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HYPERBOLA
 QUIZRR 3

HYPERBOLA

D efin it io n
A Hyperbola is the locus of a point which moves in a plane so that the ratio of its distance from
a fixed point (called focus) and a fixed line (called directrix) is a constant which is greater than
one, this ratio is called eccentricity and is denoted by e. For hyperbola e > 1.
Let S be the focus, QN be the directrix and P be any point on the hyperbola. Then by definition

PS
or PS = e PN, e > 1
PN
where PN is the length of the perpendicular from P on the directrix QN. In other words a
hyperbola is the locus of a point which moves in such a way that the difference of its distance
from two fixed points (called foci) is constant.

Y
M´ P
M

X
S´ Z´ C Z S

PM and PM´ are perpendicular to the directrices MZ and M´Z´.

PS´ ă PS = e (PM´ ă PM)
eMM´ = e (2a/e) = 2a = constant.

St and ar d E q uat ions of H yp er b ola

Let S be the focus and ZM the directrix of a hyperbola. Since e > 1, we can divide SZ internally
and externally in the ratio e : 1, let the points of division be A and A´ as in the figure.
Let AA´ = 2a and is bisected at C.
Then, SA = e. AZ, SA´ = e.ZA´
 SA + SA´ = e (AZ + ZA´) = 2ae
i.e. 2SC = 2ae or SC = ae
similarly by subtraction,
SA´ ăSA = e (ZA´ ă ZA) = 2e.ZC
 2a = 2eZC  ZC = a/ e
Now, take C as the origin, CA as the x-axis, and the perpendicular line CY as the y-axis. Then,
S is the point (ae, 0) and ZM the line x = a/ e. Let P (x, y) be any point on the hyperbola.
Then the condition PS2 = e2. (distance of P from ZM)2 gives (x – ae)2 + y2 = e2 (x – a/ e)2

HYPERBOLA
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x2 y2
or x2 (1 – e)2 + y2 = a2 (1 – e)2 i.e.,  1 ...(i)
a2 a2 (e2  1)

x2 y2
2
Since e > 1, e ă 1 is positive. Let a 2 2 2
(e ă 1) = b . Then the equation (i) becomes   1.
a2 b2

x2 y2  b2 
The eccentricity e of the hyperbola   1 is given by the relation e2 =  1  2  .
a2 b2  a 


Since the curve is symmetrical about the y-axis, it is clear that there exists another focus S´ at
(ă ae, 0) and a corresponding directrix Z´M´ with the equation x = – a/e, such that the same
hyperbola is described if a point moves so that its distance from S´ is e times its distance from
Z´M´.

T er ms R elat ed t o H yp er b ola
Symmetry : Since only even powers of x and y occur in the above equation, so the curve is
symmetrical about both the axes.
Foci : S and S´ are the two foci of the hyperbola and their coordinates are (ae, 0) and (ă ae, 0)
respectively, then distance between foci is given by SS´ = 2ae.

B P(x,y)
N M´ P(x,y)
M L
Ractum
Axis

Rectum
X´ Transverse axis
X
Z´ C´ Z
A´(0,ăa)

A(a,0)

S´ S(ae,0)
(ăae,0)
Conjugate

Latus

x=a/e
Directrix

Directrix

N´
L´

x=ăa/e B´
Y´
a
Directries : ZM and Z´M´ are the two directrices of the hyperbola and their equations are x 
e
a 2a
and x   respectively, then the distance between directries is given by ZZ´ =
e e
Axes : The lines AA´ and BB´ are caled the transverse axis and conjugate axis respectively of the
hyperbola. The length of transverse axis = AA´ = 2a. The length of conjugate axis = BB´ = 2b.
Centre : The point of intersection C of the axes of hyperbola is called the centre of the hyperbola.
All chords passing through C, are bisected at C.

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Vertices : The point A  (a, 0) and A´  (– a, 0) where the curve meets the line joining the foci
S and S´ are called the vertices of the hyperbola.
Focal chord : A chord of the hyperbola passing through its focus is called a focal chord.

x2 y2
Focal distance : The focal distance of any point (x, y) on the hyperbola   1 are
a2 b2
ex ă a and ex + a.
The difference of the focal distance of any point on the hyperbola is constant and equal to the
length ofo the transverse axis of the hyperbola. If P is any hyperbola, then
S´P ă SP = 2a = Transverse axis.
Latus Rectum : If LL´ and NN´ are the latus rectum of the hyperbola then these lines are
perpendicular to the transverse axis AA´, passing through the foci S and S´ respectively.

 b2   b2   b2    b2 
L   ae, , L´   ae,   , N    ae,  N´    ae, 
 a   a   a   a 
   

2b2
Length of latus rectum = LL´   NN´
a
Eccentricity of the Hyperola
We know that SP = ePM or SP2 = e2 PM2

2
2 x a
or 2
(x ă ae) + (y ă 0) = e 2   or (x ă ae)2 + y2 = (ex ă a)2
 e

or x2 + a2e2 ă 2aex + y2 = e2 x2 ă 2aex + a2 or x2 (e2 ă 1) ă y2 = a2 (e2 ă 1)

x2 y2
 1
a2 a2 (e2  1)

x2 y2 2
On comparing with   1, we get b2 = a2 (e2 ă 1) or e  1  b
a2 b2 a2

(conjugate axis)2
or e 1
(transverse axis)2

G ener al E q uat ion of H yp er b ola

The equation of hyperbola, whose focus is pont (h, k) directrix is lx + my + n = 0 & ecentricity

e 2 (lx  my  n )2
ÂeÊ is given by ( x  h )2  ( y  k )2 
(l 2  m 2 )

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Illustration 1
Find the equation of the hyperbola whose focus is (1, 2) directrix is the line x + y + 1 = 0
3
and eccentricity .
2
Solution :
Let S (1, 2) be the focus and let P (x, y) be a point on the hyperbola. Draw perpendicular PM
from P on the directrix x + y + 1 = 0. Then
SP = e PM

3  x  y  1
 
 ( x  1)2  ( y  2)2 = 2  12  12 
  Y
P(x,y)
S(1,2)
Focus
9  ( x  y  1)2 
 (x ă 1) + (y ă 2)2 = 4  2
 M
 
X´ O X
2 2 2
 8 [(x ă 1) + (y ă 2) ] = 9 [(x + y + 1) ]
Di
 8 x2 + 8 y2 ă 16x ă 32y + 40 re
ct
r
= 9x2 + 9y2 + 9 + 18xy + 18x + 18y Y´ ix
 x2 + y2 + 18xy + 34x + 50y ă 31 = 0
This is the equation of the required hyperbola.

Illustration 2
Find the eccentricity of the conic represented by x 2 ă y2 ă 4x + 4y + 16 = 0
Solution :
We have x2 ă y2 ă 4x + 4y + 16 = 0
 (x2 ă 4x) ă (y2 ă 4y) = ă 16  (x2 ă 4x + 4) ă (y2 ă 4y + 4) = ă 16

( x  2)2 ( y  2)2
 (x ă 2)2 ă (y ă 2)2 = ă 16    1
42 42

X2 Y2
Shifting the origin at (2, 2), we obtain    1, where x = X + 2, y = Y + 2
42 42

This is rectangular hyperbola, whose eccentricity is always 2

Illustration 3
Find the centre, eccentricity, foci, directrices and the lengths of the transverse and conjugate
axes of the hyperbola, whose equation is (x ă 1)2 ă 2 (y ă 2)2 + 6 = 0

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Solution :
The equation of the hyperbola can be written as (x ă 1)2 ă 2(y ă 2)2 + 6 = 0

( x  1) 2 ( y  2)2 Y2 X2
or ă   1 or  1
(6) 2 ( 3)2 ( 3)2 ( 6)2

Where Y = (y ă 2) and X = (x ă 1) ...(1)

 centre : X = 0, Y = 0 i.e., (x ă 1) = 0, x = 1 & (y ă 2) = 0, y = 2.

So, a  3 and b  6 so transverse axis = 2 3 , and conjugate axis = 2 6 .

Also b2 = a2 (e2 ă 1)  6 = 3 (e2 ă 1) i.e., e  3

In (X, Y) coordinates, foci are (0,  ae)

i.e., (0,  3)  foci are (1, 2  3) i.e., (1, 5) and (1, ă 1)
Equations of directrices, Y =  a/e

 directrices yă2=  3 / 3   1 or y = 3, y = 1.

Illustration 4

4
Find the equation of the hyperbola whose foci are (8, 3) (0, 3) and eccentricity = .
3
Solution :
The centre of the hyperbola is the mid-point of the line joining the two foci. So the coordinates

8  0 3  3
of the centre are  ,
2 
i.e. (4, 3).
 2

Let 2a and 2b be the length of transverse and conjugate axes and let e be the eccentricity. Then

( x  4)2 ( y  3)2
the equation of the hyperbola is  1 ...(i)
a2 b2
Now, distance between the two foci = 2ae

 4
 (8  0)2  (3  3)2  2ae  ae = 4     a = 3  e  
 3

 16 
Now, b2 = a2 (e2 ă 1)  b2  9   1  7
 9 
Thus, the equation of the hyperbola is

( x  4)2 ( y  3)2
  1 [Putting the values of a and b in (i)]
9 7
 7x2 ă 9y2 ă 56x + 54y ă 32 = 0

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Par amet r ic E q uat ions of t he H yp er b ola

x2 y2
Since coordinate x = a sec and y = b tan satisfy the equation   1 for all real values
a2 b2

x2 y2
of  therfore, x = a sec, y = b tan are the parametric equations of the hyperbola   1,
a2 b2
where the parameter 0   < 2

x2 y2
Hence, the coordinates of any point on the hyperbola   1 may be taken as (a sec, b
a2 b2
tan). This point is also called the point . The angle is called the eccentric angle of the point
(a sec, b tan) on the hyperbola.

Auxiliar y C ir cle
A circle drawn with the centre C and T.A. as a diameter is called the Auxiliary Circle of the
hyperbola. Equation of the auxiliary circle is x2 + y2 = a2.
Note from the figure that P and Q are called the “Corresponding Points” on the hyperbola and
the auxiliary circle. ‘’ is called the eccentric angle of the point ÂPÊ on the hyperbola (0   < 2).

Y
Q P(asec, btan)

(ăa,0) (0,0)  A
X
A´ C (a,0) N

C onj ugat e H yp er b ola

The hyperbola whose transverse and conjugate axes Y
are respectively the conjugate and transverse axes of S´(0,be)
a given hyperbola is called the conjugate hyperbola of
the given hyperbola.
The conjugate hyperbola of the hyperbola B(0,b) Y=b/e
Z
X´ X
x2 y2 x2 y2 C
  1 is    1.
a2 b2 a2 b2 B(0,ăb) Y=b/e
S´(0,ăbe)

Y´

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Pr op er t ies of H yp er b ola and it s C onj ugat e

Hyperbola Conjugate Hyperbola

x2 y2  x2 y2 x2 y2
Standard equation  1   1 or   1
a2 b2 a2 b2 a2 b2
Centre (0, 0) (0, 0)
Eq. of transverse axis y= 0 x= 0
Eq. of conjugate axis x= 0 y= 0
Length of transverse axis 2a 2b
Lentgh of conjugate axis 2b 2a
Foci ( ae, 0) (0,  be)
Equation of directrices x =  a/e y =  b/e
Vertices ( a, 0) (0,  b)

a 2  b2 a 2  b2
Eccentricity e e
a2 b2

Length of latus rectum 2b2/a 2a 2/b

Parameter Coordinates (a sec, b tan) (b sec, a tan)
Focal radii SP=ex1ăa and S´P=ex1 + a SP = ey1 ă b and S´P = ey1 + b
Difference of focal 2a 2b
radii (S´P ă SP)
Tangent of the vertices x=  a y=  b

Y
Posit ion of A Point P w.r .t . H yp er b ola :
Let S = 0 be the hyperbola and P (x1, y1)
be the point and S1  S(x1, y1). Interior Exterior Interior
region region region
Then X
O
S1 < 0  P is in the exterior region
S1 > 0  P is in the interior region
S1 = 0  P lies on the hyperbola

Important :

x2 y2
Note that most of the results proved for hyperbola   1 can be obtained from the same
a2 b2

2 2
formula for ellipse x  y  1 , by replacing b2 by ă b2 in conditions for ellipse.
a2 b2

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Illustration 5
Show that the equation x 2 ă 2y2 ă 2x + 8y ă 1 = 0 represents a hyperbola. Find the coordinates
of the centre, lengths of the axes, eccentricity, latus rectum, coordinates of the foci and
vertices and equations of directrices of the hyperbola.
Solution :
x2 ă 2y2 ă 2x + 8y ă 1 = 0
 (x2 ă 2x) ă 2 (y2 ă 4y) = 1
 (x2 ă 2x + 1) ă 2 (y2 ă 4y + 4) = ă 6
 (x ă 1)2 ă 2 (y ă 2)2 = ă 6

( x  1) 2 ( y  2)2
   1 ...(i)
( 6)2 ( 3)

Shifting the origin at (1, 2) without rotating the coordinates axes and denoting the new coordinates
with respect to these axes by X and Y, we have
x = X + 1 and y = Y + 2 ...(ii)
Using these relations, equation (i) reduces to

X2 Y2
  1 ...(iii)
( 6)2 ( 3) 2

X2 Y2
This equation is of the form    1, where a2 = ( 6)2 and b2 = ( 3)2 . So, we have :
a2 b2
Centre The coordinates of the centre with respect to the new axes are (X = 0, Y = 0).
So, the coordinates of the centre with respect to the old axes are (1, 2) [Putting X = 0, Y = 0 in
(ii)]
Lengths of the Axes : Since the transverse axis of the hyperbola is along new Y-axis.
 Transverse axis = 2b = 2 3 , Conjugate axis = 2a = 2 6 .

a2 6
Eccentricity : The eccentricity e is given by e  1  2
 1  3
b 3

2 a2 12
Latus rectum : Length of the latus rectum =  4 3.
b 3

Foci : The coordinates of foci with respect to the new axes are
(X = 0, Y =  be) i.e. (X = 0, Y =  3).
So, the coordinates of the vertices with respect to the old axes are (1, 2  3) i.e. (1, 5) and
(1, ă 1) [Putting X = 0, Y =  3 in (ii)]

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Vertices : The coordinates of the vertices with respect to the new axes are X = 0, Y =  b i.e.
(X = 0, Y =  3 )
So the coordinates of the vertices w.r.t. to the old axes are

(1, 2  3 ) i.e. (1, 2 + 3 ) and (1, 2 ă 3 ) [Putting X = 0, Y = + 3 in (ii)]

Directrices : The equations of the directrices with respect to the new axes are Y =  b/e i.e.
Y =  1
So the equations of the directrices with respect to the old axes are
y = 2  1 i.e. y = 1 and y = 3 [Putting Y =  2 in (ii)]

Illustration 6

1 1
If e and e´ be the eccentricities of a hyperbola and its conjugate, prove that 2
 1.
e e2
Solution :

x2 y2
Let the equation of the hyperbola be  1 ...(i)
a2 b2

x2 y2
Then the equation of the hyperbola conjugate to (i) is   1 ...(ii)
a2 b2

2
 conjugate axis 
e = Eccentricity of (i) = 1 
 Transverse axis 

2
 2b  b2 a2  b2
 e 1   e2  1   e2  ...(iii)
 2a  a2 a2

2
 conjugate axis 
And, e´ = Eccentricity of (ii) = 1 
 Transverse axis 

2
 2a  a2 a2  b2
 e´  1     e´2  1   e´2  ...(iv)
 2b  b2 b2

From (iii) and (iv), we have

1 1 a2 b2 a 2  b2 1 1
      1
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
e e´ a b a b a b e e´2

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T a n gen t t o t h e H yp er b ola :
1. Condition for tangency and points of contact : The condition for the line y = mx + c to be

x2 y2
a tangent to the hyperbola   1 is that c 2 = a 2m 2 ă b 2 and the coordinates of the points
a2 b2

 a2 m b2 
 ,  
of contact are  
 a 2 m2  b2 a 2 m2  b2 

2. Equation of tangent

x2 y2
(a) Point form : The equation of the tangent to the hyperbola   1 at the point
a2 b2

xx1 yy1
(x1, y1) is  1
a2 b2
The equation of tangent at (x1, y1) can also be obtained by replacing x2 by xx1, y2 yy1, x by
x  x1 y  y1 xy1  x1 y
y by and xy by . This method is used only when the equation of
2 2 2
hyperbola is a polynomial of second degree in x and y.

x2 y2
(b) Parametric Form : The eqn. of the tangent to the hyperbola   1 at the point
a2 b2

x y
(a sec b, tan) is sec   tan   1
a b

x2 y2
(c) Slope Form : The equation of tangent to the hyperbola    1 in terms of slope ÂmÊ
a2 b2

is y  mx  a 2 m 2  b2 The coordinates of the points of contact are

 a2 m b2 
 , 
 a 2 m2  b2 a 2 m2  b2 
 

3. Number of Tangents From a Point : Two tangents can be drawn from a point to a hyperbola.
The two tangents are real and distinct or coincident of imaginary according as the given point lies
outside, on or inside the hyperbola.
4. Director Circle : It is the locus of point from which  tangents are drawn to the hyperbola. The

x2 y2
equation of director circle of the hyperbola   1 is x 2 + y2 = a 2 ă b 2
a2 b2

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5. Equation of the pair of tangents : The equation of the pair of tangents drawn from a point

x2 y2
P (x1, y1) to the hyperbola   1 is SS = T2
a2 b2 1

x2 y2 x12 y12 xx1 yy1

where S    1, S    1 and T  2
 1
a2 b2 a2 b2 a b2

Illustration 7
Find the condition for the line x cos  + y sin  = p to be a tangent to the hyperobla

x2 y2
  1.
a2 b2

Solution :
We have,
x cos  + y sin  = p  y = ă x cot  ă p cosec 
 y = (ă cot ) x + (ă p cosec ) ...(i)

x2 y2
This will touch   1, if
a2 b2

(ă p cosec )2 = a2 (ă cot )2 ă b2 [Using c2 = a2m2 ă b2]

 p2 cosec2  = a2 cot2  ă b2  p2 = a2 cos2  ă b2 sin2 

Illustration 8
Prove that the product of the lengths of the perpendiculars drawn from foci on any tangent

x2 y2
to the hyperbola   1 is b 2.
a2 b2
Solution :

x2 y2
The equation of any tangent to the hyperbola   1 is y  mx  a 2 m 2  b2 ...(i)
a2 b2
Let S (ae, 0) and S´ (ă ae, 0) be two foci of the hyperbola.
Let p and and p´ be the lengths of perpendicular from S (ae, 0) and S´ (ă ae, 0) on (i). Then,
p = Length of the  from S(ae, 0) on (i)

mae  0  a 2 m2  b2 mae  a 2 m2  b2
=
m2  1 1  m2

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14 QUIZRR
p´ = Length of the  from S´(– ae, 0) on (i)

 mae  a 2 m2  b2  mae  a2 m2  b2
= 
m2  1 1  m2

Now,

mae  a 2 m2  b2  mae  a2 m2  b2
p.p´ = .
1  m2 1  m2

 m2 a 2 e2  a 2 m2  b2  m2 a 2 (e2  1)  b2
= 
1  m2 m2  1

m2 b  b2 (m2  1)b2
= 2
 2
 b2
m 1 (m  1)

Illustration 9

x2 y2
If the tangent at the point (p, q) on the hyperbola  1 cuts the auxiliary circle in
a 2 b2
points whose ordinates are y1 and y2 then q is Harmonic mean of y1 and y2.
Solution : Here we choose the tangent as

xp yq p2 q2
  1 where  1 ...(1)
a2 b2 a2 b2
Its intersection with x2 + y2 = a2 is given by eliminating x as we are concerned with ordinates

2
 yq  a 4
 1  2 
. 2  y2  a 2
 b  p

or (b2 + yq)2 a4 + b4y2p2 = a2p2b4

or y2 (a4q2 + b4p2) + 2yqb2a4 + a4b4 ă a2p2b4 = 0 ...(2)
Above is a quadratic in y. We have to prove that q is H.M. ÂHÊ of y1 and y2

2y1 y2 ( a4 b4  a2 p2b4 )
Now H = by (2)
y1  y2  2 qb2 a 4

a4 b4 (1  p2 / a 2 ) b2  q2 
=     q, by (1).
 2 qb2 . a4  q  b2 

 q is H.M. of y1 and y2.

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Illustration 1 0

x2 y2 y2 x2
Determine the equations of common tangents to the hyperbolas   1 and   1.
a2 b2 a2 b2
Solution :

x2 y2
Tangent to   1 is
a2 b2

y  m1 x  ( a2 m12  b2 ) ...(1)

x2 y2
The other hyperbola is  1
( b2 ) ( a 2 )

Any tangent to it is y  m2 x  ( b2 )m22  (a 2 ) ...(2)

If (1) and (2) are same, then

m1 = m2 and a 2 m12  b2   b2 m22  a 2

or a 2 m12  b2  a2  b2 m12

or (a2 + b2) m12  a 2  b2

 m12  1  m1 =  1

Hence the common tangents are

y x a 2  b2

E q uat ion of Nor mal I n Differ ent For ms :

 a2 m mb2 
 , 
1. (i) The coordinate of the point of contact are  2 2 
 a 2  b2 m2 2
a b m 

2. Equation of normals :

x2 y2
(a) Point Form : The equation of the normal to the hyperbola   1 at the point
a2 b2

x2 y2 a 2 x b2 y
(x1, y1) is   1 is   a 2  b2
a2 b2 x1 y1

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x2 y2
(b) Parametric Form : The equation of the normal to the hyperbola   1 at the point
a2 b2

ax by
(a sec, b tan) is   a 2  b2
sec  tan 

x2 y2
(c) Slope Form : The equation of normal to the hyperbola   1 in terms of slope ÂmÊ
a2 b2

m(a 2  b2 )
is y  mx 
a 2  b2 m2

3. Number of Normals : In general, four normals can be drawn to a hyperbola from a point in
its plane i.e. there are four points on the hyperbola, the normals at which will pass through a
given point. These four points are called the co-norma l points.
4. Tangent drawn at any point bisects the angle between the lines joining the point to the foci,
where as normal bisects the supplementary angle between the lines.

Illustration 1 1

x2 y2
Prove that the line lx + my + n = 0 will be a normal to the hyperbola   1 if
a2 b2

a2 b2 (a 2  b 2 )2
 
l2 m2 n2
Solution :
The equation of the normal at (a sec , b tan) to the hyperbola
a x sin  + b y = (a2 + b2) tan ...(i)
and the equation of the line is
lx + my + n = 0 ...(ii)
Equations (i) and (ii) will represent the same line. If

a sin  b ( a2  b2 ) tan 
 
l m n

am (a 2  b2 )m
 cosec  and cot   
bl b2

a2 m2 (a 2  b2 ) m2
 2
cosec  ă cot  = 1 2
  1
b2 l2 b2 n2

a2 (a2  b2 )2 b2 a2 b2 (a2  b2 )2
     
l2 n2 m2 l2 m2 n2

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Illustration 1 2

x2 y2
Ê on the hyperbola
If the normal at Â   1 meets the transverse axis at G, prove that
a2 b2
AG.A´G = a 2 (e4 sec2 ă 1)
where A and A´ are the vertices of the hyperbola.
Solution :
The equation of the normal at (a sec, b tan) to the given hyperbola is
ax cos + by cot = (a2 + b2)

 a 2  b2 

This meets the transverse axis i.e. x-axis at G. So, the coordinates of G are  sec , 0 
 a 

The coordinates of the vertices A and A´ are A (a, 0) and A´ (ă a, 0) respectively

 a2  b2   a 2  b2 
 AG.A´G 
=   a  sec    a  sec  
a   a 
   

= (ă a + a e2 sec) (a + e2 sec)
= a2 (e4 sec2 ă 1)

Illustration 1 3
Show that the locus of the middle points of the normal chords of the rectangular hyperbola
x 2 ă y2 = a 2 is (y2 ă x 2)3 = 4a 2x 2y2.
Solution :
If (h, k) be the mid-point of the chord of the hyperbola x2 ă y2 = a2 then its equation by T = S1 is
hx ă ky = h2 ă k2 ...(1)
But since (1) is normal to the hyperbola its equation is
x cos + y cot = 2a ...(2)
Putting b = a
Comparing (1) and (2), we get

h k h2  k2
 
cos  cot  2a

h2  k2 h2  k2
 sec = and tan  
2 ah  2 ak
Put in sec2 ă tan2 = 1

( h2  k2 )2  1 1 
 2  2  2 1
4a h k 

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Hence the locus of the mid-point (h, k) is
(x2 ă y2)2 (y2 ă x2) = 4a2 x2y2
or (y2 ă x2)3 = 4a2x2y2

Illustration 1 4

x2 y2
A normal to the hyperbola   1 meets the axes in Q and R, and lines QL and RL are
a2 b2
drawn at right angles to the axes and meet at L. [In other words the rectangle QORL is
completed].
Prove that locus of the point L is the hyperbola
a 2x 2 ă b 2y2 = (a 2 + b 2 )2
Prove that further that the locus of the middle point of QR is 4 (a 2x 2 ă b 2y2 ) = (a 2 + b 2 )2
Solution :
Any normal to the hyperbola is
ax cos + by cot = a2 + b2 ...(1)
Putting y = 0 and then x = 0, we get the points Q and R where it meets the axes as

 a2  b2   a 2  b2 
Q sec , 0  and R  0, tan  
 a   b 
   

a2  b2
Line through Q perpondicular to x-axis is x  sec 
a

a 2  b2
Line through R perpondicular to y-axis is y  tan 
b
Both these lines meet at the point L and in order to find its locus, we have to eliminate  between
their equations by the help of relation sec2 ă tan2 = 1.

a 2 x2 b2 y2
or  1
( a 2  b2 ) (a2  b2 )2

or a2x2 ă b2y2 = (a2 + b2)2

2nd part : if (h, k) be the mid-point of QR, then

a 2  b2 a2  b2
2h  sec , 2 k  tan 
a b
4(a2h2 ă b2k2) = (a2 + b2 )2 (sec2 ă tan2)
or (a2x2 ă b2y2) = (a2 + b2)2
is the required locus.

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C hor d wit h A G iven M id -Point

x2 y2
The equation of chord of the hyperbola   1 with P (x , y ) as its middle point is given
a2 b2 1 1

xx1 yy1 x12 y12

by T = S1 where T    1 and S1   1
a2 b2 a2 b2

C hor d of C ont act

The equation of chord of contact of tangent drawn from a point P (x1, y1) to the hyperbola

x2 y2 xx1 yy1
  1 is T = 0 where T  2
 1
a2 b2 a b2
The equation of the chord joining the points P  (a sec1, b tan1) and Q  (a sec2, b tan2) is

x y 1
x  1  2  y  1  2   1  2  a sec 1 b tan 1 1  0
cos   sin    cos 
a  2  b  2   2  or
 a sec 2 b tan 2 1

Equation of A Diameter of A Hyperbola

x2 y2 2
The equation of the diameter bisecting chords of slope of the hyperbola 2
 2
 1 is y  b
a b a 2m

C onj ugat e Diamet er s

Two diameters of a hyperbola are said to be conjugate diameters if each bisects the chord parallel

x2 y2
to the other. If m1 and m2 be the slopes of the conjugate diameters of a hyperbola  1,
a2 b2

b2
then m 1m 2 =
a2

Illustration 1 5
Chords of the circle x 2 + y2 = a 2 touch the hyperbola x 2/a 2 ă y2/b 2 = 1. Prove that locus of their
middle point is the curve (x 2 + y2) = a 2x 2 ă b 2y2.
Solution :
Let (h, k) be the mid-point of the chord of the circle x2 + y2 = a2, so that its equation by T = S1
is
hx + ky = h2 + k2

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h h2  k2
or y x i.e. of the form
k k
y = mx + c
It will touch the hyperbola if c2 = a2m2 ă b2

 h2  k2  2 h
2
2
    a     b
 k   k

or (h2 + k2)2 = a2h2 ă b2k2

Generalising, the locus of mid-point (h, k) is
(x2 + y2)2 = a2x2 ă b2y2

Illustration 1 6

x2 y2
Prove that the locus of the middle points of the chords of the hyperbola   1 which
a2 b2
pass through a fixed point (, ) is a hyperbola whose centre is (/2, /2).
Solution :
Equation of the chord of the hyperbola whose mid-point is (h, k) by T = S1 is

hx ky h2 k2
  
a2 b2 a2 b2

It passes through the point (, )

h k h2 k2
   
a2 b2 a2 b2

x2  x y2   y
 Locus of (h, k) is  0
a2 b2

( x   / 2)2 ( y   / 2) 2 1   2 2  2
or     k ,
a2 b2 4  a 2 b2 

Above equation represents a hyperbola whose centre is (/2, /2).

Illustration 1 7
From points on circle x 2 + y2 = a 2 tangents are drawn to the hyperbola x 2 ă y2 = a 2. Prove that
the locus of the middle points of the chords of contact is the curve (x 2 ă y2) = a 2 (x 2 + y2).

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Solution :
Any point on the curve x2 + y2 = a2 is (acos, a sin). Chord of contact of this point w.r.t. the
hyperbola x2 ă y2 = a2 is
x (a cos) ă y (a sin) = a2
or x cos ă y sin = a ...(1)
If its mid-point be (h, k), then it is same as T = S1.
or hx ă ky = h2 ă k2 ...(2)
Comparing (1) and (2), we get

cos  sin  a
  2
h k h  k2

But cos2 + sin2 = 1

2 2
 ah   ak 
  2    1
 h  k2   h2  k2 

Hence the locus of the mid points (h, k) is

a2(x2 + y2) = (x2 ă y2)2

Illustration 1 8

et  et et  e  t
For any real t x  ,y  is a point on the hyperbola x 2 ă y2 = 1. Show that the
2 2
area bounded by the hyperbola and the lines joining its centre to the points corresponding
to t1 and ă t1 is t1.
Solution :
Substituting the point in the equation of hyperbola, we get

1 t 1
[(e  et ) 2  (et  e t )2 ]  4 et e t  1
4 4
Above is true for all values of t. Hence the point lies on the hyperbola x2 ă y2 = 1.
Let P (x1, y1) be the point corresponding to t1 then

1 1
x1  ( et  e t ), y1  ( et  et )
2 2
If Q (x2, y2) be the point corresponding to ă t1 then

1 t
x2  (e  et )  x1 ,
2

1 t
y2  ( e  et )  y1
2

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 The point Q is (x1, y1). Hence PQ is a double ordinate.
The vertex A (1, 0) corresponds to t = 0

1 1
   CPQ = ( x1 y2  x2 y1 )  ( x1 y1  x1 y1 )
2 2

= |ă x1y1| = x1y1

t1 dx
Area of APMQA = 2 area APMA = 2 0 y dt
dt

t1 1 t 1
= 2 0 (e  e t ). (et  e t ) dt
2 2

1 t1 2t
(e  e2t  2) dt
2 0
=

t
1  e2t e2t 1
= 2 2   2t 
 2  0

1  e2t1  e2t1 
= 2  2t1 
 2 

1 t1 1
= ( e  et1 ). ( et2  et1 )  t1
2 2
= x1y1 ă t1
Hence the required shaded area is
(x1y1) ă (x1y1 ă t1) = t1

 x1
ydx
Alternative : Required area = 2  
 1 
...(1)

1 x1 x1

2
x1 y1 and 1 y dx  1 ( x2  1) dx

   
x
x 2 1 1 x 1
=  x  1  log x  x2  1  = 1 x12  1  log x1  x12  1  0
2 2 1 2 2

1 1 1 1
= x1 y1  log ( x1  y1 )    log et1 =   t1
2 2 2 2
Putting in (1), we get

1
Area = 2D ă 2 + 2. t1  t1
2
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Pole And Polar

x2 y2 xx1 yy1
The polar of a point P (x1, y1) w.r.t. the hyperbola   1 is T = 0, where T  2
 1
a 2 2
b a b2

x2 y2   a 2 l  b2 m 
(i) Pole of a given line lx + my + n = 0 w.r.t. the hyperbola   1 is  n , n 
a2 b2  

(ii) Polar of the focus is the directrix.

(iii) Any tangent is the polar of its point of contact.
(iv) If the polar of P (x1, y1) passes through Q (x2, y2) then the polar of Q will pass through P
and such points are said to the conjugate points.
(v) If the pole of a line lx + my + n = 0 lies on the another line l´x + m´y + n´ = 0, then the
pole of the second line will lie on the first and such lines are said to be conjugate lines.

As ym p t ot es
If the length of perpendicular drawn from a point on the hyperbola to a straight line tends to zero
as the point on moves to infinity. The straight line is called asymptotes.

x2 y2
Let y = mx + c is the asymptote of the hyperbola  .
a2 b2
Solving these two we get the quadratic as (b2 ă a2m2)x2 ă 2a2mcx ă a2 (b2 + c2) = 0
In order that y = mx + c be an asymptote, both roots of equation (1) must approach infinity.
Which are coefficient of x2 = 0 & coefficient of x = 0 Y
b Q BP
or m & a2mc = 0  = 0 ...(1)
a
A´ A
X
x y x y C
 equation of asymptote are  0 &  0
a b a b R B´S

Obviously angle between the asymptotes is 2 tană1(b/a).

If we draw lines through B, B´ parallel to the transverse axis and through A, A´ parallel to the
conjugate axis, then P (a, b), Q (a, b), R (– a, – b) and S (a, – b) all lie on the asymptotes

x2 y2
  0 so asymptotes are diagonals of the rectangle PQRS. This rectangle is called associated
a2 b2
rrectangle.

 x2 y2   x2 y2   x2 y2 
H  2  2  1, C 2  2   1 & A  2  2   0 .
a b  a b  a b 
    

Clearly  C + H = 2A {H = hyperbola, C = Conjugate hyperbola, A = Asymptotes}

HYPERBOLA
 24 QUIZRR

Illustration 1 9
Find the equation of the asymptotes of the hyperbola 2x 2 ă 5xy ă 3y2 ă 5x ă 3y ă 21 = 0.
Solution
Since the equation of the pair of asymptotes of the hyperbola differ by the hyperbola by a
constant only. So, let the equation of the pair of asymptotes be
2x2 ă 5xy ă 3y2 ă 5x ă 3y +  = 0 ...(i)
This equation represents a pair of straight lines
abc + 2fgh ă af2 ă bg2 ă ch2 = 0
Here : a = 2, b = ă 3, h = ă 5/2, g = ă 5/2f = ă 3/2 and c = 

75 9 75 25
  6       0  ă 49  ă 75 ă 18 + 75 = 0
4 2 4 4
  = ă 18/49.
Putting the value of  in (i), we get the required equation

18
2 x2  5 xy  3 y2  5 x  3 y  0
49

Illustration 20

x2 y2
A series of chords of the hyperbola   1 touch the circle on the line joining the foci
a2 b2
as diameter. Show that the locus of the poles of these chords with respect to the hyperbola

x2 y2 1
is 4
 4
 2 .
a b a  b2

Solution :
The foci of the hyperbola are the points S (ae, 0) and S´ (ă ae, 0). Circle on SS´ as diameter is
(x ă ae) (x + ae) + y2 = 0
or x2 + y2 = a2e2 ...(1)
If (h, k) be the pole of the chord which touches (1), then its equation is the polar of (h, k) w.r.t.
hyperbola
hx ky
i.e. 2
 1 ...(2)
a b2
Since the line (2) touches the circle (1) therefore perpendicular from centre (0, 0) should be equal
to radius ae.

1
 ae
 h2 k2 
  4  4 
a b 

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h2 k2 1 1
or 4
 4
 2 2
  b2 = a2 (e2 ă 1)
a b a e a  b2
2

x2 y2 1
Generalising, the locus of the pole (h, k) is the ellipse 4
 4

a b a  b2
2

Illustration 21
Show that the locus of poles with respect to the parabola y2 = 4a x of tangents to the
hyperbola x 2 ă y2 = a 2 is the ellipse 4x 2 + y2 = 4a 2.
Solution :
Any tangent to the hyperbola x2 ă y2 = a2 is
x secq ă y tan = a
x ă y sin = a cos ...(1)
2
If its pole w.r.t. parabola y = 4ax be (h, k) then it is same as ky = 2a (x + h)
or 2ax ă ky = ă 2ah ...(2)

1 sin  cos 
Compare (1) and (2),  
2a k  2h

Elimination  by cos + sin2 = 1

k2 + 4h2 = 4a2  Locus is 4x2 + y2 = 4a2.

Illustration 22
A series of hyperbolas are such that the length of their transverse axis is 2a . Show that the
locus of a point P on each such that its distance from the transverse axis is equal to its
distance from an asymptote is the curve (x 2 ă y2)2 = 4x 2 (x 2 ă a 2).
Solution :

x2 y2 x y
Let the hyperbola be  =1 and one of its asymptotes is  0
a 2
b 2 a b

Here a is given but b is not known. Choose any point (h, k) on the hyperbola.

h2 k2
  1 ...(1)
a2 b2

h k

By given condition k  a b
 1 1 
 2  2
a b 

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26 QUIZRR

2
 1 1   h k
or k2  2  2      ...(2)
a b   a b

In order to find the locus of (h, k) we have to eliminate unknown b2. Now form (2)

k2 h2 2hk
 
a 2
a 2 ab

4a2 h2 k2
(k2 ă h2)2 =
b2

 h2 
or (k2 ă h2) = 4a2h2  2  1  , by (1)
a 

or (x2 ă y2) = 4x2 (x2 ă a2)

is the required locus.

Illustration 23

x2 y2
Prove that the product of the perpendiculars from any point on the hyperbola  1
a2 b2

a 2 b2
to its asymptotes is equal to .
a 2  b2
Solution :

x2 y2
Let (a sec, b tan) be any point on the hyperbola  = 1
a2 b2

x y x y
The equations of the asymptotes of the given hyperbola are   0 and  0
a b a b

x y
Now, p1 = length of the perpendicular from (a sec, b tan) on   0 = sec   tan 
a b 1 1
2
 2
a b

x y
and, p2 = length of the perpendicular from on (a sec, b tan) on   0 = sec   tan 
a b 1 1
2
 2
a b

sec 2   tan 2  a2 b2
 p1p2 =  2
1 1 a  b2

a2 b2
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R ect angular or E q uilat er al H yp er b ola

A hyperbola is called rectangular if its a symptotes a re a t right a ngles. The asymptotes of

x2 y2
2
 2
 1 are y =  (b/a)x so they are perpendicular if ă b2/a2 = ă 1 i.e., b2 = a2, i.e., a = b.
a b
Hence equation of a rectangular hyperbola can be written as x2 ă y2 = a 2

(i) a2 = a2 (e2 ă 1) gives e2 = 2 i.e. e  2.

(ii) Asymptotes are y =  x
(iii) Rotating the axes by an angle ă /4 about the same origin, equation of the rectangular
hyperbola x2 ă y2 = a2 is reduced to xy = a2/2 or xy = c2, (c2 = a2/2). In xy = c2, asymptotes
are coordinate axes.
(iv) Rectangular hyperbola is also called equilateral hyperbola.

Rectangular Hyperbola referred to its asymptotes as axis of coordinates :

c
(i) Equation is xy = c2 with parametric representation x = ct, y  , t  R ~ (0) .
t
(ii) Equation of chord joining the points P (t1) & (Q (t2), x + t1t2y = c (t1t2)
x y x
(iii) Equation of the tangent at P (x1, y1) is x  y  2 and at P(t) is  ty  2c .
1 1 t
(iv) Chord with a given middle point as (h, k) is kx + hy = 2hk.
(v) Equation of the normal at P(t) is x t3 ă yt = c (t4 ă 1)
(vi) Vertex of this hyperbola is (c, c) and (ă c, ă c); focus is ( 2 c, 2 c) and ( 2 c,  2 c) , the

derectrices are x  y   2 c and l (L.R.) = 2 2 c = T.A. = C.A.

Illustration 24
If the normal at the point Ât1Ê to the rectangular hyperbola xy = c 2 meets it again at the point
Ât2Ê, prove that t2 = ă 1/t13.
Solution :
The equation of the normal at (ct1, c/t1) to the hyperbola xy = c2 is xt13  yt1  ct14  c  0

 c
If this passes through  c t2 ,  , then
 t2

c
ct2 t13  t1  ct14  c  0  t22 t13  t1  t14 t2  t2  0
t2

 t13 t2 (t2  t1 )  (t2  t1 )  0  (t13 t2  1) (t2  t1 )  0

 t13 t2  1  0 [ t2  t1]

 t2   1 / t13

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Illustration 25
If a circle cuts the rectangular hyperbola xy = 1 in the points (x r , yr ); r = 1, 2, 3, 4. Prove
that x 1x 2x 3x 4 = y1y2y3y4 = 1
Solution :
Let the equation of the circle be
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + k = 0
The equation of the hyperbola is xy = c2
Eliminating y from these two equations, we get

1 1
x2   2 gx  2 f  k0 x4 + 2gx3 + kx2 + 2fx + 1 = 0
2
x x
This is a fourth degree equation in x giving four values of x, say x1, x2, x3 and x4.
 x1x2x3x4 = 1
Corresponding to every value of x, there is a value of y given by xy = 1.

1
 y1 y2 y3 y4  1
x1 x2 x3 x4

Illustration 26
A rectangular hyperbola whosoe centre is C is cut by any circle of radius r in four points
P, Q, R and S. Prove that CP2 + CQ2 + CR2 + CS2 = 4r 2.
Solution :
Taking the rectangular asymptotes as the axes of reference the equation of the hyperbola and the
circle are
xy = k2 ...(1)
2 2
and x + y + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 ...(2)
where g2 + f2 ă c = r2 (given) ...(3)
Eliminating v between (1) and (2), we get a biquadratic in x giving us the abscissas of the four
points of intersection as
x4 + 2gx3 + cx2 + 2f k2 x + k4 = 0
Its roots are x1, x2, x3 and x4 then
x1 = ă 2g, x1x2 = c

x12  x22  x32  x42    x1   2 x1 x2  4 g2  2 c

2


Similarly y12  y22  y33  y42  4 f 2  2 c

 CP2 + CQ2 + CR2 + CS2
2
 2

2 2 3 2 2 2
= x1  y1  ( x2  y2 )  ( x3  y3 )  ( x4  y4 )

=  x12   y12  4 g2  2c  4 f 2  2 c
= 4 (g2 + f2 ă c) = 4r2

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Illustration 27
If a circle cuts a rectangular hyperbola xy = c 2 in A, B, C and D and the parameters of these
four points be t1, t2, t3 and t4 respectively, prove the following :

1
(a) t1 t2 t3 t4 = 1, find the value of t
1

(b) If H be the orthocentre of the triangle ABC, then H and D are extremities of a diameter
of the rectangular hyperbola.
(c) The centre of mean position of the four points bisects the distance between the centres
of the two curves.
(d) The centre of the circle through A, B and C is

c  1  c 1 1 1 
  t1  t2  t3  ,     t1t2 t3  
 2  t1t2 t3  2  t1 t2 t3  

Solution :
(a) Let the equation of the rectangular hyperbola referred to rectangular asymptotes as axes be
c
xy = c2 or its parametric equations be x = ct and y  ...(1)
t
and that of the circle be
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + k = 0 ...(2)
Solving (1) and (2), we get

c2 c
c2t2   2 gct  2 f .  k  0
t2 t

or c2 t4  2 gct3  kt2  2 fct  c2  0 ...(3)

Above equation being of fourth degree in t gives us the four parameters t1, t2, t3 and t4 of
the points of intersection.

2 gc 2g
 t1 + t2 + t3 + t4 =  ...(4)
c 2 c

2 fc 2f
t1t2t3 + t1t2t4 + t3t4t1 + t3t4t2 =   ...(5)
c 2 c

c2
t1t2 t3 t4   1, which proves (a). ...(6)
c2
Dividing (5) by (6), we get

1 1 1 1 2f
   
t4 t3 t2 t1 c

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(b) Orthocentre of the triangle ABC is

 c 
 , ct1t2 t3 
 t1t2 t3 

  c
or H is the point   ct4 , ,
 t4 

 t1t2t3t4 = 1, by (6)

 c
and D is the point  ct4 ,  and clearly H and D are extremities of a diameter.
 t4 

(c) The centre of mean position of the four points is

c c 1 1 1 1 
 (t1  t2  t3  t4 ),     
 4 4  t1 t2 t3 t4  

 c   2 g  c   2 f 
=   ,   , from (4) and (7)
 4  c  4  c 

 g  f 
or  2 , 2  which is clearly the mid-point of (0, 0) and (ă g, ă f) i.e., of the join of the
 
centres of the two curves.
(d) Let the circle through ABC meet the hyperbola in fourth point D; then from (4) and (7), the
centre (ă g, ă f) is

c c1 1 1 1 
 (t1  t2  t3  t4 ),      ...(8)
 2 2  t1 t2 t3 t4 

Also t1t2t3t4 = 1 from (6)

1
 t4  ...(9)
t1 t2 t3

Putting the value of t4 in (8), we get the required centre in terms of the parameters of the
given points A, B, C in the form as given.

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