = 0 (which is parallel to x-axis)
53
2  6
Sol. Slope of (3, 6) and (3, –2) is f since latus rectum
33
is perpendicular to axis. Hence axis parallel to x-axis.
The equation of the two possible parabolas will be of the
form
2
(y – k) = ± 4a (x – h) ... (1)

Hence axis of parabola parallel to x-axis.

The equation is of the form
2
(y – k) = 4a (x – h)
2
or (y – 2) = 4a (x – 3)
as (h, k) is the vertex (3, 2)
a = distance between the focus and the vertex

(5  3) 2  (2  2) 2
=2
Hence the required equation is
2
Since latus rectum (3  3) 2  (6  2)3 8 (y – 2) = 8 (x – 3)
2
or y – 8x – 4y – 28 = 0
? 4a = 8
a=2 Example - 3
2
? From (1), (y – k) = ± 8 (x – h)
Show that line x cos D + y sin D = p touches the parabola
Since (3, 6) and (3, –2) lie on the parabola, then y2 = 4ax if p cos D + a sin2 D = 0 and that the point of
2
(6 – k) = ± 8 (3 – h) ... (2) contact is (a tan2 D, – 2a tan D).
2
and (–2 – k) = ± 8 (3 – h) ... (3)
Solving (2) and (3) we get Sol. The given line is
k=2
x cos D + y sin D = p
From (2) 16 = ± 8 (3 – h),
Ÿ y = – x cot D + p cosec D
? h=3±2
? h = 5, 1 Comparing this line with y = mx + c
Hence values of (h, k) are (5, 2) and (1, 2). The required ? m = – cot D and c = p cosec D
parabolas are since the given line touches the parabola
2 2
(y – 2) = 8 (x – 5) and (y – 2) = –8 (x – 1)

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CONIC SECTION

Alternative Method :
a
? c Ÿ cm = a Then given line and parabola are
m
Ÿ (p cosec D) (– cot D) = a x y
 1 ...(i)
Ÿ a sin2 D + p cos D = 0 A m
and y2 = 4a (x + b) ...(ii)
§ a 2a ·
and point of contact is ¨ 2 , ¸ i.e. respectively.
©m m ¹
Substituting the value of x from (i),
§ a 2a ·
¨ , ¸ Ÿ (a tan2 D, – 2a tan D). § y·
© cot D cot D ¹
2 i.e., x = l ¨1  ¸ in (ii)
© m ¹
Example - 4
­ § y· ½
then y2 = 4a ®A¨1  ¸  ¾
x y ¯ © m¹ ¿
Prove that the line  1 touches the parabola
A m
y2 = 4a (x + b) if m2 (l + b) + al2 = 0. 4aA
Ÿ y2 + y – 4a(l + b) = 0 ...(iii)
m
Sol. The given parabola is Since the line (i), touches the parabola (ii) then the roots
y2 = 4a (x + b) ...(i) of equation (iii) are equal
Vertex of this parabola is (–b, 0). 2
§ 4aA ·
Now shifting (0, 0) at (–b, 0) then ? ¨ ¸ – 4.1 {–4a (l + b)} = 0
© m ¹
x = X + (–b) and y=Y+0
Ÿ x+b=X and y=Y ...(ii) aA 2
Ÿ + (l + b) = 0
from (i), Y2 = 4aX ...(iii) m2

x y X y Ÿ al2 + m2 (l + b) = 0
and the line  1 reduces to  1
A m A m Ÿ m2 (l + b) + al2 = 0.

Example - 5
§ X ·
Ÿ Y = m ¨1  ¸
© A ¹ (a) Find the equation of the tangents drawn to
y2 + 12x = 0 from the point (3, 8).
§ m· § ·
Ÿ Y = ¨  ¸ X + m ¨1  ¸ ...(iv) (b) Find the equation of tangents to the parabola
© A¹ © A¹ y2 = 4x + 5 which is parallel to the line y = x + 7.
The line (iv) will touch the parabola (iii), if
Sol. (a) y2 + 12x = 0 Ÿ y2 = – 12x.
§ · a
m ¨1  ¸ Ÿ Ÿ a = – 3.
© A¹ § m·
¨ ¸
© A¹ 3
Let tangent be y = mx – .
m
m2 § ·
¨1  ¸ a
A © A¹ 3
Since tangent passes through (3, 8), 8 = 3m –
m
Ÿ m2 (l + b) + al 2 = 0
Ÿ 3m2 – 8m – 3 = 0Ÿ (m – 3) (3m + 1) = 0

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CONIC SECTION

1 As two of the three normals are perpendicular, we take

Ÿ m = 3, m = – Ÿ Tangent are y = 3x – 1
3 m1m2 = – 1. (i.e. we assume AP perpendicular BP)

To get the locus, we have to eliminate m1, m2, m3,

x
and y=– + 9.
3
2a  x1
(b) Any line || to given is y = 2x + c. m1m2 + m2m3 + m3m1 =
a
If it is tangent to the parabola then it will meet it in
two coincident points.
Eliminating x, we get : y2 – 5 = 2 (y – O) 2a  x1
Ÿ –1 + m3 (–m3) =
a
Ÿ y2 – 2y + 2O – 5 = 0. Roots are equal.
Ÿ b2 – 4ac = 0 Ÿ 4 – 4 (2O – 5) = 0
2
x §  y1 · 2a  x1
Ÿ O=3 Ÿ y=– + 9. Ÿ –1– ¨ ¸
3 © a ¹ a

Example - 6
[using m1m2m3 = – y1/a and m1m2 = – 1]

Show that the locus of a point, such that two of the Ÿ a2 + y12 = – 2a2 + ax1
three normals drawn from it to the parabola y2 = 4ax Ÿ y12 = a (x1 – 3a)
are perpendicular is y2 = a (x – 3a).
Ÿ y2 = a (x – 3a) is the required locus.

Sol. Let P { (x1, y1) be the point from where normals AP, BP, Example - 7
CP are drawn to y2 = 4ax.
Find the equation of common tangent to the circle
Let y = mx – 2am – am3 be one of these normals.
x2 + y2 = 8 and parabola y2 = 16x.
P lies on it Ÿ y1 = mx1 – 2am – am3.
Slopes m1, m2, m3 of AP, BP, CP are roots of the cubic Sol. Let ty = x + at2 (where a = 4) be a tangent to parabola
y1 = mx1 – 2am – am2. which also touches circle.
Ÿ am3 + (2a – x1) m + y1 = 0 Ÿ m1 + m2 + m3 = 0 Ÿ ty = x + 4at2 and x2 + y2 = 8

have only one common solution.

2a  x 1
Ÿ m1m2 + m2m3 + m3m1 =
a Ÿ (ty – 4t2)2 + y2 = 8

has equal roots as a quadratic in y.

Ÿ (1 + t2) y2 – 8t3y + 16t4 – 8 = 0 has equal roots.

Ÿ 64t6 = 64t6 + 64t4 – 32 – 32t2

Ÿ t2 + 1 – 2t4 = 0

Ÿ t2 = 1, – 1/2

Ÿ t=±1

y1 Ÿ the common tangents are

Ÿ m1m2m3 = –
a y = x + 4 and y = – x – 4.

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 CONIC SECTION

Example - 8 Ÿ (t2 – t1)2 = (1 +t1 t2)2

Ÿ (t2 + t1)2 – 4 t1t2 = (1 + t1t2) ...(iii)
Find the equation of the common tangents to the parabola
y2 = 4ax and x2 = 4by.

Sol. The equation of any tangent in terms of slope (m) to the

parabola y2 = 4ax is

a
y = mx + ...(i)
m
If this line is also tangent to the parabola x2 = 4ay then
(i) meets x2 = 4by in two coincident points. Replace values of t1 + t2 and t 1 t2 from (i) and (ii) in
Substituting the value of y from (i) in x2 = 4by we get (iii) to get
2
§ a· y12 x1 § x1 ·
4ab 4 ¨1  ¸
x2 = 4b ¨ mx  ¸ Ÿ x2 – 4bmx – =0 a2 a © a ¹
© m¹ m

The roots of this quadratic are equal provided “B2 = 4AC” Ÿ Required locus { y2 – 4ax = (x + a)2

Example - 10
§  4ab ·
i.e., (–4bm)2 = 4.1. ¨ ¸
© m ¹ Find the locus of the mid points of the chords of the
parabola y2 = 4ax which subtend a right angle at the
Ÿ 16b2m3 + 16ab = 0, m z 0
vertex of the parabola.
Ÿ m3 = – a/b ? m = – a1/3/b1/3
Substituting the value of m in (i) the required equation is Sol. Let P (h, k) be mid point of a chord QR of the parabola
y2 = 4ax, then equation of chord QR is
a1 / 3 ab1 / 3
y x T = S1
b1/ 3 a 1/ 3
Ÿ yk – 2a (x + h) = k2 – 4ah

a 1/ 3 Ÿ yk – 2ax = k2 – 2ah ...(i)

Ÿ y=– 1/ 3 x– a2/3 b1/3
b
Ÿ a1/3 x + b1/3 y + a2/3 b2/3 = 0

Example - 9

Find the locus of the point of intersection of the tangents

to the parabola y2 = 4ax which include as 45°.
If A is the vertex of the parabola. For combined equation
of AQ and AR, Making homogenous of y2 = 4ax with the
Sol. P { (at12, 2 at1) and Q { (at22, 2at2). T { (x1, y1) help of (i)
Ÿ x1 = a t1t2 ...(i) and y1 = a (t1 + t2). ? y2 = 4 ax . 1

m1  m 2 § yk  2ax ·
As PTQ = 45°, tan 45° =
1  m1m 2 ? y2 = 4ax ¨ 2 ¸
© k  2ah ¹
Ÿ y2 (k2 – 2ah) – 4akxy + 8a2x2 = 0
1 1
 Since ‘QAR = 90°.
t1 t 2 t 2  t1
= ? Co–efficient of x2 + Co–efficient of y2 = 0
1
1 1  t 1t 2
t1t 2 Ÿ k2 = 2ah + 8a2 = 0
Hence the locus is P (h, k) is y2 – 2ax + 8a2 = 0.

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 CONIC SECTION

Example - 11 ELLIPSE
Example - 12
Show that the locus of the middle points of normal chords
of the parabola y2 = 4ax is Find the equation of an ellipse whose focus is (–1, 1),
y4 – 2a (x – 2a) y2 + 8a4 = 0.
1
eccentricity is and the directrix is x – y + 3 = 0
2
Sol. Equation of the normal chord at any point (at2, 2at) of the
parabola y2 = 4ax is
y + tx = 2at + at3 ...(i) Sol. Let P (x, y) be any point on the ellipse whose focus is
But if M (x1, y1) be its middle point, its equation must be
S (–1, 1) and the directrix is x – y + 3 = 0. Draw PM
also
perpendicular from P (x, y) on the directrix x – y + 3 = 0.
T = S1
yy1 – 2a (x + x1) = y12 - 4ax1 Then by definition

Ÿ yy1 – 2ax = y12 – 2ax1 ...(ii)

As Equations (i) and (ii) are identical. Comparing them

1 t 2at  at 3
y1  2a y12  2ax1

2a
From first two relations t = – y ...(iii)
1

From last two relations

t 2at  at 3
 2a y12  2ax1

y12  2ax1
Ÿ = 2a + at2
 2a

2
y12  2ax1 §  2a · SP = ePM
Ÿ ¨ ¸
 2a
= 2a + a ¨ y ¸ [from equation (iii)]
© 1 ¹ 2 2 2
Ÿ (SP) = e (PM)

y12  2ax1 2ay12  4a 3

Ÿ
 2a y12 1 ­ x  y  3½
2

Ÿ (x  1) 2  (y  1)2 ® ¾
4¯ 2 ¿

2 2
Ÿ 8 (x + y + 2x – 2y + 2)
2 2
= x + y + 9 – 2xy + 6x – 6y
2 2
Ÿ 7x + 7y + 2xy + 10x – 10y + 7 = 0

which is the required equation of the ellipse.

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 CONIC SECTION

Example - 13 or x  4 3 y  24 3 0
Find the lengths and equations of the focal radii drawn and equation of S’ P is
2 2
from the point (4 3, 5) on the ellipse 25x + 16y = 1600 6  5
? y5 (x  4 3)
04 3
Sol. The equation of the ellipse is
2 2 Ÿ 4 3y  20 3 11x  44 3
25x + 16y = 1600

x 2 y2 or 11x  4 3y  24 3 0
or  1
64 100
Example - 14

If the angle between the straight lines joining foci and

x2 y2
the end of minor axis of the ellipse  1 is 90°,
a2 b2
find its eccentricity.

x2 y2
Sol. The equation of the ellipse is 2
 1.
a b2
The ends of minor axis are B (0, b) and B’ (0, –b). If the
eccentricity of the ellipse is e, then the foci are S (ae, 0)
Here b > a and S’ (–ae, 0).
2 2
a = 64, b = 100
2 2 2
a = b (1 – e )
2
? 64 = 100 (1 – e )
Ÿ e = 3/5
Let P (x1 , y1 ) { (4 3,5)
be a point on the ellipse then SP and S’P are the focal radii
? SP = b – ey1 and S’P = b + ey1
3 3
? SP 10  u 5 and ScP 10  u 5
5 5
b0 b
Ÿ SP = 7 and S’P = 13 ? Slope of BS is m1 = 
0  ae ae
Also S is (0, be)
b 0
i.e., §¨ 0,10 u ¸· i.e., (0,6)
3 b
and Slop of BS’ is m2 = =
© 5¹ 0  ae ae
and S’ is (0, –be) ? The angle between BS and BS’ is 90°,

§ 3· b b
i.e., ¨ 0,  10 u ¸ ? m1m2 = – 1 Ÿ  u 1
© 5¹ ae ae
i.e., (0, –6)
Ÿ b 2 = a2 e2
? Equation of SP is
Ÿ a2 (1 – e2) = a2e2 Ÿ 1 – e 2 = e2
65
y5 (x  4 3) Ÿ 2e2 = 1 ?
04 3
1
4 3y  20 3 x4 3 e .
2

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 CONIC SECTION

Example - 15 Example - 17

For what value of O does the line y = x + O touches the Show that the locus of the foot of the perpendicular
ellipse 9x2 + 16y2 = 144.
x2 y2
Sol. Equation of ellipse is 9x2 + 16y2 = 144 drawn from the centre of the ellipse  1 on
a2 b2
x 2 y2 any tangent is (x2 + y2)2 = a2 x2 + b2 y2.
Ÿ  1
16 9

x2 y2 Sol. Let the tangent be y = mx + a 2m 2  b2 .

Comparing this with 2
 2
1
a b
then we get a2 = 16 and b 2 = 9 and comparing the Draw CM perpendicular to tangent and let M { (x1, y1).
line y = x + O with y = mx + c M lies on tangent,
? m = 1 and c = O
If the line y = x +O touches the ellipse Ÿ y1 = mx1 + a 2m 2  b2 ...(i)
9x2 + 16y2 = 144, then
Slope (CM) = – 1/m
c2 = a2m2 + b2
Ÿ O2 = 16 × 12 + 9 y1 1 x1
Ÿ  Ÿ m=– y ...(ii)
Ÿ O2 = 25 x1 m 1
? O=±5
Replace the value of m from (ii) into (i) and take square to
Example - 16
get :

x2 y2
If the normal at a point P(T) to the ellipse  1
14 15
intersect it again at Q (2T). Show that cos T – 2/3.

Sol. The equation of normal at P(T) is :

ax by
 = a2 – b 2
cos T sin T
As Q { (a cos 2T, b sin 2T) lies on it, we can have :

a b
(a cos 2T) – (b sin 2T) = a2 – b2
cos T sin T

(2 cos 2 T  1)
Ÿ a2 – 2b2 cosT = a2 – b2
cos T

Put a2 = 14, b2 = 5 in the above equation to get :

14(2 cos2T – 1) – 10 cos2T = 9 cosT (x12  y12 ) 2 a 2 x12  b2 y12

Ÿ 18cos2T– 9cosT – 14 = 0 Hence the required locus is :

Ÿ (6 cos T – 7) (3 cos T + 2) = 0
(x2 + y2)2 = a2 x2 + b2 y2.
Ÿ cosT = 7/6 (reject) or cosT = – 2/3
Hence cosT = – 2/3.

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 CONIC SECTION

Example - 18 Example - 19

A tangent to the ellipse x2 + 4y2 = 4 meets the ellipse

x2 y2 x2 + 2y2 = 6 at P and Q. Prove that the tangents at P and
A tangent to an ellipse  1 touches it at a point
a2 b2 Q of the ellipse x2 + 2y2 = 6 are at right angles.
P in the first quadrant and meets the axes in A and B
respectively. If P divides AB is 3 : 1, find the equation of Sol. Chord of contact of
tangent.
x 2 y2 hx ky
 1 is  1 ...(i)
Sol. Let the coordinates of the point P {(a cosT, b sinT) 6 3 6 3
Ÿ the equation of the tangent at P is : Equation of any tangent to
x cos T y sin T
 1 ...(i) x 2 y2 x
a b  1 is cos T + y sin T = 1. ...(ii)
4 1 2
Ÿ The coordinates of the points A and B are :
Compare (i) and (ii), eliminate T and get locus of (h, k)
§ a · § b · i.e. x2 + y2 = 9 (i.e. a2 + b2)
A{ ¨ ,0 ¸ and B { ¨ 0, ¸
© cos T ¹ © sin T ¹ i.e. director circle of 2nd ellipse.

Example - 20

Find the locus of a point from which the two tangents to

the ellipse are inclined at an angle D.

Sol. Equation of tangent of slope m is

{y = mx + a 2m 2  b2 ...(i)

By section formula, the coordinates of P are

§ a 3b ·
¨ , ¸ { (a cos T, b sin T)
© 4 cos T 4 sin T ¹

a 3b
Ÿ = a cos T and = b sin T
4 cos T 4 sin T
Point P { (x1, y1) lies on (i)
1 3
Ÿ cos T = ± and sin T = ± Ÿ y1 = mx1 +
2 2 a 2m 2  b2

Ÿ T = 60° Ÿ m2 ( x12  a 2 ) – 2x1y1 m + ( y12  b 2 ) = 0

For equation of tangent, replace the value of T in (i)
Let roots be m1 and m2
x 3y
Ÿ The equation of tangent is :  2. 2x 1 y1
a b Ÿ m1 + m2 =
x12  a 2

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CONIC SECTION

HYPERBOLA
y12  b 2
and m1 m2 =
x 12  a 2 Example - 22

Find the eccentricity of the hyperbola whose latus rectum

m1  m 2 is half of its transverse axis.
tan D = 1  m m
1 2
Sol. Let the equation of hyperbola be
Ÿ tan2 D (1 + m1 m2)2 = (m1 + m2)2 –4 m1 m2
...(ii) x2 y2
 1
Using (ii), a 2 b2

2 2b 2
§ y2  b2 · 4 x 12 y12 y12  b 2 Then transverse axis = 2a and latus-rectum =
tan2 D ¨¨1  12 ¸¸ = – 4 a
2
( x12  a 2 ) 2 x 12  a 2
© x1  a ¹
2b 2 1
Ÿ Locus is tan2 D (x2 + y2 – a2 – b2)2 According to question (2a)
a 2
= 4 [x2b2 + a2y2 – a2b2] Ÿ 2b = a
2 2
' b2 a 2 (e 2  1)
Example - 21 2 2 2
Ÿ 2a (e – 1) = a
2
Ÿ 2e – 2 = 1
Prove that in general four normals can be drawn to an
ellipse from any point and the sum of the eccentric angles 3
Ÿ e2
of the feet of these normal is equal to an odd multiple of 2
two right angles.
3
? e
ax by 2
Sol. Equation of Normal {  = a2 – b2
cos T sin T
3
Hence the required eccentricity is .
ah bk 2
As it passes through (h, k) {  = a2 – b2
cos T sin T
Example - 23
1 t2 2t T Obtain the equation of a hyperbola with co-ordinate axes
Replace cosT = , sinT = 2
, where t = tan
1 t 2
1 t 2 as principal axes given that the distances of one of its
vertices from the faci are 9 and 1 units.
Ÿ bk t4 + 2 (ak + a2 – b2) t3 + 2 (ak – a2 + b2) t – bk = 0
Sol. Let equation of hyperbola is
It roots are tan Tr , r = 1, 2, 3, 4
2 x2 y2
 1 ... (1)
a 2 b2
§ T1 T 2 T 3 T 4 · S1  S3 S
tan ¨    ¸= = f = tan If vertices are A (a, 0) and A’ (–a, 0) and foci are S (ae, 0)
©2 2 2 2 ¹ 1  S2  S4 2 and S’ (–ae, 0)
Given l (S’A) = 9 and l (SA) = 1
§ bk · Ÿ a + ae = 9 and ae – a = 1
¨ as S2 0, S4   1¸
© bk ¹ or a (1 + e) = 9 and a (e – 1) = 1
a(1  e) 9
T1  T 2  T3  T 4 S ?
? nS  a(e  1) 1
2 2
5
Ÿ T1 + T2 + T3 + T4 = (2n+ 1) Ÿ 1  e 9e  9 Ÿ e
4
' a (1 + e) = 9

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CONIC SECTION

§ 5· Length of conjugate axis = 2a = 2 7 .

? a ¨1  ¸ 9
© 4¹
Eccentricity : The eccentricity e is given by
Ÿ a=4

§ 25 · a2
b2 a 2 (e 2  1) 16 ¨  1¸ e 1 1
9 4
© 16 ¹ b 2 7 7
2
? b =9
From (1) equation of hyperbola is Length of latus rectum :
2 2
x y
 1 2a 2
16 9 The length of latus rectum = .
b
Example - 24

Show that the equation 7y2 – 9x2 + 54x – 28y – 116 = 0 2 (7 ) 14

= .
represents a hyperbola. Find the co–ordinates of the 3 3
centre, length of transverse and conjugate axes,
Foci : The co–ordinates of foci are (0, ± be)
eccentricity, latus rectum, co–ordinates of foci and
vertices, equations of the directrices of the hyperbola. ? X = 0, Y = ± be

4
Sol. We have 7y2 – 9x2 + 54x – 28y – 116 = 0 Ÿ x – 3 = 0, y – 2 = ± 3 × .
7
Ÿ 7 (y2 – 4y) – 9 (x2 – 6x) – 116 = 0
Ÿ 7 (y2 – 4y + 4) – 9 (x2 – 6x + 9) = 116 + 28 – 81
§ 12 ·
Ÿ ¨¨ 3, 2 r ¸.
Ÿ 7 (y – 2)2 – 9 (x – 3)2 = 63 © 7 ¸¹

( y  2) 2 (x  3) 2 Vertices : The co–ordinates of vertices are (0, ± b).

Ÿ  1
9 7
Ÿ X = 0, Y = ± b
Ÿ x – 3 = 0, y – 2 = ± 3
Y2 X2
Ÿ  1 [where X = x – 3 and Y = y – 2] Ÿ (3, 2 ± 3)
9 7
Ÿ vertices are (3, 5) and (3, –1)
This equation represents conjugate hyperbola. Comparing
Equation of directrices :
it with
The equation of directrices are
Y2 X2 2 2
2
 2
1 we get b = 9 and a = 7 3
b a Y=±
4/ 7

? b = 3 and a = 7.
3 7
Centre : X = 0, Y = 0. Ÿ y–2=
4
i.e., x – 3 = 0, y – 2 = 0 ? Centre is (3, 2)
Length of transverse axis : § 3 7 ·¸
Ÿ y = ¨2 r .
Length of transverse axis = 2b = 6. ¨ 4 ¸¹
©
Length of conjugate axis :

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 CONIC SECTION

Example - 25

For what value of c does the line y = 2x + c touches the

hyperbola 16x2 – 9y2 = 144 ?

Sol. Equation of hyperbola is

x y
16x2 – 9y2 = 144 Ÿ  1
9 16

x y
comparing this with  1 , we get a2 = 9, b2 = 16.
a b

and comparing this line y = 2x + c with y = mx + c.

? m = 2 and c = 1
If the line y = 2x + 1 touches the hyperbola
16x2 – 9y2 = 144 then c2 = a2m2 – b2 Slope (SM) × Slope (PM) = – 1

Ÿ c2 = 9 (2)2 – 16 = 36 – 16 = 20
§ y1  0 ·
Ÿ ¨ ¸
¨ x  ae ¸ m = – 1 x1 + my1 = ae ...(i)
? c=± 5. © 1 ¹

Example - 26 As M lies on tangent, we also have

Find the locus of the foot of the perpendicular drawn y1 mx1 + a 2m 2  b

x y Ÿ – mx1 + y1 =
from focus S of hyperbola  1 to any tangent. a 2m 2  b ...(ii)
a b
We can now eliminate m from (i) and (ii).
Substituting value of m from (i) in (ii) leads to a lot of
Sol. Let the tangent be y = mx + a 2m  b2 . simplification and hence we avoid this step.
Let M (x1, y1) be the foot of perpendicular SM drawn to By squaring and adding (i) and (ii), we get :
the tangent from focus S (ae, 0).
x12 (1  m 2 )  y12 (1  m 2 ) a 2e 2  a 2 m 2  b

( x1  y12 )(1  m 2 ) a 2 (1  m 2 )

Ÿ x12  y12 a

Ÿ Required Locus is : x2 + y2 = a2.

Note : M lies on the auxiliary circle.

@aakashallen
 Parabola

1. Let P be the point on the parabola, y2 = 8x, which is at a minimum distance from the center C
of the circle, x2 + (y + 6)2 = 1. Then, the equation of the circle, passing through C and having its
center at P is (2016)
(a) x + y – 4x + 8y + 12 = 0
2 2

(b) x2 + y2 – x + 4y – 12 = 0
x
(c) x2 + y2 – + 2y – 24 = 0
4
(d) x2 + y2 – 4x + 9y + 18 = 0

2. Let O be the vertex and Q be any point on the parabola x2 = 8y. If the point P divides the line
segment OQ internally in the ratio 1 : 3, then the locus of P is (2015)
(a) x2 = y
(b) y2 = x
(c) y2 = 2x
(d) x2 = 2y

3. Let (x, y) be any point on the parabola y2 = 4x. Let P be the point that divides the line segment
from (0, 0) to (x, y) in the ratio 1 : 3. Then, the locus of P is (2011)
2
(a) x = y
(b) y2 = 2x
(c) y2 = x
(d) x2 = 2y

4. Axis of a parabola is y = x and vertex and focus are at a distance 2 and 2 2 respectively
from the origin. Then, equation of the parabola is (2006)
(a) (x – y)2 = 8 (x + y – 2)
(b) (x + y)2 = 2 (x + y – 2)
(c) (x – y)2 = 4 (x + y – 2)
(d) (x + y)2 = 2 (x – y + 2)

5. The locus of the mid-point of the line segment joining the focus to a moving point on the
parabola y2 = 4 axis another parabola with directrix (2002)
(a) x = – a
a
(b) x = −
2
(c) x = 0
a
(d) x =
2

6. The equation of the directrix of the parabola y2 + 4y + 4x + 2 = 0 is (2001)

@aakashallen
(a) x = – 1
(b) x = 1
(c) x = – 3/2
(d) x = 3/2

7. If the line x – 1 = 0 is the directrix of the y2 – kx + 8 = 0, then one of the values of k is (2000)
1
(a)
8
(b) 8
(c) 4
1
(d)
4

8. The curve described parametrically by x = t2 + t + 1, y = t2 – t + 1 represents (1999)

(a) a pair of straight lines
(b) an ellipse
(c) a parabola
(d) a hyperbola

9. The radius of a circle having minimum area, which touches the curve y = 4 – x2 and the lines y
= |x|, is (2017)
(a) 2 ( 2 + 1)
(b) 2 ( 2 – 1)
(c) 4 ( 2 – 1)
(d) 4 ( 2 + 1)

10. The slope of the line touching both the parabolas y2 = 4x and x2 = – 32y is (2014)
1
(a)
2
3
(b)
2
1
(c)
8
2
(d)
3

11. The tangent at (1, 7) to the curves x2 = y – 6x touches the circle x2 + y2 + 16x + 12y + c = 0
at (2005)
(a) (6, 7)
(b) (–6, 7)
(c) (6, –7)

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(d) (–6, –7)

12. The angle between the tangents drawn from the point (1, 4) to the parabola y2 = 4x is (2004)

(a)
6

(b)
4

(c)
3

(d)
2

13. The focal chord to y2 = 16x is tangent to (x – 6)2 + y2 = 2, then the possible values of the
slope of this chord are (2003)
(a) {– 1, 1}
(b) {– 2, 2}
(c) {– 2, ½}
(d) {2, – ½}

14. The equation of the common tangent to the curves y2 = 8x and xy = – 1 is (2002)
(a) 3y = 9x + 2
(b) y = 2x + 1
(c) 2y = x + 8
(d) y = x + 2

15. The equation of the common tangent touching the circle (x – 3)2 + y2 = 9 and the parabola y2
= 4x above the X-axis is (2001)
(a) 3 y = 3 x + 1
(b) 3 y = − ( x + 3)
(c) 3y = x + 3
(d) 3 y = − ( 3x + 1)

16. Given A circle, 2x2 + 2y2 = 5 and a parabola, y2 = 4 5 x.

Statement I An equation of a common tangent to these curves is y = x + 5.
5
Statement II If the line, y = mx + (m ≠ 0) is the common tangent, then m satisfies m4 – 3
m
m2 + 2 = 0. (2013)
(a) Statement I is correct, Statement II is correct, Statement II is a correct explanation for
Statement I

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(b) Statement I is correct, Statement II is correct, Statement II is not a correct explanation for
Statement I
(c) Statement I is correct, Statement II is incorrect
(d) Statement I is incorrect, Statement II is correct

17. If x + y = k is normal to y2 = 12x, then k is (2000)

(a) 3
(b) 9
(c) – 9
(d) – 3

18. A tangent to the parabola y2 + 4bx = 0 meets the parabola y2 = 4ax at P and Q then the locus
of middle point of PQ is:
(a) y2 (a + 2b) = 4a2x
(b) y2 (2a + b) = 4b2x
(c) y2 (2a + b) = 4a2x
(d) y2 (a + 2b) = 4b2x

19. The normals at P, Q the ends of a focal chord of a parabola y2 = 4ax meets the parabola again
in P' & Q' respectively then P'Q' =
(a) PQ
(b) 2PQ
1
(c) PQ
2
(d) 3PQ

20. If b and c are the lengths of the segments of any focal chord of a parabola y2 = 4ax, then the
length of the semi latus rectum is
b+c
(a)
2
bc
(b)
b+c
2bc
(c)
b+c
(d) bc

21. If the parabola x2 = ay makes an intercept of length 40 on the line y – 2x = 1, then a =

(a) 3
(b) – 2
(c) – 1
(d) 2

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22. The values of a for which the point (–2a, a + 1) will be an interior point of the smaller region
bounded by the circle x2 + y2 = 4 and the parabola y2 = 4x is/are:
(a)  −1, −5 + 2 6 

(
(b) −1, −5 + 2 6 )
(c) ( −1,3 / 5 )

(
(d) −5 − 2 6, −5 + 2 6 )
23. The equation of the parabola whose vertex is (–3, 0) and directrix is x + 5 = 0
(a) y2 = – 8(x + 3)
(b) y2 = 8(x + 3)
(c) x2 = – 8(y + 3)
(d) x2 = 8(y + 3)

24. Find length of focal chord of parabola y2 = 8x which is perpendicular to line x + y = 1

(a) 4 2
(b) 8 2
(c) 4
(d) 8

25. Angle between the pair of tangents to y2 = 4a (x + a) drawn from (–2a, 2)

(a) 30°
(b) 45°
(c) 60°
(d) 90°

26. If line y = 2x + c is a normal to the parabola y2 = 4x at the point (t2, 2t) then
(a) c = – 12, t = – 2
(b) c = 12, t = – 2
(c) c = 12, t = 2
(d) c = – 12, t = 2

27. A ray of light moving parallel to the x-axis gets reflected from a parabolic mirror whose
equation is y2 = 4(x – 1). After reflection the ray passes through
(a) (2, 0)
(b) (1, 0)
(c) (0, 0)
(d) (–1, 0)

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28. The double ordinate of parabola y2 = 8kx is of length 16k. The angle subtended by it at the
vertex of parabola is
(a) 45°
(b) 60°
(c) 90°
(d) data insufficent

29. The equation of the parabola whose vertex & focus lie on the axis of x at distance d1 & d2
from the origin respectively
(a) y2 = 4(d2 – d1) x
(b) y2 = 4(d2 – d1) (x – d1)
(c) y2 = 4(d2 – d1) (x – d2)
(d) y2 = 4(d2 – d1) (x + d2)

30. If end points t1, t2 of a chord satisfy the relation t1t2 = 1 then chord always passes through the
point if parabola is y2 = 4x
(a) (1, 0)
(b) (– 1, 0)
(c) (2, 0)
(d) (– 2, 0)

31. Equation of common tangents of the parabola y2 = 4x and x2 = 4y.

(a) y = – x – 1
(b) y = – 2x – 1
(c) y = – x – 2
(d) y = – x

32. If Q1 & Q2 be the angle made by tangents to the axis of y2 = 4x from point P & if Q1 + Q2 =
45° then locus of point P is
(a) y = (1 – x)
(b) y = (2 – x)
(c) y = (x – 1)
(d) y = (x + 1)

33. If y = x + 1 intersect the x2 = y at A & B then point of intersection of tangents at A & B is

(a) (– 2, 4)
(b) (– 2, – 4)
(c) (2, 4)
1 
(d)  ,1
2 

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34. Locus of middle point of the chord of the parabola y2 = 4x which passes through a point (1,
2)
(a) (y + 1)2 = (x + 1)
(b) (y – 1)2 = (2x – 1)
(c) (y + 1)2 = (x – 1)
(d) (y – 1)2 = (x + 1)

35. Locus of mid-point of chord of parabola x2 = 4y having slope 2

(a) x = 2
(b) x = 4
(c) x = 6
(d) x = 0

36. AB is a chord of the parabola y2 = 8x with vertex at A, BC is drawn perpendicular to AB

meeting the axis at C then the projection of BC on the axis of parabola is
(a) 1
(b) 8
(c) 3
(d) 4

37. If M is the foot of the perpendicular from a point on a parabola y2 = 4x to its directrix & SPM
is an equilateral triangle where S is the focus, then SP is equal to
(a) 1
(b) 2
(c) 3
(d) 4

 11 1 
38. Number of distinct normals that can be drawn from  ,  to the parabola y2 = 4x is
 4 4
(a) 1
(b) 2
(c) 3
(d) 4

39. Line x + my + n = 0 is tangent to parabola if

(a) n = am2
(b) m = an2
(c) n = am
(d) m = an

40. Length of focal chord of the parabola y2 = 4ax at a distance P from the vertex is

@aakashallen
 2a 2
(a)
P
a3
(b) 2
P
4a 3
(c) 2
P
P2
(d)
a

41. The extremities of a focal chord of a parabola y2 = 4ax are P(t1) and Q(t2) then which of the
following is not correct about tangents at P and Q
(a) Are perpendicular
(b) intersect on Directrix
(c) intersect at vertex
(d) t1 t2 = –1

42. A circle with centre at the focus of the parabola y2 = 4ax touches the directrix then point of
intersection of the circle and parabola is
(a) (–a, 2a)
(b) (a, 3a)
(c) (a, 2a)
(d) (0, a)

43. If one end of focal chord of parabola y2 = 4x is (1, 2) then other end does not lie on
(a) x2y + 2 = 0
(b) xy = 2
(c) xy = – 2
(d) x2 + xy – y – 1 = 0

44. y2 = 4ax be a parabola & x2 + y2 + 2bx = 0 be a circle, touch each other externally then:
(a) a > 0, b > 0
(b) a > 0, b < 0
(c) a < 0, b > 0
(d) a < 0, b = 0

45. If two normal drawn from any point to the parabola y2 = 4ax makes angle 𝛼 & β with the axis
such that tan 𝛼 . tan β = 2 then locus of this point is
(a) pair of straight line
(b) circle
(c) parabola
(d) hyperbola

@aakashallen
46. A tangent to the parabola x2 + 4ay = 0 cuts the parabola x2 = 4by at A and B then locus of the
mid-point of AB is:
(a) (a + 2b) x2 = 4 b2y
(b) (b + 2a) x2 = 4 b2y
(c) (a + 2b) y2 = 4 b2x
(d) (b + 2x) x2 = 4 a2y

47. A parabola y = ax2 + bx + c crosses the x-axis at (𝛼 . 0) (β . 0) both to the right of the origin.
A circle also passes through these two points. The length of a tangent from the origin to the
circle is:
bc
(a)
a
(b) ac2
b
(c)
a
c
(d)
a

48. Number of normals drawn from the point (–2, 2) to the parabola y2 – 2y – 2x – 1 = 0 is
(a) one
(b) two
(c) three
(d) zero

49. The directrix of the parabola 25[x2 + y2 – 2y + 1] = (3x + 4y + 1)2 is

(a) 3x + 4y + 1 = 0
(b) 3x – 4y + 1 = 0
(c) 4x + 3y + 1 = 0
(d) 3x + 4y + 3 = 0

50. If chord of parabola y2 = 4x subtend an angle of 90° at origin then it always passes through
point
(a) (4, 0)
(b) (0, 4)
(c) (2, 0)
(d) (1, 0)

51. Equation of common tangent to x2 + y2 = 4 and y2 = 4x having (–) ve slope

 2 −1  2 −1
(a) y = −  x+
 2  2
 

@aakashallen
  2 −1  2
(b) y = −  x−
 2  2 −1
 

(c) y = − ( )  1 
2 −1 x +  
 2 −1 

(d) y = − ( )  1 
2 −1 x −  
 2 −1 

52. Locus of the point from where 3 normals are drawn to the parabola y2 = 4x such that two of
them are perpendicular is
(a) y2 = (x – 1)
(b) y2 = (x – 3)
(c) y2 = (x + 3)
(d) y2 = (x + 1)

53. Two chords are drawn through a fixed point ‘t’ on the parabola y2 = 4x at right angles. The
chord joining their other extremities passes through a fixed point
(a) [t2 + 4, 2t]
(b) [t2 + 4, –2t]
(c) [t2 – 4, 2t]
(d) [t2 – 4, –2t]

54. If two normals to a parabola y2 = 4ax intersect at right angles then the chord joining their feet
passes through a fixed point whose co-ordinates are:
(a) (–2a, 0)
(b) (a, 0)
(c) (2a, 0)
(d) none

55. The equation of the other normal to the parabola y2 = 4ax which passes through the point of
intersection of normals at (4a, –4a) & (9a, –6a) is:
(a) 5x – y + 115a = 0
(b) 5x + y – 135 a = 0
(c) 5x – y – 115 a = 0
(d) 5x + y + 115 = 0

56. The co-ordinate of the vertex of parabola y = x2 + bx + c is (1, 2) then find value of b.
(a) –1
(b) – 2
(c) 1
(d) 2

@aakashallen
 1
57. Statement-1: Curve 9y2 – 6y = 2x + 1 is symmetric about y =
3
Statement-2: A parabola is symmetric about it’s axis.
(a) Statement-1 is true, Statement-2 is true; Statement-2 is the correct explanation of Statement-
1.
(b) Statement-1 is true, Statement-2 is true; Statement-2 is not the correct explanation of
Statement-1
(c) Statement-1 is false, Statement-2 is true.
(d) Statement-1 is true, Statement-2 is false.

58. Statement-1 : Two perpendicular tangent on y2 = – 4x is always meet on x = 1

Statement-2 : Two perpendicular tangents always meet on axis of parabola.
(a) Statement-1 is true, Statement-2 is true; Statement-2 is the correct explanation of Statement-
1.
(b) Statement-1 is true, Statement-2 is true; Statement-2 is not the correct explanation of
Statement-1
(c) Statement-1 is false, Statement-2 is true.
(d) Statement-1 is true, Statement-2 is false.

59. Statement-1 : AB is a focal chord of a parabola then the tangent at A to the parabola is
parallel to the normal at B.
Statement-2 : If A(t1) & B(t2) are the ends of a focal chord of the parabola y2 = 4ax then t1t2 = –
1
(a) Statement-1 is true, Statement-2 is true; Statement-2 is the correct explanation of Statement-
1.
(b) Statement-1 is true, Statement-2 is true; Statement-2 is not the correct explanation of
Statement-1
(c) Statement-1 is false, Statement-2 is true.
(d) Statement-1 is true, Statement-2 is false.

60. Statement-1 : The perpendicular bisector of the line segment joining the point (–a , 2at) and
(a, 0) is tangent to the parabola y2 = 4ax, where t ∈ R
Statement-2 : Number of parabolas with a given point as vertex and length of latus rectum equal
to 4, is 2.
(a) Statement-1 is True, Statement-2 is True; Statement-2 is a correct explanation for Statement-
1.
(b) Statement-1 is True, Statement-2 is True; Statement-2 is NOT a correct explanation for
Statement-1
(c) Statement-1 is True, Statement-2 is False
(d) Statement-1 is False, Statement-2 is True

@aakashallen
 Answer

1. (a) 2. (d) 3. (c) 4. (a) 5. (c) 6. (d) 7. (c) 8. (c) 9. (c) 10. (a) 11. (d) 12. (c)
13. (a) 14. (d) 15. (c) 16. (a) 17. (b) 18. (c) 19. (d) 20. (c) 21. (b) 22. (b) 23. (b) 24. (b)
25. (d) 26. (a) 27. (a) 28. (c) 29. (b) 30. (b) 31. (a) 32. (c) 33. (d) 34. (b) 35. (b) 36. (b)
37. (d) 38. (c) 39. (a) 40. (c) 41. (c) 42. (c) 43. (b) 44. (a) 45. (c) 46. (a) 47. (d) 48. (a)
49. (a) 50. (a) 51. (b) 52. (b) 53. (b) 54. (b) 55. (b) 56. (b) 57. (a) 58. (d) 59. (a) 60. (c)

Solutions
1. (a)

2. (d)

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3. (c)

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4. (a)

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5. (c)

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6. (d)

7. (c)

8. (c)

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9. (c)

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10. (a)

11. (d)

12. (c)

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13. (a)

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14. (d)

15. (c)

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16. (a)

17. (b)
If y = mx + c is normal to the parabola y2 = 4ax, then c = – 2am – am3.
From the given condition, y2 = 12x
⟹ y2 = 4(3)x
⟹ a=3
and x+y=k
⟹ y = (–1) x + k
⟹ m=–1
and c=k
∴ c = k = – 2 (3) (– 1) – 3 (– 1)3 = 9

18. (c)

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19. (d)

20. (c)

21. (b)

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22. (b)

23. (b)

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24. (b)
Slope of chord for parabola = tan 𝛼 = 1 ⟹ 𝛼 = 45°
So length = 4(2).cosec (45°) = 8 2

25. (d)
As (–2a, 2) lie on directrix
So angle between line pair = 90°

26. (a)
Equation of normal at (t2, 2t) to y2 = 4x
y = – tx + 2t + t3
comparing with y = 2x + c
⟹ t = – 2, 2t + t3 = c = – 12

27. (a)
After reflection ray passes through focus
Focus = (1 + 1, 0) = (2, 0)

28. (c)

29. (b)

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30. (b)

31. (a)

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32. (c)

33. (d)

34. (b)

35. (b)

36. (b)

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37. (d)

38. (c)

39. (a)

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40. (c)

41. (c)

42. (c)

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43. (b)

44. (a)

45. (c)

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46. (a)

47. (d)

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48. (a)

49. (a)

50. (a)

51. (b)

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52. (b)

53. (b)

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54. (b)

55. (b)

56. (b)

57. (a)

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58. (d)
Perpendicular tangents to parabola always meets on its directrix.

59. (a)
Tangent a ends of focal chord are perpendicular of statement-1 correct.

60. (c)
Image of (a, 0) with respect to tangent yt = x + at2 is (– a, 2at)
∴ Perpendicular bisector of (a, 0) and (– a , 2at) is the tangent line yt = x + at2 to the parabola
∴ Statement-1 is true
Statement-2 infinitely many parabola are possible
∴ statement-2 is false

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