11.

ELLIPSE

1. INTRODUCTION
An ellipse is defined as the locus of a point which moves such that the ratio of its distance from a fixed point (called
focus) to its distance from a fixed straight line (called directrix, not passing through fixed point) is always constant
and less than unity. The constant ratio is denoted by e and is known as the eccentricity of the ellipse.
Ellipse can also be defined as the locus of a point such that the sum of distances from two fixed points (foci)
is constant. i.e. SP + S’P = constant where S1S' are foci (two fixed points), P being a point on it. It has a lot of
applications in various fields. One of the most commonly known applications is Kepler’s first law of planetary
motion, which says that the path of each planet is an ellipse with the sun at one focus.

Illustration 1: Find the equation of the ellipse whose focus is (1, 0) and the directrix x + y + 1 = 0 and eccentricity
1
is equal to .  (JEE MAIN)
2
Z
Sol: Using the definition of ellipse we can easily get the equation of ellipse.
Let S (1, 0) be the focus and ZZ’ be the directrix. Let P(x, y) be any point on the ellipse
and PM be the perpendicular drawn from P on the directrix. Then by definition
P(x,y)
M
1
SP = e. PM, where e = .
2
x + y + 1 = 10

2
2 2 2 2 2 1 x + y + 1
⇒ SP = e PM ⇒ (x − 1) + (y − 0) = 
2 1+1 
S (focus)
⇒ 4{(x − 1)2 + y 2 } = (x + y + 1)2

⇒ 4x2 + 4y 2 − 8x + 4 = x2 + y 2 + 1 + 2xy + 2x + 2y

⇒ 3x2 + 3y 2 − 2xy − 10x − 2y + 3 =0 Z’

Figure 11.1
2 2
Note: The general equation of a conic can be taken as ax + 2hxy + by + 2gx + 2fy + c =0

This equation represents ellipse if it is non degenerate (i.e. eq. cannot be written into two linear factors)
 a h g
 
Condition: ∆ ≠ 0, h < ab. Where  ∆ = h b f 
2

 g f c 

1 1 . 2 | Ellipse

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

• The general equation ax2 + 2hxy + by 2 + 2gx + 2fy + c =0 can be written in matrix form as

 a h g  x 
a h   x    
 x y      + 2gx + 2fy + c =0 and  x y 1 h b f   y  = 0
h b   y  g f c  1 
  
Degeneracy condition depends on determinant of 3x3 matrix and the type of conic depends on
determinant of 2x2 matrix.
•  Also the equation can be taken as the intersection of z =ax2 + 2hxy + by 2 and the plane
z= − ( 2gx + 2fy + c )
Vaibhav Gupta (JEE 2009, AIR 54)

2. STANDARD EQUATION OF ELLIPSE

Let the origin be the centre of the ellipse and the major and minor axis be on the x-axis and y-axis respectively. It
means foci lies on x-axis and the coordinates of F1 are (-c, o) and F2 be (c, o). Let P be any point (x, y) on the ellipse.
By the definition of the ellipse, the sum of the distances from any point P(x, y) to foci F1 and F2 = constant.
Let us consider this constant to be 2a for the sake of simplicity.
PF1 + PF2 = 2a …(i)

PF1 2 = (x + c)2 + (y –0) 2

⇒ PF1 = (x + c)2 + y 2  …(ii)

Similarly, PF2 = (x − c)2 + y 2  …(iii)

Putting the value of PF1 and PF2 in (i) from (ii) and (iii), we get

(x + c)2 + y 2 + (x − c)2 + y 2 =
2a ⇒ (x + c)2 + y 2 = 2a − (x − c)2 + y 2
On squaring, we get

(x + c)2 + y 2 = 4a2 − 4a (x − c)2 + y 2 + (x − c)2 + y 2

Y
x2 + 2cx + c2 + y 2 = 4a2 − 4a (x − c)2 + y 2 + x2 − 2cx + c2 + y 2
C P(x,y)
⇒ 4cx = 4a2 − 4a (x − c)2 + y 2
A O B
⇒ 4a (x − c)2 + y 2 = 4a2 − 4cx X’ X
F₁(-c,0) F₂(c,0)
c
⇒ (x − c)2 + y 2 =a − x D
a
Squaring both sides, we get
2 Y’
c 
(x − c)2 + y 2 = a2 − 2cx +  x  Figure 11.2
a 
c2
⇒ x2 − 2cx + c2 + y 2 =a2 − 2cx + x2
2
a
 M a them a ti c s | 11.3

 c2 
⇒  1 − 2  x2 + y 2 = a2 − c2
 a 


 a2 − c2  2
⇒   x + y 2 = a2 − c2
 a2 
 

x2 y2 x2 y 2
+ 1
= + 1
= …(iv)
2
a a2 − c2 a2 b2
2
[taking b= a2 − c2 ]
This is the standard form of the equation of an ellipse

x2 y2
+ = b2 a2 (1 − e2 ) i.e. b > a
1 , Where =
2 2
a b

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

x2 y2
Domain and range of an ellipse + 1 are [–a, a] and [–b, b] respectively.
=
a2 b2
Vaibhav Krishnan (JEE 2009, AIR 22)

3. TERMS RELATED TO AN ELLIPSE

Vertices: The points A and A’, in the figure where the curve meets the line joining the foci S and S’, are called the
vertices of the ellipse. The coordinates of A and A’ are (a, 0) and (–a, 0) respectively.

Major and Minor Axes: In the figure, the distance AA’= 2a and BB’= 2b are called the major and minor axes of the
b2 a2 (1 − e2 ) . Therefore a > b ⇒ AA’ > BB’.
ellipse. Since e<1 and =

Foci: In figure, the points S (ae, 0) and S’ (–ae, 0) are the foci of the ellipse.

Directrix: ZK and Z’K’ are two directrix of the ellipse and their equations are x = a/e and x=– a/e respectively.

Centre: Since the centre of a conic section is a point which bisects every chord passing through it. In case of the
x2 y2
ellipse + 1 every chord is bisected at C (0, 0). Therefore, C is the centre of the ellipse in the figure and C is
=
a2 b2
the mid-point of AA’.
2 2
x2 y2  Minor axis  b
Eccentricity of the Ellipse: The eccentricity of ellipse + 1 , a > b is e =
= 1− 1− 
 =
 Major axis  a
2 2
a b

Ordinate and Double Ordinate: Let P be a point on the ellipse and let PN be
perpendicular to the major axis AA’ such that PN produced meets the ellipse at M L
P’. Then PN is called the ordinate of P and PNP’ the double ordinate of P.

Latus Rectum: It is a double ordinate passing through the focus. In Fig. 3, LL’ S S’

is the latus rectum and LS is called the semi-latus rectum. MSM’ is also a latus
M’ L’
2b2 x2 y2
rectum. The length of latus rectum of the ellipse + 1 , is = 2a(1 − e2 ) .
=
a2 b2 a
Figure 11.3
1 1 . 4 | Ellipse

x2 y 2
Focal Distances of a Point on the Ellipse: Let P(x, y) be any point on the ellipse + 1 as shown in Fig. 11.4.
=
Then, by definition, we have a2 b2

SP= ePN and S’P = e PN’

Y
⇒ SP = eP’Q and S’P = e (P’Q‘)
⇒ SP = e (CQ – CP) and S’P = e (CQ’ + CP’) P
N’ N
a  a 
⇒ SP = e  − x  S’P = e  + x 
e  e  P S X
Q’ S’ C Q
⇒ SP = a – ex and S’P = a + ex
Thus, the focal distances of a point P(x, y) on the ellipse
x2 y2
+ =1 are a –ex and a + ex.
a2 b2
Also, SP + S’P= a – ex + a + ex = 2a = Major axis (constant) Figure 11.4
Hence, the sum of the focal distances of a point on the ellipse is constant and is equal to the length of the major
axis of the ellipse.

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

The above property of an ellipse gives us a mechanical method of tracing an ellipse as explained below:
Take an inextensible string of a certain length and fasten its ends to two fixed knobs. Now put a pencil
on the string and turn it round in such a way that the two portions of the string between it and the fixed
knobs are always tight. The curve so traced will be an ellipse having its foci at the fixed knobs.

Shrikant Nagori (JEE 2009, AIR 30)

4. PROPERTIES OF ELLIPSE

 x2 y 2 
Ellipse  2 + 2 = 1
Important Terms  a b 

For a > b For b > a

Centre (0, 0) (0, 0)
Vertices (±a, 0) (0, ±b)
Length of major axis 2a 2b
Length of minor axis 2b 2a
Foci (±ae, 0) (0, ± be)
Equation of directrices x = ±a/e y = ±b/e
Relation in a, b and e b2 = a2 (1 –e2) a2=b2 (1–e2)
Length of latus rectum
2b2 2a2
a b
 M a them a ti c s | 11.5

Ends of latus rectum   a2 

b2 
 ±ae, ±   ± , ± be 
 a   b 
  

Parametric equations (a cos φ, b sinφ) (a cos φ, b sin φ)

(Discussed later) (0 ≤ φ < 2π) (0 ≤ φ < 2π)

Focal radii SP = a – ex1 SP = b –ey1

S’P = a + ex1 S’P = b + ey1

Sum of focal radii 2a 2b

SP + S’P =
Distance between foci 2ae 2be
Distance between directrices 2a/e 2b/e
Tangents at the vertices x = –a, x = a y = b, y = –b

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

The vertex divides the join of the focus and the point of intersection of directrix with the axis internally
and externally in the ratio e: 1
Misconceptions: If a>b it is a horizontal ellipse, if b > a it is a vertical ellipse unlike hyperbola.

Nitish Jhawar (JEE 2009, AIR 7)

Illustration 2: Find the equation of the ellipse whose foci are (4, 0) and (–4, 0) and whose eccentricity is 1/3.
 (JEE MAIN)
Sol: Use the property of the centre of an ellipse and the foci to find the equation.
Clearly, the foci are on the x-axis and the centre is (0, 0), being midway between the foci. So the equation will be
in the standard form.
x2 y2
Let it be + 1.
=
a2 b2
Foci are (acos θ, bsin θ) . Here they are ( ±4,0) .
∴ ae = 4
1
Given e=
3
1
∴ a. = 4 , i.e., a = 12
3
b2 a2 (1 − e2 )
Again, =

 1  8
⇒ b2= 122.  1 − = 122. = 128
2
 3  32
x2 y2
P(acos θ, bsin θ) . The equation of the ellipse is + 1
=
144 128
1 1 . 6 | Ellipse

Illustration 3: From a point Q on the circle x2 + y2 = a2 perpendicular QM is drawn to x-axis, find the locus of point
‘P’ dividing QM in ratio 2 : 1. (JEE MAIN)

Sol: Starting from a point on the circle find the foot of the perpendicular on the X-axis and hence find the locus.
Let by secφ + ax cosec φ + (a2 + b2 ) = 0 , M ≡ (acos θ,0) and P ≡ (h,k)
2 2
asin θ  3k   h 
∴
= h acos θ , k = ⇒   +  = 1
3  a  a
x2 y2
⇒ Locus of P is + 1.
=
a2 (a/ 3)2

Illustration 4: Draw the shape of the given ellipse and find their major axis, minor axis, value of c, vertices, directrix,
foci, eccentricity and the length of the latus rectum.  (JEE MAIN)
(i) 36x2 + 4y 2 =
144 (ii) 4x2 + 9y 2 =
36

Sol: Using the standard form and basic concepts of curve tracing, sketch the two ellipses.

1. Ellipse 36x2 + 4y2 = 144 4x2 + 9y2 = 36

x2 y 2 x2 y 2
or + 1
= or + 1
=
4 36 9 4

2. Shape y2 x2
Since the denominator of is larger then Since the denominator of is greater than
36 9
x2 y2
the denominator of , so the major axis lies the denominator of , so the major axis lies
4 4
along y-axis along x-axis

Directrix
Y
Y

Directrix
Directrix

X’ O X

X’ X
O
x2 y2
+ =1
b2 a2 x2 + y2 =1
Y’ b2 a2
Y’
Directrix

Figure 11.5 Figure 11.6

3. Major axis 2a = 2 × 6 = 12 2a = 2 × 3 = 6
4. Minor axis 2b = 2 × 2 = 4 2b = 2 ×2 =4
5. Value of c a2 = 36, b2 = 4
a2 = 9, b2 = 4 c = a2 − b2 = 9−4 = 5
c= a2 − b2 = 36 − 4= 4 2

6. Vertices (0, –a) and (0, a) (–a, 0) and (a, 0)

(0, –6) and (0, 6) (–3, 0) and (3, 0)

7. Directrices
a2 36 9 a2 9
y=
± =
± =
± x=
± =
±
c 4 2 2 c 5
 M a them a ti c s | 11.7

8. Foci (0, –c), (0, c) (–c, 0) and (c, 0)

(0, –4 2 ), (0, 4 2) (– 5 , 0) and ( 5 , 0)

9. Eccentricity
c 4 2 2 2 c 5
e= = = e= =
a 6 3 a 3

10. Length of latus

2b2 2× 4 4 2b2 2× 4 8
rectum 2l = = = 2l = = =
a 6 3 a 3 3

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

The semi-latus rectum of an ellipse is the harmonic mean of the segments of its focal chord.

Shivam Agarwal (JEE 2009, AIR 27)

Illustration 5: Show that x2 + 4y 2 + 2x + 16y + 13 = 0 is the equation of an ellipse. Find its eccentricity, vertices,
foci, directrices, length of the latus rectum and the equation of the latus rectum. (JEE ADVANCED)

Sol: Represent the equation given in the standard form and compare it with the standard form to get the eccentricity,
vertices etc.
We have,
x2 + 4y 2 + 2x + 16y + 13 =
0 ⇒ (x2 + 2x + 1) + 4(y 2 + 4y + 4) =
4

(x + 1)2 (y + 2)2
⇒ (x + 1)2 + 4(y + 2)2 =
4 ⇒ + 1
= … (i)
22 12
Shifting the origin at (–1, –2) without rotating the coordinate axes and denoting the new coordinates with respect
to the new 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 , where 
= … (iii)
2
2 12
X2 Y2
This is of the form + 1 , where a = 2 and b = 1.
=
a2 b2
Thus, the given equation represents an ellipse.
Clearly a > b, so, the given equation represents an ellipse whose major and minor axes are along the X and Y axes respectively.
b2 1 3
Eccentricity: The eccentricity e is given by e = 1− = 1− =
a 2 4 2
Vertices: The vertices of the ellipse with respect to the new axes are (X = 0) i.e. (X =
±a, Y = 0) .
±2, Y =
So, the vertices with respect to the old axes are given by
( ± 2–1, –2) i.e., (–3, –2) and (1, –2) [Using (ii)]
Foci: The coordinates of the foci with respect to the axes are given by
(X = 0) i.e. (X =
±ae, Y = 0) .
± 3, Y =
1 1 . 8 | Ellipse

So, the coordinates of the foci with respect to the old axes are given by
( ± 3 − 1, − 2) [Putting X = 0 in (ii)]
± 3, Y =
Directrices: The equations of the directrices with respect to the new axes are

a  b2 
X= ± i.e. ea2  1 −=  4a2e2 cos2 θ
e  2 
d 


So, the equations of the directrices with respect to the old axes are

4 4 4  4 
x=
+ − 1 i.e.=
x − 1 and x =
− −1 Putting X = ± in (ii)
3 3 3  3 

2b2 2
Length of the latus rectum: The length of the latus rectum = = = 1.
a 2
Equation of latus rectum: The equations of the latus rectum with respect to the new axes are
X = ±ae i.e. X = ± 3
So, the equations of the latus rectum with respect to the old axes are
± 3 − 1
x= [Putting X = ± 3 in (ii)]
i.e., =
x 3 − 1 and x =
− 3 −1 .

Illustration 6: A straight rod of given length slides between two fixed bars which include an angle of 90º. Show
that the locus of a point on the rod which divides it in a given ratio is an ellipse. If this ratio is 1/2, show that the
eccentricity of the ellipse is 3 / 2 . (JEE ADVANCED)
Sol: Consider a rod of particular length and write the coordinates of the point in terms of the parameter. Elliminate
the parameters to get eccentricity equal to 3 / 2 .
Let the two lines be along the coordinate axes. Let PQ be the rod of length a such that ∠OPQ = θ . Then, the
coordinates of P and Q are (acos θ, 0) and (0, asinθ) respectively. Let R(h,k) be the point dividing PQ in the ratio

acos θ λ asin θ
λ : 1 . Then, h = and k = .
λ +1 λ +1
h k
⇒ cos θ= (λ + 1) and sin=
θ (λ + 1)  Q
a aλ
h2 k2
⇒ cos2 θ + sin2=
θ (λ + 1)2 + (λ + 1)2 a
2 2 2
a aλ
h2 k2
⇒ + 1.
=
((a / (λ + 1)) ( aλ / (λ + 1))
2 2 
O P
x2 y2
Hence, the locus of R (h, k) is + 1
=
( a / (λ + 1)) ( aλ / (λ + 1))
2 2
Figure 11.7

 1 − λ2 if λ < 1

which is an ellipse of eccentricity given by e = 
2
 1 − (1 / λ ) if λ > 1

1 1 3
When λ = , we have e = 1− = .
2 4 2
 M a them a ti c s | 11.9

Illustration 7: A man running a race course notes that the sum of the distances from the two flag posts from him
is always 10 metres and the distances between the flag posts is 8 metres. Find the equation of the path traced by
the man. (JEE ADVANCED)

Sol: Use the basic definition of an ellipse. Clearly, the path traced by the man is an ellipse having its foci at two flag
posts. Let the equation of the ellipse be

x2 y2
+ = b2 a2 (1 − e2 )
1 , where =
a2 b2
Y
It is given that the sum of the distances of the man from the two flag
posts is 10 metres. This means that the sum of the focal distances of
P
a point on the ellipse is 10 m.
⇒ PS + PS’ = 2a = 10 ⇒ a = 5 …(i)
ae ae
It is also given that the distance between the flag posts is 8 metres. X’ X
S O S’
∴ 2ae = 8 ⇒ ae = 4 …(ii)
2 2 2 2 2 2
Now, b =a (1 − e ) =a − a e =25 − 16
⇒ b2 = 9 ⇒ b = 3 [Using (i) and (ii) ] Y’

x2 y 2 Figure 11.8
Hence, the equation of the path is + 1.
=
25 9

5. AUXILIARY CIRCLE
A circle with its centre on the major axis, passing through the vertices of the ellipse is called an auxiliary circle.
x2 y2
If + 1 is an ellipse, then its auxiliary circle is x2 + y 2 =
= a2 .
a2 b2

Figure 11.9

x2 y2
Eccentric angle of a point: Let P be any point on the ellipse = 1 . Draw PM perpendicular from P on the
+
a2 b2
major axis of the ellipse and produce MP to meet the auxiliary circle in Q. Join OQ. The angle ∠QOM = φ is called
the eccentric angle of the point P on the ellipse.
Note that the angle ∠XOP is not the eccentric angle of point P.

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

A circle defined on the minor axis of an ellipse as diameter x2 + y 2 =

b2 is called a minor auxiliary circle.
Ravi Vooda (JEE 2009, AIR 71)
1 1 . 1 0 | Ellipse

6. PARAMETRIC FORM

6.1 Parametric Co-Ordinates of a Point on an Ellipse

x2 y2
Let P(x, y) be a point on an ellipse. + 1 and Q be the corresponding
= Y
a2 b2
Q
point on the auxiliary circle x2 + y 2 =
a2 .
P

φ.
Let the eccentric angle of P be φ. Then ∠XCQ = 
X
C M
Now, x = CM
⇒ x = CQ cos f [ CQ = radius of x2 + y 2 =
a2 ]

x2 y2 a2 cos2 φ y2
Since P(x, y) lies on + 1 ⇒
= + 1.
=
a2 b2 a2 b2 Figure 11.10
2
⇒ y= b2 (1 − cos2 =
φ) b2 sin2 φ ⇒ =y bsin φ .

Thus, the coordinates of point P having eccentric angle φ can be written as (a cosφ, b sin φ) and are known as the
parametric coordinates of an ellipse.

6.2 Parametric Equation of an Ellipse

x2 y 2
The equations x = acosφ, y = bsinφ taken together are called the parametric equations of the ellipse + 1,
=
where φ is the parameter. a2 b2

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

Always remember that θ is not the angle of P with x-axis. It is the angle of corresponding point Q.
Rohit Kumar (JEE 2012, AIR 79)

x2 y2
Illustration 8: Find the distance from the centre to the point P on the ellipse + 1 which makes an angle α
=
a2 b2
with x-axis. (JEE MAIN)

Sol: Establish a relation between the angle α and the eccentric angle. Use parametric coordinates of an ellipse and
the distance formula to find the distance.
Let P ≡ (acos θ,bsin θ) ∴ (b / a) tan=
θ tan α ⇒ tan θ
= ( a / b ) tan α

a2 cos2 θ + b2 sin2 θ = a2 cos2 θ + b2 sin2 θ

OP =  sin2 θ + cos2 θ =1
2 2
sin θ + cos θ

a2 + b2 tan2 θ a2 + b2 × (a2 / b2 )tan2 α

= =
1 + tan2 θ 1 + (a2 / b2 )tan2 α
 M a them a ti cs | 11.11

7. SPECIAL FORMS OF AN ELLIPSE

(a) If the centre of the ellipse is at point (h, k) and the directions of the axes are parallel to the coordinate axes,
(x − h)2 (y − k)2
then its equation is + 1.
=
a2 b2
(lx + my + n)2 (mx − ly + p)2
(b) If the equation of the curve is + 1 , where x2 + 2y 2 − 6x − 12y + 23 =
= 0 and
a2 b2
lx + my + n mx − ly + p
mx – ly + p =are
0 perpendicular lines, then we substitute =X, = Y , to put the equation
l2 + m2 l2 + m2
in the standard form.

Illustration 9: Find the equation to the ellipse whose axes are of lengths 6 and e2 cos2 φ + cos φ − 1 = 0 and their
equation are x − 3y + 3 = 0 and 3x + y − 1 = 0 respectively. (JEE MAIN)

Sol: Given the equation of the axis, we can find the centre. Use the length of the axes of the ellipse to find
the required equation of the ellipse. Let P (x, y) be any point on the ellipse and let p1 and p2 be the lengths of
perpendiculars drawn from P on the major and minor axes of the ellipse.
x − 3y + 3 3x + y − 1
Then, p1 = and p2= .
1+9 9 +1
Let 2a and 2b be the lengths of major and minor axes of the ellipse respectively. We have, 2a = 6 and 2b= 2 6 .
p12 p22
⇒ a = 3 and b = 6 . The equation of the ellipse is + 1
=
b2 a2
(x − 3y + 3)2 (3x + y − 1)2
⇒ + 1 ⇒ (x − 3y + 3)2 + 2(3x + y − 1)2
=
60 90
⇒ 21x2 − 6xy + 29y 2 + 6x − 58y − 151 =
0

8. EQUATION OF A CHORD
x2 y2
Let P (acos α , bsin α ), Q (acos β , bsin β ) be any two points of the ellipse + 1.
=
a2 b2
x α+β y α+β α −β
Then, the equation of the chord joining these two points is cos   + sin  =cos  .
a  2  b  2   2 

x2 y 2
Illustration 10: Find the angle between two diameters of the ellipse + 1 , whose extremities have eccentric
=
a2 b2
π
angles α and β = α + .  (JEE MAIN)
2

Sol: Find the slope of the two diameters and then use the relation between the given angles.

x2 y2
Let the ellipse be + 1
=
a2 b2
bsin α b bsin β −b π
Slope of OP ==
m1 = tan α ; Slope of OQ =
= m2 = cot α given β = α +
acos α a acos β a 2

m1 − m2 (b / a)(tan α + cot α ) 2ab

∴ tan θ = = =
1 + m1m 2 2
1 − (b / a ) 2
(a − b2 )sin2α
2
1 1 . 1 2 | Ellipse

Illustration 11: lf the chord joining the two points whose eccentric angles are α and β, cut the major axis of an
α β c−a
ellipse at a distance c from the centre, show that tan tan = . (JEE ADVANCED)
2 2 c+a
Sol: Use the fact that the point (c, 0) lies on the chord joining points whose eccentric angles are α and β . The
equation of the chord joining points whose eccentric angles are α and β on the ellipse

x2 y2 x α+β y α+β α −β

+ 1 , is
= cos   + sin  =cos  
a2
b 2 a  2  b  2   2 
This will cut the major axis at the point (c, 0) if

c α+β α −β cos ( (α + β) / 2 ) a cos ( (α + β) / 2 ) + cos ( (α − β) / 2 ) a + c

cos   = cos  ⇒ = ⇒ =
a  2   2  cos ( (α − β) / 2 ) c cos ( (α + β) / 2 ) − cos ( (α − β) / 2 ) a − c

2cos(α / 2) cos(β / 2) a + c α β c−a

⇒ = ⇒ tan tan = .
−2sin(α / 2) sin(β / 2) a − c 2 2 c+a

Illustration 12: The eccentric angle of any point P on the ellipse is φ . If S is the focus nearest to the end A of the
θ 1+e φ
major axis A’A such that ∠ASP =
θ . Prove that tan = tan . (JEE ADVANCED)
2 1−e 2

Sol: Find the distance of the point P from the X-axis and the horizontal distance of the point from nearest focus.
Use trigonometry to get the desired result.
In ∆PSL, we have
PL = bsinφ and SL = a cos φ –ae P

bsin φ 2 tan(θ / 2) 2 1 − e2 tan(φ / 2)
∴ tan θ = ⇒ = A’ S’ C S L A
acos φ − ae 1 − tan2 (θ / 2) (1 − e) − (1 + e)tan2 (φ / 2)

2t an(θ / 2) 2 (1 + e) / (1 − e) tan(φ / 2) θ 1+e φ

⇒ = ⇒ t an = tan
2
1 − tan (θ / 2) (
1 − (1 + e) / (1 − e) 2
)
1−e 2
Figure 11.11

9. POSITION OF A POINT W.R.T. AN ELLIPSE

x2 y2 x12 y 12
The point P(x1 , y1 ) lies outside, on or inside the ellipse + 1 according to
= + −1 > 0,
a2 b2 a2 b2
x12 y12
= 0 or < 0 respectively. S1 = + −1
a2 b2

x2 y 2
Illustration 13: Find the set of value(s) of ‘ α ’ for which the point P(α , − α ) lies inside the ellipse + =1 .
16 9
 (JEE MAIN)
Sol: Apply the concept of position of a point w.r.t. the ellipse.
If P(α , − α ) lies inside the ellipse 2a2 S1 < 0

α2 α2 25 144  12 12 
⇒ + −1 < 0 ⇒ , α2 < 1 ⇒ α2 < ∴α ∈− , .
16 9 144 25  5 5 
 M a them a ti cs | 11.13

10. LINE AND AN ELLIPSE

x2 y2
Consider a straight line of the form =
y mx + c and ellipse + 1.
=
a2 b2
(mx + c )
2
x2
By solving these two equations we get, + 1
=
a2 b2

⇒ (b 2
)
+ a2m2 x2 + 2a2mcx + a2 c2 − b2 =
0 ( )
For this equation

⇒= (
D 4 a4m2c2 − b2 + a2m2 a2 c2 − b2 ( ) ( ))
⇒=D 4a2b2 b2 − c2 + a2m2 ( )
x2 y2
∴ The line =
y mx + c intersects the ellipse + 1 in two distinct points if a2m2 + b2 > c2 , in one point if
=
2 2
a b
2
c
= a m + b and does not intersect if a m + b < c2 .
2 2 2 2 2 2

x2 y2
Illustration 14: Find the condition for the line lx + my + n =0 to touch the ellipse + 1 .
= (JEE MAIN)
a2 b2

Sol: Use the theory of equations or the standard form of the tangent. The equation of the line is lx + my + n =0
 l   n x2 y 2
⇒ y =  −  x +  −  . We know that the line=
y mx + c touches the ellipse + if c2 a2m2 + b2 .
1=
=
 m  m
2 2
a b
2 2
 −n  2 l  2 2 22 2 2
⇒   = a −  +b ⇒ n = a l +b m .
m
   m 

x2 y2
Illustration 15: Find the condition for the line xcos α + ysin α = p to be a tangent to the ellipse + =1 .
a2 b2
 (JEE MAIN)
Sol: Use the theory of equations or the standard form of the tangent.
The equation of the given line  is x cos α + y sin α = p ⇒ y = (–cot α ) x – p cosec α

x2 y2 2 2
This will touch + 1 , If ( −pcosec=
= α) a2 cot2 α + b2 [Using:
= c2 a2m2 + b2 ]
2 2
a b
a2 cos2 α + b2 sin2 α
⇒ p2cosec
= 2
α ⇒ p2 a2 cos2 α + b2 sin2 α
=
2
sin α

x2 y 2
Illustration 16: Find the set of value(s) of ' λ ' for which the line 3x − 4y + λ = 0 intersect the ellipse + 1 at
=
16 16
two distinct points. (JEE ADVANCED)

Sol: Same as previous illustration.

(4y − λ )2 y 2
Solving the given line with ellipse, we get
9 × 16
+
9
= 1 ⇒ 32y 2 − 8λ + λ2 − 144 = 0 ( )
Since the line intersects the parabola at two distinct points:
∴ Roots of above equation are real & distinct ∴ D > 0

⇒ ( 8λ )
2
(
− 4.32 λ2 − 144 > 0 ⇒ −12 2 < λ < 12 2 )
1 1 . 1 4 | Ellipse

11. TANGENT TO AN ELLIPSE

11.1 Equation of Tangent

x2 y2 xx1 yy1
(a) Point form: The equation of the tangent to the ellipse + 1 at the point (x1 , y1 ) is
= + 1.
=
2 2 2
a b a b2
x2 y2
(b) Slope form: If the line =
y mx + c touches the ellipse + 1 , then
= = c2 a2m2 + b2 .
2 2
a b
mx ± a2m2 + b2 always represents the tangents to the ellipse.
Hence, the straight line y =

 0 − b  0 − b  x2 y 2
(i) Point of contact: Line    = −1 touches the ellipse + 1 at
=
 ae − 0   −ae − 0  a2 b2
 ±a2m  b2 
 , .
 2 2 2 
 a m +b a2m2 + b2 

x y
(c) Parametric form: The equation of tangent at any point (acos φ, bsin φ ) is cos φ + sin φ =1 .
a b
Remark: The equation of the tangents to the ellipse at points p(acos θ1 ,bsin θ1 ) and Q(acos θ2 ,bsin θ2 ) are
x y x y
cos θ1 + sin θ1 =1 and cos θ2 + sin θ2 =1
a b a b
 acos ( (θ1 + θ2 ) / 2 ) b sin ( (θ1 + θ2 ) / 2 ) 
And these two intersect at the point  , 
 cos ( (θ − θ ) / 2 ) cos ( (θ − θ ) / 2 ) 
 1 2 1 2 

11.2 Equation of Pair of Tangents

Pair of tangents: The equation of a pair of tangents PA and PB is SS1 = T2.

x2 y2
Where S ≡ + −1 A
a2 b2
2 2 (x,y) P
x1 y1
S1 ≡ + −1
a2 b2 B
xx1 yy1
T≡ + −1 Figure 11.12
2
a b2

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

The portion of the tangent to an ellipse intercepted between the curve and the directrix subtends a right
angle at the corresponding focus.
B Rajiv Reddy (JEE 2012, AIR 11)
 M a them a ti cs | 11.15

11.3 Director Circle

Definition The locus of the point of intersection of the perpendicular tangents to an ellipse is known as its director
circle.

Equation of the director circle the equation of the director circle, is (x ± ae)2 =y 2 − 4a2 . Clearly, it is a circle
x2 y2
concentric to the ellipse and radius equal to + 1.
=
a2 b2
It follows from the definition of the director circle that the tangents drawn from any point on the director circle of
a given ellipse to the ellipse are always at right angles.

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

Director circle is the circumcircle of ellipse’s circumrectangle whose sides are parallel to the major and
minor axis.

Figure 11.13 Anvit Tanwar (JEE 2009, AIR 9)

Illustration 17: A tangent to the ellipse x2 + 4y2 = 4 meets the ellipse x2 + 2y2 = 6 at P and Q. Prove that the
tangents at P and Q of the ellipse x2 + 2y2 = 6 are at right angles.  (JEE ADVANCED)

Sol: Use the condition of tangency and the standard equation of tangent. The equations of the two ellipses are
x2 y2
+ 1
=
42 12  …(i)

x2 y 2
and + 1 
= …(ii) respectively.
6 3
Suppose the tangents P and Q to ellipse (ii) intersect at R(h, k). PQ is the chord of contact of tangents drawn from
R(h, k) to ellipse (ii). So, the equation of PQ is

hx ky
+ 1
= …(ii)
6 3
ky −hx hx 3
⇒ = + 1 ⇒ y =− + . This touches the ellipse given in (i). Therefore,
3 6 2k k
2
9  −h 

= 4  +1 : c2 a2m2 + b2 ]
[Using =
 2k 
2
k

⇒ h2 + k 2 =9 ⇒ (h,k) lies on the circle x2 + y 2 =

9.

Clearly, x2 + y 2 = 9 is the director circle of the ellipse (ii). Hence, the angle between the tangents at P and Q to the
ellipse is a right angle.
1 1 . 1 6 | Ellipse

11.4 Chord of Contact

x2 y 2
If PQ and PR are the tangents through point P (x1 , y1 ) to the ellipse + 1 , then the equation of the chord of
=
2 2
xx yy a b
contact QR is 1 + 1 = 1 or T = 0 at (x1 , y1 ) .
2
a b2
Y

Q
(x1, y1) P
X’ X
C
R

Y’
Figure 11.14

x2 y2
Illustration 18: Prove that the chord of contact of tangents drawn from the point (h, k) to the ellipse 1
+
=
a2 b2
h2 k2 1 1
will subtend a right angle at the centre, if + = + . (JEE ADVANCED)
4 4 2
a b a b2

Sol: Make the equation of the ellipse homogeneous using the chord and then apply the condition for the pair of
straight lines to be perpendicular.
x2 y 2
The equation of the chord of contact of tangents drawn from (h, k) to the ellipse + 1 is
=
a2 b2
hx ky
+ = 1 …(i)
a2 b2
The equation of the straight lines joining the centre of the ellipse i.e. the origin, to the points of intersection of the
ellipse and (i) is obtained by making a homogeneous equation with the help of (i) and the ellipse and is given by
2
x2 y2
 hx ky   1 h2   1 k 2  2hk
+ − +  0 or x2  −  + y 2 
= − − 0
xy = …(ii)
a2 b2  a2 b2   a2 a4   b2 b 4  a2b2
   
If the chord of contact of tangents subtends a right angle at the centre, then the lines represented by (ii) should
be at right angles.

 1 h2   1 k 2  h2 k 2 1 1
⇒ − + −  0 ⇒
= + = + .
 a2 a4   b2 b 4  a 4
b 4
a2
b2
   

Illustration 19: Find the equations of the tangents to the ellipse 3x2 + 4y 2 =
12 which are perpendicular to the line
y + 2x = 4 . (JEE MAIN)

Sol: Use the slope form of the tangent. Let m be the slope of the tangent. Since the tangent is perpendicular to
the line y + 2x =4
1 x2 y 2
∴ m ( −2 ) =−1 ⇒ m = ; Now, 3x2 + 4y 2 =
12 ⇒ + 1
=
2 4 3
x2 y2
Comparing this with + 1 , we get a2 = 4 and b2 = 3 .
=
2 2
a b
mx ± a2m2 + b2
So, the equations of the tangents are y =

1 x
i.e. y= x ± 4(1 / 4) + 3 ⇒ y = ± 2 ⇒ 2y = x ± 4 .
2 2
 M a them a ti cs | 11.17

Illustration 20: Find the equations of the tangents to the ellipse 9x2 + 16y 2 =
144 which pass through the point
(2, 3). (JEE MAIN)

Sol: Put the given point in the standard equation of the tangent and find the value of m.
x2 y2
The equation of the ellipse is 9x2 + 16y 2 =
144 ⇒ + 1
=
42 32
x2 y2
This if of the form + 1 , where a2 = 42 and b2 = 32 .
=
a2 b2
mx ± a2m2 + b2 i.e. y =
The equation of any tangents to this ellipse is y = mx ± 16m2 + 9  …(i)

2m + 16m2 + 9
If it passes through (2, 3) then 3 =
2
⇒ (3 − 2m)= 16m2 + 9 x2 + y 2 =
4 ⇒ m = 0, − 1

Substituting these values of m in (i), we obtain y = 3 and y = –x + 5 as the equations of the required tangents.

Note: If the question was asked to find combined eq. of a pair of tangents then use SS1 = T2.

Illustration 21: The locus of the points of intersection of the tangents at the extremities of the chords of the ellipse
x2 + 2y 2 =
6 which touch the ellipse x2 + 4y 2 =
4 is. (JEE MAIN)

(A) x2 + y 2 =
4 (B) x2 + y 2 =
6 (C) x2 + y 2 =
9 (D) None of these.

Sol: Find the equation of the tangents for the two ellipses and compare the two equations.
x2 y 2
We can write x2 + 4y 2 =
4 as + = 1 …(i)
4 1
x
Equation of a tangent to the ellipse (i) is cos θ + y sin θ =1  …(ii)
2
x2 y 2
Equation of the ellipse x2 + 2y 2 =
6 can be written as + 1
= …(iii)
6 3
Suppose (ii) meets the ellipse (iii) at P and Q and the tangents at P and Q to the ellipse (iii) intersect at (h, k), then
hx ky
(ii) is the chord of contact of (h, k) with respect to the ellipse (iii) and thus its equation is + 1
= …(iv)
6 3
Since (ii) and (iv) represent the same line

a2
DA = CA − CD = − x1 ⇒ h = 3 cos θ, k = 3 sin θ and the locus of (h, k) is x2 + y 2 =
9.
x1

x2 y2
Illustration 22: Show that the locus point of intersection of the tangents at two points on the ellipse + =1,
2 2 a2 b2
x y
whose eccentric angles differ by a right angle is the ellipse + 2 .
= (JEE MAIN)
2
a b2
π
Sol: Solve the equation of the tangents at the two points whose eccentric angles differ by .
2
π
Let P (acos θ, bsin θ) and Q (acos φ, bsin φ) be two points on the ellipse such that θ − φ = . The equations of
tangents at P and Q are 2

x y
cos θ + sin θ =1  …(i)
a b
x y
and, cos φ + sin φ =1  …(ii) respectively.
a b
1 1 . 1 8 | Ellipse

2 x y
Since , so (i) can be written as - sin φ + cos φ =1  …(iii)
3 a b
Let (h, k) be the point of intersection of (i) and (ii). Then,

h k h k
cos θ + sin θ =1 and − sin θ + cos θ =1
a b a b
2 2
h k   h k  h2 k2
⇒  cos θ + sin θ  +  − sin θ + cos θ  = 1 + 1 ⇒ + 2
=
 a b   a b  a2 b2
x2 y2
Hence, the locus of (h, k) is + 2.
=
a2 b2

x2 y2
Illustration 23: Prove that the locus of the mid-points of the portion of the tangents to the ellipse + 1
=
a2 b2
intercepted between the axes a2 y 2 + b2 x2 =
4x2 y 2 . (JEE ADVANCED)

Sol: Starting from the equation of the tangent, find the mid point of the tangent intercepted between the axes.
Eliminate the parameter to get the locus.
x2 y2
The equation of the tangent at any point (acos θ, bsin θ) on the ellipse + 1 is
=
a2 b2
x y
cos θ + sin θ =1
a b
 a   b 
This cuts the coordinates axes at A  , 0  and B  0, 
 cos θ   sin θ

a b
Let P(h, k) be the mid-point of AB. Then, = h and =k
2cos θ 2sin θ

a b a2 b2 a2 b2
⇒ cos θ = and sin θ = ⇒ cos2 θ + sin2 θ = + ⇒ + =1
2h 2k 4h2 4k 2 4h2 4k 2
1
Hence, the locus of P (h, k) is , a2 y 2 + b2 x2 =
4x2 y 2 .
52

x2 y2
Illustration 24: Let d be the perpendicular distance from the centre of the ellipse + 1 to the tangent
=
a2 b2
 b2 
drawn at a point P on the ellipse. If F1 and F2 are two foci of the ellipse, then show that (PF1 − PF2 )2 = 4a2  1 −  .
 d2 

 (JEE ADVANCED)
Sol: Use the fact that focal distances of a point (x, y) on the ellipse are a+ex and a–ex.
Let the coordinates of P be (acos θ, bsin θ) , where θ is a parameter. The coordinates of F1 and F2 are (ae, 0) and
(–ae, 0) respectively. We know that.
Therefore, PF1 = a + ae cos θ and PF2 = a – ae cos θ
i.e., PF1 = a (1 + ecos θ) and PF2 = a (1 − ecos θ)

∴ (PF1 –PF2)2 = {a( 1 + ecos θ ) –a( 1 − ecos θ )}2 = 4a2e2 cos2 θ  …(i)
x y
The equation of the tangent at P (acos θ, bsin θ) is cos θ + sin θ =1  ...(ii)
a b
∴ d = Length of the perpendicular from (0, 0) on (ii)
 M a them a ti cs | 11.19

(0 / a)cos θ + (0 / b)sin θ − 1
⇒ d=
cos2 θ / a2 + sin2 θ / b2

1 cos2 θ sin2 θ b2 b2 b2 b2
⇒= + ⇒
= cos2 θ + sin2 θ ⇒ 1− = 1− cos2 θ − sin2 θ
2 2 2 2 2 2 2
d a b d a d a

b2 b2  b2 
⇒ 1 − = cos2 θ − cos=
2
θ cos2 θ  1 − =  e2 cos2 θ
d2 a2  a2 
 
 b2 
⇒ 4a2  1 −=  4a2e2 cos2 θ  …(iii)
 2 
d 

 b2 
Hence, from (i) and (iii), we have (PF1 − PF2 )2 = 4a2  1 −  .
 d2 


x2 y2
Illustration 25: The tangent at point P(cosθ, bsinθ) of an ellipse = 1 , meets its auxiliary circle on two
+
a2 b2
points, the chord joining which subtends a right angle at the centre. Show that the eccentricity of the ellipse is
(1 + sin2 θ)−1/2 .  (JEE ADVANCED)

Sol: Homogenize the equation of the ellipse using the equation of the tangent and then use the condition for the
pair of straight lines to be perpendicular.
x2 y2
The equation of the tangent at P (acos θ,bsin θ) to the ellipse + 1 is
=
a2 b2
x y
cos θ + sin θ =1  …(i)
a b

The equation of the auxiliary circle is x2 + y 2 =

a2  …(ii)
The combined equation of the lines joining the origin with the points of intersection of (i) and (ii) is obtained by
making (ii) homogeneous w.r.to (i)
2
2 x
2 y
2 
∴ x +y
= a  cos θ + cos θ 
a b 
 a2  a
⇒ x2 (1 − cos2 θ) + y 2  1 − sin2 θ  − 2xy sin θ cos θ =0
 b 2  b
 
These two lines are mutually perpendicular. Therefore, coefficient of x2 + Coefficient of y 2 = 0

a2  a2  a2 − b2 2
⇒ sin2 θ + 1 − sin2 θ ⇒ sin2 θ  1 −  + 1= 0 ⇒ sin θ= 1
b2  b2  b2

a2e2 sin2 θ
⇒ = 1 ⇒ e2 sin2 θ = 1 − e2 ⇒ e = (1 + sin2 θ)−1/2 .
a2 (1 − e2 )

x2 y2
Illustration 26: If the tangent at (h, k) to the ellipse + 1 cuts the auxiliary circle x2 + y 2 =
= r 2 at points
2 2
a b
1 1 2
whose ordinates are y1 and y2, show that + = . (JEE ADVANCED)
y1 y 2 k
Sol: Form a quadratic in y using the equation of the tangent and the ellipse and then use the sum and product of
the roots to prove the above result.
1 1 . 2 0 | Ellipse

x2 y2 hx ky
The equation of the tangents to the ellipse + 1 and point (h, k) is
= + 1 . The ordinates of the points
=
2 2 2
a b a b2
of intersection of (i) and the auxiliary circle are the roots of the equation
2
a4  b2 − ky 

2 
 + y2 =
a2
h  b 2 


⇒ ( )
y 2 a4k 2 + b 4h2 − 2a4b2ky + a4b 4 − a2b 4h2 =
0

Since y1 and y2 are the roots of this equation.

2a4b2k a4b 4 − a2b 4h2

Therefore, y1 + y 2 = and y1 y 2 =
a4k 2 + b 4h2 a4k 2 + b 4h2

1 1 2a4b2k 1 1 2ka2 1 1 2a2k 1 1 2

⇒ = + ⇒= + ⇒ + = ⇒ + =
y1 y 2 a4b 4 − a2b 4h2 y1 y 2 (a2 − h2 )b2 y1 y 2 a2k 2 y1 y 2 k

Illustration 27: Find the locus of the foot of the perpendicular drawn from the centre on any tangent to the ellipse.
 (JEE ADVANCED)
x2 y2
+ 1.
=
a2 b2 M()
P(a cos  b sin 

Figure 11.15

Sol: Follow the procedure for finding the locus starting from the parametric equation of the tangent.
The equation of the tangent at any point (acos φ, bsin φ) is
x cos φ y sin φ
+ 1 
= ….(i)
a b
Let M (α,β) be the foot of the perpendicular drawn from the centre (0, 0) to the tangent (i).
α cos φ β sin φ
x2 + y 2 =
C2 M is on the tangent, + 1 
= …(ii)
a b
β  b cos φ 
x2 + y 2 =
C2 CM ⊥ PM, − =−1
α  asin φ 

cos φ sin φ 1
or φ asin φ α
bβ cos= ∴ = = .
aα bβ a2 α2 + b2β2
α aα β bβ
Putting in (ii), . + . 1
=
a a α +b β
2 2 2 2 b a α + b2β2
2 2

or α2 + β2= a2 α2 + b2β2 ∴ (α2 + β2 )2 = a2 α2 + b2β2

∴ The equation of the required locus is (x2 + y 2 )2 = a2 x2 + b2 y 2 .

 M a them a ti cs | 11.21

12. NORMAL TO AN ELLIPSE

12.1 Equation of Normal in Different Forms

Following are the various forms of equations of the normal to an ellipse.

x2 y2 a2 x b2 y
(a) Point form: The equation of the normal at (x1 , y1 ) to the ellipse + 1 is
= − =a2 − b2
a2 b2 x1 y1

x2 y2
(b) Parametric form: The equation of the normal to the ellipse + 1 at (acos φ, bsin φ ) is x − 2y + 4 =.
= 0
a2 b2

x2 y 2
(c) Slope form: If m is the slope of the normal to the ellipse + 1 , then the equation of normal is
=
x + 2y + a =.
0 a2 b2

 ±a2  mb2 
The co-ordinates of the point of contact are.  , .
 2 2 2 
 a +b m a2 + b2m2 

12.2 Number of Normal and Co-normal Points

On a given ellipse exactly one normal can be drawn from a point lying on ellipse. If the point is not lying on the
given ellipse, at most 4 lines which are normal to the ellipse at the points where they cut the ellipse. Such points
on the ellipse are called co-normal points. In this section, we shall learn about the co-normal points and various
relations between their eccentric angles.
Conormal points are the points on ellipse, whose normals to the ellipse pass through a given point are called
co-normal points.

12.3 Properties of Eccentric Angles of Conormal Points

x2 y 2
Property 1: The sum of the eccentric angles of the co-normal points on the ellipse + 1 is an odd multiple
=
2 2
of π. a b

x2 y2
Property 2: If θ1 , θ2 and θ3 are eccentric angles of three co-normal points on the ellipse + 1 , then
=
a2 b2
sin(θ1 + θ2 ) + sin(θ2 + θ3 ) + sin(θ3 + θ1 ) = 0

Property 3: Co-normal points lie on a fixed curve called Apollonian Rectangular Hyperbola

(a2
)
− b2 xy + b2kx − a2hy =
0

x2 y2
Property 4: If the normal at four points P(x1 , y1 ) , Q(x2 , y 2 ) , R(x3 , y 3 ) and S(x 4 , y 4 ) on the ellipse + 1 are
=
a2 b2
1 1 1 1 
concurrent, then (x1 + x2 + x3 + x 4 )  + + + 4.
 =
 x1 x2 x3 x 4 
 1 1 . 2 2 | Ellipse

Illustration 28: If the normal at an end of the latus rectum of an ellipse passes through one extremity of the minor,
show that the eccentricity of the ellipse is given by e4 + e2 − 1 =0.  JEE MAIN)

Sol: Subtitute the point (0, ±b) in the equation of the normal and simplify it.
x2 y2
Let + 1 be the ellipse. The coordinates of an end of the latus rectum are (ae, b2 / a) .
=
a2 b2
a2 x b2 y
The equation of normal at (ae, b2 / a) is − a2 b2
=−
ae b2 / a
It passes through one extremity of the minor axis whose coordinates are (0, ±b).
∴ ± ab = a2 − b2

⇒ a2b2 = (a2 − b2 )2 ⇒ a2 .a2 (1 − e2 ) = (a2e2 )2 ⇒ 1 − e2 = e4 ⇒ e4 + e2 − 1 = 0

Illustration 29: Any ordinate MP of an ellipse meets the auxiliary circle in Q. Prove that the locus of the point of
intersection of the normal P and Q is the circle x2 + y 2 =(a + b)2 . (JEE MAIN)

Sol: Consider a point on the ellipse and find the intersection of the ordinate with the circle. Next find the intersection
of the normal at P and Q and eliminate the parameter θ .
x2 y2
Let P(acos θ, bsin θ) be any point on the ellipse = 1 , and let Q (acos θ, asin θ) be the corresponding point
+
a2 b2
on the auxiliary circle x2 + y 2 =
a2 . The equation of the normal at P (acos θ, bsin θ) to the ellipse is
ax sec θ − by cosec θ= a2 − b2  …(i)
The equation of the normal at Q (acos θ, asin θ) to the circle x2 + y 2 =
a2 is
=y x tan θ  …(ii)
Let (h , k) be the point of intersection of (i) and (ii). Then,
ahsec θ − bk cosecθ= a2 − b2  …(iii)
and, P(acos θ, bsin θ)  …(iv)

Eliminating θ from (iii) and (iv), we get

k2 h2
ah 1 + − bk 1 + = a2 − b2
h2 k2

⇒ (a − b) h2 + k 2 =a2 − b2 ⇒ h2 + k 2 =(a + b)2

Hence, the locus of (h, k) is x2 + y 2 =(a + b)2 .

Illustration 30: If the length of the major axis intercepted between the tangent and normal at a

sec θ cosec θ 1
 2π   2π  x2 y 2
point sec  θ +  cosec  θ +  1 on the ellipse 2 + 2 =1 is equal to the semi-major axis, prove that the
 3   3  a b
 2π   2π 
sec  θ −  cosec  θ −  1
 3   3 

e {sec θ(sec θ − 1)}1/2 .

eccentricity of the ellipse is given by= (JEE MAIN)
 M a them a ti cs | 11.23

Sol: Obtain the points of intersection of the tangent and the normal and then use the distance formula.
x2 y2
The equation of the tangent and normal to the ellipse + 1 at the point P
=
a2 b2

sec θ cosec θ 1
 2π   2π 
sec  θ +  cosec  θ +  1 are given by
 3   3 
 2π   2π 
sec  θ −  cosec  θ −  1
 3   3 

x y
cos θ + sin θ =1  …(i)
a b

θ (a2 − b2 ) 
and, ax sec θ − by cosec= …(i) respectively.
Suppose (i) and (ii) meet the major axis i.e. y = 0 at Q and R respectively. Then, the coordinates of Q and R are given
by

 a2 − b2 
Q(asec θ,0) and R  cos θ,0  ∴ QR = a [Given]
 a 
 
a2 − b2
⇒ asec θ − cos θ = a ⇒ a2 − (a2 − b2 )cos
=2
θ a2 cos θ ⇒ a2 − a2e2 cos
=2
θ a2 cos θ
a
2
⇒ 1 − e2 cos2 θ = cos θ ⇒ e2 cos2 θ = 1 − cos θ ⇒ e= e {sec θ(sec θ − 1)}1/2
sec θ(sec θ − 1) ⇒=

x2 y2
Illustration 31: If ω is one of the angles between the normals to the ellipse + 1 at the points whose
=
a2 b2
π 2cot ω e2
eccentric angles are θ and + θ , then prove that = . (JEE ADVANCED)
2 sin2θ 1 − e2
Sol: Evaluate the equation of the normal at the two points and then use the formula of the angle between two lines.
x2 y2 π
The equation of the normal to the ellipse + 1 at the points whose eccentric angles are θ and
= + θ are
a 2
b 2 2
ax sec θ − by cosecθ= a − b and, −ax cosecθ − by secθ = a2b2 respectively. Since ω is the angle between these
2 2

(a / b)tan θ + (a / b)cot θ
two normals, therefore, tan ω =
1 − (a2 / b2 )

ab(tan θ + cot θ) 2ab 2ab

⇒ tan ω = ⇒ tan ω = ⇒ tan ω =
2 2
2
b −a 2
(sin2θ)(b − a ) (a − b2 )sin2θ
2

2a2 1 − e2 2cot ω e2
⇒ tan ω = ⇒ =−
a2e2 sin2θ sin2θ 1 − e2

Illustration 32: If the tangent drawn at point (t2 ,2t) on the parabola y 2 = 4x is the same as the normal drawn at
a point ( 5 cos θ, 2sin θ) on the ellipse 4x2 + 5y 2 =
20 , find the values of t and θ . (JEE ADVANCED)

Sol: Write the equation for the tangent and normal in terms of the parameter. Compare the two equations to get
the values of t and θ .
1 1 . 2 4 | Ellipse

The equation of the tangent at (t2, 2t) to the parabola y2 = 4x is

 1
2ty = 2 (x + t) ⇒ ty =x + t2  ±2 3, ±   … (i)
 7

The equation of the normal at point ( 5 cos θ, 2sin θ) on the ellipse 4x2 + 5y 2 =
20 is
⇒ ( 5 sec θ)x − ( 2cosecθ)y − 1 = 
0 … (ii)
5 sec θ − 2cosec θ −1
It is given that (i) and (ii) represent the same line. Therefore,= = 2
1 −t t
2cosec θ 1 2 1
⇒ t= and t = − ⇒
= t cot θ and t =
− sin θ
5 sec θ 2cosec θ 5 2

2 1
⇒ cot θ = − sin θ ⇒ 4 cos θ = − 5 sin2 θ ⇒ 4 cos θ = − 5(1 − co s2 θ)
5 2

⇒ 5 cos2 θ − 4 cos θ − 5 = 0 ⇒ 5 cos2 θ − 5cos θ + cos θ − 5 = 0

⇒ 5 cos θ(cos θ − 5) + (cos θ − 5)= 0 ⇒ (cos θ − 5)( 5 cos θ + 1)= 0

 1 
⇒=θ cos−1  −  [cosθ ≠ − 5]
 5

1 1 1 1 1
Putting cosθ = − in t =
− sin θ we get t =− 1− =−
5 2 2 5 5

 1  1
Hence,
= θ cos−1  −  and t = − .
 5 5

Illustration 33: The normal at a point P on the ellipse x2 + 4y 2 =16 meets the x-axis at Q. If M is the mid point of
the line segment PQ, then the locus of M intersects the latus rectums of the given ellipse at the points.
 (JEE ADVANCED)
 3 5 2   3 5 19   1  4 3 
(a)  ± ,±  (b)  ± ,±  (c)  ±2 3, ±  (d)  ±2 3, ± 
 7 7   2 4   7   7 
     

Sol: Put y = 0 in the equation of the normal to get the point Q in terms of θ . Get the locus of the mid-point as
required. In the last step solve the equation of the locus and the latus rectum.
x2 y 2
Equation of the ellipse is + 1
=
16 4
Y
Equation of the normal at P(4 cos θ, 2sin θ) to the ellipse is
θ 42 − 22
4x sec θ − 2y cosec = ⇒ 2x sec θ − y cosec θ = 6 P(4cos 2sin)
It meets x-axis at Q(3cos θ,0) . If (h, k) are the coordinates of M, then M
O Q X
4 cos θ + 3cos θ 2sin θ + 0
h = ,k
2 2

2h
⇒ =
cosθ ,=
sin θ k
7
2
4h2 x2 y Figure 11.16
⇒ + k2 =
1 Locus of M is ⇒ + 1.
=
49 (7 / 2)2 1
 M a them a ti cs | 11.25

Latus rectum of the given ellipse is x =±ae =± 16 − 4 =±2 3

12 × 4 1 1
So locus of M meets the latus rectum at points for which y 2 =1− = ⇒y=±
49 49 7
 1
And hence the required points are  ±2 3, ±  .
 7

13. CHORD BISECTED AT A GIVEN POINT

Q(x2, y2)
2 2
x y
The equation of the chord of the ellipse + 1,
=
2
a b2 P (x1, y1)
whose mid point is (x1 , y1 ) is T = S1
xx1 yy1
where T = + − 1 R(x3, y3)
2
a b2
Figure 11.17
x12 y12
S1 = + −1 .
a2 b2

x2 y2
Illustration 34: Find the locus of the midpoint of a focal chord of the ellipse + 1 .
= (JEE MAIN)
a2 b2
Sol: In the equation T = S1, substitute x = ae and y = 0.
x2 y2
Let (h, k) be the midpoint of a focal chord of the ellipse + 1 . Then, the equation of the chord is
=
2 2
a2 b2
hx ky h k
+ −1 = + − 1 [Using : T = S1]
2 2 2
a b a b2

hx ky h2 k2
or, + = + It passes through the focus (ae, 0) of the ellipse.
a2 b2 a2 b2

hae h2 k2 xe x2 y 2
∴ +0= + . Hence, the locus of (h, k) is = + .
a2 a2 b2 a a2 b2

x2 y2
Illustration 35: Find the locus of the mid-point of the normal chords of the ellipse + 1.
=
a2 b2
 (JEE ADVANCED)
Sol: Similar to the previous question.
Let (h, k) be the mid point of a normal chord of the given ellipse. Then, its equation is
hx ky h2 k2
+ −1 = + − 1 [Using: T = S1]
a2 b2 a2 b2

hx ky h2 k2
or + = +  …(i)
a2 b2 a2 b2

If (i) is a normal chord, then it must be of the form

ax sec θ − by cosecθ= a2 − b2  …(ii)

h2 k2
+
h k 2
b2
∴= = a
a3 sec θ −b3 cosecθ a2 − b2
1 1 . 2 6 | Ellipse

a3  h2 k 2  −b3  h2 k 2 
⇒ cos θ
=  =
+  , sin θ  + 
h(a2 − b2 )  a2 b2  k(a2 − b2 )  a2 b2 

Eliminating θ from the above relations, we get

2 2 2
a6  h2 k 2  b6  h2 k 2   a6 b6   h2 k 2 
 +  +  +  1
= ⇒ +  +  =(a2 − b2 )
h2 (a2 − b2 )2  a2 b2  k 2 (a2 − b2 )2  a2 b2   h2 k 2   a2 b2 
  
2
 a6 b6   x2 y 2 
Hence, the locus of (h, k) is  +  +  =(a2 − b2 )2 .
 x2 y 2   a2 b2 
  

14. DIAMETERS
Definition: A chord through the centre of an ellipse is called a diameter of the ellipse.
x2 y2
(y mx + c) of slope m of the ellipse
The equation of the diameter bisecting the chords = + 1
=
a2 b2
b2
is y = − x , which is passing through (0, 0)
a2m
Y

y=mx+c

X’ X

2
-b
Diameter y = x
a2m
Y’
Figure 11.18

Conjugate diameter: Two diameters of an ellipse are said to be conjugate diameters if each bisects all chords
parallel to the other. The coordinates of the four extremities of two conjugate diameters are
P(acos φ, bsin φ) ; P'( −acos φ, − bsin φ)

Q( −asin φ, bcos φ) ; Q '( −acos φ, − bsin φ)

Y

Q A
B P
o
90
 X
X’
C
P’ Q’

A’ B’

Y’
Figure 11.19
 M a them a ti cs | 11.27

−b2
If y = m1 x and y = m2 x are two conjugate diameters of an ellipse, then m1m2 = .
a2
(a) Properties of diameters:
(i) The tangent at the extremity of any diameter is parallel to the chords it bisects or parallel to the conjugate
diameter.
(ii) The tangents at the ends of any chord meets on the diameter which bisects the chord.

(b) Properties of conjugate diameters:

(i) The eccentric angles of the ends of a pair of conjugate diameters of an ellipse differ by a right angle, i.e.,
π
φ − φ' =
2 (a cos’, b sin’)
D P(a cos, b sin)

A’ A
C

P’ D’
Figure 11.20

(ii) The sum of the squares of any two conjugate semi-diameters of an ellipse is constant and equal to the
sum of the squares of the semi axes of the ellipse i.e., CP2 + CD2 =a2 + b2 .

D P(a cos, b sin)

A’ A
S C S’

P’ D’

Figure 11.21

(iii) The product of the focal distances of a point on an ellipse is equal to the square of the semi-diameter
which is conjugate to the diameter through the point i.e., SP.S'P = CD2 .
(iv) The tangents at the extremities of a pair of conjugate diameters form a parallelogram whose area is
constant and equal to the product of the axes i.e., Area of parallelogram = (2a)(2b) = Area of rectangle
contained under major and minor axes.
Y
Q
M
D P
R’ R
X’ X
C
P’ D’
Q’
Y’

Figure 11.22

(v) The polar of any point with respect to an ellipse is parallel to the diameter to the one on which the point
lies. Hence obtain the equation of the chord whose mid point is ( x1 , y1 ) , i.e., chord is T = S1 .
(vi) Major and minor axes of ellipse is also a pair of conjugate diameters.
1 1 . 2 8 | Ellipse

(c) Equi-conjugate diameters: Two conjugate diameters are called equi-conjugate, if their lengths are equal i.e.,
(CP)2 = (CD)2 .

(a2 + b2 )
∴(CP) = (CD) = for equi-conjugate diameters.
2

x2 y2
Illustration 36: If PCP’ and DCD’ form a pair of conjugate diameters of the ellipse + 1 and R is any point
=
a2 b2
c2 , then prove that PR 2 + DR 2 + P'R 2 + D'R 2 = 2(a2 + b2 + 2c2 ) .
on the circle x2 + y 2 = (JEE MAIN)

Sol: Using the definition of conjugate diameters, get the coordinates of the point P, P’, Q and Q’. Starting from the
L.H.S. prove the R.H.S.
Let R(h, k) be any point on the circle x2 + y 2 =
c2 . Then h2 + k 2 =
c2  …(i)
Since PCP’ and DCD’ form a pair of conjugate diameters, the coordinates of the extremities are:
P(acos θ, bsin θ) , P'( −acos θ, − bsin θ) D( −asin θ, bcos θ) , D'(asin θ, − bcos θ)

∴ PR 2 + DR 2 + P'R 2 + D'R 2 = (h − acos θ)2 + (k − bsin θ)2 + (h + asin θ)2 + (k − bcos θ)2

 +(h + acos θ)2 + (k + bsin θ)2 + (h − asin θ)2 + (k + bcos θ)2

= 4(h2 + k 2 ) + 2a2 + 2b2

= 2a2 + 2b2 + 4c2 [Using (i)]

= 2(a2 + b2 + 2c2 )

x2 y2
Illustration 37: CP and CD are conjugate semi-diameters of the ellipse + 1.
=
a2 b2
x2 y21
Show that the locus of the mid-point of PD is the ellipse + = . (JEE MAIN)
a2
b22

Sol: Consider two points which lie on two conjugate diameters. Find the mid point of these two points and eliminate
the parameter θ to get the locus of the mid point.
Let P (acosθ, bsinθ), D (-asinθ, bcosθ) and (h, k) be the mid-point of PD. Then,
2h acos θ − asin θ and =
= 2k b sin θ + b cos θ

2h 2k 4h2 4k 2
⇒ = cos θ − sin θ and = sin θ + cos θ ⇒ + = (cos θ − sin θ)2 + (sin θ + cos θ)2
a b a2 b2

h2 k2 1 x2 y 2 1
⇒ + = . Hence, the locus of (h, k) is ⇒ + =.
a2 b2 2 a2 b2 2

Illustration 38: If y = x and 3y + 2x =

0 are the equations of a pair of conjugate diameters of an ellipse, then the
eccentricity of the ellipse is  (JEE MAIN)

2 1 1 2
(a) (b) (c) (d)
3 3 2 5

Sol: Use the condition of conjugacy of diameters in an ellipse to find the eccentricity.
x2 y2 2
Let the equation of the ellipse be + 1 . Slope of the given diameters are m1 = 1 , m2 = − .
=
a2
b2 3
 M a them a ti cs | 11.29

2 b2
⇒ m1m2 =− =− [Using the condition of conjugacy of two diameters]
3 a2
2 1 1
3b2 = 2a2 ⇒ 3a2 (1 − e2 ) = 2a2 ⇒ 1 − e2 = ⇒ e2 = ⇒e=
3 3 3

Illustration 39: Show that the locus of the point of intersection of tangents at the end-point of the conjugate
x2 y2
diameters of the ellipse + 1 is another ellipse of the same eccentricity. 
= (JEE ADVANCED)
a2 b2
Sol: Using two points at the end points of the conjugate diameters of an ellipse, write the equation of the tangent.
Solve the two equations to eliminate the parameter θ .

x2 y2
Let CP and CD be two conjugate semi-diameters of the ellipse = 1 . Then, the eccentric angles of P and D
+
a2 b2
π
are θ and + θ respectively. So, the coordinates of P and D are (acos θ, bsin θ) and ( −asin θ, bcos θ) respectively.
2
The equation of the tangents at P and D are
x y
cos θ + sin θ =1  …(i)
a b

−x y
and sin θ + cos θ =1  …(ii)
a b
h k −h k
Let (h, k) be the point of intersection (i) and (ii). Then, cos θ + sin θ =1 and sin θ + cos θ =1
a b a b
2 2
h k   h k  h2 k 2
⇒  cos θ + sin θ +
  − sin θ + cos θ  = 1 + 1 ⇒ + = 2
a b   a b  a2 b2

h2 k2
Hence, the locus of (h, k) is + 2 which represents an ellipse of eccentricity e, given by
=
a2 b2

2b2 b2
e1 = 1 − =1−
2a2 a2
x2 y2
Clearly, it is same as the eccentricity of + 1.
=
a2 b2

Illustration 40: If α and β are the angles subtended by the major axis of an ellipse at the extremities of a pair of
conjugate diameters, prove that cot2 α + cot2 β = constant. (JEE MAIN)

Sol: Using the co-ordinates of the co-ordinates of the end points of a diameter, find the angle subtended by the
major axis. Repeat the same process for the other end of the diameter. Then find the value of cot2 α + cot2 β and
prove that it is independent of the parameter.
x2 y 2
Let CP and CD be a pair of conjugate semi-diameters of the ellipse + 1 . Then, the coordinates of P and D
=
are (acos θ, bsin θ) and ( −asin θ, bcos θ) respectively. a2 b2

bsin θ b θ
m1 = Slope of AP = = − cot
acos θ − a a 2

bsin θ b θ
m2 = Slope of A’P = = tan
acos θ + a a 2
 1 1 . 3 0 | Ellipse

m1 − m2 −(b / a)cot(θ / 2) − (b / a)tan(θ / 2)

∴ tan α = ⇒ tan α =
1 + m1m2 1 − (b2 / a2 )

ab
 θ θ  2ab  1
⇒ tan α
=  cot + tan  ⇒ tan α = 2 
2
a −b  2
2 2  a − b2  sin θ

π   2ab  1
Replacing θ by  + θ  , we get tan β = 
2   a2 − b2  cos θ
2 2
2
 a2 − b2 
2
 a2 − b2 
∴ cot α
= + cot β   (sin2 θ=
+ cos2 θ) =  Constant.
 2ab   2ab 
   

Illustration 41: Find the locus of the points of intersection of normals at two points on an ellipse which are
extremities of conjugate diameters.  (JEE MAIN)

Sol: Solve the equation of the normal at the extremities of conjugate diameters.

x2 y2
Let PP’ and QQ’ be two conjugate diameters of the ellipse + 1.
=
a2 b2
π
Let the eccentric angle of the point P be ' φ ' . Then the eccentric angle of Q is ' φ + ' .
2
∴= P (acos φ, bsin φ) Q’+ 
2
D P’’
  π  π  
=Q acos  φ +  , bsin  φ +  
  2  2  
O
x − acos φ y − bsin φ
The equation of the normal =
at P (acos φ, bsin φ) is = P’ D’
2
(acos φ) / a (bsin φ) / b2
Figure 11.23
or ax sec φ − bycosec φ= a2 − b2  …(i)
Similarly, the equation of the normal at Q is

 π  π 2 2
ax sec  φ +  − bycosec  φ + = a −b
 2   2 

or −ax co secφ − by secφ= a2 − b2  …(ii)

The locus of the point of intersection of (i) and (ii) is obtained by eliminating φ from them. Now we have
ax sec φ − by cosec φ − (a2 − b2 ) = 0

by secφ + ax cosec φ + (a2 − b2 ) = 0

By cross multiplication,

sec φ cosec φ a2 − b2
= =
−by + ax −by − ax a2 x2 + b2 y 2

a2 x2 + b2 y 2 1
∴ cos φ = .
ax − by a − b2
2

a2 x2 + b2 y 2 1
sin φ = .
−(ax + by) a − b2
2
 M a them a ti cs | 11.31

Squaring and adding,

2
(a2 x2 + b2 y 2 )2  1 1   a2 x2 + b2 y 2  2(a2 x2 + b2 y 2 )
1  +  =  .
(a2 − b2 )2  (ax − by)2 (ax + by)2   a2 − b2  (a2 x2 − b2 y 2 )2

⇒ 2(a2 x2 + b2 y 2 )3 =
(a2 − b2 )2 .(a2 x2 − b2 y 2 )2 .

15. POLE AND POLAR

Let P(x1, y1) be any point inside or outside the ellipse. A chord through P intersects the ellipse at A and B respectively.
If tangents to the ellipse at A and B meet at Q(h, k) then locus of Q is called polar of P with respect to the ellipse
and point P is called the pole.
Q(h,k) A Q(h,k) A
A’
Polar P(x₁, y₁) B Polar
Pole A’
B B’
B’ P(x₁, y₁)
Pole Q’

(a) (b)

Figure 11.24

Note: If the pole lies outside the ellipse then the polar passes through the ellipse. If the pole lies inside the ellipse
then the polar lies completely outside the ellipse. If the pole lies on the ellipse then the polar becomes the same
as the tangent.
x2 y 2 xx1 yy1
Equation of polar: Equation of polar of the point (x1, y1) with respect to ellipse + =1 is given by 2 + 2 = 1,
a2 b2 a b
i.e., T = 0
x2 y2  −a2l −b2m 
Coordinates of Pole: The pole of the line lx + my + n =0 with respect to ellipse + 1 is P 
= , .
a2 b2  n n 

Properties of pole and polar:

(a) If the polar of P (x1 , y1 ) passes through Q(x2 , y 2 ) , then the polar of Q(x2 , y 2 ) goes through P (x1 , y1 ) and
x1 x2 y1 y 2
such points are said to be the conjugate points. Condition for conjugate points is + 1.
=
2
a b2
(b) If the pole of line l1 x + m1 y + n1 =
0 lies on another line l2 x + m2 y + n2 =
0 , then the pole of the second line will
lie on the first and such lines are said to be conjugate lines.
(c) Pole of a given line is the same as the point of intersection of tangents at its extremities.
(d) Polar of focus is directrix.

x2 y2
Illustration 42: Obtain the locus of poles of tangents to the ellipse + 1 with respect to concentric ellipse
=
a2 b2
x2 y2
+ 1 . 
= (JEE MAIN)
α2 β2
x2 y 2
Sol: Taking a point (h , k), write the equation of the polar w.r.t. the ellipse + 1 . In the next step put the
=
condition for polar to be the tangent to the other given ellipse. α2 β2
1 1 . 3 2 | Ellipse

hx ky  β2h  β2
The equation of the polar is + 1⇒ y=
= −  x+
α2 β2  α2k  k
 
2 2
x2 y2  β2   −β2h 
This touches + 1 . Therefore,
= =   a2   + b2
a2 b 2  k   2 
   αk 

β4 β4h2 a2h2 b2k 2

⇒ = a2 + b2 ⇒ + = 1
k2 α 4k 2 α4 β4

a2 x2 b2 y 2
Hence, the locus of (h, k) is ⇒ + 1.
=
α4 β4

x2 y2
Illustration 43: Find the locus of the mid-points of the chords of the ellipse = 1 whose poles are on the +
a2 b2
auxiliary circle or the tangents at the extremities of which intersect on the auxiliary circle. (JEE ADVANCED)

Sol: Compare the equation of the chord and the tangent to get the point which lies on the auxiliary circle. Substitute
the point in the equation of the circle to get the required locus.
Let (h, k) be the mid-point of a chord of the ellipse. Then, its equation is
hx ky h2 k2
+ = +  …(i)
a2 b2 a2 b2
x2 y2
Let (x1, y1) be its pole with respect to the ellipse + 1 . Then, the equation of the polar is
=
a2 b2
xx1 yy1
+ 1 
= …(ii)
2
a b2

Clearly, (i) and (ii) represent the same line. Therefore,

x1 y1 1 h k
= = ⇒ x1 = , y1 =
h k 2 2
(h / a ) + (k / b ) 2 2 2 2 2
(h / a ) + (k / b ) 2
(h / a ) + (k 2 / b2 )
2 2

2
 h2 k 2 
It is given that (x1, y1) lies on auxiliary circle. Therefore x12 + y12 2 2
= a ⇒ h +k = a  + 2
 . 2
 a2 b2 
 
2
 x2 y 2 
Hence the locus of (h, k) is x2 + y=
2
a2  +  .
 a2 b2 
 

16. SUBTANGENT AND SUBNORMAL

Y
Let the tangent and normal at P(x1, y1) meet the x-axis at A and B
respectively. Length of subtangent at P(x1, y1) to the ellipse A
P(x₁, y₁)
x2 y2 a2
+ 1 is DA = CA − CD = − x1
=
a2 b2 x1 X’ X
C B D A
2 2
x y
Length of sub-normal at P(x1 , y1 ) to the ellipse + 1 is
=
2
a b2
 b2  b2
BD =CD − CB =x1 −  x1 − x  = x1 =(1 − e2 )x 1 . Y’
 a2 1 2
  a Figure 11.25
 M a them a ti cs | 11.33

PLANCESS CONCEPTS

Misconception: As there is no y1 term involved in the above results, don’t think that the lengths are
x12 y12
independent of y1. Always remember that + 1
=
a2 b2
Vaibhav Krishnan (JEE 2009, AIR 22)

PROBLEM-SOLVING TACTICS

x2 y2 m2 (a2 − b2 )2
•• If the line=
y mx + c is a normal to the ellipse + 1 then c2 =
= is the condition of normality
a2 b2 a2 + b2m2
of the line to the ellipse.

••  he tangent and normal at any point of an ellipse bisect the external and angles between the focal
T
radii to the point. It follows from the above property that if an incident light ray passing through the
focus (S) strikes the concave side of the ellipse, then the reflected ray will pass through the other
focus (S’).

•• If SM and S’M’ are perpendicular from the foci upon the tangent at any point of the ellipse, then SM. S’M’ = b2
and M, M’ lie on the auxiliary circle.
x2 y 2
•• If the tangent at any point P on the ellipse + 1 meets the major axis in T and minor axis in T’, then CN.
=
2 2
CT = a , CN’. CT’ = b
2 2 a b

Where N and N’ are the feet of the perpendicular from P on the respective axis.

•• If SM and S’ M’ are perpendicular from the foci S and S’ respectively upon a tangent to the ellipse, then CM
and CM’ are parallel to S’P and SP respectively.

FORMULAE SHEET

1. The general equation of second order ax2 + 2hxy + by 2 + 2gx + 2fy + c =0 represents an ellipse
 a h g
 
if ∆ ≠ 0, h2 < ab. where  ∆ = h b f 
 g f c 

2. The sum of the focal distance of any point on an ellipse is a constant and is equal to the length of the major
axis of the ellipse i.e. SP + S’P = 2a.
x2 y2
3. Standard equation of an ellipse is + 1
=
a2 b2
Where a = length of semi-major axis,
b = length of semi-minor axis
1 1 . 3 4 | Ellipse

4.

 x2 y 2 
Ellipse  2 + 2 = 1
Imp. Terms  a b 

For a > b For b > a

Centre (0, 0) (0, 0)
Vertices (±a, 0) (0, ±b)
Length of major axis 2a 2b
Length of minor axis 2b 2a
Foci (±ae , 0) (0 , ± be)
Equation of directrices x = ±a/e y = ±b/e
Relation in a, b and e b2 = a2 (1 – e2) a2 = b2 (1 – e2)
Length of latus rectum 2b2 2a2
a b

Ends of latus rectum  b2   a2 

 ±ae, ±   ± , ± be 
 a   b 
  

Parametric equations (a cos φ, b sinφ) (a cos φ, b sin φ)

(0 ≤ φ < 2π)
Focal radii SP = a – ex1 SP = b –ey1
S’P = a + ex1 S’P = b + ey1
Sum of focal radii (SP + S’P =) 2a 2b
Distance between foci 2ae 2be
Distance between directrices 2a/e 2b/e
Tangents at the vertices x = –a, x = a y = b, y = –b

5. The equations=x acos φ,

= y bsin φ taken together are called the parametric equations of the ellipse

x2 y2
+ 1 , where φ is the parameter.
=
a2 b2

6. (i) If the centre of the ellipse is at (h, k) and the axes are parallel to the coordinate axes, then its equation is

(x − h)2 (y − k)2
+ 1.
=
a2 b2
(lx + my + n)2 (mx − ly + p)2
(ii) If the equation of the ellipse is + 1 , where lx + my + n =
= 0 and mx − ly + p =0
a2 b2
lx + my + n mx − ly + p
are perpendicular lines. Substitute = X and = Y , to put the equation in the standard form.
2 2
l +m l2 + m2
x2 y2
7. If P(acos α, bsin α ) and Q(acos β, bsin β) are any two points on the ellipse + 1 , then the equation of a
=
a2 b2
x α+β y α+β α −β
chord joining these two points is cos   + sin  =cos  .
a  2  b  2   2 
 M a them a ti cs | 11.35

x2 y 2 x2 y2
8. The point P(x1 , y1 ) lies outside, on, or inside the ellipse + 1 according to 1 + 1 − 1 > 0, =
= 0 or < 0
2 2 2 2
respectively. a b a b

x2 y2
9. The line =
y mx + c intersects the ellipse + 1 on two distinct points if a2m2 + b2 > c2 , on one point
=
2 2
a b
2 x2 y 2
if=c a m + b and does not intersect if a m2 + b2 < c2 . For an ellipse
2 2 2
+ 2
1 , the auxiliary circle is
=
x2 + y 2 =a2 . a2 b2

x2 y2 xx1 yy1
10. The equation of the tangent to the ellipse + 1 at the point (x1 , y1 ) is
= + 1 . The equation
=
2 2 2
a b a b2

mx ± a2m2 + b2 and the point of contact is

of tangent to the ellipse having its slope equal to m is y =
 ±a2m   b2 x y
 ,  . The equation of the tangent at any point (acos φ, bsin φ) is cos φ + sin φ =1 .
 2 2 2  a b
 a m +b a2m2 + b2 
2 2
x y
Point of intersection of the tangents to the ellipse + 1 at the points P(acos θ1 , bsin θ1 ) ,
=
2
a b2
 acos ( (θ1 + θ2 ) / 2 ) b sin ( (θ1 + θ2 ) / 2 ) 
and Q(acos θ2 , bsin θ2 ) is  , .
 cos ( (θ − θ ) / 2 ) cos ( (θ − θ ) / 2 ) 
 1 2 1 2 

11. Equation of pair of tangents drawn from an outside point P(x1 , y1 ) is SS1 = T2 .

x2 y2
12. For an ellipse + 1 , the equation of director circle is x2 + y 2 = a2 + b2 .
=
2 2
a b
x2 y2 a2 x b2 y
13. The equation of normal to the ellipse + 1 at the point (x1 , y1 ) is
= − =a2 − b2 . The equation of
a2 b 2 x1 y 1
2 2
x y
normal to the ellipse + ) a2 − b2 .
1 at any point (acos φ, bsin φ) is (ax sec φ − bycosecφ=
=
2 2
a b
x2 y2
14. If m is the slope of the normal to the ellipse + 1 , then the equation of the normal is
=
a2 b2
m(a2 − b2 )  ±a2 ±mb2 
y mx ±
= . The co-ordinates of the point of contact are  , .
 2 
a2 + b2m2  a +b m
2 2
a2 + b2m2 

15. The properties of conormal points are

x2 y 2
(i) Property 1: The sum of the eccentric angles of the co-normal points on the ellipse + 1 is an odd
=
multiple of π . a2 b2

x2 y 2
(ii) Property 2: If θ1 , θ2 and θ3 are eccentric angles of three co-normal points on the ellipse + 1,
=
then sin(θ1 + θ2 ) + sin(θ2 + θ3 ) + sin(θ3 + θ1 ) = 0 . a2 b2

(iii) Property 3: Co-normal points lie on a fixed curve called an Apollonian Rectangular

(
Hyperbola a2 − b2 xy + b2kx − a2hy =
0 )
(iv) Property 4: If the normal at four points P(x1y1), Q(x2y2), R(x3y3) and S(x4y4) on the

x2 y2 1 1 1 1 
ellipse + 1 are concurrent, then (x1 + x2 + x3 + x 4 )  +
=
x
+ + 4.
 =
a2 b2  1 x 2 x3 x 4 
1 1 . 3 6 | Ellipse

16. If SM and S’M’ are perpendiculars from the foci upon the tangent at any point of the ellipse, then
SM × S'M' = b2 and M, M’ lie on the auxiliary circle.

x2 y2
17. If the tangent at any point P on the ellipse + 1 meets the major axis at T and minor axis at T’, then
=
a2 b2
CN × CT = a2, CN’ × CT’ = b2. Where N and N’ are the feet of the perpendiculars from P on the respectively axis.

x2 y2
18. The equation of the chord of the ellipse + 1 , whose mid point is (x1 , y1 ) , is T = S1 .
=
a2 b2
x2 y2 xx1 yy1
19. The chord of contact from a point P(x1 , y1 ) to an ellipse + 1 is T = 0 is
= + 1.
=
2 2 2
a b a b2
x2 y2
20. The equation of the diameter bisecting the chords =
(y mx + c) of slope m of the ellipse + 1
=
a2 b2
b2
is y = − x.
a2m
x2 y2 −b2
21. If m1 and m2 are the slopes of two conjugate diameters of an ellipse + 1 , then m1m2 =
= .
a2 b2 a2

22. The eccentric angle of the ends of a pair of conjugate diameters of an ellipse differ by a right angle,
π
i.e., φ − φ ' = .
2
23. The sum of the squares of any two conjugate semi-diameters of an ellipse is constant and is equal to the sum
of the squares of the semi axes of the ellipse i.e., CP2 + CD2 = a2 + b2.

24. The product of the focal distances of a point on an ellipse is equal to the square of the semi-diameter which
is conjugate to the diameter through the point i.e., SP × S'P = CD2.

25. The tangents at the extremities of a pair of conjugate diameters form a parallelogram whose area is constant
and equal to the product of the axes.
i.e. Area of the parallelogram = (2a)(2b) = Area of the rectangle contained under major and minor axes.

26. Two conjugate diameters are called equi-conjugate, if their lengths are equal i.e., (CP)2 = (CD)2

(a2 + b2 )
∴(CP) = (CD) = for equi-conjugate diameters.
2
x2 y2  −a2l −b2m 
27. Equation of the polar of the point (x1, y1) w.r.t. an ellipse + 1 is P 
= , .
a2 b2  n n 


x2 y2  −a2l −b2m 
28. The pole of the line lx + my + n =0 with respect to the ellipse + 1 is P 
= , .
a2 b2  n n 

x1 x2 y1 y 2
29. Condition for a conjugate point is + 1.
=
a2 b2
x2 y2 a2
30. The length of a sub tangent at P(x1 , y1 ) to the ellipse + 1 is
= − x1 .
a2 b2 x1

x2 y2 b2
31. The length of a sub normal at P(x1 , y1 ) to the ellipse + 1 is
= x1= (1 − e2 )x1 .
a2 b2 a2
 M a them a ti cs | 11.37

Solved Examples

JEE Main/Boards The equation of directrices are given by X = ±

a
e
Example 1: Find the centre, the eccentricity, the foci, 9
i.e. x + 1 =±
the directrices and the lengths and the equations of the 2
axes of the ellipse 7 11
i.e. x= ,x= −
2 2
5x + 9y + 10x − 36y − 4 =
0 2 2
The equation of the axes are given by
Sol: Rewrite the equation in the standard form and
compare them to get the centre, eccentricity etc. X = 0, Y = 0
i.e. x + 1= 0, y − 2= 0
5x2 + 9y 2 + 10x − 36y − 4 =,
0 the given equation can
be written as i.e. x=
−1, y =
2

5(x2 + 2x) + 9(y 2 − 4y) =

4 Length of the axes being 2a, 2b

5(x + 1)2 + 9(y − 2)2 =

45 i.e, 6, 2 5 .

(x + 1)2 (y − 2)2
+ 1
=
9 5 Example 2: If the chord through point θ1 and θ2 on an
Shift the origin to O' ≡ ( −1,2) x2 y2
ellipse + 1 intersects the major axis at (d, 0)
=
∴ X= x + 1 ; Y= y − 2 a2 b2
θ1 θ2 d−a
X2 Y2 prove that tan tan = .
∴ + 1
= …(i) 2 2 d+a
9 5
Sol: Substitute the point (d , 0) in the equation of the
This is in standard form
chord to prove the given result.
∴ =a 3,=
b 5
Equation of the chord joining the points θ1 and θ2 is
2 2
a −b 4 2 x  θ + θ2  y  θ1 + θ2   θ − θ2 
∴=e2 = ⇒e= cos  1 cos  1
a2 9 3  + sin   = 
a  2  b  2   2 
2 a 9 Since (d, 0) lies on it
Also ae = 3 . = 2 and = .
3 e 2
P(1)
Now for an ellipse in the standard form we have Centre
a R(d,)
≡ (0, 0); foci ≡ (±ae, 0); directrices x = ± ; axes x = 0,
e O
y = 0, length of major axis = 2a, length of minor axis Q(1)
= 2b.
Now for (i) the centre is given by X = 0, Y = 0
d  θ + θ2   θ1 − θ2 
⇒ x + 1= 0, y − 2= 0 ∴ cos  1  = cos  
a  2   2 
ax by
i.e. Centre + c
= cos ( (θ1 − θ2 ) / 2 )
3 4 d
=
Foci are given by X =
±ae, Y =
0 cos ( (θ1 + θ2 ) / 2 ) a

i.e. x + 1 =±2 and y − 2 =0 Applying componendo and dividendo, we get

i.e. = y 2 and x =
x 1,= −3, y =
2 d − a cos ( (θ1 − θ2 ) / 2 ) − cos ( (θ1 + θ2 ) / 2 )
=
∴ Foci ≡ (1,2); ( −3, 2) d + a cos ( (θ1 − θ2 ) / 2 ) + cos ( (θ1 + θ2 ) / 2 )
1 1 . 3 8 | Ellipse

2sin(θ1 / 2)sin(θ2 / 2)
=
2cos(θ1 / 2)cos(θ2 / 2)
θ θ
tan 1 tan 2
2 2
Equation of normal at Q ( )
5 cos φ,2sin φ is

cos φ x 5 sin φ − sin φ cos φ 

2y= …(ii)
2 2
x y
Equation (i) and (ii) represent the same line. Comparing
Example 3: A tangent to the ellipse = 1 +
a b2 the coefficients in equations (i) and (ii).
2

touches it at the point P in the first quadrant and meets t 1 t2

the x and y axes in A and B respectively. If P divides AB = =
2cos φ 5 sin φ − sin φ.cos φ
in the ratio 3 : 1, find the equation of the tangent at P.
2 cos φ
Sol: Consider a point in the parametric form and obtain ⇒ t = cot φ, t2 = −
5 5
the points A and B. Now use the condition that the
point P divides AB in the ratio 3:1. 4 cos φ
cot2 φ = −
Let P ≡ (acos θ,bsin θ) : 5 5
π
 4 cos φ 
0<θ<  …(i) ⇒ cos φ  + 5 =
0
 sin2 φ 
2  
Equation of the tangent at P(θ) is (cos φ ≠ 0 t ≠ 0)
x y
cos θ + sin θ =1 (x − 5)2 y 2
a b ⇒ + 1
=
9 25
y


0,
b
 B
⇒ ( )
5 1 − cos2 φ + 4 cos φ =0
sin 1
P 1
3
R(d,) A ⇒ cos φ = −
x 5

cos ,0
a  1 
∴ φ= 2nπ ± cos−1  −  where 0 ≤ φ ≤ 2π .
 5
∴ Corresponding values of t are given by
 a   b  cos φ 1
∴A≡ ,0  and B ≡  0,  t2 =
− = .
 cos θ   sin θ 5
5
Now P divides segment AB in the ratio 3 : 1 1
∴ t= ±
 a 3b  5
∴ P≡ ,   …(ii)
 4 cos θ 4 sin θ 
Example 5: Show that the sum of the squares of the
By (i) and (ii), we have x2 y2
perpendiculars on any tangent to += 1 from 2
1 3 a2 b2
cos
= θ ; sin
= θ
∴ 2 2 points on the minor axis, each of which is at a distance

∴ Equation of tangent at P is bx + a 3y =
2ab . a2 − b2 from the centre, is 2a2 .

Example 4: If the tangent drawn at a point (t2 ,2t); t ≠ 0 Sol: Use the standard equation of a tangent in terms of
m and then proceed accordingly,
on the parabola y 2 = 4x is the same as the normal
drawn at a point ( 5 cos φ,2sin φ ) on the ellipse The general equation of a tangent to the ellipse is

4x2 + 5y 2 =
20 , find the value of t and φ . mx ± a2m2 + b2 
y= …(i)

Sol: Write the equation of the tangent and the normal Let the points on the minor axis be P(0,ae) and
using ‘t’ and ‘ φ ’ and compare.
b2 a2 (1 − e2 )
Q(0, − ae) as =
2 2
Equation of the tangent at P(t ,2t) to y = 4x is
Length of the perpendicular from P on (i) is
yt= x + t2  …(i)
 M a them a ti cs | 11.39

ae ± a2m2 + b2 mx ± a2m2 + b2 . It passes through (1, 2)

y=
P1 =
5 2 5
( 2 − m)
2
1 + m2 ∴ = m +
3 2

−ae ± a2m2 + b2 ⇒ 4m2 + 24m − 9 =0

Similarly, P2 = Angle between the tangents is
1 + m2
m1 − m2 4 36 + 9 12
2 tan θ = = =−
P12 + P22
Hence, = 2 2 2 2
{a e + (a m + b )}2 1 + m1m2 −5 5
1 + m2
 12 
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 ∴=θ tan−1  − 
= {(a − b ) + a m =
+ b } 2a  5
1 + m2
Example 8: The locus of the foot of the perpendicular
Example 6: Find the equation of the ellipse having its drawn from the centre to any tangent to the ellipse
centre at the point (2,–3), one focus at (3,–3) and one x2 y2
vertex at (4, –3). + 1 is
=
a2 b2
Sol: Use the basic knowledge of the major axis, centre (A) A circle (B) An ellipse
and focus to get the equation of the ellipse.
(C) A hyperbola (D) None of these.
C ≡ (2, −3) , S ≡ (3, −3) and A ≡ (4, −3)
Sol: Find the foot of the perpendicular from the centre
Now, CA = 2
to any tangent and eliminate the parameter.
∴ a=2
Equation of a tangent to the ellipse is
Again CS = 1
1 1 mx ± a2m2 + b2 
y= …(i)
∴ ae = 1 ⇒e= =
a 2 Equation of the line through the centre (0, 0)
We know that perpendicular to (i) is
2
b= a2 − a2e2  −1 
y =  x  …(ii)
m
⇒ b= 3
Eliminating m from (i) and (ii) we get the required locus
∴ Equation of ellipse is of the foot of the perpendicular as
( x − 2) ( y + 3)
2 2
x2 x2
+ 1
= − ± a2
y= + b2
22
( 3)
2 y y2

⇒ (x2 + y 2 )2 = a2 x2 + b2 y 2
3 ( x − 2 ) + 4 ( y + 3) =
2 2
⇒ 12
which does not represent a circle, an ellipse or a
⇒ 3x2 + 4y 2 − 12x + 24y + 36 =
0 hyperbola.

Example 7: Show that the angle between pair of Example 9: The ellipse x2 + 4y 2 = 4 is inscribed in a
tangents drawn to the ellipse 3x2 + 2y 2 =
5 from the rectangle aligned with the coordinate axes, which in
  turn is inscribed in another ellipse that passes through
12
point (1, 2) is tan−1  − . the point (4, 0). The equation of the ellipse is
 5
(A) 4x2 + 48y 2 =
48 (B) 4x2 + 6y 2 =
48
Sol: Starting from the standard equation of a tangent
in terms of m, satisfy the point (1 ,2) and get the values (C) x2 + 16y 2 =
16 (D) x2 + 12y 2 =
16
of m. Using the value of m, find the angle between the
two tangents. Let the equation of the tangents be Sol: Consider the standard equation of the ellipse. Use
the two points given in the question to find the value
of ‘a’ and ‘b’.
1 1 . 4 0 | Ellipse

x2 y2 ⇒ 10(h2 + k 2 − 6h − 8k + 25) = (h + 3k − 3)2

Let the equation of the required ellipse be + 1.
=
2 2
a b Locus of (h, k) is
Given that it passes through (4, 0)
9x2 + y 2 − 6xy − 54x − 62y + 241 =
0.
⇒ a=4
It also passes through (2, 1), one of the vertex of
rectangle. Example 11: If an ellipse slides between two
perpendicular straight lines, then the locus of its centre is
4 1
⇒ + 1
= (A) A parabola (B) An ellipse
2
4 b2
4 (C) A hyperbola (D) A circle
⇒ b2 = and the required equation is
3
Sol: Use the concept of a Director Circle.
x2 3y 2
+ 1
= Let 2a, 2b be the length of the major and minor axes
16 4
respectively of the ellipse. If the ellipse slides between
⇒ x2 + 12y 2 =
16 two perpendicular lines, the point of intersection
P of these lines being the point of intersection of
y
perpendicular tangents lies on the director circle of the
ellipse. This means that the centre C of the ellipse is
P(2,1)
a2 + b2 from P. Hence
B
always at a constant distance
A x the locus of C is a circle
O (4,0)
x2 y 2
+ 1
=
9 4

Example 10: Tangents are drawn from the point P(3, 4) B

C
2 2
x y
to the ellipse + =1 touching the ellipse at point
o
90
9 4 P A
A and B. The equation of the locus of the point whose
distances from the point P and the line AB are equal is

(A) 9x2 + y 2 − 6xy − 54x − 62y + 241 =

0 Example 12: If α, β are the eccentric angles of the
x2 y 2
(B) x2 + 9y 2 + 6xy − 54x + 62y − 241 =
0 extremities of a focal chord of the ellipse + 1,
=
16 9
α β
(C) 9x2 + 9y 2 − 6xy − 54x − 62y − 241 =
0 then tan   tan   =
2
  2
(D) x2 + y 2 − 2xy + 27x + 31y − 120 =
0
Sol: Equate the slope of the line joining the focus and
Sol: Write the equation of the chord of contact w.r.t. the two points.
point P. Then follow the standard procedure to find the
9 7
locus. The eccentricity e = 1 − = .
16 4
AB being the chord of contact of the ellipse from
P(3, 4) has its equation Let P (4 cos α , 3sin α ) and Q (4 cos β, 3sin β) be a focal

3x 4y chord of the ellipse passing through the focus at ( 7 ,0) .

+ = 1 ⇒ x + 3y = 3
9 4
3sin β 3sin α
Then =
If (h, k) is any point on the locus, then 4 cos β − 7 4 cos α − 7

h + 3k − 3 sin(α − β) 7
(h − 3)2 + (k − 4)2 = ⇒ =
1+9 sin α − sin β 4
 M a them a ti cs | 11.41

cos[(α − β) / 2)] 7 PQ = 8 + 2 = 10
⇒ =
cos[(α + β) / 2] 4 ∴ Area of quadrilateral ABCD

⇒
α
tan   tan
=
β
 
7 − 4 8 7 − 23
= .
1
2
1
2
(
= (AB + CD)PQ = 8 2 + 3 2 10 =55 2 sq. units. )
2 2 7+4 9
Example 2: Show that the angle between the tangents
x2 y2
JEE Advanced/Boards to the ellipse =1 (where a > b ), and the circle
+
a2 b2
Example 1: Common tangents are drawn to the x2 + y 2 =
ab at their points of intersection in the first
parabola y2 = 4x and the ellipse 3x2 + 8y2 = 48 touching  (a − b) 
quadrant is tan−1  .
the parabola A and B and the ellipse at C and D. Find
 ab 
the area of the quadrilateral ABCD.
Sol: We find the point of intersection of the ellipse and
Sol: Write the standard equation of the parabola in the the circle. Then we find the slope of the tangents to the
slope. Use the condition for the line to be a tangent and circle and the ellipse and hence the angle.
obtain the value of m. We then find the points of contact
At the points of intersection of ellipse and circle,
with the ellipse and parabola and then find the area.
1 ab − y 2 y2
Let =
y mx + be a tangent to the parabola y 2 = 4x . + 1
=
m a2 b2
x2 y2 1  1 1  b ab2
It will touch the ellipse + 1 , if= 16m2 + 6
= ⇒ y2  − = 1− ⇒ y2 =
42 ( 6)2
m2  b2 a2  a a+b
c2 a2m2 + b2 ]
[Using:=
a b
∴ y = ±b and x = ±a
⇒ 16m4 + 6m2 − 1 =0 a+b a+b
1  a b
⇒ (8m2 − 1)(2m2 + 1) =
0 ⇒ m= ± b a 
8 P , 
 a+b a + b 

We know that a tangent of slope m touches the
 a 2a  lies in first quadrant
parabola y 2 = 4ax at  ,  . So, the coordinates of
m m 
2
Equation of tangent at P to the circle is
the points of contact of the common tangents of slope
xa b yb a
1 + ab
=
m= ± to the parabola y 2 = 4x are A(8, 4 2 ) and a+b a+b
2 2
a
B(8, –4 2 ). Its slope is: m1 = −
b
We also know that a tangent of slope m touches the Equation of the tangent at P to the ellipse is
x 2
y 2  a2m b2 
ellipse + 1 at  
= ,± . xa b yb a
a2 b2   + 1
=
 a2m2 + b2 a2m2 + b2  a2
a+b b 2
a+b
Therefore, the coordinates of the points of contact of b3/2
1 Its slope in m2 = −
common tangents of slope m ± to the ellipse are a3/2
2 2
If α is the angle between these tangents, then
 3   3 
C  −2,  and D  −2, − .
 2  2 m2 − m1 −(b3/2 / a3/2 ) + (a1/2 / b1/2 )
tan α
= =
1 + m1m2 1 + (b3/2 / a3/2 )(a1/2 / b1/2 )
Clearly AB || CD. So, the quadrilateral ABCD is a
trapezium. a2 − b2 a−b
= .
We have, AB = 8 2 , CD = 3 2 and the distance a1/2 1/2
b (a + b) ab
between AB and CD is
1 1 . 4 2 | Ellipse

Example 3: Any tangent to an ellipse is cut by the Then P, Q, and R have coordinates given by:
tangents at the extremities of the major axis at T and
T’. Prove that the circle on TT’ as the diameter passes   2π   2π  
P(acos θ, bsin θ) Q acos  θ +  , bsin  θ +   and
through the foci.   3   3 

Sol: We find out the point of intersection of the tangent A

with the axis and then use these points to find the P
equation of the circle.
x2 y 2
Let the equation of the ellipse be + = 1. O
a2 b2 Q R
The extremities A and A’ of the major axis are A (a, 0), B C
A’ (–a, 0). Equations of tangents A and A’ are x = a and
x y   4π   4π 
x = –a. Any tangent to the ellipse is cos θ + sin θ =1 . R acos  θ +  , bsin  θ +   respectively.
a b   3   3 
The points of intersection are
Normals at P, Q, R to ellipse are concurrent, if the
 b(1 − cos θ)   b(1 + cos θ)  determinants of the coefficients is zero. i.e., if
T  a,  , T'  −a, 
 sin θ   sin θ  sin(θ1 + θ2 ) + sin(θ2 + θ3 ) + sin(θ3 + θ1 ) = 0
The equation of the circle on TT’ as diameter is
 2π   6π   4π 
∴ sin  2θ +  + sin  2θ +  + sin  2θ + 
 b   bcos θ  
2 2
 3   3   3 
(x 2
− a2 ) 
+ y −

 −  =
sin θ   sin θ  
0
  
= sin ( 2θ ) + sin  2θ +
2π   4π 
 + sin  2θ + 
 3   3 
b b2 (1 − cos2 θ)
⇒ x2 − a2 + y 2 − 2y + =0 = 0 for all values of θ
sin θ sin2 θ
∴ The normals are concurrent.
2by
⇒ x2 + y 2 − + b2 − a2 =
0
sin θ
Example 5: Prove that the sum of the eccentric angles
2by of the extremities of a chord which is drawn in a given
⇒ x2 + y 2 − a2e2
=
sin θ direction is constant and equal to twice the eccentric
angle of the point, at which the tangent is parallel to
Foci S (ae, 0) and S’ (–ae, 0) lie on this circle.
the given direction.

Example 4: Let ABC be an equilateral triangle inscribed Sol: Consider two points on the ellipse and evaluate
in the circle x2 + y 2 =
a2 . Suppose perpendiculars from the slope of the chord. If the slope is constant prove
that the sum of the angles is constant.
x2 y2
A, B, C to the major axis of the ellipse = 1,+
a2 b2 Slope of chord AB = m
(a > b), meets the ellipse at P, Q, R respectively so that b(sin α − sin β)
= −
P, Q, R lie on the same side of the major axis as are the a(cos α − cos β)
corresponding points A, B, C. Prove that the normals to
the ellipse drawn at the points P, Q, R are concurrent. 2b cos((α + β) / 2). sin((α − β) / 2) b α+β
= = − cot  .
2asin((α + β) / 2).sin((β − α ) / 2) a  2 
Sol: Find the points of intersection of the perpendicular
and the ellipse. Then apply the condition for the α+β
∴ = constant if m is constant
normals at these three points to be concurrent. 2
x y
Let A, B, C have coordinates (acos θ, asin θ) , Eq. of a tangent is cos θ + sin θ =1
a b
  2π   2π   b
acos  θ +  , asin  θ +  , Slope of this tangent is − cot θ .
  3   3  a
b α+β
  4π   4π  − cot θ , then θ =
Now if m =
acos  θ +  , asin  θ +   respectively. a 2
  3   3 
 M a them a ti cs | 11.43

So, the slopes are equal. They are parallel to each other. 1 1   1 1 
Hence proved. get x2  −  + y 2  − = 0
 a2 p2   b2 q2 
   
Example 6: P and Q are two points of the ellipse S P
2 2
x y
+ 1 such that sum of their ordinates is 3. Prove
= C (0,0)
25 9
Q R
that the locus of the intersection of the tangents at P
and Q is 9x2 + 25y 2 =.
150y Above equation will represent a pair of conjugate
diameters of the first ellipse if
Sol: Find the relation between the ordinate and use it
to find the locus. b2
m1m2 = −
a2
If (h, k) is the point of intersection of tangents at θ and
φ , then
∴
((1 / a ) − (1 / p )) = − b
2 2
2

h cos ( (θ + φ) / 2 ) k sin ( (θ + φ) / 2 )
= ;
((1 / b ) − (1 / q )) a
2 2 2

a cos ( (θ − φ) / 2 ) b cos ( (θ − φ) / 2 ) 1 1   1 1 
⇒ a2  −  + b2  − = 0
 a2 p2   b2 q2 
h2 k2 1    
∴ + =  …(i)
a 2
b2
cos ( (θ − φ) / 2 )
2
⇒
a2
+
b2
2
=
p2 q2
We are given that sum of ordinates is 3.

∴ b(sin θ + sin φ) = 3 Example 8: The points of intersection of the two

ellipses x2 + 2y2 ‒ 6x ‒ 12y + 23 = 0 and
θ+φ θ−φ
⇒ 2sin cos = 1  …(ii) 4x2 + 2y2 ‒ 20x ‒ 12y + 35 = 0.
2 2
8  1 47
(A) Lie on a circle centred at  ,3  and of radius .
k sin ( (θ + φ) / 2 ) 1  3  3 2
Now, = =
b cos ( (θ − φ) / 2 ) 2cos ( (θ − φ) / 2 )
2
 8 
(B) Lie on a circle centred at  − ,3  and of radius
2k 1  3 
∴ =  …(iii) 1 47
b cos ( (θ − φ) / 2 )
2 .
3 2
h2 k22k 1 47
Hence from (i) and (iii) we get + = (C) Lie on a circle centred at (8, 9) and of radius .
a 2
b2b 3 2

x2 y 2 2y (D) Are not cyclic.

∴ Locus of (h, k) is + =
25 9 3
Sol: Use the concept of the curve passing through the
⇒ 2
9x + 25y =
150y 2 intersection of two ellipses.
Equation of any curve passing through the intersection
Example 7: If the points of intersection of the ellipses of the given ellipse is
4x2 + 2y 2 − 20x − 12y + 35 +
x2 y2 x2 y2
+ = 1 and + = 1 are the extremities of the
a2 b2 p2 q2 λ(x2 + 2y 2 − 6x − 12y + 23) =
0
conjugate diameters of the first ellipse, then prove that Which represents a circle is
2 2
a b 4 + λ = 2 + 2λ ⇒ λ = 2
+ 2.
=
2 2
p q and the equation of the circle is thus,
6x2 + 6y 2 − 32x − 36y + 81 =
0
Sol: Use the condition for the pair of lines to represent
conjugate diameters.  16  81
⇒ x2 + y 2 −   x − 6y + 0
=
Subtracting in order to find points of intersection, we  3 6
1 1 . 4 4 | Ellipse

8  Example 11: Equation of the diameter of the ellipse E

Centre of the circle is  ,3  and the radius is conjugate to the diameter represented by L is
3 
2 (A) 9x + 2y =
0 (B) 2x + 9y =
0
8 2 81
  + (3) − (C) 4x + 9y =
0 (D) 4x − 9y =
0
3 6
Sol: Use the condition of conjugate diameters to find
128 + 162 − 243 1 47
= . the slope and hence write the equation of the line.
18 3 2
Let y = mx be the diameter conjugate to the diameter
Paragraph for Questions 9 to 12 L : y = 2x of the ellipse E, then

x2 y 2 4  b2 
C : x2 + y 2 =
9, E: + 1 , L : y = 2x
= 2m = −  mm' = − 2 

9 4 9  a 

Example 9: P is a point on the circle C, the perpendicular 2

⇒ m= − and the equation of the conjugate
PQ to the major axis of the ellipse E meets the ellipse at 9
MQ  2
M, then is equal to diameter is y =  −  x or 2x + 9y =
0.
PQ  9
1 2
(A) (B)
3 3 Example 12: If R is the point of intersection of the line
1 L with the line x = 1, then
(C) (D) None of these
2 (A) R lies inside both C and E
Sol: Proceed accordingly using parametric coordinates.. (B) R lies outside both C and E
Let the coordinates of P be (3cos θ, 3sin θ) then the (C) R lies on both C and E
eccentric angle of M, the point where the ordinate PQ
(D) R lies inside C but outside E
through P meets the ellipse is θ and the coordinates of
MQ 2sin θ 2 Sol: Use the position of a point w.r.t a circle.
M are (3cos θ, 2sin θ) , = = .
PQ 3sin θ 3 Coordinates of R are (1, 2)

Example 10: If L represents the line joining the point C (1, 2) = 1 + 22 − 9 < 0
P and C to its centre O and intersects E at M, then the 1
equation of the tangent at M to the ellipse E is ⇒ R lies inside C; E (1, 2) = +1 −1 > 0
9

(A) x + 3y =
3 5 (B) 4x + 3y =5 ⇒ R lies outside E.

(C) x + 3y + 3 5 =
0 (D) 4x + 3 + 5 =0 Example 13: If CF is perpendicular from the centre C
x2 y 2
Sol: Find the point of intersection of the line L and E. of the ellipse + =1 on the tangent at any point
a2 b2
Write the equation of the tangent at M. P, and G is the point where the normal at P meets the
Line L: y = 2x meets the circle C : x2 + y 2 =
9 at points minor axis, then (CF × PG)2 is equal to
3
for which x2 + 4x2 =
9 ⇒ x =± . Sol: Consider a parametric point on the ellipse and
5
proceed to find CF and PG.
3 6
Coordinates of P are ( ± ,± ) Equation of the tangent at P(7 cos θ, 5sin θ) on the
5 5
x y
3 4 ellipse is cos θ + sin θ =1 , then
⇒ Coordinates of M are ( ± ,± ) 7 5
5 5
72 × 52 25 × 49
Equation of the tangent at M to the ellipse E is (CF)2 = =
2 2 2
5 cos θ + 7 sin θ 2
25cos2 θ + 49 sin2 θ
x( ±3) y( ±4)
+ 1 ; x + 3y =
= ±3 5 .
9 5 4 5
 M a them a ti cs | 11.45

Equation of the normal at P is 49

= (25cos2 θ + 49 sin2 θ)
7x 5y 25
− =72 − 52
cos θ sin θ So, (CF.PG)
= 2
(49)
= 2
2401 .
 −24 sin θ 
Coordinates of G are  0, 
 5 
2
2 2  24 sin θ 
(PG)
= (7 cos θ) +  5sin θ + 
 5 

JEE Main/Boards

Exercise 1
x2 y 2
Q.10 The common tangent of + =1 and α lies
Q.1 Find the equation of the ellipse whose vertices are 25 4
(5, 0) and (–5, 0) and foci are (4, 0) and (–4, 0). in 1st quadrant. Find the slope of the common tangent
and length of the tangent intercepted between the axis.
Q.2 Find the eccentricity of the ellipse 9x2 + 4y2 ‒ 30y = 0.
Q.11 Find a point on the curve x2 + 2y 2 = 6 whose
7 is minimum.
distance from the line x + y =,
Q.3 Find the equations of the tangents drawn from the
point (2, 3) to the ellipse 9x2 + 16y 2 =
144 .
Q.12 Find the equations to the normals at the ends of
the latus recta and prove that each passes through an
Q.4 Find the eccentric angle of a point on the ellipse 4 2
end of the minor axis if e + e = 1.
x2 y 2
+ = 2 at a distance 3 from the centre.
5 4
Q.13 Find the co-ordinates of those points on the
x2 y 2
Q.5 Obtain equation of chord of the ellipse ellipse + = 1 , tangent at which make equal
4x2 + 6y2 = 24 which has (0, 0) as its midpoint. a2 b2
angles with the axes. Also prove that the length of the
perpendicular from the centre on either of these is
Q.6 Find the foci of the ellipse
1 2
25(x + 1)2 + 9(y + 2)2 =
225 . (a + b2 ) .
2

Q.7 Find the eccentricity of the ellipse if

Q.14 Prove that in an ellipse, the perpendicular from
(a) Length of latus rectum = half of major axis a focus upon any tangent and the line joining the
centre of the ellipse to the point of contact meet on the
(b) Length of latus rectum = half of minor axis.
corresponding directrix.
Q.8 Find the condition so that the line x + my + n =0
x 2
y 2 Q.15 The tangent and normal at any point A of an
may be a normal to the ellipse + 1.
=
a 2
b2 x2 y2
ellipse + =1 cut its major axis in points P and Q
a2 b2
Q.9 If the normal at the point P(θ) to the ellipse
respectively. If PQ = a, prove that the eccentric angle of
5x2 + 14y2 = 70 intersects it again at the point Q(2θ),
the point P is given by e2 cos2 φ + cos φ − 1 = 0 .
2
show that cos θ = − .
3
1 1 . 4 6 | Ellipse

Q.16 A circle of radius r is concentric with the ellipse Q.25 The co-ordinates of the mid-point of the variable
x2 y 2 1
+ = 1 . Prove that the common tangent is chord=y (x + c) of the ellipse 4x2 + 9y 2 =
36 are
a2 b2 2
r 2 − b2
inclined to the major axis at an angle tan−1 . Q.26 A triangle ABC right angled at ‘A’ moves so that it
a2 − r 2 x2 y 2
walsys circumscribes the ellipse + =1 . The locus
Q.17 Show that the locus of the middle points of a2 b2
of the point ‘A’ is
x2 y 2
those chords of the ellipse + = 1 which are
a2 b2
drawn through the positive end of the minor axis is
Exercise 2
x2 y 2 y
+ = .
a2 b2 b Single Correct Choice Type

x2 y2
Q.18 Tangents are drawn from a point P to the circle Q.1 The equation + +1 =0 represents an
ellipse, if 2 −r r −5
x2 + y 2 =r 2 so that the chords of contact are tangent
to the ellipse a2 x2 + b2 y 2 =
r 2 . Find the locus of P. (A) r > 2 (B) 2 < r < 5 (C) r > 5 (D) r ∈ {2,5}

Q.19 Show that the tangents at the extremities of x2 y2

Q.2 The eccentricity of the ellipse + 1 is
=
x2 y 2 a2 b2
all chords of the ellipse + = 1 which subtend
a2 b2 5 3 2 5
a right angle at the centre intersect on the ellipse (A) (B) (C) (D)
6 5 3 3
x2 y2 1 1
+ = + .
a 4
b 4 2
a b2 a2
Q.3 If tan
tanθθ11.. tan
tanθθ2 =− then the chord joining two
b2
x2 y 2
points θ1 and θ2 on the ellipse + =1 will subtend
Q.20 Find the length of the chord of the ellipse a2 b2
x2 y 2 1 2 a right angle at:
+ =1 whose middle point is  ,  .
25 16 2 5
(A) Focus (B) Centre

Q.21 Prove that the circle on any focal distance as (C) End of the major axis (D) End of the minor axis
diameter touches the auxiliary circle.
Q.4 If the line =y 2x + c be a tangent to the ellipse
2 2
x y x 2
y 2
Q.22 Let P be a point on the ellipse = 1 , 0<b<a.
+ + 1 , then c is equal to
=
2
a b2 8 4
Let the line parallel to y-axis passing thorugh P meet
(A) ±4 (B) ±6 (C) ±1 (D) ±8
the circle x2 +y2 = a2 at the point Q such that P and Q
are on the same side of the x-axis. For two positive real
numbers r and s, find the locus of the point R on PQ Q.5 If the line 3x + 4y = − 7 touches the ellipse
such that PR : RQ = r : s as P varies over the ellipse. 3x2 + 4y 2 =
1 then, the point of contact is
0
Q.23 Consider the family of circles x2 +y2 = r2 , 2<r<5.  1 1   1 −1 
(A)  ,  (B)  , 
In the first quadrant, the common tangent to a circle of  7 7  3 3
this family and the ellipse 4x2 + 25y2 = 100 meets the
coordinate axes at A and B, then find the equation of  1 −1   −1 −1 
(C)  ,  (D)  , 
the locus of the mid-point of AB.  7 7  7 7
x2 y2
Q.24 A tangent to the ellipse =1 , meets the
+ Q.6 The point of intersection of the tangents at the
2 2 a2 b2 x2 y 2
x y point P on the ellipse + = 1 and its corresponding
ellipse + =a + b in the points P and Q. Prove that
a 2
b2 a2 b2
the tangents at P and Q are at right angles. point Q on the auxiliary circle meet on the line:
 M a them a ti cs | 11.47

a
(A) x = (B) x = 0 (C) y = 0 (D) None of these (C) ay =bx − a4 + a2b2 + b 4
e
(D) by
by==ax++ a4 + a2b2 + b 4
ax
Q.7 The equation of the normal to the ellipse
x2 y 2
+ =1 at the positive and of latus rectum Q.13 In the ellipse the distance between its foci is 6 and
a2 b2
its minor axis is 8. Then its eccentricity is
(A) x + ey + e2a =
0 (B) x − ey − e3a =
0 4 1 3
2 (A) (B) (C) (D) None of these
(C) x − ey − e a =
0 (D) None of these 5 52 5

x2 y 2
Q.14 Equation of a tangent to the ellipse + 1
=
Q.8 The normal at an end of a latus rectum of the ellipse 25 16
x2 y 2 which cuts off equal intercepts on the axes is-
+ = 1 passes through an end of the minor axis, if:
a2 b2
(A) x + y − 41 =0 (B) x − y + 9 =0
4 2 3 2
(A) e + e =
1 (B) e + e =
1 (C) x + y − 9 =0 (D) None of these
2
(C) e + e =
1 (D) e3 + e =
1
Q.15 An ellipse has OB as a semi minor axis. FBF’ are
Q.9 If CF is perpendicular from the centre of the ellipse its foci, and the angle FPF’ is a right angle. Then the
x2 y 2 eccentricity of the ellipse, is
+ = 1 to the tangent at P and G is the point
a2 b2 (A)
1
(B)
1
where the normal at P meets the major axis, then the 3 2
product CF.PG is: 1
(C) (D) None of these
2
(A) a2 (B) 2b2 (C) b2 (D) a2 − b2

Q.16 The length of the latus rectum of the ellipse

0 is a common tangent to y 2 = 4x
Q.10 x − 2y + 4 = 9x2 + 4y 2 =
1 , is
x2 y 2
and + =1 . Then the value of b and the other 3 8 4 8
4 b2 (A) (B) (C) (D)
2 3 9 9
common tangent are given by:

(A) b = 3 ; x + 2y + a =0 (B) b = 3; x + 2y + 4 =
0 Q.17 If the distance between a focus and corresponding
1
(C) b = 3 ; x + 2y − 4 =
0 (D) b = 3 ; x − 2y − 4 =
0 directrix of an ellipse be 8 and the eccentricity be ,
then length of the minor axis is 2
16
Q.11 An ellipse is such that the length of the latus (A) 3 (B) 4 2 (C) 6 (D)
3
rectum is equal to the sum of the lengths of its semi
principal axes. Then: x2 y 2
Q.18 Let ‘E’ be the ellipse + =1 & ‘C’ be the
9 4
(A) Ellipse bulges to a circle
circle x2 + y 2 =9 . Let P and Q be the points (1, 2) and
(B) Ellipse becomes a line segment between the two foci (2, 1) respectively. Then:
(C) Ellipse becomes a parabola (A) Q lies inside C but outside E
(D) None of these (B) Q lies outside both C and E
(C) P lies inside both C and E
Q.12 Which of the following is the common tangent to
(D) P lies inside C but outside E
x2 y2 x2 y2
the ellipses, + 1 and
= + 1?
=
a2 + b2 b2 a2 a2 + b2

(A) ay =bx + a4 − a2b2 + b 4

(B) by =ax − a4 + a2b2 + b 4

1 1 . 4 8 | Ellipse

Q.19 The line, x + my + n =0 will cut the ellipse Q.25 The equation 2x2 + 3y2 ‒ 8x ‒ 18y + 35 = K
x2 y2 represents:
+ 1 in poins whose eccentric angle differe by
=
a2 b2 (A) A point if K = 0
π
if: (B) An ellipse if K < 0
2
(C) A hyperbola if K < 0
(A) x2 2 + b2n2 =
2m2 (B) a2m2 + b2 2 =
2n2 (D) A hyperbola if K > 0
(C) a2 2 + b2m2 =
2n2 (D) a2n2 + b2m2 =
22
Previous Years’ Questions
Q.20 The locus of point of intersection of tangents to
x2 y 2 Q.1 If P = (x, y), F1 = (3, 0), F2 = (‒3, 0) and 16x2 + 25y2 = 400,
an ellipse + =1 at two points the sum of whose
a2 b2 then PF1 + PF2 equals  (1998)
eccentric angles is constant is: (A) 8 (B) 6 (C) 10 (D) 12
(A) A hyperbola (B) An ellipse
(C) A circle (D) A straight line Q.2 The number of values of c such that the straight
x2
line y = 4x + c touches the curve + y2 =
1 is (1998)
Q.21 Q is a point on the auxiliary circle of an ellipse. P 4
is the corresponding point on ellipse. N is the foot of (A) 0 (B) 2 (C) 1 (D) ∞
perpendicular from focus S, to the tangent of auxiliary
circle at Q. Then Q.3 The line passing through the extremity A of the
major axis and extremity B of the minor axis of the
(A) SP = SN (B) SP = PQ
ellipse x2 + 9y2 = 9 meets its auxiliary circle at the point
(C) PN = SP (D) NQ = SP M. Then the area of the triangle with vertices at A, M
and the origin O is (2009)
Q.22 A tangent to the ellipse 4x2 + 9y 2 =
36 is cut by 31 29 21 27
the tangent at the extremities of the major axis at T (A) (B) (C) (D)
10 10 10 10
and T’. The circle on TT’ as diameter passes thorugh
the point y2
x2
Q.4 Let P be a variable point on the ellipse = 1 +
(A) (0, 0) (B) ( ±5,0) (C) ( ± 5,0) (D) ( ±3,0) a2 b2
with foci F1 and F2. If A is the area of the triangle PF1F2,
Q.23 Q is a point on the auxiliary circle corresponding then the maximum value of A is……………. (1994)
x2 y 2
to the point P of the ellipse + =1 . If T is the foot
a2 b2 Q.5 An ellipse has OB as a semi minor axis. F and F’ are
of the perpendicular dropped from the focus S onto the its foci and the angle FBF’ is a right angle. Then, the
tangent to the auxiliary circle at Q then the ∆ SPT is: eccentricity of the ellipse is…………. (1997)

(A) Isosceles (B) Equilateral

x2 y2
(C) Right angled (D) Right isosceles Q.6 Let P be a point on the ellipse =11, 0<b<a.
= +
a2 b2
Let the line parallel to y-axis passing through P meet the
x2 y 2 circle x2 + y2 = a2 at the point Q such that P and Q are on
Q.24 = y mx + c is a normal to the ellipse, + 1
=
2 2
if c2 is equal to a b the same side of x-axis. For two positive real numbers r
ans s, find the locus of the point R on PQ such that PR :
2 2 2
(a − b ) 2 2 2
(a − b ) RQ = r : s as P varies over the ellipse.  (2001)
(A) (B)
2 2 2 2 2
a m +b am
Q.7 Find the equation of the common tangent in
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
(a − b ) m (a − b ) m 1st quadrant to the circle x2 + y2 = 16 and the ellipse
(C) (D)
a2 + b2m2 a2m2 + b2 x2 y 2
+ = 1 . Also find the length of the intercept of the
25 4
tangent between the coordinate axes.  (2005)
 M a them a ti cs | 11.49

Q.8 A focus of an ellipse is at the origin. The directrix Q.12 The equation of the circle passing through the
is the line x = 4 and the eccentricity is 1/2. Then the x2 y 2
length of the semi−major axis is  (2008) foci of the ellipse + =1 , and having centre at
16 9
8 2 4 5 (0, 3) is  (2013)
(A) (B) (C) (D)
3 3 3 3
(A) x2 + y 2 − 6y − 7 =0 (B) x2 + y 2 − 6y + 7 =0

Q.9 The ellipse x2 + 16y2 = 16 is inscribed in a rectangle (C) x2 + y 2 − 6y − 5 =0 (D) x2 + y 2 − 6y + 5 =0

aligned with the coordinate axes, which in turn in
inscribed in another ellipse that passes through the Q.13 The locus of the foot of perpendicular drawn from
point (4, 0). Then the equation of the ellipse is (2009) the centre of the ellipse x2 + 3y 2 =
6 on any tangent to
(A) x2 + 16y 2 =
16 (B) x2 + 12y 2 =
16 it is  (2014)

( )
2
(C) 4x2 + 48y 2 =
48 (D) 4x2 + 64y 2 =
48 (A) x2 + y 2 =6x2 + 2y 2

(B) ( x + y )
2
Q.10 Equation of the ellipse whose axes are the axes of 2 2
=6x2 − 2y 2
coordinates and which passes through the point (-3, 1)
and has eccentricity is 
(C) ( x − y )
(2011) 2 2
2
=6x2 + 2y 2
(A) 5x2 + 3y 2 − 48 =
0 (B) 3x2 + 5y 2 − 15 =
0
(D) ( x − y )
2
2 2
=6x2 − 2y 2
(C) 5x2 + 3y 2 − 32 =
0 (D) 3x2 + 5y 2 − 32 =
0

Q.11 An ellipse is drawn by taking a diameter of the circle Q.14 The area (in sq.units) of the quadrilateral formed
(x ‒ 1)2 + y2 = 1 as its semiminor axis and a diameter of the by the tangents at the end points of the latera recta to
the Ellipse  (2015)
circle x2 + (y ‒ 2)2 = 4as its semi-major axis. If the centre
of the ellipse is the origin and its axes are the coordinate 27 27
(A) (B) 18 (C) (D) 27
axes, then the equation of the ellipse is  (2012) 4 2
(A) 4x2 + y 2 =
4 (B) x2 + 4y 2 =
8

(C) 4x2 + y 2 =
8 (D) x2 + 4y 2 =
16

JEE Advanced/Boards

Exercise 1 Q.4 An ellipse passes through the points (‒3, 1) and

(2, ‒2) and its principal axis are along the coordinate
Q.1 Find the equation of the ellipse with its centre (1, 2), axes in order. Find its equation.
focus at (6, 2) and containing the point (4, 6).
Q.5 If any two chords be drawn through two points on
the major axis of an ellipse equidistant from the centre,
Q.2 The tangent at any point P of a circle x2 + y 2 = a2
α β γ δ
meets the tangent at a fixed point A (a, 0) in T and T is show that tan . tan . tan . tan = 1 where α,β, γ, δ
joined to B, the other end of the diameter through A, 2 2 2 2
prove that the locus of the intersection of AP and BT is are the eccentric angles of the extremities of the chords.
1
an ellipse whose eccentricity is .
2 Q.6 (a) Obtain the equations of the tangents to the
ellipse 5x2 + 9y 2 =
45 , perpendicular to 3x + 4y =.
11
Q.3 The tangent at the point α on a standard ellipse
ax by
meets the auxiliary circle in two points which subtends (b) Prove that the straight line + c will be a
=
a right angle at the centre. Show that the eccentricity of
3 4
x2 y2
the ellipse is (1 + sin2 α )−1/2 . normal to the ellipse + 1 , if 5c = a2e2 .
=
2 2
a b
1 1 . 5 0 | Ellipse

Q.7 Prove that the equation to the circle having double Q.16 Prove that the length of the focal chord of the
x2 y 2 x2 y 2
contact with the ellipse + = 1 at the ends of a ellipse + = 1 which is inclined to the major axis
a2 b2 a2 b2
2ab2
latus rectum, is x2 + y 2 − 2ae3 x = a2 (1 − e2 − e4 ) . at angle θ is .
a2 + sin2 θ + b2 cos2 θ

Q.8 Find the equations of the lines with equal intercepts x2 y2

Q.17 The tangent at a point P on the ellipse = 1 +
x2 y 2 a2 b2
on the axis & which touch the ellipse + =1.
16 9 intersects the major axis in T & N is the foot of the
  perpendicular from P to the same axis. Show that the
16
Q.9 The tangent at P  4 cos θ, sin θ  to the ellipse circle on NT as diameter intersects the auxiliary circle
 11  orthogonally.
2 2
16x + 11y = 256 is also a tangent to the circle
x2 + y 2 − 2x − 15 =
0 . Find the θ . Find also the equation x2 y2
Q.18 The tangents from (x1 , y1 ) to the ellipse = 1 +
to the common tangent. a2 b2
intersect at right angles. Show that the normals at the
4 y x
Q.10 A tangent having slope − to the ellipse
3 points of contact meet on the line = .
x 2
y 2 y1 x1
+ 1 , intersects the axis of x and y in points A
=
18 32
and B respectively. If O is the origin, find the area of Q.19 Find the locus of the point the chord of contact of
triangle OAB. x2 y 2
the tangent drawn from which to the ellipse + = 1
a2 b2
Q.11 ‘O’ is the origin & also the centre of two concentric touches the circle x2 + y 2 =,
C2 where c < b < a .
circles having radii of the inner & the outer circle as ‘a’
and ‘b’ respectively. A line OPQ is drawn to cut the inner Q.20 Find the equation of the common tangents to the
circle in P & the outer circle in Q. PR is drawn parallel x2 y2 x2 y2
to the y-axis & QR is drawn parallel to the x-axis. Prove ellipse + =1 and + 1.
=
a2 + b2 b2 a2 a2 + b2
that the locus of R is an ellipse touching the two circles.
If the foci of this ellipse lie on the inner circle, find the
ratio of inner outer radii & find also the eccentricity of Q.21 P and Q are the corresponding point on a standard
the ellipse. ellipse and its auxiliary circle. The tangent at P to the
ellipse meets the major axis in T. prove that QT touches
the auxiliary circle.
Q.12 ABC is an isosceles triangle with its base BC twice
its altitude. A point P moves within the triangle such
Q.22 If the normal at the point P(θ) to the ellipse
that the square of its distance from BC is half the
rectangle contained by its distances from the two sides. x2 y 2
+ = 1 , intersects it again at the point Q(2θ) ,
Show that the locus of P is an ellipse with eccentricity 14 5
2
2 show that cos θ = −   .
passing through B & C. 3
3
x2 y2
Q.23 A straight line AB touches the ellipse + 1
=
Q.13 Find the equations of the tangents drawn from a2 b2
the point (2, 3) to the ellipse, 9x2 + 16y 2 =
144 . & the circle x2 + y 2 = r 2 ; where a > r > b . PQ is a focal
chord of the ellipse. If PQ be parallel to AB and cuts
Q.14 Common tangents are drawn to the parabola the circle in P & Q, find the length of the perpendicular
y 2 = 4x & the ellipse 3x2 + 8y 2 = 48 touching the drawn from the centre of the ellipse to PQ. Hence show
parabola at A and B and the ellipse at C & D. Find the that PQ = 2b.
area of the quadrilateral.
x2 y2
Q.24 If the tangent at any point of an ellipse +
= 1
a2 b2
Q.15 If the normal at a point P on the ellipse of semi makes an angle α with the major axis and an angle β
axes a, b & centre C cuts the major & minor axes at G with the focal radius of the point of contact then show
and g, show that a2 (CG)2 + b2 .(Cg)2 =(a2 − b2 )2 . Also
cos β
prove that CG = e2CN , where PN is the ordinate of P. that the eccentricity of the ellipse is given by: e = .
cos α
 M a them a ti cs | 11.51

Q.25 An ellipse is drawn with major and minor axes Q.5 An ellipse is described by using an endless string
of lengths 10 and 8 respectively. Using one focus as which passes over two pins. If the axes are 6 cm and 4
centre, a circle is drawn that is tangent to the ellipse, cm, the necessary length of the string and the distance
with no part of the circle being outside the ellipse. The between the pins respectively in cm, are
radius of the circle is_________.
(A) 6, 2 5 (B) 6, 5

Q.26 Point ‘O’ is the centre of the ellipse with major (C) 4,2 5 (D) None of these
axis AB and minor axis CD. Point F is one focus of the
ellipse. 1 f OF = 6 & the diameter of the inscribed
Q.6 If F1 & F2 are the feet of the perpendiculars from the
circle of triangle OCF is 2, then the product (AB) (CD) =
_____________________________. x2 y 2
foci S1 and S2 of an ellipse + = 1 on the tangent at
5 3
any point P on the ellipse, then (S1F1). (S2F2) is equal to:
Exercise 2 (A) 2 (B) 3 (C) 4 (D) 5

Single Correct Choice Type

Q.7 a & b are positive real numbers, such that a > b . If
the area of the ellipse ax2 + by 2 = 3 equals area of the
Q.1 The equation to the locus of the middle point of 2 2
ellipse (a + b)x + (a − b)y = 3 , then a/b is equal to
x2 y 2
the portion of the tangent to the ellipse + =1
16 9 5 +1 5 +1 6 −1 5 −1
included between the co-ordinate axes is the curve. (A) (B) (C) (D)
4 2 2 4

(A) 9x2 + 16y 2 =

4x2 y 2 (B) 16x2 + 9y 2 =
4x2 y 2
Q.8 The locus of image of the focus of the ellipse
(C) 3x2 + 4y 2 =
4x2 y 2 (D) 9x2 + 16y 2 =
x2 y 2 x2 y 2
+ = 1(a > b) with respect to any of the tangent
a2 b2
Q.2 P & Q are corresponding points on the ellipse to the ellipse is
x2 y 2
+ = 1 and the auxiliary circle respectively. The
16 9 (A) (x ± ae)2 =y 2 + 4a2 2 2 2
(B) (x ± ae) = 4a − y
normal at P to the ellipse meets CQ in R where C is
centre of the ellipse. Then (CR) is (C) (x ± ae)2 =y 2 − 4a2 (D) (x ± ae)2 =
4a2

(A) 5 units (B) 6 units (C) 7 units (D) 8 units

Q.9 The normal at a variable point P on an ellipse

Q.3 The equation of the ellipse with its centre at (1, 2), x2 y2
+ = 1 of eccentricity e meets the axes of the
focus at (6, 2) and passing through the point (4, 6) is a2 b2
ellipse in Q and R then the locus of the mid-point of QR
(x − 1)2 (y − 2)2 (x − 1)2 (y − 2)2 is a conic with an eccentricity e’ such that:
(A) + 1 (B)
= + 1
=
45 20 20 45
(A) e’ is independent of e
2
(x − 1) 2
(y − 2) (x − 1) 2
(y − 2) 2 (B) e ‘ = 1
(C) + 1 (D)
= + 1
=
25 16 16 25 (C) e ‘ = e
(D) e ‘ = 1/e
Q.4 A line of fixed length (a+b) moves so that its ends
are always on two fixed perpendicular straight lines. The Q.10 A circle has the same centre as an ellipse & passes
locus of the point which divided this line into portions through the foci F1 and F2 of the ellipse, such that the
of lengths a and b is: two curves intersect in 4 points. Let ‘P’ be any one of
(A) An ellipse (B) An hyperbola their point of intersection. If the major axis of the ellipse
is 17 and the area of the triangle PF1F2 is 30, then the
(C) A circle (D) None of these distance between the foci is:
(A) 11 (B) 12
(C) 13 (D) None of these.
1 1 . 5 2 | Ellipse

Q.11 The arc of the rectangle formed by the α β 1−e

(C) tan tan =
perpendiculars from the centre of the standard ellipse 2 2 1+e
to the tangent and normal at its point whose eccentric
angle is π / 4 is: α β a2 − b2
(D) tan =tan [a − a2 − b2 ] when a > b
2
(a − b )ab 2 2
(a + b )ab2 2 2 b 2
(A) (B)
2 2 2 2
a +b a −b
Q.16 The equation of the common tangents to the
(a2 − b2 ) (a2 + b2 )
(C) (D) ellipse x2 + 4y 2 =
8 and the parabola y 2 = 4x are
ab(a2 + b2 ) (a2 − b2 )ab
(A) 2y − x =4 (B) 2y + x =4
Q.12 Co-ordinates of the vertices B and C of a triangle (C) 2y + x + 4 =0 (D) 2y + x =0
ABC are (2, 0) and (8, 0) respectively. The vertex A is
x2 y 2
B C Q.17 The distance of a point on the ellipse + 1,
=
varying in such a way that 4 tan tan = 1 . Then locus 6 2
of A is 2 2
from its centre is 2. Then the eccentric angle is:
(x − 5)2 y 2 (x − 5)2 y 2
(A) + 1
= (B) + 1
= (A) π / 4 (B) 3π / 4 (C) 5π / 4 (D) 7π / 4
25 16 16 25

(x − 5)2 y 2 (x − 5)2 y 2 Q.18 The tangents at any point F on the standard ellipse
(C) + 1
= (D) + 1
=
25 9 9 25 with foci as S and S’ meets the tangents at the vartices
A and A’ in the points V and V’, then:

Multiple Correct Choice Type (A) (AV).(AV') = b2

(B) (AV).(A' V') = a2

Q.13 Identify the statement which are True
(A) The equation of the director circle of the ellipse, 900
(C) ∠V'SV =
5x2 + 9y 2 =
45 is x2 + y 2 =
14 (D) V’S’ VS is a cyclic quadrilateral
(B) The sum of the focal distances of the point (0, 6) on
x2 y 2
the ellipse +
25 36
= 1 is 10 Previous Years’ Questions
(C) The point of intersection of anytangent to a parabola
and the perpendicular to it from the focus lies on the Q.1 If a > 2b > 0 , then positive value of m for which
tangent at the vertex
y =mx − b a + m2 is a common tangent to x2 + y 2 =
b2
2
(D) The line through focus and (at12 ,2at1 )y = 4ax ,
and (x − a)2 + y 2 =
b2 is  (2002)
meets it again in on the point (at22 , 2at2 ) , if t1 t2 = −1 .
2b a2 − 4b2
(A) (B)
Q.14 The angle between pair of tangents drawn to the a2 − 4b2 2b
ellipse 3x2 + 2y 2 =
5 from the point (1, 2) is
2b b
12 6 (C) (D)
(A) tan −1
(B) tan −1 a − 2b a − 2b
5 5
 x2
−1 12 −1 5 Q.2 Tangent is drawn to ellipse + y2 =
1 at
(C) tan (D) π − cot −  27
5  12 
  (3 3 cos θ, sin θ) (where θ ∈ (0, π / 2) ). Then the value
x 2
y 2 of θ such that the sum of intercepts on axes made by
Q.15 If P is a point of the ellipse + 1 , whose
= this tangent is minimum, is (2003)
2 2
a b
foci are S and S’. Let ∠PSS' =
α and ∠PS'S =
β , then π π π π
(A) (B) (C) (D)
(A) PS + PS’ = 2a, if a > b 3 6 8 4

(B) PS + PS’ = 2b, if a < b

 M a them a ti cs | 11.53

Q.3 The normal at a point P on the ellipse x2 + 4y2 = 16 Q.8 Let d be the perpendicular distance from the centre
meets the x-axis at Q. if M is the mid point of the line x2 y2
segment PQ, then the locus of M intersects the latusrectum of the ellipse + = 1 to the tangent drawn at a
a2 b2
of the given ellipse at the points. (2009)
point P on the ellipse. If F1 and F2 are the two foci of the
 3 5 2  3 5 19  ellipse, then show that  (1995)
(A)  ± ,±  (B)  ± ,± 
 2 7   2 4   b2 
  (PF1 − PF2 )2 = 4a2  1 − 
 d2 
 1  4 3 
(C)  ±2 3, ±  (D)  ±2 3, ± 
 7  7 

Q.9 A tangent to the ellipse x2 + 4y2 = 4 meets the
1 ellipses x2 + 2y2 = 6 at P and Q. Prove that tangents at P
Q.4 An ellipse has eccentricity and one focus at the and Q of ellipse x2 + 2y2 = 6 are at right angles. (1997)
2
1 
point P  , 1  . Its one directrix is the common tangent,
2 
Q.10 Find the coordinates of all the points P on the ellipse
nearer to the point P, to the circle x2 + y 2 =
1 and the
hyperbola x2 − y 2 = 1 . The equation of the ellipse, in x2 y 2
+ = 1 , for which the area fo the triangle PON is
the standard form is…………….  (1996) a2 b2
maximum, where O denotes the origin and N be the foot
of the perpendicular from O to the tangent at P. (1999)
Paragraph Based Questions 5 to 7

Tangents are drawn from the point P(3, 4) to the ellipse Q.11 Let ABC be an equilateral triangle inscribed in the
x2 y 2
+ = 1 touching the ellipse at points A and B. circle x2 + y 2 =
a2 . Suppose perpendiculars from A, B,
9 4
(2010) x2 y 2
C to the major axis of the ellipse + 1 , (a > b)
=
a2 b2
Q.5 The coordinates of A and B are
meets the ellipse respectively at P, Q, R so that P, Q, R lie
on the same side of the major axis as A, B, C respectively.
(A) (3, 0) and (0, 2)
Prove that, the normals to the ellipse drawn at the
 8 2 161  points P, Q and R are concurrent.  (2000)
 9 8
(B)  − ,  and  − , 
 5 15   5 5
 Q.12 Prove that, in an ellipse, the perpendicular from
 8 2 161  a focus upon any tangent and the line joining the
(C)  − ,  and (0, 2) centre of the ellipse of the point of contact meet on the
 5 15 
 corresponding directrix.  (2002)
 9 8
(D) (3,0) and  − , 
 5 5 Q.13 Let P(x1, y1) and Q(x2, y2), y1<0,y2<0, be the end
points of the latus rectum of the ellipse x2 + 4y2 = 4. The
Q.6 The orthocenter of the triangle PAB is equations of parabolas with latus rectum PQ are (2008)

 8  7 25   11 8   8 7 (A) x2 + 2 3 y =
3+ 3 (B) x2 − 2 3 y =
3+ 3
(A)  5,  (B)  ,  (C)  ,  (D)  , 
 7 5 8   5 5  25 5  (C) x2 + 2 3 y =
3− 3 (D) x2 − 2 3 y =
3− 3

Q.7 The equation of the locus of the point whose

Q.14 An ellipse intersects the hyperbola 2x2 ‒ 2y2 = 1
distances from the point P and the line AB are equal is
orthogonally. The eccentricity of the ellipse is reciprocal
(A) 9x2 + y 2 − 6xy − 54x − 62y + 241 =
0 of that of the hyperbola. If the axes of the ellipse are
along the coordinates axes, then  (2009)
(B) x2 + 9y 2 + 6xy − 54x + 62y − 241 =
0
(A) Equation of ellipse is x2 + 2y 2 =
2
2 2
(C) 9x + 9y − 6xy − 54x − 62y − 241 =
0
(B) The foci of ellipse are ( ± 1,0 )
(D) x2 + y 2 − 2xy + 27x + 31y − 120 =
0
1 1 . 5 4 | Ellipse

(C) Equation of ellipse is x2 + 2y2 = 4 Q.19 A vertical line passing through the point (h, 0)

(
(D) The foci of ellipse are ± 2,0 ) intersects the ellipse
x2 y 2
4
+
3
= 1 at the points P and

Q. Let the tangents to the ellipse at P and Q meet

Q.15 The line passing through the extremity A of the
major axis and extremity B of the minor axis of the at the point R. If ∆ (h) = area of the triangle PQR,
ellipse x2 + 9y 2 = 9 meets its auxiliary circle at the
=∆1 max ∆ (h) and ∆2 = min = ∆ (h) , then
point M. Then the area of the triangle with vertices at 1/2 ≤ h ≤ 1 1/2 ≤ h ≤ 1
A, M and the origin O is  (2009)
8
31 29 21 27 ∆1 − 8 ∆2 =_____  (2013)
(A) (B) (C) (D) 5
10 10 10 10
x2 y 2
Q.20 Suppose that the foci of the ellipse + =1
Q.16 Match the conics in column I with the statements/ 9 5
expressions in column II.  (2009) are (f1, 0) and (f2, 0) where, f1 > 0 and f1 < 0. Let P1 and
P2 be two parabolas with a common vertex at (0, 0) and
Column I Column II with foci at (f1, 0) and (2f2, 0), respectively. Let T1 be a
tangent to P1 which passes through (2f2, 0) and T2 be a
(A) Circle (p) T
 he locus of the point (h, k) for
tangent to P2 which passes through (f1, 0). Then m1 is
which the line hx + ky = 1 touches
2 2
the slope of T1 and m2 is the slope of T2, then the value
the circle x + y = 4
 1 
of  + m22  is  (2015)
2
(B) Parabola (q) P oints z in the complex plane m 
satisfying z + 2 − z − 2 = ±3
Q.21 Consider the hyperbola H : x2 − y 2 = 1 and a circle
(C) Ellipse (r) P
 oints of the conic have S with center N ( x2 ,0 ) . Suppose that H and S touch each
parametric representation other at a point P ( x1 , y1 ) with x1 > 1 and y1 > 0 . The
 1 − t2  2t common tangent to H and S at P intersects the x-axis at
= x = 3 ,y
 1 + t2  1+t 2
point M. If (l, m) is the centroid of the triangle ∆ PMN ,
 
then the correct expression(s) is(are)  (2015)
(D) Hyperbola (s) T  he eccentricity of the conic lies
in the interval 1 ≤ x < ∞ dl 1
(A) = 1− for x1 > 1
dx1 3x12
(t) P
 oints z in the complex plane
dm x1
satisfying Re ( z + 1 ) = z + 1
2 2
(B) = for x1 > 1
dx1 3  x2 − 1 
 1 
 
Q.17 Equation of a common tangent with positive slope dl 1
(C) = 1+ for x1 > 1
to the circle as well as to the hyperbola is (2010) dx1 3x2
1

(A) 2x − 5 y − 20 =
0 (B) 2x − 5 y + 4 =
0 dm 1
(D) = for y1 > 0
dx1 3
(C) 3x − 4y + 8 =0 (D) 4x – 3y + 4 = 0
Q.22 If the tangents to the ellipse at M and N meet at
x2 y 2 R and the normal to the parabola at M meets the x-axis
Q.18 The ellipse E1 : + = 1 is inscribed in a
9 4 at Q, then the ratio of area of the triangle MQR to area
rectangle R whose sides are parallel to the coordinate of the quadrilateral MF1NF2 is  (2016)
axes. Another ellipse E2 passing through the point (0, 4) (A) 3 : 1 (B) 4 : 5
circumscribes therectangle R. The eccentricity of the
ellipse E2 is  (2012) (C) 5 : 8 (D) 2 : 3

2 3 1 3
(A) (B) (C) (D)
2 2 2 4
 M a them a ti cs | 11.55

PlancEssential Questions
JEE Main/Boards JEE Advanced/Boards

Exercise 1 Exercise 1
Q.6 Q.13 Q.16 Q.3 Q.5 Q.7
Q.19 Q.21 Q.22 Q.9 Q.12 Q.15
Q.23 Q.25 Q.27 Q.17 Q.26

Exercise 2 Exercise 2
Q.6 Q.8 Q.11 Q.1 Q.4 Q.6
Q.14 Q.15 Q.21 Q.10 Q.13
Q.23 Q.25
Previous Years’ Questions
Previous Years’ Questions Q.1 Q.4 Q.11
Q.2 Q.5 Q.6 Q.12

Answer Key

JEE Main/Boards 2 14
Q.10 slope = ± ; length =
3 3
Exercise 1
Q.11 (2, 1)

Q.1 9x2 + 25y 2 =

225 a2 x b2 y a2 x b2 y
Q.12 – = a2 – b2 or − = a2 – b 2
Q.2 5 /3 ae  b2  −ae  b2 
±  ± 
 a   a 
Q.3 y − 3= 0, x + y= 5    
 a2 b2 
Q.4 π / 4, 3π / 4 Q. 13  ± ,± 
 a2 + b2 a2 + b2 

Q.5 All lines passing through origin
x2 y2
Q.6 (‒1, 2) and (‒1, ‒6) Q.18 + r2
=
a2 b2
1 3
Q.7 (a) e = (b) e =
2 2 7
Q.20 41
5
a2 b2(a2 − b2 )2
Q.8 + =
2 2
 m n2
1 1 . 5 6 | Ellipse

x2 y 2 (r + s)2
Q.22 + 1
= Q.23 4x=
2 2
y 25y 2 + 4x2
a2 (ra + sb)2

Q.25 − 9c/25, 8c/25 Q.26 x2 + y 2 = a2 + b2 , a director circle

Exercise 2
Single Correct Choice Type

Q.1 B Q.2 D Q.3 B Q.4 B Q.5 D Q.6 C

Q.7 B Q.8 A Q.9 C Q.10 A Q.11 A Q.12 B

Q.13 C Q.14 A Q.15 B Q.16 C Q.17 D Q.18 D

Q.19 C Q.20 B Q.21 A Q.22 C Q.23 A Q.24 C

Q.25 A

Previous Years’ Questions

1
Q.1 C Q.2 B Q.3 D Q.4 b a2 − b2 Q.5
2
2 2 2
x y (r + s) 14
Q.6 + 1
= Q.7 Q.8 A Q.9 B
2 2
a (ar + bs) 3

Q.10 D Q.11 D Q.12 A Q.13 A Q.14 D

JEE Advanced/Boards

Exercise 1

Q.1 4x2 + 9y 2 − 8x − 36y − 175 =

0 Q.4 3x2 + 5y 2 =
32

Q.6 (a) 4x − 3y + 3 21 =
0 ; 4x − 3y − 3 21 =
0 Q.8 x + y − 5= 0, x + y + 5= 0

π 5π
Q.9 θ = or ; 4x ± 33y − 32 =
0 Q.10 24 sq. units
3 3
1 1
Q.11 , Q.13 y −=
3 0 & x +=
y 5
2 2
x2 y21
Q.14 55 2 sq. units Q.19 + =
4 4
a b c2

±ax a4 + a2b2 + b 4
Q.20 by = Q.23 r 2 − b2

Q.25 2 units Q.26 65

 M a them a ti cs | 11.57

Exercise 2
Single Correct Choice Type

Q.1 A Q.2 C Q.3 A Q.4 A Q.5 A Q.6 B

Q.7 B Q.8 B Q.9 C Q.10 C Q.11 A Q.12 A

Multiple Correct Choice Type

Q.13 A, C, D Q.14 C, D Q.15 A, B, C Q.16 A, C Q.17 A, B, C, D Q.18 A, C, D

Previous Years’ Questions

( x − (1 / 3)) ( y − 1)
2 2

Q.1 A Q.2 B Q.3 C Q.4 + 1

=
19 1 12

 ±a2 ±b2 
Q.5 D Q.6 C Q.7 A Q.10  , 
 2 2 
 a +b a2 + b2 

Q.13 B, C Q.14 A, B Q.15 D Q.16 A → p; B → s, t; C → r; D → q, s

Q.17 B Q.18 C Q.20 D Q.21 A, B, D Q.22 C

Solutions

JEE Main/Boards  15  225

2

9x + 4  y −  −
2 0
=
 4  4
Exercise 1
2 2
 15   15 
or 9x2 + 4  y −  =  
Sol 1: 2a = 10  4   2 
⇒a=5 2
 15 
4 4 2 y − 
ae = 4 ⇒ e = = x 4 
a 5 or + 1
=
2 2
5  15 
\b2 = a2(1 – e2)    
2  4 
 16 
b2 = 25  1 −  =9
 25  15 5
∴a= ,b=
\b = ± 3 4 2
x2 y 2
Equation of ellipse is + 1 or 9x2 + 25y2 = 225
= b2 25 16 4 5
25 9 e2 = 1 − =1– × =1– =
a2 4 225 9 9
Sol 2: 9x2 + 4y2 – 30y = 0 5
∴e =
 15  3
9x2 + 4  y 2 − y  = 0
 2 
1 1 . 5 8 | Ellipse

x2 y 2 and another point as(–acosα, – bsinα)

Sol 3: + 1
=
16 9 ∴ – acosα = a cosβ ⇒ β = π +
P(2, 3) So there are infinite value of α which will satisfy this
condition therefore all line passing through origin will
\a2 = 16 or a = ± 4
be chord to the given ellipse.
b2 = 9 or b = ± 3
x2 y2 Sol 6:
\ Equation is + 1
=
(4)2 (3)2 (x + 1)2 (y + 2)2
+ 1
= (-1, 3)
\ Equation tangent will be 9 25
a2 = 25
2 2 2
y = mx + a m +b
b2 = 9
y = mx + 16m2 + 9 b2 = a2(1 – e2)
9 = 25(1 – e2) (-4, -2) (2, -2)
As this line passes through (2, 3) (-1, -2)
4
⇒e=
\3 – 2m = 16m2 + 9 5
y coordinate of foci
⇒ 9 + 4m2 – 12m = 16m2 + 9 (-1, -7)
 4
or 12m + 12m = 0
2 = – 2 ± 5 × 
 5 
12(m + 1)m = 0 = – 2 ± 4 = (2, 6)

⇒ m = 0, – 1 ∴ foci is at (–1, 2), (–1, –6)

\ y = 3 or y = – x + 5 2b2
Sol 7: Length of latus rectum =
a
i.e. y – 3 = 0 or x + y = 5
2b2
(a) If =a
a
x2 y 2 x2 y 2
Sol 4: + 2 ⇒
= + 1
= ⇒ 2b2 = a2
5 4 10 8
b2 1 1 1
let φ be eccentric angle ∴ = or e2 =1 − =
a2 2 2 2
∴ Any point on ellipse will be (a cosφ, b sinφ) 1
∴ e=
2
\P= ( 10 cos φ, 8 sin φ )
2b2
(b) if =b
∴ a
( 10 cos φ)2 + ( 8 sin φ)2 =3
⇒ 2b = a
⇒10cos2φ + 8sin2φ = 9
∴ 4b2 = a2
or 2cos2φ = 1 b2 1
or −
1 a 2 4
or cos2φ =
2 1 3
∴ e2 = 1 − =
1 π 3π 4 4
\cosφ = ± or φ = ,
2 4 4 3
∴ e=
2
x2 y 2
Sol 5: + 1
= x2 y2
4 6 Sol 8: + 1
=
a2 b2
Since midpoint of chord is (0, 0)
lx + my + n = 0
∴ Take one point as (a cosα, b sinα)
 M a them a ti cs | 11.59

 n
y=– x− y = mx ± 25m2 + 4
m m
x2 y 2
Equation of normal equation of tangent for + 1 is
=
16 16
(a2 − b2 )m'
⇒ y = m’x  y = mx ± 4 m2 + 1
2 2 2
a + b m'
\25m2 + 4 = 16m2 + 16
2 2
-l (a − b )m' n 2
∴ =m' ;  =– or 9m2 = 12 or m = ±
m 2
a + b (m')2 2 m
3
2 4
(a2 − b2 )
 equation tangent is y = ± x ± 4 +1
n m 3 3
∴ = 
m 2 2 4 7
a2 + b2 ×
 y=± x±
m2 3 3

a2m2 + b2 2  4 7
⇒ =  (a2 – b2) y intercept =
m n 3

2m2 x intercept = 2 7
∴ a m + b l = (a – b )
2 2 2 2 2 2 2
2
n
16
a 2
(a − b ) b 2 2 2 2 ∴ Length = 4×7 + ×7
⇒ + = 3
2 m2 n2
7 × 28 7×2 14
Sol 9: Normal of P(a cosθ, b sinθ) = = =
3 3 3
x2 y 2
+ 1
=
14 5 x2 y 2
Sol 11: Point on curve + 1
=
a2 x b2 y 6 3
− = a2 – b2
acos θ b sin θ is ( 6 cos θ, 3 sin θ)

14x 5y ∴ Distance of point from line x + y – 7 = 0 is

– = 14 – 5 = 9
cos θ sinθ
6 cos θ + 3 sin θ − 7
= f(θ)
As this passes through (a cos2θ, b sin2θ) 2
3
14 cos2θ 5sin2θ ∴ f’(θ) = – 3 sinθ + cosθ = 0
∴ – =9 2
cos θ sin θ
1
\14[2cos2θ – 1] – 5 × 2 cos2θ = 9cosθ ⇒ tanθ =
2
\18cos2θ – 9cosθ – 14 = 0
2 1
9 ± 81 + 4 × 14 × 18 or cosθ = and sinθ =
cosθ = 3 3
36
 2. 6 3 
9 ± .33 24 42 ∴ Point is  , 
= =– , 
36 36 36  3 3 
2 P = (2, 1)
\cosθ = – is only possible solution
3
 b2 
Sol 12: End of latus rectum is  ae, ± 
x2 y 2 a 
Sol 10: Equation of tangent for + 1
= 
25 4  b 
2
or  −ae, ± 
y = mx ± a2m2 + b2  a 

1 1 . 6 0 | Ellipse

∴ Equation of normal is 1 2
= (a + b2 )
2
a2 x b2 y
– = a2 – b2
−ae  b2  Hence proved.
± 
 a 
 
a2 x b2 y Sol 14: Let P = (acosθ, bsinθ)
or − = a2 – b2
−ae  b2  b
±  Slope of tangent = –
 a  atanθ
 
if they passed through (0, b) ∴ Slope of normal to tangent

⇒  ab = a2 – b2 atan θ
=
2
b
 b2  b2
⇒  − 1 = ∴ Equation of line
 a2  a2
  a
FN = (y) = tanθ(x – ae)  …(i)
⇒ (–e ) = 1 – e
2 2 b

⇒ e4 + e2 =1 And equation of CP
b
y= tan θx …(ii)
x2 y2 a 
Sol 13: + 1
=
a2 b2 bx a
∴= (x − ae)
Let point be (a cosφ, b sinφ) a b

i.e. (a cosφ, b sin φ)  b2 − a2  a2e

∴  x = −
x cos θ y sin θ  ab  b
∴ Equation of tangent is + =1  
a b
a
Tangent is inclined at equal angle to axis \x=
e
∴ m = ± 1 or b \ The two lines intersect on directrix
− cot θ = | ±1 |
a
b Sol 15: Normal : axsecθ – by cosecθ = a2 – b2
or tanθ =
a
x y
a Tangent : cosθ + sinθ = 1
∴ cosθ = ± , a b
a2 + b2
for y = 0
b
sinθ = ± point of intersection of normal is
a2 + b2
a2 − b2 ae2
x= = = ae2cosθ
 ±a2 b2  asec θ sec θ
\ Points are  ,± 
 a2 + b2 a2 + b2  Point of intersection of tangent is
 
And equation of tangent is a
x = asecθ =
cos θ
x  a2  y  b2  ae2
 ±  +  ± =1 – + asecθ = a
a2  a2 + b2  b2  a2 + b2  sec θ
x y or – e2 + sec2 θ = secθ
or + ±1 =0
a2 + b2 a2 + b2
or e2cos2θ – 1 = – cosθ
\ Distance of tangent from origin is
⇒ e2cos2θ + cosθ – 1 = 0
±1
 1   1  x2 y2
 2 +  Sol 16: + 1
=
 a + b2   a2 + b2  a2 b2
 M a them a ti cs | 11.61

x2 + y2 = r2 ellipse,. To the points of intersection of ellipse and (i) is

obtained be making homogenous equation of (i) and
equation of tangent at circle ⇒ xcosθ + y sinθ = r then ellipse & is given by
or equation of tangent at ellipse is y =mx + a2m2 + b2 x2 y2  hx by 
2
+ –  +  =0
2
if it is a tangent to circle, then perpendicular from (0, 0) a2 b2 a b2 
is equal to r.
 1 h2   1 k2  −2hk
\x2  −  + y2  2 − 4  2 2 xy = 0 …(ii)
2
a m +b 2 2  a2 a4  b b  ab
= |r|    
m2 + 1
It chord of contact subtends 90º at origin then the lines
or a m + b = m r + r
2 2 2 2 2 2 separated by (ii) should be ⊥

or (a2 – r2)m2 = r2 – b2 1 h2 1 k2
⇒ − + − 0
=
a2 a4 b2 b4
r 2 − b2
∴m= h2 k2 1 1
a2 − r 2 or + = +
4 4 2
a b a b2
 r 2 − b2  (r 2 − b2 )
∴ tanθ =   or θ = tan–1 1 2
 a2 − r 2  (a2 − r 2 ) Sol 20: Equation of chord whose middle point is  , 
 
is 2 5
2 2
1 2 1 2
Sol 17: Let (h, k) be midpoints of chords, x× y×    
2 + 5 =   + 5
2
∴ Equation of chord with midpoint (h. , k) is 25 16
25 16
xh 4k h2 k2
+ −1 = + −1 x y 1
a2 b2 a2 b2 ∴ + =
50 40 50
It passes through (0, b) 4
y=– (x – 1)
h2 k2 k x2 y 2 y 5
\ Equation is: + =or + = 2
a2 b2 b a2 b2 b 4 2
2   (x − 1)
x  5
∴ + 1
=
Sol 18: Let P be (h, k) 25 16
∴ Chord of contact is
⇒ x2 + x – 12 = 0
xh + yk – r2 = 0
∴ x1 = – 4 and x2 = 3
hx r 2
or y = – + ∴ Length of chord
k k
c2 = a2m2 + b2
L= (x1 − x2 )2 + (y1 − y 2 )2
r4 r2 b2 r2
or = × + 16 7
k2 a2 k2 b2 = (x1 − x2 ) 1 + m2 = 7 1 + = 41
25 5
x2 y2
or r2 = + is locus of P
a2 b2 Sol 21: Let F = (ae, 0) & p = (acosθ, bsinθ)
Radius of circle
Sol 19: We have to find the locus of P(h, k) such that the
1 2 2
chord to contact subtends 90º at centre the equation of = b sin θ + a2 (e − cos θ)2
chord of contact is 2
1 2 2
hx ky = b sin θ + a2e2 − 2aecos θ + a2 cos2 θ
+ 1
= …(i) 2
a2 b2  1 2
= a − b2 cos2 θ + a2 cos2 θ − 2aecos θ
the equation of the straight line joining the centre of 2
1 1 . 6 2 | Ellipse

1 2 2 a2m2 + b2
= a e cos2 θ − 2aecos θ + a2 ± =r
2
m2 + 1
1 1
= (a − aecos θ)2 = (a – ae cosθ)
2 2 or a2m2 + b2 = r2(m2 + 1)
Radius of auxillary circle = a m2(25 – r2) = r2 – 4
1
\r1 – r2 = (a + ae cosθ) r2 − 4
2 m=–
Centre of circle with FP as diameter 2r − r 2
since tangent lies in first quadrant m < 0
 ae + cos θ b sin θ 
=C=  ,  (r 2 − 4)
 2 2  \m2 =
25 − r 2
Distance between centre equation of tangent is

a(e + cos θ)2 b2 sinb2 θ (r 2 − 4) 25(r 2 − 4)

= + y=– x + +4
4 4 25 − r 2 25 − r 2
1 2
= a (e + cos θ)2 + b2 sin2 θ r2 − 4 2 / r2
2 y=– x+
25 − r 2 25 − r 2
1
= (a + aecos θ)2
2 ∴ Midpoint is
1  1 21r 2 1 21r 2 
= (a + ae cos θ)
2  , 
 2 r 2 − 4 2 25 − r 2 
 
∴ The two circle touch each other internally.
21r 2 21r 2
∴ 2x = ; 2y =
Sol 22: Let the co-ordinate of P be (a cos θ, bsinθ) the r2 − 4 25 − r 2
coordinates of Q are (acosθ, bsinθ)
21r 2 21r 2
Let R(h, k) be a point on PQ such that PR : RQ = r : s ∴ 4x2 = ; 4y2 =
2
r −4 25 − r 2
then h = acosθ and 25 4
∴ + 1
=
2
rasin θ + sbsin θ 4x 4y 2
R=
r+s or 25y2 + 4x2 = 4x2y2
h (r + s)k
⇒ cosθ = & sinθ =
a ra + sb Sol 24: The given ellipses are
2
h (r + s)2 k 2 x2 y2
⇒   + 1
= + 1
=
a (ra + sb)2 a2 b2
x2 y2
x2 (r + s)2 y 2 + 1
=
or + 1
= a(a + b) b(a + b)
a2 (ra + sb)2
chord of contact of P(x1, y1) w. r. t. ellipse is
x2 y 2
Sol 23: Equation of ellipse is + 1
= xx1 yy1
25 4 + 1
=
Tangent to ellipse is a(a + b) b(a + b)

y = mx ± a2m2 + b2 or lx + my = n

x2 y2
or mx – y ± a2m2 + b2 = 0 It is touches + 1
=
a2 b2
it is tangent to circle a2l2 + b2m2 = n2
 M a them a ti cs | 11.63

a2 × x12 b2 xy1 2 4 5
+ =1 ∴ e= 1− =
2
a (a + b) 2 2
b (a + b) 2 9 3

x12 + y12 = (a + b)2

Sol 3: (B) Let P be (q1) and Q = (q2)
Locus of P is
b
Slope OP = tanq1
x2+ y2 = (a + b)2 a
b
= a(a + b) + b(a + b) and slope OQ = tanq2
a
Which is the director circle.
b2  −a2 
∴ MOP × MOQ = ×  =–1
Sol 25: Let mid-point = (h, k) a2  b2 

∴ Equation of ellipse is ∴ It subtends 90º at centre

4xh + 9ky – 36 = 4h2 + 9k2 – 36

Sol 4: (B) c2 = a2m2 + b2
And equation of chord is
∴ c2 = 8 × 4 + 4
x – 2y + c = 0
4h ak  4h2 + 9k 2  9 \c=± 36 = ± 6
∴ =
− =
−  ⇒h=– k
1 2  c  8
 
Sol 5: (D) Let (x1, y1) be point of contact to ellipse
8 2 9k
4× k + 9k 2 +k
9k 64 1 16 \3xx1+ 4yy1=1 is equation of tangent at (x1, y1)
– =– ⇒+ =
2 c 2 c 3x1 4y1 1
∴ = = −
\25K = 8c 3 4 7
8c 9c  1 1 
\k = ;h=– ∴ (x1, y1) =  − ,− 
25 25
 7 7

Sol 26: ∴ From A two ⊥ tangents can be drawn to

ellipse Sol 6: (C) x-axis

∴ A is the director circle  b2 

Sol 7: (B) The positive end of latus rectum is  ae, 
 a 
i.e. x2 + y2 = a2 + b2 
acosθ = ae ∴ cosθ = e
b2 b
Exercise 2 bsinθ = & sinθ =
a2 a
Single Correct Choice Type ax by
equation of normal is − = a2 – b2
cos θ sin θ
x y2 ax by
Sol 1: (B) + =1 ∴ − × a = a2(e2)
r −2 5−r e b
∴ r – 2 > 0 and 5 – r > 0 or x – ey = ae3

∴ r ∈ (2, 5) ∴ x – ey – e3a = 0

Sol 2: (D) 4x2 + 8x + 9y2 + 36y + 4 = 0 Sol 8: (A) Consider normal at positive end of
latus rectum from above equation of normal is
⇒ (2x + 2)2 + (3y + 6)2 = 36 x – ey – e3a = 0
It passes through (0, –b)
(x + 1)2 (y + 2)2
⇒ + =1 ∴ be – e3a = 0
9 4
⇒ b – e2a = 0
1 1 . 6 4 | Ellipse

b a aa2 a2
∴ = e2 Sol
⇒ y12:
=(B)
± ⇒ a2±⋅ x+±a2 a+2 b⋅ 2 + a2 + b2
x ±y =
a b bb2 b2
⇒ 1 – e2 = e4 or e2 + e4 = 1
a a4 +aa2b2 + ab44 + a2b2 + b 4
⇒ y =± x ±y =±
⇒ x±
b b b2 b2
Sol 9: (C) Tangent at P is
a 1 a 1
x cos θ y sin θ ⇒ y =± x ±y =±a4 +x a±2b2 + ab44 + a2b2 + b 4
⇒
+ –7=0 b b b b
a b
4
1 ⇒ yb =± ax
⇒ ±yb a= a2b±
±+ ax 2
+ ab44 + a2b2 + b 4
∴ CF =
cos2 θ sin2 θ
+
a2 b2 Sol 13: (C) 2ae = 6
P = (acosθ, bsinθ)
2b = 8
Equation of normal at
∴ ae = 3 & b = 4
ax by
P= − = a2 – b2 \a2 – b2 = 9 & b2 = 16
cos θ sin θ
\a2 = 25
 (a2 − b2 )cos θ 
∴ G= ,0 
 a  16 3
  e= 1− =
25 5
b4 2 sin2 θ cos2 θ
\PG= b2 sin2 θ + cos2 θ = b +
Sol 14: (A) Slope of ellipse = – 1
a2 b2 a2
∴ Equation is y = – x ± 25 + 16
∴ PG. CF = b2
∴x+y=± 41
x
Sol 10: (A) y = + 2
2
Sol 15: (B) FBF’ is 90º
∴ c2 = a2m2 + b2
We know that BF = BF’ = a
1
⇒ 4 = 4 × + b2 ⇒ b = 3
4 ∴ 2a2 = 4a2e2
∴ The other common tangent has slope – m 1 1
∴ e2 = ⇒e=
1 2 2
∴c= =–2
1
− Sol 16: (C) Ellipse is
2
1
∴ Equation is y = – x –2 x2 y2
2 + 1
=
2 2
or x + 2y + 2 = 0 1 1
   
3 2
2b2 since a < 0
Sol 11: (A) =a+b
a 2a2 2×1 4
∴ Latus rectum is = =
or 2b2 = a2 + ab b 1 9
9×
2
a2 + ab – 2b2 = 0 a
Sol 17: (D) – ae = 8
e
b ± b2 + 8b2 1
a=– e=
2 2
b + 3b 3a 16
a=– =b ∴ = 8 ;a =
2 2 3
∴ Ellipse bulges to circle
 M a them a ti cs | 11.65

1 b2 a
= 1− ae −
4 ∴ SN = cos θ = |aecosθ – a|
a2
16 16 3 1 + tan2 θ
\b2 = a2 (1 – l2) = × ×
3 3 4
8 SP = (ae − acos θ)2 + b2 sin2 θ
b=
3
16 = a2 (cos2 θ + a2 − b2 cos2 θ − 2a2ecos θ)
∴ Length of minor axis = 2b =
3
= (a cos θ)2 + a2 − 2a2ecos θ = |aecosθ – a|
Sol 18: (D) E(P) > 0 , E(Q) < 0
∴ SP = SN
C(P) < 0 and C(Q) < 0
x y
∴ P lies inside C but outside E Sol 22: (C) Equation of tangent is cos θ + sinθ = 1
3 2
T is x = 3 and T’ x = – 3
Sol 19: (C) Let P = (acosθ, bsinθ) ∴ Point of intersection of tangent & T let say
 π  π   2(1 − cos θ)   θ
Q =  acos  + θ  ,bsin  + θ   P =  3, −  =  3,2 tan 
 2  2   sin θ   2
= (– asinθ, bcosθ)
 2(1 + cos θ)   θ
P’ =  −3,  =  −3,2cot 
alcosθ +mbsinθ + n = 0  sin θ   2 
And ⇒ alcosθ + mbsinθ = – n → 1 – alsinθ + mbcosθ
∴ Equation of circle is
+ n = 0 & –alsinθ + mbcosθ = – n(2)
 θ  θ
squaring and adding 1 and 2 (x + 3) (x – 3) +  y − 2 tan   y − 2cot  =0
 2  2
we get a2l2 + m2b2 = 2n2 ∴ When y = 0
x2 – 5 = 0
Sol 20: (B) Q1 + Q2 = C
∴x=± 5
Point of intersection of tangent at (q1) and (q2) is
 ∴ It always passes through ( ± 5, 0)
 θ + θ2   θ1 + θ2  
 acos  1  b sin   i.e. it always passes through focus.
  2 ,  2 
(x, y) = 
   
 cos  θ1 − θ2  cos  θ1 + θ2  
  Sol 23: (A) Q = (acosθ, asinθ)
  2   2 
P = (acosθ, bsinθ)
x y
∴ =
c C ∆ SPT is an isosceles triangle.
acos   b sin  
2
  2
Sol 24: (C) Equation of normal in slope form is
\ Locus of P is a straight line
m(a2 − b2 )
y = mx 
Sol 21: (A) P = (acosθ, bsinθ) a2 + b2m2
Q = (acosθ, asinθ)
m2 (a2 − b2 )2
equation of tangent at Q ∴ c2 =
a2 + b2m2
is (y – asinθ) = – 1tanθ (x – acosθ)
a Sol 25: (A) ( 2x − 2 2)2 + ( 3y − 3 3)2 = k
x + ytanθ – = 0 & (ae, 0)
cos θ
2(x − 2)2 3(y − 3)2
∴ + 1
=
k k
1 1 . 6 6 | Ellipse

For ellipse k > 0  12 9 

On solving equation (i) and (ii), we get M  − , 
For a point k = 0  5 5
1 27
Now, area of ∆AOM= .OA × MN= sq. unit
2 10
Previous Years’ Questions
x2 y2
Sol 4: Given, + 1
=
Sol 1: (C) Given, 16x2 + 25y 2 =
400 a2 b2

x2 y 2 Foci F1 and F2 are (—ae, 0) and (ae, 0) respectively. Let

⇒ + 1
= P(x, y) be any variable point on the ellipse. The area A
25 16
of the triangle PF1F2 is given by
Here,
= a2 25,
= b2 16
y
2 2
But a (1 − e )
P(x, y)
16 25(1 − e2 )
⇒=
16 x’ x
⇒ = 1 − e2 F1 O (ae,0) F2
25 (-ae,0)
16 9 3
⇒ e2 =1− = ⇒ e=
25 25 5
π
Now, foci of the ellipse are ( ±ae, 0) ≡ ( ±3,0) θ=
6
3
We have 3 = a. 1
5 = ( − y)( −ae × 1 − ae × 1)
⇒ a=5 2
1
Now, PF1 + PF2 =
major axis = 2a − y( −2ae) =
= aey
2
= 2 × 5 = 10
x2
= ae.b 1 −
a2
Sol 2: (B) For ellipse, condition of tangency is
c2 = a2m + b2 So, A is maximum when x = 0
x2 ⇒ Maximum of A
Given line is =
y 4x + c and curve + y2 =
1
4
b2 a2 − b2
⇒ ma − b 1 + m 2
=1 − b 1 + m 2 = abe = ab 1 − ab
= = b a2 − b2
2 2
a a

⇒ c=
± 65 =65 or − 65 Sol 5: Since, angle FBF’ is right angled

So, number of values are 2. ∴ (slope of FB). (slope of F’B) = –1

y
Sol 3: (D) Equation of auxiliary circle is x2 + y 2 =
9 …(i)
B(0, b)
x y
Equation of AM is + = 1  …(ii)
3 1
y x’ x
F’ O F
(-ae,0) (ae,0)

) 125 , 95)
M
B(0,1)
y’
x’ x
N O A(3,0)
 0 − b  0 − b 
⇒   = −1
 ae − 0   −ae − 0 
 M a them a ti cs | 11.67

b2  (1) is tangent to circle x2 + y 2 =

16
⇒ = −1 ⇒ b2 = a2e2
−a2e2
( ab − bx )
2

1 ⇒ x2 + 16
=
⇒ a2 (1 − e2 ) =
a2e2 ⇒ e2 = a
2
1 a2b2 + b2 x2 − 2ab2 x
⇒ e= ⇒ x2 + 16
=
2 a2
PR r b2 2b2
Sol 6: Given, = ⇒ x 2 + b2 + x2 − .x =
16
RQ s y a2 a

 b2  2b2
Q (a cos, a sin) ⇒ x2  1 + − x + b2 − 16 =
0
 a2  a
R (a cos, )  
P (a cos, a sin)
x’ x For unique solution
O (0,0)

4b2  b2 
⇒
a2
− 4  1 +  12 − 16 =

 a2 
0 ( )
y’ b4 b4 16b2
⇒ = b2 − 16 + −
⇒ α − bsin θ = r a2 a2 a2
asin θ − α s
⇒ αs − b sin= b2
θ.s rasin θ − αr ⇒ b2 − 16 =
16
a2
⇒ αs +=
αr rasin θ + b sin θ.s
⇒ a2b2 − 16a2 =
16b2
⇒ α(s + r) = sin θ(ra + bs)

⇒ α=
sin θ(ra + bs) (
⇒ a2b2 = 16 a2 + b2  ) (ii) ... (ii)
r+s
x2 y 2
Similarly (i) is tamest to ellipse + 1 are will get
=
Let the coordinate of R be (h, k) 25 4
the relatiesn
⇒=h acos θ
b2 4a2 + 25b2 
a2= (3) ... (iii)
(ar + bs)sin θ
and k = α =
r+s Solving (i) (ii) we get a = 2 7
h k(r + s)
⇒ cos
= θ , sin
= θ 7
a ar + bs b=4
3
On squaring and adding, we get
x y
⇒ Eq. of tangent +
h2 k 2 (r + s)2 2 7 7
sin2 θ + cos2 =
θ + 4 =1
a2
(ar + bs) 2 3
14
h2 k 2 (r + s)2 Distances = a2 + b2 =
1
⇒= + 3
a2 (ar + bs)2
Focus (S = 6, 2)
x2 y 2 (r + s)2
Hence, locus of R is + 1.
=
a2 (ar + bs)2

Sol 7: In 1st quadrat eq. of target will be of fly from

x y if x int ercept = q

+ =1 
a b  y int ercept = b
1 1 . 6 8 | Ellipse

Sol 8: (A) Major axis is along x-axis. Sol 12: (A)

P(2,1)

1
v’ v
A 2 A 2 (4,0)
r

a
− ae =
4
e
9 7
 1 a=4,b =3,e =1 − ⇒
a 2 −  =
4 16 4
 2

a= .
8 Focii is ( ± ae, 0 ) (
⇒ ± 7 ,0 )
3
( ae)
2
=r + b2
Sol 9:
x2 y 2 7+9 = 4
x2 + 4y 2 = 4 ⇒ + = 1 ⇒ a = 2,b = 1 ⇒ P = ( 2,1 )
4 1
Now equation of circle is ( x − 0 ) + ( y − 3) =
2 2
16
x y2 x2 y 2
Required Ellipse is 2 + 2 =1 ⇒ 2 + 2 =1 x2 + y 2 − 6y − 7 =0
a b 4 b
(2, 1) lies on it
Sol 13: (A)
4 1 1 1 3 4
⇒ + =1 ⇒ =1 − = ⇒ b2 = x2 y2
16 b2 b 2 4 4 3 Here ellipse is + = a2 6,b
1 , where= = 2
2
a2 b2
x2 y2 x2 3y 2 Now, equation of any variable tangent is
∴ + =1 ⇒ + =1 ⇒ x2 + 12y 2 =16
16  4  16 4
  mx ± a2m2 + b2 
y= ….(i)
3
where m is slope of the tangent
3 3a2
2
Sol 10: (D) b = a 1 − e 2
( 2
)  2
= a  1 −  = a2 =
2

 5 5 5
So, equation of perpendicular line drawn from
−x
x2 y2 9 5 centre to tangent is y =  ….(ii)
+ =1 ⇒ + =1 m
a2 b2 a2 3a2 Eliminating m, we get

(x )
2
2
32 + y2 = a2 x2 + b2 y 2
a2 =
3
( )
2
2 32 ⇒ x2 + y 2 = 6x2 + 2y 2
b =
5
∴ Required equation of ellipse 3x2 + 5y 2 − 32 =
0
x2 y 2
Sol 14: (D) + 1
=
9 5
Sol 11: (D) Semi minor axis b = 2
 b2 
Semi major axis a = 4 =a 3,=
b 5  ae, 
 a 

x2 y2
Equation of ellipse = + =1 b2 5  5
a2
b 2 = ,  2, 
a 3  3
x2 y 2
⇒ + 1
=
16 4 5 2
e= 1− =
9 3
⇒ x2 + 4y 2 =
16 .
 M a them a ti cs | 11.69

1 9  It passes through (a, 0)

Area = 4  × × 3  =27
2 2  \h=a
∴ T = (a, k)
2x 5y
+ =1
9 3' 5 TB is
(0,3) 2x y
+ =1 (k − 0)
9 3 y= × (x + a)
2a
\2ay = kx + ka ⇒ kx – 2ay + ka = 0
 
9
2
,0 and ax + ky = a2
Let point of intersection be (x1, y1)
2a2k 2a3 − ak 2
y1 = and x1 =
k 2 + 2a2 2a2 − k 2

JEE Advanced/Boards x1 =
a(2a2 − k 2 )
2a2 + k 2
Exercise 1
(x1)2 + 2(y1)2 = a2

Sol 1: Let X = x – 1 x 2 y 12 
∴ 1 + a2 
=
And Y = y – 2  a2  a 2 
   
 
∴ Centre = (0, 0)   2 

Focus (F1) (5, 0) b2 1 1

\ Eccentricity is = 1− = 1− =
F2 = (–5, 0) and point on ellipse a2 2 2

= (3, 4)
Sol 3: Equation of auxiliary circle is
F1P + F2P = 2a x2 + y2 = a2  …. (i)
= 80 + 20 = 2a Equation of tangent at P(α) is
3 20 = 2a x cos α y sin α
+ 1
= …(ii)
a b 
∴ a=3 5
Equation of pair of lines OA, OB is obtained by making
homogenous equation of i w. r. t. (ii)
ae = 5
2
x y 
\a2 – b2 = 25 ∴ x + y = a  a cos α + b sin α 
2 2 2
 
∴ b2 = 20
2xyasin α cos α
b= 2 5 ∴(1 – cos2α)x2 –
b
x2 y2 x2 y 2
∴ Equation of ellipse is + 1 or
= + 5
=
a2 b2 9 4  a2 

+y  1 − sin2 α  =
2 0
2 
(x − 1)2 (y − 2)2  b 
⇒ + =5
9 4 But ∠AOB = 90º
4x2 + 9y2 – 8x – 36y – 175 = 0 ∴ coeff of x2 + coeff of y2 = 0
a2
Sol 2: Let T = (h, k) ∴ 1 – cos2α + 1 – sin2α = 0
b2
∴ AP is a2 − b2
1= sin2 α
2
xh + yk = a 2 b
1 1 . 7 0 | Ellipse

a2e2 γ δ α β c − a −(c + a)
1= sin2α tan tan tan tan = × =1
2 2 2 2 c + a −(c − a)
a2 (1 − e2 )
1 3
⇒ e2 = or e = (1 + sin2α)–1/2 Sol 6: (a) m of line = –
(1 + sin2 α ) 4
4
∴ Slope of line ⊥ to given line =
Sol 4: (–3, 1) = (a cosa1, bsina1) 3
(a1 – α) = (a cosa2, bsina2) x2 y2
Equation of ellipse is + 0
=
(3)2 5
9 1 4 4
∴ + 1&
= + 1
= 2
a2 b2 a2 b2 4 4
∴ Equation of tangent is y = x ± 9×  +5
3 3
32 4x
∴ =3 y= ± 21
a2 3
32 32 ∴ 3y = 4x ± 3 21
∴ a2 = & b2 =
3 5
(b) Equation of normal to the ellipse is axsecθ – by
x2 y 2 cosecθ = a2 – b2
∴ Equation of ellipse is + =1
32 32
ax by
3 5 or − =a2 − b2
∴ 3x2+ 5y2 = 32 cos θ sin θ
ax by
the normal given is + c
=
Sol 5: Let α and β form a chord which interests the 3 4
major axis at (c, 0)
3 4 a2 − b2
∴ Equation of chord is ∴= =
cos θ − sin θ c

x α+β y ( α + β) α −β (3c)2 (4c)2

cos   + sin = cos   ∴ + 1
=
a  2  b 2  2  (a2 − b2 )2 (a2 − b2 )2
c ( α + β) α −β
cos = cos   ∴ 5c = a2 – b2 or 5x = a2e2
a 2  2 
α+β x2 y 2
cos  Sol 7: Equation of ellipse is + 1 the ends of
=
 a2
b 2
 2 =a latus rectum are
⇒
α −β c
cos    b2   b2 
 2  L1  ae,  & L2  ae, − 
 9   9 
 
α+β α −β
cos   + cos   For double contact the centre of circle should lie on normal
 2   2  = a+c
⇒ of L1 & L2. By symmetry y-coordinates of centre = 0
α+β α −β a−c
cos   − cos  
 2   2  Equation of normal at LI is

α β a2 x b2 y
2coscos − = a2 – b2
⇒ 2 2 = a+c ae b2 / a
α β a−c
−2sin sin For centre y = 0
2 2
a2  b2 
α β c−a ∴ x centre =  1 − 2  = ae3
⇒ tan tan = a  a 
2 2 c+a
Similarly let γ and δ intersect major axis at (– c, 0) ∴ Equation of circle is
2
 b2 
γ δ −c − a (x – ae ) + y = (ae – ae ) + 
3 2 2 3 2

∴ tan tan =  9 
2 2 a−c  
 M a them a ti cs | 11.71

 b2 
2 4
y=– x±8
(x – ae ) + y = (ae – ae ) + 
3 2 2 3 2 
 3
 9 
3
∴A=± ×8=±6&B=±8
x – 2ae + a e + y = (ae – ae ) + a (1 – e )
2 3 2 6 2 3 2 2 2 2
4
∴ x2 – 2ae 3 + y2 = a2(1 – e2 – e4) 1 1
∴ Area of A = A ×B = × 6 × 8 = 24
2 2

Sol 8: Since lines have equal intercept on axis

Sol 11: P = (bcosθ, bsinθ)
∴ Slope = – 1
Q = (acosθ, asinθ)
∴ Equation is y = – x ± a2m2 + b2
R = (acosθ, bsinθ)
y=–x± 25
x2 y2
∴ + 1 is locus of R which is
=
or x + y ± 5 = 0 are the equation of tangents. a2 b2

 16  An ellipse since focus lie on inner circle

Sol 9: P =  4 cos θ, sin θ  = (acosθ, bsinθ)
 11  Q = (a cos, a sin)
∴ Equation of tangent is P

x cos θ y sin θ R =(a cos, b sin)

+ 1
= b
4 16
11
It is also tangent to circle
x2 + y2 – 2x – 15 = 0 ∴ b = ae
c = (1, 0) and r = 4  b2 
⇒ b2 = a2  1 − 
∴ Distances from center = radius  a2 

cos θ b2 1 b 1
−1 ∴ = ⇒ =
∴ 4 =4 2 2 a
a 2
cos2 θ 11sin2 θ
+
16 256 b2 1
And e = 1− =
2
(cos θ − 4) 2
11sin θ 2 a 2
⇒ = cos2θ +
16 16
Sol 12: Let B = (a, 0) C = (–a, 0) & A = (a, 0)
(cosθ – 4) = 16 cos θ + 11sin θ
2 2 2
Equation of line AB is
cos2θ – 8cosθ + 16 = 11 + 5cos2θ x + y = a and that of AC is y = x + a
4cos2θ + 8cosθ – 5 = 0 Let P= (x, y) distance from BC = y

4cos2θ + 10cosθ – 2cosθ – 5 = 0 And area of PRAS = PR x PS

1 (x + y − a) (x − y + a)
∴ cosθ = = ×
2 2 2
π 5π
∴ θ = or θ = A
3 3
S R’
2 2 2
Sol 10: y = mx ± a m +b P

2
4 4
y=– x± 18 ×   + 32
3 3
C B
1 1 . 7 2 | Ellipse

according to Q. so coordinate of point of contact are A(8, 4 2) and

1 (x2 − (y − a)2 )
y2 = ± B(8, − 4 2) we also know that tangent of slope m
2 2
x2 y 2
∴ ± 4y2 = x2 – y2 – 2ay – a2 touches the ellipse + 1 at
=
a2 b2
When it is +4y2 it forms a hyperbola.
 a2m b2 
When it is –4y2 it forms an ellipse  ,± 
 2 2 2 
 a m +b a2m2 + b2 
∴ x2 + 3y2 – 2ay – a2 = 0
 3   −3 
 & D  −2,
2 ∴ C =  −2,
 1 4a2 
x2 + 3  y −  =  2  2
 3 3

 1
2
AB || CD ∴ Quadrilateral is trapezium
y − 
x2  3 1
∴ + =1 Area = × h (AB + CD)
4a 2
4a2 2
3 9 1  6 
= × 10 ×  8 2 +  = 55 2 sq. units
b2 1 2 2 2  2
\ e2 = 1 – =1– = ⇒e=
a2 3 3 3
Sol 15: Equation of normal at P(acosθ, bsinθ) is
Sol 13: Let equation of tangent be ax by
− = a2 – b2
cos θ mnθ
y = mx ± 16m2 + 9 is passes through (2, 3)
 cos θ 2 
2 G=  (a − b2 ), 0 
∴ (3 –2m) = ± 16m + 9  a 
⇒ 4m2 – 12m + 9 = 16m2 + 9  − sin θ 2 
And g =  0, (a − b2 ) 
 b 
⇒ 12m2 + 12m = 0
∴ a2CG2 + b2 (Cg)2
m = 0 or m = – 1
cos2 θ sin2 θ
Rechecking we get when m = 0 C > 0 & when m = – 1 = a2 × (a2 – b2)2 + b2 (a2 – b2)2
C>0 a2 b2
= (a2 – b2)2
∴ Equation of tangent is
 b2 
y = 3 and y = – x + 5 or x + y = 5. CG = acosθ  1 − 
 a2 

1
Sol 14: Let y = mx + be tangent to parabola y2 = 4x. = acosqe2 = e2 × abscissa of P
m
x2 y2
It will touch ellipse + 1 if
= Sol 16: ∴ (ae + rcosθ, rsinθ) lies on ellipse
42 ( 6 )2
1 (ae + r cos θ)2 r 2 sin2 θ
= 16m2 + 6 ∴ + =1
m2 a2 b2
⇒ 16m4 + 6m2 – 1 = 0  cos2 θ sin2 θ  2ecos θ
∴ +  r2 + r + e2 – 1 = 0
 a2 b 2  a
⇒ (8m2 – 1) (2m2 + 1) = 0  

1 To find the  chord we have to find (r1 – r2) as r1 +ve

m=± and r2 < 0
2 2
we know that a tangent at slope m touches parabola
 a 2a 
at  , 
 m2 m 
 M a them a ti cs | 11.73

Y Sol 18: Let P = (acosα), bsinα) and Q = (a cosβ, bsinβ)

Q P(x,y) Since tangents at P & Q are ⊥ is
−b −b
 ∴ × −1
=
X’
O M
X atan atan β

b2
x2 + y2 =1 ∴ tanatanβ= –
a2 b2 a2
Y’ the point of intersection to tangents is

∴ (r1 – r2)2  α+β α+β

 acos   bcos  
  2 ,  2 
4e2 cos2 θ 4(e2 − 1)
= –  α −β α −β 
 cos2 θ sin2 θ 
2  cos2 θ sin2 θ   cos   cos   
2
a  2 + 2   2 + 2    2   2  
 a b   a b 

Find the point of interaction of normal from their
2 2 4 2 equations.
4e a b cos θ
=
(b cos2 θ + a2 sin2 θ)2
2 You can easily show that
slop ON = slope OT
2 2 2 2 2 2 2
4a b (b cos θ + a sin θ)(e − 1) y x
– ∴ N lies on =
(b2 cos2 θ + a2 sin2 θ)2 y1 x1

 b2  Sol 19: Let (h, k) be the point the chord of contact is

4  1 − 2  a2b 4 cos2 θ + 4b 4 (b2 cos2 θ + a2 sin2 θ)
 a  xh ky
=  + –1=0
(b2 cos2 θ + a2 sin2 θ)2 a2 b2

It touches circle x2 + y2 = c2
4a2b 4
= | −1 |
(b2 cos2 θ + a2 sin2 θ)2 ∴ =c
h2 k2
+
2ab2 a4 b4
∴ (r1 – r2) =
(b2 cos2 θ + a2 sin2 θ)
 h2 k 2 
∴ 1 = c  4 + 4 
2

x cos θ y sin θ a b 
Sol 17: The tangent at P is + 1
=
a b x2 y2 1
where p = (acosθ, bsinθ) on + = is locus of P.
4 4
a b c2
 a 
∴ T= ,0  & N = (acosθ, 0)
 cos θ 
Sol 20: Equation of tangent to ellipse
equation of circle with TN as diameter is
x2 y2
 a  + 1
=
x −  (x – acosθ) + y = 0 a2 + b2 b2
2

 cos θ 
y = mx ± (a2 + b2 )m2 + b2
 1 
⇒ x2 – a  + cos θ  x + y2 + a2 = 0
 cos θ  It is also tangent to the ellipse,
Equation of auxiliary circle is x + y – a = 0 2 2 2
x2 y2
+ =1
a 1  a2 a2 + b2
2gg1 + 2ff1= 2  + cos θ  ×0+2×0×0 = 0
2  cos θ  \c2 = a2 m2 + (a2+ b2)
c1 + c2 = a2 – a2 = 0 ∴ (a2+ b2)m2 + b2 = a2m2 + (a2+ b2)
The two circle as orthogonal
1 1 . 7 4 | Ellipse

a2 a Length of ⊥ from centre to PQ (LP)

∴ m2 = m=±
b 2 b
r 2 − b2
∴ Tangents are + × ae
+mae a2 − r 2
= =
by = ± ax ± a4 + a2b2 + b 4 m2 + 1 a2 − b2
a2 − r 2
Sol 21: P = (acosθ, bsinθ) &
r 2 − b2 1
Q = (acosθ, asinθ) =+ ×a× a2 − b2 = r 2 − b2
2
a −b 2 a
tangent at P is

x cos θ y sin θ PQ = 2 r 2 − LP2 = 2 b2 = 2b

+ 1
=
a b
 a  P
∴T=  ,0  
 cos θ 
T
90- 90-

asin θ 1 180-
Slope QT = =– S’ P S
a tanθ
acos θ −
cos θ
∴ QT ⊥ OQ ∴ QT is tangent to the auxiliary circle
Sol 24:
Sol 22: Normal at P(θ) is ∠SPN = 90 – b
ax secθ – bycosecθ = a2 – b2 ∠S’PN = ∠SPN. As normal bisects angle between S’P
and SP
It passes through Q(acos2θ, bsin2θ)
∠SPS’ = 180 – 2β
a2 × cos2 θ b2 × 2sin θ cos θ
∴ − = a2 – b2 ∠PSS’ = 180 – α + b
cos θ cos θ sin θ
∠PS’S = α + β – 180
∴ a2(2cos2θ – 1) – 2b2cos2θ = (a2 – b2)cosθ.
Applying sine rule on DSPS’
∴ 18cos2θ – 9cosθ – 14 = 0
sin ∠PS'S sin ∠PSS sin ∠S'PS
18cos2θ –21cosθ – 12cosθ – 14 = 0 = =
PS PS' SS'
\3cosθ(6cosθ – 7) + 2(6cosθ – 7) =0 sin(α + β − 180°)
∴
2 PS
∴ cosθ = –
3 sin(180º −(α − β)) sin(180º −2β)
= =
PS' 2ae
Sol 23: Let equation of tangent to ellipse be
PS + PS’ = 2a
y = mx + a2m2 + b2 sin(α − β) − sin(α + β) sin2β
⇒ =
Now it touches circle 2a 2ae
2sin β cos β cos β
∴ c2 = r2(m2 + 1) ∴ e= =
2sin β cos α cos α
∴ a2m2 + b2 = r2m2 + 1
Sol 25: Let P = (acosθ, bsinθ)
2 r 2 − b2
m = 5x 4y
a2 − r 2 normal is − 9
=
cos θ sin θ
Equation of PQ is y = m(x – ae) It passes through (ae, 0) = (3, 0)
or mx – y – mae = 0 when sinθ ≠ 0
 M a them a ti cs | 11.75

15 5 Sol 2: (C) P = (acosθ, bsinθ)

= 9 ∴ cosθ = × not possible
cos θ 3 Q = (acosθ, asinθ)
When sinθ = 0 equation of normal is y = 0 which passes normal at P is
through (3, 0)
ax by
∴ Radius = a – ae = 5 – 3 = 2 − = a2 – b2
cos θ sin θ
4x 3y
Sol 26: PF = QF and PC = RC ⇒ − 7
=
cos θ sin θ
∴ Ae – 1 + b – 1 = a2e2 + b2 Equation of CQ is y = tanqx
x
(ae + b – 2)2 = (a2e2 + b2) ∴ = 7 ⇒ x = 7cosθ & y = 7sinθ s
cos θ
∴ 4 – 4ae – 4b + 2aeb = 0
∴ R = (7cosθ, 7sinθ)
2 = 2ae + 2b – aeb
∴  (CR) = 7
ae = 6
C
∴ 2 = 12 + 2b – 6b Sol 3: (A) Lines that C = (1, 2)
5 Patting through P = (4, 6)
∴b= P
2
1  Centre and focus have same y coordie
al =a –b
2 2 2 2 R
1 ∴ This will be ellipse where major axis is horizontal so.
25
( x − n) (y − k)
2 2
36 = a2 – O F
4
Q Eqn. will be + 1
=
a2 b2
16a 13
a2 = ∴a= Centre is (h, k)
4 2
The left focus (h ‒ c, k)
AB. CD = 4ab = 65
Right focus (h + c, k)
Where c2 = a2 ‒ b2
Exercise 2 On putting values

( x − 1) ( y − 2)
2 2

Single Correct Choice Type + 1 

= (1 ) (i)
a2 b2
x2 y 2 Patting through (9, 6)
Sol 1: (A) Tangent to ellipse + 1 is
=
16 9
x y 32 y2 9 16
4
cosθ + sinθ = 1
3
⇒ + 1 ⇒
= 2
+ 1
= (2)
a2
b 2 a b2  (ii)
Let P be point of intersection of x-axis & Q be Let Q be
The given frees (6, 2) must be right focuses
the point on tangent and y-axis
⇒ (h + c,k ) =
( 6,2 )
 4   3 
∴ P = , 0  & Q =  0, 
 cos θ   sin θ  ⇒ h=
+c 6 =
k 2

Let M = (x, y) ⇒=c 5 (=

 h 1)

x=
2
& y=
3 Now, C2 = a2 − b2 ⇒ a2 − b2 = 25  (3) (iii)
cos θ 2sin θ
Solving (ii) and (iii)
4 9
∴ + 1
= Substituting in (i)
x2 4y 2
( x − 1) ( y − 2)
2 2
\16y2 + 9x2 = 4x2y2 + 1
=
45 20
1 1 . 7 6 | Ellipse

Sol 4: (A) Let the lines be x-axis & y-axis Sol 8: (B) Let P = (h, k)
Let P = (h, 0) and Q = (0, k) Foot of perpendicular from focus to any tangent of the
ellipse lies on its auxiliary circle.
h2 + k2 = (a + b)2
∴ Midpoint of P & S lies on auxiliary circle
 bh ak 
(x, y) =  , 
 (a + b) (a + b)   h ± ae k 
∴ M=  , 
2 2  2 2
x y
  +  = 1 2 2
b  a  h±ae   k  2
⇒   +   =a .
 2  2
∴ Equation of P is an ellipse
2 2
 x±ae   y  2
Sol 5: (A) Now sum of distance of points from two
⇒   +   =a .
 2  2
foci = constant = 2a for an ellipse
∴ Necessary length of string = 2a = 6 Sol 9: (C) Equation of normal is
a = 3 and b = 2 ax secθ – by cosecθ = a2 – b2
Distance between pins = 2ae
 a2 − b2 
Q=   cosθ
b2 6× 5  a 
 
= 6 1− = = 2 5
a 2 3
 a2 − b2 
R=–   sinθ
Sol 6: (B) It is a known property that  b 
 
SF1·SF2 = b2 = 3
 a2 − b2 (a2 − b2 ) 
M = (x, y) =  × cos θ, − sin θ 
 2a 2b 
Sol 7: (B) Ellipse 1 is  
∴ Locus of M is
x2 y2
+ 1
=
2 2 (a2 − b2 )2
 3  3 (ax)2 + (by)2 =
    4
 a  b
   
x2 y2
∴ + 0
=
And E2 is  a2 − b2 
2
 a2 − b2 
2

   
x2
+
y2
1
=  2a   2b 
2 2
 3   3  coeff of y is > coeff of x.
   
 a+b   a−b  2
     a2 − b2 
 
2a  b2
are of ellipse = pab e’ = 1 –  =1– =0
2
 a2 − b2  a2
∴ pa1b1 = pa2b2  
 2b 
3 3
⇒ =
ab a2 − b2 Sol 10: (C) Equation of ellipse is
⇒ a – b = ab
2 2
x2 y2
+ 1 and of a circle is
=
a a
2
a2 b2
⇒   −   −1 =0
b b x2 + y2 = a2 – b2

∴ a 1+ 5 a2 − b2 − y 2 y2
= ∴ + 1
=
b 2 a2 b2
 M a them a ti cs | 11.77

⇒ (a2 – b2)y2 = a2b2 – a2b2 + b4 2ae = 6

4
b \a = 5
∴ y2 =
2 2
a −b b2
a
∴1 − =
b 2 a 25
2
y=
a2 − b2 \b = 4
(x − 5)2 y 2
\ Equation of ellipse can be + 1
=
17 25 16
2a = 17∴ a =
2
Multiple Correct Choice Type
And aexy = 30
b2 x2 y 2
∴ a2 − b2 × = 30 Sol 13: (A, C, D) (A) ellipse is + 1
=
a2 − b2 9 5
Equation of director circle is x2 + y2 = a2 + b2
∴ Distance between foci
⇒ x2 + y2 = 14
289
= 2ae = 2 a2 − b2 = 2 − 30 (B) Sum of focal distances = 2b(when b > 0)
4
and 2a when a > 0
13
= 2× 13
=
2 ∴ S = 2 × 6 = 12
(C) Free (a known property of parabola)
Sol 11: (A) Equation of tangent is
(D) Line passes through focus.
x cos θ y sin θ
+ −1= 0 2at2 − 0 2at1
a b =
at22 − a at12 − a
x y
⇒ + –1=0
2a 2b (slope of PF = QF)
1
∴ P’ = ∴ t2( t12 – 1) = t1( t22 – 1)
1 1
2
+ t1t2(t2 – t1) + (t2 – t1) = 0
2a 2b2

Equation of normal is 2ax – 2by = a2 – b2 ∴ t1 = t2 or t1t2 = – 1

But points are distinct

a2 − b2
∴ P2 =
2(a2 + b2 ) ∴ t1t2 = – 1

∴ Area of rectangle = P1P2

Sol 14: (C, D) Equation of tangent is
2 2 2 2
2ab (a − b ) (a − b )ab
= + = 5 2 5
2 2 2 2 (a2 + b2 ) y = mx ± m +
a +b 2(a + b ) 3 2
It passes through (1, 2)
Sol 12: (A) If for an ellipse S & S’ are focus, then
5 2 5
(m – 2)2 = m +
 PSS'   PS'S  1−e 3 2
tan   × tan   =
 2   2  1+e 5 2 5
m2 – 4m + 4 = m +
3 2
∴ Centre of ellipse = (5, 0)
2 2 3
1−e 1 m + 4m − =0
= 3 2
1+e 4
3 4m2 + 24m – 9 = 0
∴ 5e = 3e =
5
1 1 . 7 8 | Ellipse

angle between tangents α+β α −β

2sin   cos  
1
=  2   2 
m1 − m2 (m1 + m2 )2 − 4m1m2 e α+β α+β
tanθ = = 2sin   cos  
1 + m1m2 1 + m1m2  2   2 

9 α −β
62 + ×4 cos  
4 3 5 12 1
=  2 
= = ×4 =
9 5 5 e α+β
1− cos  
4  2 
12 α −β α+β
\θ = tan–1 cos   − cos  
5 1−e  2   2 
 5 =
12 1+e α −β α+β
other angle = π – tan–1 = π – cot–1  12  cos   + cos  
5    2   2 

 α β 1−e (1 − e)2

∴ tan tan = =
2 2 1+e 1 − e2

b2 b2
1+1− −2 1− 2 2 2 2
If angle between lines is E0 = a2 a2 = 2a − b − 2a a − b
b2 b2
∴ π + θ can also be considered angle between lines,
a2
∴ D is also correct
Sol 16: (A, C) Equation of tangent to parabola is
x2 y2
Sol 15: (A, B, C) + 1
= 1
a2 b2 y = mx +
m
(A) and (B) are true
for ellipse c2 = a2 m2+ b2
By sine rule in DPSS’ then
1
∴ = 8m2 + 2
S'P 2
SP SS' m
= =
sin(β) sinα sin( π − (α + β)) 8m4 + 2m2 – 1 = 0

8m4 + 4m2 – 2m2 – 1 = 0

P(acos , bsin)
1 1
∴ m2 = ⇒m=±
4 2
 
∴ Equation of tangents
1
S’ (-ae, 0) S (ae, 0) are y = x +2 or x – 2y + 4 = 0
2
1
SP S'P SS' and y = – x − 2 or 2y + x + 4 = 0
= = 2
sin β sin α sin(α + β)

SP + S'P SS' Sol 17: (A, B, C, D) a2cos2θ + b2sin2 θ= 4

=
sin α + sin β sin(α + β) 6cos2θ + 2sin2θ = 4
2a 2ae 4cos2θ = 2
∴ =
sin α + mβ sin(α + β) 1
cosθ = ±
2
1 sin β + sin α
∴ = π 3π 5π 7π
e sin ( α + β ) ∴ Eccentric angle is , , ,
4 4 4 4
 M a them a ti cs | 11.79

Sol 18: (A, C, D) Equation of tangent is x cos θ y sin θ

∴ Equation of tangent is + 1
=
3 3 1
x cos θ y sin θ
+ 1
= v’ Thus, sum of intercepts
a b
3 3 1 
A =(a, 0) A’
v
=  + =f(θ) (say)
A  cos θ sin θ 
 
 b(1 − cos θ) 
∴ V=  a, 
 sin θ  3 3 sin3 θ − cos3 θ
=⇒ f '(θ) = Put f '(θ) 0
sin2 θ cos2 θ
A’ = (–a, 0)
1
sin3 θ
⇒= cos3 θ
3/2
 b(1 + cos θ)  3
∴ V’ =  −a, 
 sin θ  1 π
⇒ tan θ = , i.e., θ =
3 6
b2 (1 − cos2 θ)
AV × A’V =
sin2 θ π
and
= at θ , f ''(0) > 0
We know that V’V subtend a right angle at each of the 6
foci π
∴ Hence, tangent is minimum at θ = .
6
∴ VV’ SS’ lie on a circle with VV’ as diameter.
Sol 3: (C) There are two common tangents to the circle
x2 + y 2 =
1 and the hyperbola x2 − y 2 =
1 . These are
Previous Years’ Questions x = 1 and x = –1. But x = 1 is nearer to the point P(1/2, 1).
Therefore, directrix of the required ellipse is x = 1.
Sol 1: (A) Given, y =mx − b 1 + m2 touches both the
circles, so distance from centre = radius of both the 3
∴e=
circles. 2
3
∴ x =±4 × =±2 3 ( x = ±ae)  …(ii)
ma − 0 − b 1 + m2 2
=b 4
On solving equation (i) and (ii), we get × 12 + y 2 =
1
m2 + 1 49
48 1 1
⇒ y2 =1− = ⇒y=±
−b 1+m 2 49 49 7
and =b  1
m2 + 1 ∴ Required points  ±2 3, ±  .
 7

⇒ ma − b 1 + m2 =− b 1 + m2 Sol 4: Now, If Q(x, y) is any point on the ellipse, then its

distance from the focus is

⇒ m2a2 − 2abm 1 + m2 + b2 = b2 (1 + m2 ) QP = (x − 1 / 2)2 + (y − 1)2

and its distance from the directrix is | x − 1 | by definition
⇒ ma − 2b 1 + m2 =
0 of ellipse, QP
= e | x −1 |
2 2
y
⇒m
= a 4b2 (1 + m2 )
P ) 12 ‘ 1 )
2b
⇒ m=
a − 4b2
2

x’ x
-1 1
Sol 2: (B) Given tangent is drawn at (3 3 cos θ, sin θ)
O

x2 y 2
to + 1.
=
27 1
y’
1 1 . 8 0 | Ellipse

2 ⇒ x + 3y = 3 …(i)
 1 2 1
⇒  x −  + (y − 1) = x −1 Equation of the straight line perpendicular to AB
 2 2
5.
through P is 3x − y =

 1
2
1 Equation of PA is x − 3 =0.
⇒  x −  + (y − 1)2 = (x − 1)2
 2 4 The equation of straight line perpendicular to PA
 9 8 8
1 1 2 through B  − ,  is y = .
⇒ x2 − x + + y 2 − 2y +=
1 (x − 2x + 1)  5 5 5
4 4
 11 8 
Hence, the orthocenter is  ,  .
⇒ 4x2 − 4x + 1 + 4y 2 − 8y + 4 = x2 − 2x + 1  5 5

⇒ 3x2 − 2x + 4y 2 − 8y + 4 =
0 1
Sol 7: (A) Equation of AB is y − 0 =− (x − 3)
3
 1 1
2
2
⇒ 3  x −  −  + 4(y − 1)2 =
0 x + 3y − 3 =0 x + 3y − 3 = 10[(x − 3)2 + (y − 4)2 ]
 3 9
 
(Look at coefficient of x2 and y 2 in the answers).
2
 1 1
⇒ 3  x −  + 4(y − 1)2 =
 3 3 Sol 8: Let the coordinates of point P be (acosθ, bsinθ).
2
Then equation fo tangent at P is
 1
x −  x y
3 (y − 1)2 cos θ + =1 …(i)
⇒  + 1
= a bsin θ 
1/9 1 / 12
We have , d = length of perpendicular from O to the
tangent at P.
Comprehenesion Type
y
Sol 5: (D) Figure is self explanatory.

P(3,4) P (a cos, b sin)

D
B x’ x
F1(-ae,0) O F2(ae,0)
F
A(3,0) x

y’
0 + 0 −1
Sol 6: (C) Equation of AB is d=
cos2 θ sin2 θ
+
P(3, 4)
a2 b2

1 cos2 θ sin2 θ
) )
9 8
5‘5 B A(3, 0)
⇒
=
d a2
+
b2
1 cos2 θ sin2 θ
⇒
= +
d2 a2 b2
8  b2 
y −0
= 5 (x − 3) We have, to prove (PF1 − PF2 )2 = 4a2  1 −  .
 d2 
9 
− −3  b 
2
5 Now, RHS = 4a2  1 − 
 d2 
8 
= (x − 3) 4a2b2
−24 = 4a2 −
1 d2
⇒ y=
− (x − 3)
3
 M a them a ti cs | 11.81

 cos2 θ sin2 θ  Suppose the tangents of P and Q meets in A(h,k).

= 4a2 − 4a2b2  +  Equation of the chord of contact of the tangents
 a2 b2 
 through A(h,k) is
= 4a2 − 4b2 cos2 θ − 4a2 sin2 θ hx ky
+ = 1 …(iv)
6 3 
= 4a2 (1 − sin2 θ) − 4b2 cos2 θ
But Eqs. (iv) and (ii) represent the same straight line, so
= 4a2 cos2 θ − 4b2 cos2 θ comparing Eqs. (iv) and (ii), we get
= 4 cos2 θ(a2 − b2 ) h/6 k /3 1
= = ⇒
= h 3cos θ and=
k 3sin θ
cos θ / 2 sin θ 1
= 4 cos2 θa2e2  e =
a − (b / a)2 
  Therefore, coordinates of A are (3cos θ, 3sin θ) .
Now, the joint equation of the tangents at A is given
Again,
= PF1 e acos θ + a / e
by T2 = SS1
= a ecos θ + 1 2
 hx ky 
i.e,  + − 1
= a(ecos θ + 1 ) ( − 1 ≤ cos θ ≤ 1 and 0 < e < 1)  6 3 

Similarly, PF2 =a(1 − ecos θ)  x2 y 2   h2 k 2 

=  + − 1 + − 1  …(v)
 6 3  6 3 
Therefore, LHS = (PF1 − PF2 )2   

= [a(ecos θ + 1) − a(1 − ecos θ)]2 In equation (v).

= (aecos θ + a − a − aecos θ)2 h2 1  h2 k 2 

Coefficient of x2 = −  + − 1

36 6  6 3 
= (2aecos
= θ)2 4a2e2 cos2 θ 

Hence, LHS = RHS. h2 h2 k 2 1 1 k 2

= − − + = −
36 36 18 6 6 18

Sol 9: Given, x2 + 4y 2 =
4 k 2 1  h2 k 2 
And coefficient of y 2 = −  + − 1
x2 y 2 
9 3 6 3 
or + 1
= …(i) 
4 1  k 2 h2 k 2 1 h2 1
= − − + =− +
Equation of any tangent to the ellipse on (i) can be 9 18 9 3 18 3
written as
Again, coefficient of x2 + coefficient of y 2
x
cos θ + y sin θ =1 …(ii) 1 2 1 1
2  = − (h + k 2 ) + +
18 6 3
Equation of second ellipse is
1 1
y =− (9 cos2 θ + 9 sin2 θ) +
A 18 2
9 1
= − + =0
Q 18 2
3
P
1 Which shows that two lines represent by equation (v)
x’
-2 O 2
x are at right angles to each other.
6
- 6
-1
- 3

y’
x2 + 2y 2 =
6

x2 y 2
⇒ + 1
= …(iii)
6 3 
1 1 . 8 2 | Ellipse

Sol 10: Let the coordinates of P be (acos θ, bsin θ) . sec2 θ(a2 tan2 θ + b2 − 2a2 tan2 θ)
Equations of tangents at P is =
y (a2 tan2 θ + b2 )2

sec2 θ(atan θ + b)(b − atan θ)

N =
P (a2 tan2 θ + b2 )2
x
x’
O For maximum or minimum, we put
M
f '(θ)= 0 ⇒ b − atan θ = 0
K
[sec2 θ ≠ 0. atan θ + b ≠ 0, 0 < θ < π / 2]
y’
x y ⇒ tan θ =b / a
cos θ + sin θ =1
a b
> 0, if 0 < θ < tan−1 (b / a)
Again, equation of normal at point P is Also, f '(θ) 
−1
< 0, if tan (b / a) < θ < π / 2
ax sec θ − by cosec θ= a2 − b2
Therefore, f(θ) has maximum, when
Let M be foot of perpendicular from O to PK, the normal
at P. b b
= θ tan−1  = ⇒ tan θ
1 a a
Area of ∆OPN = (Area of rectangle OMPN)
2 b a
Again
= sin θ =− cos θ
1 a2 + b2 a2 + b2
= ON. OM
2
By using symmetry, we get the required points
Now,
1 ab  ±a2 ±b2 
ON = =  , .
 2 2 
cos2 θ sin2 θ b2 cos2 θ + a2 sin2 θ  a +b a2 + b2 
+
a2 b2
( ⊥ from O, to line NP) Sol 11: Let the coordinates of A ≡ (acos θ, b sin θ) , so
that the coordinates of
a2 − b2
and OM = =B {acos(θ + 2π / 3), asin(θ + 2π / 3)}
a2 sec2 θ + b2cosec2 θ
and
= C {acos(θ + 4 π / 3), asin(θ + 4 π / 3)}
2 2
(a − b ).cos θ.sin θ
= According to the given condition, coordinates
a2 sin2 θ + b2cos2 θ of P are (acos θ, bsin θ) and that of Q are
{acos(θ + 2π / 3), bsin(θ + 2π / 3)} and that of R are
Thus area of {acos(θ + 4 π / 3), bsin(θ + 4 π / 3)} .

ab(a2 − b2 ).cos θ.sin θ y

∆OPN =
2(a2 sin2 θ + b2cos2 θ)
A (a cos,  sin)
B
2 2
ab(a − b )tan θ
= P
2(a2 tan2 θ + b2 ) x’ x
Q R O
tan θ
Let f(θ) = (0 < θ < π / 2)
a tan2 θ + b2
2

C
2 2 2 2 2 2
sec θ(a tan θ + b ) − tan θ(2a tan θ sec θ)
f '(θ) = y’
(a2 tan2 θ + b2 )2
[It is given that P, Q, R are on the same side of x-axis as
A, B and C].
 M a them a ti cs | 11.83

Equation of the normal to the ellipse at P is The equation of line perpendicular to tangent is,
ax by x sin θ y cos θ
− =a2 − b2 or ax sin θ − by cos θ − =
λ
cos θ sin θ b a
1 Since, it passes through the focus (ae, 0), then
= (a2 − b2 )sin2θ ……(i)
2  aesin θ
− 0 =λ
Equation of normal to the ellipse at Q is b

 2π   2π  ⇒ λ =aesin θ
ax sin  θ +  − by cos  θ + = b
 3   3 
x sin θ y cos θ aesin θ
∴ Equation is − =  …(i)
1 2  4π  b a b
(a − b2 )sin  2θ +  …(ii)
2  3  Equation of line joining centre and point of contact
Equation of normal to the ellipse at R is P(acos θ, b sin θ) is
b
 4π   4π  =y (tan θ)x …(ii)
ax sin  θ +  − by cos  θ + = a
 3   3  
Point of intersection Q of Eqs. (i) and (ii) has x coordinate
1 2  8π  a
(a − b2 )sin  2θ +  …(iii) .
2  3  e

a
 4π   2π   2π  Hence, Q lies on the corresponding directrix x = .
But sin  θ + =  sin  2π + θ −  = sin  θ −  e
 3   3   3 
x2 y 2
 4π   2π   2π  Sol 13: (B, C) + 1
=
and cos  θ + =  cos  2π + θ −  = cos  θ − 3  4 1
 3   3   
 8π   4π   4π 
(
b2 a2 1 − e2
= )
and sin  2θ + =  sin  4 π + 2θ −  = sin  2θ − 
 3   3   3  3
⇒e=
Now, eq. (iii) can be written as 2
 1  1
ax sin(θ − 2π / 3) − by cos(θ − 2π / 3) = ⇒ P  3, −  and Q  − 3, − 
 2  2
1 2
(a − b2 )sin(2θ − 4 π / 3) …(iv) (given y1 and y 2 less than 0).
2 
For the liens (i), (ii) and (iv) to be concurrent, we must Co-ordinates of mid-point of PQ are
have the determinant  1
R ≡  0, −  .
 2
1 2
asin θ −bcos θ (a − b2 )sin2θ
2 PQ = 2 3 = length of latus rectum.
 2π   2π  1 2  4π 
∆1 asin  θ +
=  −bcos  θ +  (a − b2 )sin  2θ + =  0 ⇒ two parabola are possible whose vertices are
 3   3  2  3 
 2π   2π  1 2  4π  
asin  θ −  −bcos  θ −  (a − b2 )sin  2θ −  3 1  3 1
 3   3  2  3   0, − −  and  0, − .
 2 2  
  2 2
Thus, line (i), (ii) and (iv) are concurrent. Hence the equations of the parabolas are

x2 − 2 3y =
3+ 3
Sol 12: Any point on the ellipse
x2 y2 And x2 + 2 3y =
3− 3 .
+ 1 be P (acos θ, bsin θ) .
=
a2 b2
Sol 14: (A, B) Ellipse and hyperbola will be confocal
The equation of tangent at point P is given by;

x cos θ y sin θ ⇒ ( ± ae,0 ) ≡ ( ± 1,0 )

+ 1
=
a b
1 1 . 8 4 | Ellipse

 1  2 sec θx − 3tan θy =6
⇒±a× ,0  ≡ ( ± 1, 0 )
 2  It is also tangent to circle x2 + y 2 − 8x =
0
1
⇒ a =2 and e =
2 8 sec θ − 6
⇒ 4
=
2 2
(
⇒ b = a 1 − e ⇒b = 1 2
) 2 4 sec2 θ + 9 tan2 θ

∴ Equation of ellipse
x2 y 2
+ 1
=
( 8 sec
= θ − 6)
2
(
16 13 sec2 θ − 9 )
2 1
⇒ 12 sec2 θ + 8 sec θ − 15 = 0
Sol 15: (D) Equation of line AM is x + 3y −3 = 0 5 3 5
⇒ sec θ = and − but sec ≠
3 6 2 6
Perpendicular distance of line from origin =
10 3 5
⇒ sec θ = − and ⇒ tan θ =
9 9 2 2
Length of AM = 2 9 − =2×
10 10 ∴ Slope is positive
1 9 3 27 Equation of tangent = 2x − 5 y + 4 = 0
⇒ Area = ×2× × = sq. units
2 10 10 10
Sol 18: (C)
Sol 16: A → p; B → s, t; C → r; D → q, s y

1  h2  (0, 4)
(p) = 4  1 + 
k2  k 2 
 (-3, 2) y=2
x=3
⇒= (
1 4 k 2 + h2 ) x = -3
x
2
1 (-3, -2) y = -2 (3, -2)
∴ h2 + k 2 =
  which is a circle.
2
(q) If z − z1 − z − z 2 =where
k k < z1 − z 2 the locus is
a hyperbola.

(r) Let t = tan α Equation of ellipse is

⇒x
= 3 cos 2 α and sin2 α =y ( y + 2)( y − 2) + λ ( x + 3)( x − 3) =0
x 4
or cos 2 α = and sin 2 α =y It passes through (0, 4) ⇒ λ =
3 3
x2 2 x2 y 2
∴ y
+= sin2 2α + cos2=
2α 1 which is an ellipse. Equation of ellipse is + 1
=
3 12 16
(s) If eccentricity is 1, ∞ ) , then the conic can be a 1
e= .
parabola (if e = 1) and a hyperbola if e∈ (1, ∞ ) . 2
(t) Let z =
x + iy; x, y ∈ R
Sol 19: (9)
⇒ ( x + 1 ) − y 2 = x2 + y 2 + 1
2

x2 y 2
⇒ y2 =
x ; which is a parabola. + 1
=
4 3

Sol 17: (B) Let equation of tangent to ellipse 3

=y 4 − h2 at x = h
2
sec θ tan θ
x− y=
1
3 2 Let R ( x1 , 0 )
 M a them a ti cs | 11.85

xx1 4
PQ is chord of contact, so =1 ⇒ x = d 1
4 x1 = 1−
dx1 3x12
which is equation of PQ, x = h
4 4 dm 1 dm 1 dy1 x1
So =h ⇒ x1 = = = , =
x1 h dy1 3 dx1 3 dx1 3 x2 − 1
1
1
∆ (h) = area of ∆ PQR = × PQ × RT
2 Sol 22: (C)
1 2 3 3
( )
3/2
= × 4 − h2 × ( x1 − h) = 4 − h2 x×3 y 6
2 2 2h Equation of tangent at M is + 1
=
2×9 8

=∆ ' (h)
(
− 3 4 + 2h2 ) 4 − h2
Put y = 0 as intersection will be on x-axis.
∴ R ≡ ( 6, 0 )
2
2h
which is always decreasing. Equation of normal at M is
3
45 5 1 3  3
So ∆1 = maximum of ∆ (h) = at h = 3
X +=
y 2 + 
8 2 2 2  2 
9
∆2 = minimum of ∆ (h) =at h = 1 3 7
2 Put y = 0, x = 2 + =
2 2
8 8 45 5 9 7 
So ∆1 − 8 ∆2 = × − 8. = 45 − 36= 9 ∴ Q ≡ , 0
5 5 8 2 2 
1  7 5
∴ Area ( ∆ MQR ) = ×  6 −  × 6 = 6 sq. units.
Sol 20: (D) 2  2 4
Area of quadrilateral
The equation of P1 is y 2 − 8x =
0 and P2 is y 2 + 16 x =
0

Tangent to y 2 − 8x =
0 passes through (-4, 0) (MF1NF2 ) =
2 × Area ( ∆ F1 F2 M)
1
2 1 = 2× ×2× 6 = 2 6
⇒ 0= m1 ( −4 ) + ⇒ = 2 2
m1 m12
5/4 5
∴ Required Ratio = =
Also tangent to y 2 + 16 x =
0 passes through 2 8
(2, 0)
4
⇒ 0= m2 × 2 − ⇒ m22 = 2
m2
1
⇒ + m22 =
4
m12

Sol 21: (A, B, D)

1 
Tangent at P, xx1 − yy1 =1 intersects x axis at M  , 0 
 x1 
y y −0
Slope of normal = − 1 =1
x1 x1 − x2

⇒ x2= 2x1 ⇒ N ≡ ( 2x1 ,0 )

1
3x1 +
x1 y
For=
centroid  = ,m 1
3 3