SL Loney Selected Questions Coordinate Geometry

;
14 COORDINATE GEOMETRY.
In the same manner we could shew that these are th^ coordinates
of the points that divide BE
and CF in the ratio 2 : 1.
Since the point whose coordinates are
x-^ + x^ + x^ and ^L±^2+l_3
3 3
lies on each of the lines AD, BE, and CF, it follows that these three
lines meet in a point.
This point is called the Centroid of the triangle.
EXAMPLES. I.
Find the distances between the following pairs of points.
1. (2, 3) and (5, 7). 2. (4, -7) and (-1, 5).
3_ (
_ 3, _ 2) and ( - 6, 7), the axes being inclined at 60°.
4. (a, o) and (o, 6). 5. {b + c, c + a) and {c + a, a + b).

6. {a cos a, a sin a) and {a cos |S, a sin /3).
7. {am^^, 2ami) and (am^^ 2am^.

8. in a figure the positions of the points (1, - 3) and
Lay down
(
- 2,1), and prove that the distance between them is 5.
9. Find the value of x^ if the distance between the points [x^^, 2)

and (3, 4) be 8.
10. A line is of length 10 and one end is at the point (2,
- 3)
ifthe abscissa of the other end be 10, prove that its ordinate must be
3 or - 9.
11. Prove that the points (2a, 4a), (2a, 6a), and (2a + s/3a, oa)
are the vertices of an equilateral triangle whose side is 2a.
12. Prove that the points (-2, -1), (1, 0), (4, 3), and (1, 2) are
at the vertices of a parallelogram.
13. Prove that the points (2, -2), (8, 4), (5, 7), and (-1, 1) are
at the angular points of a rectangle.
14. Prove that the point ( - xV. f I) is the centre of the circle
circumscribing the triangle whose angular points are (1, 1), (2, 3),
and ( - 2, 2).
Find the coordinates of the point which

15. divides the line joining the points (1, 3) and (2, 7) in the
ratio 3 : 4.
16. divides the same line in the ratio 3 : - 4.
17. divides, internally and externally, the line joining ( - 1, 2)

to (4, - 5) in the ratio 2 : 3.
. ;
[EXS. I.] EXAMPLES. 15
18. divides, internally and externally, the line joining ( - 3, - 4)

to ( - 8, 7) in the ratio 7 : 5.
19. The line joining the points (1, - 2) and ( - 3, 4) is trisected

find the coordinates of the points of trisection.
20. The line joining the points ( - 6, 8) and (8, - 6) is divided

into four equal parts ; find the coordinates of the points of section.
rind the coordinates of the points which divide, internally

21.
and externally, the line joining the point {a + b, a-h) to the point
(a-&, a + 6) in the ratio a h. :
22. The coordinates of the vertices of a triangle are [x-^, 2/i)»

{x^, y^ and (xg, y^. The line joining the first two is divided in the
ratio I : h, and the
line joining this point of division to the opposite
angular point is then divided in the ratio : + Z. Find the m Jfc
coordinates of the latter point of section.
23. Prove that the coordinates, x and y, of the middle point of

the line joining the point (2,3) to the point (3, 4) satisfy the equation
x-y + l=:0.
24. If G be the centroid of a triangle ABC and O be any other
point, prove that
^{GA^-^GB'^+GCr-) = BG^+GA^ + AB\
and OA^ + OB^-\-OG'^=GA^ + GB'^+GG^- + ^Ga\
25. Prove that the lines joining the middle points of opposite
sides of a quadrilateral and the Une joining the middle points of its
diagonals meet in a point and bisect one another.
B, G, D... are n points in a plane whose coordinates are
26. -4,
(î» 2/i)> 2/2)' (^3> 2/3)j---* -^-S is bisected in the point G-^; G^G is
(^2'
divided at G^ in the ratio 1:2; G^D is divided at G^ in the ratio
1:3; GgE at G^ in the ratio 1 4, and so on until all the points are
:
exhausted. Shew that the coordinates of the final point so obtained are
^1 + ^2 + 3^3+ •••+^n ^j^^ yi
+ y^ + Vz+'-'-^Vn
n n
[This point is called the Centre of Mean Position of the n given
points.]
27. Prove that a point can be found which is at the same

distance from each of the four points
(a»„
(am,,
^) ,
^) , {am,,
^J
, and {am^m^,
^^)
To prove that the area of a trapeziitm, i. e. a quad-
24.
rilateralhaving two sides parallel, is one half the sum of the
two parallel sides multiplied by the perpendicular distance
between them.
29. The above formula may also be obtained by

drawing the lines OA, OB, OC and OD. For the quadri-
lateral ABCn
= AOBG+ AOCD- aOBA- AOAD.
But the coordinates of the vertices of the triangle OBG
are (0, 0), (ajg, 2/2) ^^^ (^35 2/3) ^ hence, by Art. 25, its
area is ^ i^^y-^ — ^zV^)-
So for the other triangles.
The required area therefore
^ h [(«^22/3 - a^32/2) + {^zVa, - ^m) - (^Wi - ^12/2) - {î2/4 - ^'42/l)l
= i [{^^2 - ^22/1) + (^22/3 - ^32/2) + {^3y4 - ^m) + (^42/l - «^l2/4)]-
In a similar manner it may be shewn that the area
of a polygon of n sides the coordinates of whose angular
points, taken in order, are
(ÎJ 2/1/5 V^2) 2/2/3 (^35 2/3)? •••(.'^)i3 2/ra/
is i [(a?i2/2 - a?22/i) + (^22/3 - ^32/2) + • • • + (^n2/i - a'l^/ri)]-
EXAMPLES. II.
Find the areas of the triangles the coordinates of whose angular

points are respectively
1. (1, 3), ( - 7, 6) and (5, - 1). 2. (0, 4), (3, 6) and ( - 8, - 2).
3. (5,2), (-9, -3) and (-3, -5).
4. {a, l> + c), (a, h-c) and {-a, c).
5. {a,c + a), {a, c) and {-a, c-a).
6. {a cos (pi,
b sin <p-^), {a cos ^^, b sin ^g) and (a cos ^3, b sin ^g).
7. (a7?ij2^ 2a7?i;^), [arn^^ lam^ and [am^, 2avi^.
8. {awiimg, a(??ii + ??i2)}, {aWaWg, a (7?i2 + %)} ^-^cl
9. lam-,. — I ,
\am^, — y and -Jawo, — [ .
Prove (by shewing that the area of the triangle formed by them is
zero) that the following sets of three points are in a straight line :
10. (1,4), (3, -2), and (-3,16).
11. (-i, (-5,6), and (-8,8).
3),
12. («. b + c), (6, c + a), and (c, a + b).

.
[EXS. II.] POLAR COORDINATES. 19
Find the areas of the quadrilaterals the coordinates of whose

angular points, taken in order, are
13. (1,1), (3,4), (5, -2), and (4, -7).
14. (-1, 6), (-3, -9), (5, -8), and (3, 9).
15. If be the origin, and if the coordinates of any two points

Pj and Pg ^6 respectively (%, y^ and [x^, y.^, prove that
OP^ OP2
. . cos P1OP2 = x-^Xc^ + y-^y^ •
30. Polar Coordinates. There is another method,

which is often used, for determining the position of a point
in a plane.
Suppose to be a fixed point, called the origin or
pole, and OX a fixed line, called the initial line.
Take any other point P in the plane of the paper and
join OP. The position of P is clearly known when the
angle XOP and the length OP are given.
[For giving the angle XOP shews the direction in which OP is
drawn, and giving the distance OP tells the distance of P along this
direction.]
The angle XOP

which would be traced out by the line
OP in revolving from the initial line is called the OX
vectorial angle of P
and the length OP is called its radius
vector. The two taken together are called the polar co-
ordinates of P.
If the vectorial angle be and the radius vector be r, the
position of P is denoted by the symbol (r, 0).
The radius vector is positive if it be measured from the

origin along the line bounding the vectorial angle; if
measured in the opposite direction it is negative.

31. Ex. Construct the positions of the 'points (i) (2, 80°),
(ii) (3, 150°), (iii) (-2, 45°), (iv)
(-3, 330°), (v) (3, -210°) and (vi) ff\ /^
(-3, -30°). ^\^ ,->^^
To construct the first point,
(i) ^^^^^^^^^"^^
let the radius vector revolve from '/^^^ yC
OX through an angle of 30°, and >/ ""-.,
then mark off along it a distance
equal to two units of length. We
y
'p
''-•.,
M"
thus obtain the point P^. ^
(ii) For the second point, the radius vector revolves from OX
through 150° and is then in the position OP^ ; measuring a distance 3
along it we arrive at Pg
2—2
30 COOEDINATE GEOMETRY.
EXAMPLES. IV.
By taking a number of solutions, as in Arts. 39 —41, sketch

the loci of the following equations :
1. 2x + dy = l0. 2. ^x-y = l. 3. x'^-2ax-Vy'^ = Q.
4. a;2-4aa; + ?/2 + 3a2 = 0. 5. y'^ = x. 6. ^x = y^-^.
^' + ^'=1.
'4^9
7
A and B being the fixed points (a, 0) and ( - a, 0) respectively,

obtain the equations giving the locus of P, when
8. PA"^ - P52 _ a constant quantity = 2fc2.
9. PA = nPB, n being constant.
10. P^+PjB = c, a constant quantity.
11. PB^ + PC^=2PA^, C being the point (c, 0).
12. Find the locus of a point whose distance from the point (1, 2)
is equal to its distance from the axis of y.
Find the equation to the locus of a point which is always equi-
distant from the points whose coordinates are
13. (1, 0) and (0, -2). 14. (2, 3) and (4, 5).
15. {a + b, a-h) and {a-b, a + b).

Find the equation to the locus of a point which moves so that
16. its distance from the axis of x is three times its distance from
the axis of y.
17. its distance from the point (a, 0) is always four times its dis-
tance from the axis of y.
18. the sum of the squares of its distances from the axes is equal
to 3.
19. the square of its distance from the point (0, 2) is equal to 4.
20. its distance from the point (3, 0) is three times its distance
from (0, 2).
21. its distance from the axis of x is always one half its distance
from the origin.
22. A
fixed point is at a perpendicular distance a from a fixed
straight line and a point moves so that its distance from the fixed
point is always equal to its distance from the fixed line. Find the
equation to its locus, the axes of coordinates being drawn through
the fixed point and being parallel and perpendicular to the given
line.
23. In the previous question if the first distance be (1), always half,
and (2), always twice, the second distance, find the equations to the
respective loci.
EXAMPLES. 41
Similarly, in Art. 50, the quantities a and h are the

constants for the straight line.
65. In any equation to a locus the quantities x and y,

which are the coordinates of any point on the locus, are
called Current Coordinates ; the curve may be conceived as
traced out by a point which " runs " along the locus.
EXAMPLES. V.
Find the equation to the straight line

1. cutting off an intercept unity from the positive direction of the
axis of y and inclined at 45° to the axis of x.
2. cutting off an intercept - 5 from the axis of y and being equally
inclined to the axes.
3. cutting off an intercept 2 from the negative direction of the

axis of y and inclined at 30° to OX.
4. cutting off an intercept - 3 from the axis of y and inclined at

an angle tan~i f to the axis of x.
5. cutting off intercepts 3 and 2 from the axes.

6. cutting off intercepts - 5 and 6 from the axes.
7. Find the equation to the straight line which passes through the
point (5, 6) and has intercepts on the axes
(1) equal in magnitude and both positive,
(2) equal in magnitude but opposite in sign.
8. Find the equations to the straight lines which pass through
the point (1, - 2) and cut off equal distances from the two axes.
9. Find the equation to the straight line which passes through

the given point {x\ y') and is such that the given point bisects the
part intercepted between the axes.
10. Find the equation to the straight line which passes through
the point ( - 4, 3) and is such that the portion of it between the axes
is divided by the point in the ratio 5 3. :
Trace the straight lines whose equations are

11. a; + 2?/+3 = 0. 12. 5a--7//-9 = 0.
13. 3a; + 7r/ = 0. 14. 2a;-3?/ + 4 = 0.
Find the equations to the straight lines passing through the
following pairs of points.
15. (0, 0) and (2, -2). 16. (3, 4) and (5, 6).
17. (-1, 3) and (6, -7). 18. (0, -a) and (&, 0).
42 COORDINATE GEOMETRY. [Exs. v.]
19. (a, &) and {a + h, a-h).

20. {at^, 2at-^) and (at^^ 2at;). 21. (a«„^)and(a«„^j.
22. (« cos 01 , a sin <pi) and (a cos (p^, a sin â)-
23. (acos0jLJ & sin 0j) and (acos02> ^sin^g)*

24. (* sec 01, 6 tan 0i) and (a sec 02, 6 tan 02).
Find the equations to the sides of the triangles the coordinates of

whose angular points are respectively
25. (1,4), (2,-3), and (-1,-2).
26. (0,1), (2,0), and (-1, -2).
27. Find the equations to the diagonals of the rectangle the
equations of whose sides are x = a, x = a\ y = b, and y = b\
28. Find the equation to the straight line which bisects the
distance between the points {a, b) and {a', b') and also bisects the
distance between the points ( - a, b) and (a', - b').
29. Find the equations to the straight lines which go through the
origin and trisect the portion of the straight line 3a; + 2/ = 12 which
is intercepted between the axes of coordinates.
Angles between straight lines.
66. To find the angle between two given straight lines.

Let the two straight lines be AL^ and AL^j meeting the
axis of X in L^ and L^,
I. Let their equations be

y — m^x^-G-^ and y ~ in.j,x ^r c.^ (1).
By Art. 47 we therefore have

tan^ZjA'^mi, and td^Vi. AL.^X^Wj.^,.
Now L — L AL^X — L AL.2.X.
L-ÂL^^
tan LÂL^ — tan \AL^X — AL^X\

AL^X— tan AL^X
ta,n rn^ — n^
1 + tan AL^X. tan AL^X 1 +mi«i2
On substituting these values in (1) and (2), we have as

the required equations
+ tan a , m , ,,
^ ^ 1-mtana^ ^
, m — tan a , ,.
and y-y = 1 1 \^ - ^
1 + m tan a
)•
^ ^
EXAMPLES. VI.
Find the angles between the pairs of straight lines
1. x-ijsj^ — ^ and ^/3a;+2/ = 7.
2. ic-4?/ = 3 and ^x-y = ll. 3. 2/ = 3a3 + 7 and 3?/-a; = 8.
4. = (2-V3)a: + 5 and 2/= (2 + ^/3) a;- 7.

2/
5. {m'^-mn)y = (inn^-n^)x + n^ and (?n7H- m^) y = (??i?i - w'^) a; + m^

6. Find the tangent of the angle between the lines whose inter-
cepts on the axes are respectively a, - 6 and 6, - a.
7. Prove that the points (2, - 1), (0, 2), (2, 3), and (4, 0) are the
coordinates of the angular points of a parallelogram and find the
angle between its diagonals.
8. passing through the point (2, 3) and perpendicular to the

straight line 4a;-3i/ = 10.
9. passing through the point (

- 6, 10) and perpendicular to the
straight line 7aj + 8?/ = 5.
10. passing through the point (2, -3) and perpendicular to the
straight line joining the points (5, 7) and ( - 6, 3).
11. passing through the point (-4, -3) and perpendicular to the
straight line joining (1, 3) and (2, 7).
12. Find the equation to the straight line drawn at right angles to
the straight line —

a
v = 1 through the point where
b
it meets the axis
of X.
13. Find the equation to the straight line which bisects, and is
perpendicular to, the straight line joining the points (a, b) and
(a', &')•
14. Prove that the equation to the straight line which passes
through the point {a cos^ 6, a sin^ 6) and is perpendicular to the
straight line xsecd + y cosec d = ais x cos d-y sin d = a cos 26.
15. Find the equations to the straight lines passing through {x', y')
and respectively perpendicular to the straight lines
xxf-\-yy'=a\
[Exs. VI.] EXAMPLES. 49
XX yy
62
= 1,
a-
and x'y + xy' = a-.
16. Find the equations to the straight lines which divide, internally
and externally, the line joining (-3,7) to (5, - 4) in the ratio of 4 : 7
and which are perpendicular to this line.
17. Through the point (3, 4) are drawn two straight lines each
inclined at 45° to the straight line x-y = 2. Find their equations
and find also the area included by the three lines.
18. Shew that the equations to the straight lines passing through
the point (3, - 2) and incHned at 60° to the line
iJ3x + y = l are y +2= and y -J3x + 2 + 3^S = 0.

the origin and are inclined at 75° to the straight line
x + y + ^S{y-x) = a.
the point {h, k) and are inclined at an angle tan~'^m to the straight
line y = mx + c.
21. Find the angle between the two straight lines 3a; = 4?/ + 7 and
5y = 12x + 6 and also the equations to the two straight lines which
pass through the point (4, 5) and make equal angles with the two
given lines.
73. To sheiv that the point (x', y') is on one side or the
other of the straight line Ax + By +(7 = according as the
quantity Ax + By' + C is positive or negative.
Let LM be the given straight line and P any point
ix\ y).
Through P draw P^, parallel to
the axis of 3/, meet the given
to
straight line in Q^ and let the co-
ordinates of Q be (.'«', y").
Since Q lies on the given line, we i>x:x

have
^£c' + %" + C=:0,
Ax + C
so that y .(1).
B
It is clear from the figure that PQ is drawn parallel to
the positive or negative direction of the axis of y according
as P
is on one side, or the other, of the straight line LM^
i.e. according as y" is > or <
y\
i.e. according as y" — y is positive or negative.
L. 4
EXAMPLES. 53
since (7 is a negative quantity.

Hence
Ax' + By' +
so that P<?r=
Ja^ + b^
EXAMPLES. VII.
Find the length of the perpendicular drawn from

1. the point (4, 5) upon the straight line 3a; + 4?/ = 10.
2. the origin upon the straight line -^ - j=l.
3. the point (
- 3, - 4) upon the straight line
12{x + 6) = 5{y-2).
4. the point (&, a) upon the straight line — f

=!•
5. Find the length of the perpendicular from the origin upon the
straight line joining the two points whose coordinates are
{a cos a, a sin a) and (a cos j8, a sin j8).
6. Shew that the product of the perpendiculars drawn from the

two points ( ± \/a2 - h^, 0) upon the straight line
- cos ^ +^ sin ^= 1 is 62.

a
7. If p and p' he the perpendiculars from the origin upon the
straight lines whose equations are x sec ^ + ^ cosec 6 = a and
a; cos ^ - 2/ sin ^ = a cos 2^,
prove that 4Lp^+p'^ = a'^.
8. Find the distance between the two parallel straight lines

y = mx + c and y = mx + d.
9. What are the points on the axis of x whose perpendicular
X 1/
distance from the straight line - + ~ =lis a^
ah
10. Shew that the perpendiculars let fall from any point of the
straight line 2a; + 11?/ = 5 upon the two straight lines 24a; + 7t/ 20 =
and 4a; -3?/ = 2 are equal to each other.
54 COORDINATE GEOMETRY. [EXS. VII.l
11. Find the perpendicular distance from the origin of the

perpendicular from the point (1, 2) upon the straight line
77. To find the coordinates of the foint of intersection

of two given straight lines.
Let the equations of the two straight lines be

a-^x + h{y + Ci = (1),
and fta^^ + 522/ + ^2 = {2)5
and let the straight lines be AL^ and AL^ as in the figure
of Art. 66.
Since (1) is the equation of AL^^ the coordinates of any

point on it must satisfy the equation (1). So the coordi-
nates of any point on AL^ satisfy equation (2).
Now the only point which is common to these two
straight lines is their point of intersection A.
The coordinates of this point must therefore satisfy
both (1) and (2).
If therefore A be the point {x^, t/i)? ^^ have
«iaî + î2/i + Ci = (3),
and a2î + 522/i + <^2 = W-

Solving (3) and (4) we have (as in Art. 3)
^x ^ 2/1 ^ \__
so that the coordinates of the required common point are
h-fi^
— h.^c^ - câ^ — câ^
a^^-ajb^ a-}><^—a^^
78. The coordinates of the point of intersection found

in the last article are infinite if
a^^ — a^hi = 0.
But from Art. 67 we know that the two straight lines

are parallel if this condition holds.
Hence parallel lines must be looked upon as lines whose
point of intersection is at an infinite distance.
62 COOEDINATE GEOMETRY. [EXS.
-+^ = 1.
2. -
a
+ T=1 and ha
a ^ a
3 . y = vi-,x-\ and y=moX-\ .
4. a; cos 01 + ^ sin 01 = a and a; cos 02+2/ sin 02 = «•
5. straight lines cut the axis of x at distances a and - a and

Two
the axis of y at distances & and 6' respectively ; find the coordinates
of their point of intersection.
6. Find the distance of the point of intersection of the two

straight lines
2x-Sy + 5 = and dx + 4:y =
from the straight line
5x-2y = 0.
7. Shew that the perpendicular from the origin upon the
straight line joining the points
(a cos a, a sin a) and {a cos /3, a sin ^)
bisects the distance between them.
8. Find the equations of the two straight lines drawn through
the point (0, a) on which the perpendiculars let fall from the point
(2a, 2a) are each of length a.
Prove also that the equation of the straight line joining the feet
of these perpendiculars is y -r2x = oa.
9. Find the point of intersection and the inclination of the two
lines
Ax + By = A+B and A{x-y)+B{x + y)=2B.
10. Find the coordinates of the point in which the line
2y-Sx + l =
meets the line joining the two points (6, - 2) and ( - 8, 7). Find also
the angle between them.
11. Find the coordinates of the feet of the perpendiculars let fall
from the point (5, 0) upon the sides of the triangle formed by joining
the three points (4, 3), (-4, 3), and (0, -5); prove also that the
points so determined lie on a straight line.
12. Find the coordinates of the point of intersection of the

straight lines
2x-3y=^l and 5y-x = S,
and determine also the angle at which they cut one another.
13. Find the angle between the two lines
Sx + y + 12 = and x + 2y-l = 0.
Find also the coordinates of their point of intersection and the
equations of lines drawn perpendicular to them from the point
(3, -2).
VIII.] EXAMPLES. 63
14. Prove that the points whose coordinates are respectively

(5, 1), (1, -1), and (11, 4) lie on a straight line, and find its intercepts
on the axes.
Prove that the following sets of three lines meet in a point.
15. 2x-Sy = 7, Sx-4:y = 13, and 8x-lly = S3.
16. dx + 4.y + G = 0, 6x + 5y + 9 = 0, and Sx + Sy + 5 = 0.
17.
abba
- + 7 = 1,
j+^ = l, and y = x.
Prove that the three straight lines whose equations are

18.
15a;- 18?/ + 1 = 0, 12x + lOi/ - 3 = 0, and 6x + QQy-ll =
all meet in a point.
Shew also that the third line bisects the angle between the other
two.
19. Find the conditions that the straight lines
y = m-^x + ai, y = m^-\-a^, and y = m2X-\-a^
may meet in a point.
Find the coordinates of the orthocentre of the triangles whose
angular points are
20. (0,0), (2, -1), and (-1,3).
21. (1,0), (2,-4), and (-5,-2).
22. In any triangle ABG^ prove that
(1) the bisectors of the angles A, B, and C meet in a point,
(2) the medians, i.e. the lines joining each vertex to the middle
point of the opposite side, meet in a point,
and (3) the straight lines through the middle points of the sides
perpendicular to the sides meet in a point.
Find the equation to the straight line passing through
23. tlie point (3, 2) and the point of intersection of the lines
2x + Sy = l and Sx-Ay = Q.
24. the point (2, - 9) and the intersection of the lines
2x + 5y-8 = and 3x-4y=^S5.
25. the origin and the point of intersection of
x~y-4i=0 and lx + y + 20=0,
proving that it bisects the angle between them.
26. the origin and the point of intersection of the lines
X y ^ X y ^
- +f =1^
and Y + ^ = 1.
a b b a
27. the point (a, b) and the intersection of the same two lines.
28. the intersection of the lines

x-2y-a=0 and x + 3y-2a =
64 COORDINATE GEOMETRY. [Exs.
and parallel to the straight line

x + 2y +S= and 3x + iy + 7 =
and perpendicular to the straight line
y-x = 8.
dx-iy + l = and 5x + y -1=0
and cutting off equal intercepts from the axes.
2x~By = 10 and x + 2y:=Q
and the intersection of the lines
16a;-102/ = 33 and 12x + Uy + 29 = 0.
32. through the angular points of a triangle straight lines be
If
drawn parallel to the sides, and if the intersections of these Hnes be
joined to the opposite angular points of the triangle, shew that the
joining lines so obtained will meet in a point.
33. Find the equations to the straight lines passing through the
point of intersection of the straight lines
Ax + By + C = and A'x + B'y + C'^0 and
(1) passing through the origin,
(2) parallel to the axis of y,
(3) cutting off a given distance a from the axis of y,

and (4) passing through a given point {x', y').
34. Prove that the diagonals of the parallelogram formed by the
four straight lines
^?>x + y = 0, ^?>y + x=^0, jBx + y = l, and JBy + x = l
are at right angles to one another.
35. Prove the same property for the parallelogram whose sides
are
- + 7=1, r + - = l, - + | = 2, and t + - = 2.
a b a a o a
36. One side of a square is inclined to the axis of x at an angle a
and one of its extremities is at the origin ; prove that the equations
to its diagonals are
y (cos a - sin a) = x (sin a + cos a)

and ?/ (sin a + cos a) + a: (cos a -sin a) = a.
Find the equations to the straight lines bisecting the angles
between the following pairs of straight lines, placing first the bisector
of the angle in which the origin lies.
37. x+ysJB = %-\-2JB and a;-?/ ^3 = 6-2^3.

EXAMPLES. 123
Subtracting (2) from (3) and (3) from (4), we have

2^ + 12/= 35,
and + 20/=ll.
65f
Hence /=*/- and g=z -iJ-.

Equation (2) then gives c = ^-.
Substituting these values in (1) the required equation is
4a;2 + 4i/2 - 142a; + 47a; + 138 = 0.
Ex. 2. Find the equation to the circle which touches the axis ofy
at a distance + 4 from the origin and cuts off an intercept 6 from the
axis of X.
Any circle is x^ + y'^ + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0.
This meets the axis of y in points given by
y^ + 2fy + c = 0.
The roots of this equation must be equal and each equal to 4, so
that it must be equivalent to {y - 4)^ = 0.
Hence 2/= -8, and c = 16.
The equation to the circle is then
x'^ + y^ + 2gx-8y + 16 = 0.
This meets the axis of x in points given by

x'^ + 2gx + l&:=0,
i.e. at points distant
-g+slT^^ and -g-Jg^lJG,

Hence Q = 2^g^-ie.
Therefore ^= ±5, and the required equation is
x^ + y^±10x-8y + U = 0.
There are therefore two circles satisfying the given conditions.
This is geometrically obvious.
EXAMPLES. XVII.
Find the equation to the circle
1. Whose radius is 3 and whose centre is ( - 1, 2).
2. Whose radius is 10 and whose centre is ( - 5, - 6).
3. Whose radius is a + b and whose centre is {a, - h).

4. Whose radius is Ja^ - b'^ and whose centre is { - a, - 6).
Find the^ coordinates of the centres and the radii of the circles
whose equations are
5. x^ + y^-ix-8y = ^l. Q, Sx'^ + Sz/ - 5x- Qy + 4 = 0.
124 COORDINATE GEOMETRY. [ExS.
7. x^ + y^=k{x + k). 8. x^ + y'^ = 2gx-2fy.

9. Jl+m"^ {x^ + if) - 2cx - 2mcy = 0.
Draw tlie circles whose equations are
10. x^ + y^ = 2ay. H, 3x^ + 3y^=4x.
12. 5x'^ + 5y^=2x + 3y.

13. Find the equation to the circle which passes through the
points (1, - 2) and (4, - 3) and which has its centre on the straight
line 305 + 42/ = 7.
14. Find the equation to the circle passing through the points
(0, a) and (6, h), and having its centre on the axis of x.
Find the equations to the circles which pass through the points
15. (0, 0), (a, 0), and (0, 6). 16. (1, 2), (3, -4), and (5, -6).
17. (1,1), (2,-1), and (3, 2). 18. (5, 7), (8, 1), and (1, 3).
19. («, &)> («j -&)> and(a + 6, a-b).

20. ABGB
is a square whose side is <x; taking and as AB AD
axes, prove that the equation to the circle circumscribing the square is
x^-\-y^ = a{x-\-y).
21. Find the equation to the circle which passes through the
origin and cuts off intercepts equal to 3 and 4 from the axes.
22. Find the equation to the circle passing through the origin
and the points (a, 6) and (6, a). Find the lengths of the chords that
it cuts off from the axes.
23. Find the equation to the circle which goes through the origin
and cuts off intercepts equal to h and h from the positive parts of the
axes.
24. Find the equation to the circle, of radius a, which passes

through the two points on the axis of x which are at a distance & from
the origin.
Find the equation to the circle which
25. touches each axis at a distance 5 from the origin.
26. touches each axis and is of radius a,
27. touches both axes and passes through the point ( - 2, - 3).
28. touches the axis of x and passes through the two points
(1, -2) and (3, -4).
29. touches the axis of y at the origin and passes through the
point (6, c).
XVII.] TANGENT TO A CIRCLE. 125
30. touches the axis of a; at a distance 3 from the origin and

intercepts a distance 6 on the axis of y.
31. Points (1, 0) and (2, 0) are taken on the axis of x, the axes
being rectangular. On the line joining these points an equilateral
triangle is described, its vertex being in the positive quadrant. Find
the equations to the circles described on its sides as diameters.
32. If 1/ = mx be the equation of a chord of a circle whose radius is

a, the origin of coordinates being one extremity of the chord and the
axis of X being a diameter of the circle, prove that the equation of a
circle of which this chord is the diameter is
(1 + m2) (£c2 + 1/2) -2a{x + my) = 0.

33.Find the equation to the circle passing through the points
(12, 43), (18, 39), and (42, 3) and prove that it also passes through
the points ( - 54, - 69) and ( - 81, - 38).
Find the equation to the circle circumscribing the quadrilateral

34.
formed by the straight lines
2x + 3y = 2, dx-2y = 4:, x + 2y = 3, and 2x-y = B.
35. Prove that the equation to the circle of which the points
{x^ , y^) and {x^ y^) ^^^ the ends of a chord of a segment containing an
,
angle 6 is
{x - x^) {x - x^) + (y - yj) (y - y^)

± cot 9 [{x - Xj) {y - 2/2) - {x -x^) (y - y^)] = 0.
36. Find the equations to the circles in which the line joining the
points {a, h) and {b, - a) is a chord subtending an angle of 45° at any
point on its circumference.
148. Tangent. Euclid in his Book III. defines the

tangent at any point of a circle, and proves that it is always
perpendicular to the radius drawn from the centre to the
point of contact.
From this property may be deduced the equation to the
tangent at any point (x\ y') of the circle x^ ^-y^ — o?.
For let the point P (Fig. Art. 139) be the point
(a;', y').
The equation to any straight line passing through T is,

by Art. 62,
y~ y' = m, {x — x) (1).
Also the equation to OP is
3/ = |* (2).
.
EXAMPLES. XVIII.
Write down the equation of the tangent to the circle
1. a;2 + 7/2 -3a; + 10?/ = 15 at the point (4, -11).
2. 4^2 + iy^ - 16a; + 24y -^ 117 at the point (

- 4, - -V)
Find the equations to the tangents to the circle
3. a;2 + 2/^ = 4 which are parallel to the line a; + 2^ + 3 = 0.

4. -JC' + 2/^ + 2</a; + 2fy + c = which are parallel to the line
+ 22/-6 = 0.
a;
5. Prove that the straight line y = x + cJ2 touches the circle

x'^-\-y'^ = c-\ and find its point of contact.
6. Find the condition that the straight line ex ~hy + 1x^ = may
touch the circle x'^ + y^ = ax + by and find the point of contact.
7. Find whether the straight line x+y =2+J 2, touches the circle
x- + y^-2x-2y + l = Q.
8. Find the condition that the straight line ^x + ^y = k may
touch the circle x'^-\-y'^ — lQx,
9. Find the value oip so that the straight line

cccos a+?/sina-p =
may touch the circle
a;2 + 7/2 - 2aa; cos a - 2hy sin a - a^ sin^ a — 0.
10. Find the condition that the straight line Ax-\-By + G — Q may
touch the circle
{x-af+{y-hf=c^.
11. Find the equation to the tangent to the circle x--\-y'^ — a?
which
(i) is parallel to the straight line y = mx + c,
(ii) is perpendicular to the straight line y = mx + c,
(iii) passes through the point (6, 0),
and (iv) makes with the axes a triangle whose area is a-.
12. Find the length of the chord joining the points in which the
straight line
X y ,
a
meets the circle x'^ + y^ = r".
13. Find the equation to the circles which pass through the origin
and cut off equal chords a from the straight lines y — x and y—-x.
.
[EXS. XVIII.] EXAMPLES. 135
14. Find the equation to the straight lines joining the origin to
the points in which the straight Hne y = rnx + c cuts the circle
x^ + y'^ = 2ax + 2by
Hencefind the condition that these points may subtend a right
angle at the origin.
Find also the condition that the straight line may touch the
circle.
Find the equation to the circle which

15. has its centre at the point (3, 4) and touches the straight line
5x + 12y = l.
16. touches the axes of coordinates and also the line
a
the centre being in the positive quadrant.
17. has its centre at the point (1, - 3) and touches the straight
Hne 2a: -i/- 4 = 0.
18. Find the general equation of a circle referred to two perpen-
dicular tangents as axes.
19. Find the equation to a circle of radius /• which touches the

axis of 2/ at a point distant h from the origin, the centre of the circle
being in the positive quadrant.
Prove also that the equation to the other tangent which passes
through the origin is
{r^-h'^)x + 2rhy = 0.
20. Find the equation to the circle whose centre is at the point
(a, p) and which passes through the origin, and prove that the
equation of the tangent at the origin is
21. Two circles are drawn through the points {a, 5a) and (4a, a)
to touch the axis of y. Prove that they intersect at an angle tan^^ y* .
22. A passes through the points ( - 1, 1), (0, 6), and (5, 5).
circle
Find the points on this circle the tangents at which are parallel to the
straight line joining the origin to its centre.
160. To shew that from any iôint there caii he drawn

two tangents^ real or imaginary^ to a circle.
Let the equation to the circle be '3t? \- y"^ — «', and let the
given point be (ajj, y^. [Fig. Art. 161.]
The equation to any tangent is, by Art. 155,
y— mx + a J\ + rn?.
178 COORDINATE GEOMETEY.
Ex. Find the vertex, axis, focus, and latus rectum of the parabola
4?/2 + 12ar-202/ + 67 = 0.
The equation can be written
y^-5y=-Sx--^^,
i.e. {y--^f=-Sx-s^- + ^^=-3{x + i).
Transform this equation to the point (-|, f) and it becomes
y^= -Sx, which represents a parabola, whose axis is the axis of x
and whose concavity is turned towards the negative end of this axis.
Also its latus rectum is 3.
Eeferred to the original axes the vertex is the point i-^, f), the
axis is 2/ = f, and the focus is the point (-| -|, f), «-e. ( -V-i f)-
EXAMPLES. XXV.
Find the equation to the parabola with
1. focus (3, -4) and directrix Gcc- 7?/ + 5 = 0.
X XI
and directrix - + f=
2. focus (a,
^ &)
ah 1.
Find the vertex, axis, latus rectum, and focus of the parabolas
3. y^ = 4:X + ^y. 4. x'^ + 2y = 8x-7.
5. x^-2ax + 2ay = 0. 6. 2/^=4y-4a:.
7. Draw the curves

(1) y'2=-4:ax, (2) x'^=4:ay, and (3) x-z=-4:ay.
8 Find the value of p when the parabola y'^ = 4px goes through
the point (i) (3, - 2), and (ii) (9, - 12).
9. For what point of the parabola y^ = 18x is the ordinate equal

to three times the abscissa ?
10. Prove that the equation to the parabola, whose vertex and focus
are on the axis of x at distances a and a' f om the origin respectively, .
is y^ = 4:{a'-a){x-a).
11. In the parabola y^=Qx, find (1) the equation to the chord
through the vertex and the negative end of the latus rectum, and
(2) the equation to any chord through the point on the curve whose
abscissa is 24.
12. Prove that the equation y^ + 2Ax + 2By + C = represents a

parabola, whose axis is parallel to the axis of x, and find itsvertex and
the equation to its latus rectum.
13. Prove that the locus of the middle points of all chords of
the parabola ?/2 = 4aa; which are drawn through the vertex is the
parabola y'^ = 2ax.
[EXS. XXV.] THE PARABOLA. EXAMPLES. 179
14. Prove that the locus of the centre of a circle, which intercepts
a chord of given length 2a on the axis of x and passes through a given
point on the axis of y distant 6 from the origin, is the curve
a;2-2'«/& + &2 = a2.
Trace this parabola.
15. PQ is a double ordinate of a parabola. Find the locus of its
point of trisection.
16. Prove that the locus of a point, which moves so that its
distance from a fixed line is equal to the length of the tangent drawn
from it to a given circle, is a parabola. Find the position of the
focus and directrix.
17. If a circle be drawn so as always to touch a given straight

line and also a given circle, prove that the locus of its centre is
a parabola.
18. The vertex ^ of a parabola is joined to any point P on the
curve and PQ is drawn at right angles to AP to meet the axis in Q.
Prove that the projection of PQ on the axis is always equal to the
latus rectum.
19. If on a given base triangles be described such that the sum of

the tangents of the base angles is constant, prove that the locus of
the vertices is a parabola.
20. A double ordinate of the curve y^=^px is of length 8p ; prove
that the lines from the vertex to its two ends are at right angles.
21. Two parabolas have a common axis and concavities in oppo-

site directions ; if any line parallel to the common axis meet the
parabolas in P and P', prove that the locus of the middle point of PP'
is another parabola, provided that the latera recta of the given para-
bolas are unequal.
22. A parabola is drawn to pass through A and P, the ends of

a diameter of a given circle of radius a, and have as directrix a
to
tangent to a concentric circle of radius h ; the axes being AB and
a perpendicular diameter, prove that the locus of the focus of the
parabola IS - + ,^^=1,
203. To find the points of intersection of any straight

line with the parabola
2/^ = 4acc (1).
The equation to any straight line is
y = 7nx + c .(2).
The coordinates of the points common to the straight

lineand the parabola satisfy both equations (1) and (2),
and are therefore found by solving them.
12—2
TANGENT AND NORMAL. EXAMPLES. 185
This straight line, as in Art. 206, always touches the equal parabola
y^= - 4a (a;- 2a),
whose vertex is the point (2a, 0) and whose concavity is towards the
negative end of the axis of x.
EXAMPLES. XXVI.
Write down the equations to the tangent and normal
1. at the point (4, 6) of the parabola y^=9x,
2. at the point of the parabola ?/^ = 6a; whose ordinate is 12,
3. at the ends of the latus rectum of the parabola y^ — 12x,
4. at the ends of the latus rectum of the parabola ^2 — 4.^(.^ _ a).
5. Find the equation to that tangent to the parabola y^ = 7x

which the straight line 4y -x + S = 0. Find also its
is parallel to
point of contact.
6. A tangent to the parabola y^=Aax makes an angle of 60° with

the axis ; find its point of contact.
7. A tangent to the parabola y'^ = 8x makes an angle of 45° with

the straight line y = Sx + 5. Find its equation and its point of
contact.
8. Find the points of the parabola y^ = 4:ax at which (i) the

tangent, and (ii) the normal is inclined at 30° to the axis.
9. Find the equation to the tangents to the parabola y^=9x which

goes through the point (4, 10).
10. Prove that the straight line x + y = l touches the parabola

y=x-x^.
11. Prove that the straight line y = mx + c touches the parabola
?/^=4a (a; + a) if c=ma + —.
'
m
12. Prove that the straight line Ix + my + w = touches the parabola
y^=4:ax if ln=amP.
=
13. For what point of the parabola y^ 4:ax is (1) the normal equal
to twice the subtangent, (2) the normal equal to the difference between
the subtangent and the subnormal ?
Find the equations to the common tangents of

14. the parabolas ?/2 = 4aa; and .'r2 = 4&i/,
15. the circle x^ + y^=4:ax and the parabola y^=4:ax.
16. Two equal parabolas have the same vertex and their axes are
at right angles ; prove that the common tangent touches each at the
end of a latus rectum.
, .
186 COOKDINATE GEOMETRY. [ExS.
17. Prove that two tangents to the parabolas y^ — 4a {x + a) and

y^=4:a' {x + a'), which are at right angles to one another, meet on the
straight line x + a + a' = 0.
Shew also that this straight line is the common chord of the two
parabolas.
18. PN is an ordinate of the parabola a straight line is drawn

;
parallel to the axis to bisect NP and meets the curve in Q prove ;
that NQ meets the tangent at the vertex in a point T such that

AT = %NP.
19. Prove that the chord of the parabola y^ — 'iax, whose equation
isy -'XiJ2 + 4:a^2 = 0, is a normal to the curve and that its length is
6 ^Sa.
20. If perpendiculars be drawn on any tangent to a parabola from
two fixed points on the axis, which are equidistant from the focus,
prove that the difference of their squares is constant.
21. If P, Q, and R
be three points on a parabola whose ordinates
are in geometrical progression, prove that the tangents at and P R
meet on the ordinate of Q.
22. Tangents are drawn to a parabola at points whose abscissae
are in the ratio fi : 1; prove that they intersect on the curve .
y^={fi^ + fi~^)âx.
23. If the tangents at the points {x', y') and {x", y") meet at the
point [x-^, y-j) and the normals at the same points in {x^, y^, prove
that
(1) .,=y^ .ni

y,=y^f
(2) .,=2a + ^'^±^-;^^ and V.^-yV^^,
and hence that
x,=2a+y-^- X, and = - "^^^^
(3) y,
24. From the preceding question prove that, if tangents be drawn

to the parabola y^ = 4:ax from any point on the parabola y^ — a{x+h),
then the normals at the points of contact meet on a fixed straight
line.
25. Find the lengths of the normals drawn from the point on the
axis of the parabola y^ = 8ax whose distance from the focus is 8a.
26. Prove that the locus of the middle point of the portion of a
normal intersected between the curve and the axis is a parabola whose
vertex is the focus and whose latus rectum is one quarter of that of
the original parabola.
27. Prove that the distance between a tangent to the parabola and
the parallel normal is a cosec 6 sec^ 6, where 6 is the angle that either
makes with the axis.
XXVI.l TANGENT AND NORMAL. EXAMPLES. 187
28. PNP' is a double ordinate of the parabola ; prove that the

locus of the point of intersection of the normal at P and the diameter
through P' is the equal parabola y^ = 4a (x-Aa).
29. The normal at any point P meets the axis in G and the
tangent at the vertex in G' ; HA
be the vertex and the rectangle
AGQG' he completed, prove that the equation to the locus of Q is
30. Two
equal parabolas have the same focus and their axes are
at right angles a normal to one is perpendicular to a normal to the
;
other prove that the locus of the point of intersection of these

;
normals is another parabola.
31. If a normal to a parabola make an angle with the axis,

shew that it will cut the curve again at an angle tan~i (^ tan 0).
32. Prove that the two parabolas y^ = 4:ax and y^=4:c{x- b) cannot
have a common normal, other than the axis, unless >2.

a-c
33. If aP>8h-, prove that a point can be found such that the two
tangents from it to the parabola y^=4tax are normals to the parabola
x^=^by.
34. Prove that three tangents to a parabola, which are such that
the tangents of their inclinations to the axis are in a given harmonical
progression, form a triangle whose area is constant.
35. Prove that the parabolas y^=4tax and x^ = 4:by cut one another
at an angle tan ^
2 {a« + 6«)
36. Prove that two parabolas, having the same focus and their axes
in opposite directions, cut at right angles.
37. Shew that the two parabolas

x^ + 4:a{y-2b-a) = and y'^ = 4:b{x-2a + b)
intersect at right angles at a common end of the latus rectum
of each.
38. ^
parabola is drawn touching the axis of x at the origin and
having vertex at a given distance k from this axis. Prove that the
its
axis of the parabola is a tangent to the parabola x'^= -Sk {y -2k).
211. Some properties of the Parabola.

(a) If the tangent and normal at any point P of the
parabola meet the axis in T and G respectively, then
THE PARABOLA. EXAMPLES. 197
Substituting these values in (1), we have

(2a cot + y sin Oy — ia (a cot^ + x + y cos 6),
i. e.
if-
sin^ 6 — âx.
The required equation is therefore
y'^^lpx (2),
where
p- T^= « (1 + ôt' Q) = a^ AN= SP (by Art. 202).
The equation to the parabola referred to the above axes

istherefore of the same form as its equation referred to the
rectangular axes of Art. 197.
The equation (2) states that
QV'^îSP.PV.
225. The quantity 4^j is called the parameter of the
diameter P V. It is equal in length to the chord which is
parallel to P F and passes through the focus.
For if Q'V'R' be the chord, parallel to PZand passing
through the focus and meeting PT in V\ we have
PY' = ST=SP^p,
so that Q' V"" îp.PV'^ ip\
and hence Q'R' =-'2Q'V' ^ ip.
226. Just as in Art. 205 it could now be shown that

the tangent at any point {x\ y) of the above curve is
yy — 2p (x + x).
Similarly for the equation to the polar of any point.
EXAMPLES. XXVII.
1. Prove that the length of the chord joining the points of
contact of tangents drawn from the point (Xj, y^ is
ijy-^ + 4a2 fjy^^ - 4aa; J

^
a
2. Prove that the area of the triangle formed by the tangents
3
from the point {x^^ y^ and the chord of contact is {y^ - âx^^ -^2a.
.
198 COORDINATE GEOMETRY. [Exs. XXVII.]
3. If a perpendicular be let fall from any point P upon its polar

prove that the distance of the foot of this perpendicular from the
focus is equal to the distance of the point P from the directrix.
4. What is the equation to the chord of the parabola y^ = 8x

which is bisected at the point (2, - 3) ?
5. The general equation to a system of parallel chords in the

parabola y^ = ^x
is 4:X-y + k = 0.
Wliat is the equation to the corresponding diameter ?
6. P, Q, and B
are three points on a parabola and the chord PQ
cuts the diameter through R in V. Ordinates P3I and are drawn QN
to this diameter. Prove that RM
. RN=RV^.
7. Two
equal parabolas with axes in opposite directions touch at
a point O. a point P on one of them are drawn tangents PQ
From
and PQ' to the other. Prove that QQ' will touch the first parabola in
P' where PP' is parallel to the common tangent at O.
Coordinates of any point on the parabola ex-

pressed in terms of one variable.
227. It is often convenient to express the coordinates

of any point on the curve in terms of one variable.
It is clear that the values
a 2a
mr 7n
always satisfy the equation to the curve.

Hence, for all values of m, the point
a 2a\
lieson the curve. By Art. 206, this is equal to the m

tangent of the angle v^hich the tangent at the point makes
v^îth the axis.
The equation to the tangent at this point is
y = nix -\ — a
,
and the normal is, by Art. 207, found to be

a
my + X = 2a + —-,
in-
EXAMPLES. ONE VARIABLE. 203
i.e. the orthocentre of the triangle, is easily seen to be the point

whose coordinates are
x=-a^ y = a[—'-\
/111 + !
1
and this point lies on the directrix.
EXAMPLES. XXVIII.
1. If w be the angle which a focal chord of a parabola makes with
the axis, prove that the length of the chord is 4a cosec'-^ w and that the
perpendicular on it from the vertex is a sin w.
2. A point on a parabola, the foot of the perpendicular from it

upon the and the focus are the vertices of an equilateral
directrix,
triangle. Prove that the focal distance of the point is equal to the
latus rectum.
3. Prove that the semi-latus-rectum is a harmonic mean between

the segments of any focal chord.
4. Ifany point on the tangent at any point P of a parabola,

T be
and if be perpendicular to the focal radius SP and TN be perpen-
TL
dicular to the directrix, prove that SL = TN.
Hence obtain a geometrical construction for the pair of tangents
drawn to the parabola from any point T.
5. Prove that on the axis of any parabola there is a certain point

K which has the property that, if a chord PQ of the parabola be drawn
through it, then
1 1
PK^'^'QK^
is the same for all positions of the chord.
6. The normal at the point (at-^, 2atj) meets the parabola again
in the point {aU^, 2at2) prove that ;
H
7. A
chord is a normal to a parabola and is inclined at an angle
d to the axis prove that the area of the triangle formed by it and
;
the tangents at its extremities is 4a'^ sec^ 6 cosec^ 0.
8. If PQ be a normal chord of the parabola and if S be the focus,

prove that the locus of the centroid of the triangle SPQ is the curve
36a2/2 (3a; - 5a) - 81^^= 128a'^.
Prove that the length of the intercept on the normal at the
9.
point made by the circle which is described on the focal
{at^, 2at)
distance of the given point as diameter is a f^/l + 1^.

204 COORDINATE GEOMETRY. [EXS.
10. Prove that the area of the triangle formed by the normals to
the parabola at the points {at^, Satj), {at^, 2at^ and [at^y Satg) is
\ («2 - h) («3 - h) ih - h) ih + *2 + «3)'.
11. Prove that the normal chord at the point whose ordinate
is equal to its abscissa subtends a right angle at the focus.
12. A
chord of a parabola passes through a point on the axis
(outside the parabola) whose distance from the vertex is half the
latus rectum ; prove that the normals at its extremities meet on the
curve.
13. The normal at a point P of a parabola meets the curve

again in Q, and T is the pole of PQ; shew that T lies on the diameter
passing through the other end of the focal chord passing through P,
and that PT is bisected by the directrix.
14. If from the vertex of a parabola a pair of chords be drawn at
right angles to one another and with these chords as adjacent sides a
rectangle be made, prove that the locus of the further angle of the
rectangle is the parabola
?/2 = 4a (a; -8a).
15. A
series of chords is drawn so that their projections on a
straight line which is inclined at an angle a to the axis are all of
constant length c prove that the locus of their middle point is the
;
curve
{y^-iax) {y qoq a -\-2a Bin of + a^c^ = 0.
16. Prove that the locus of the poles of chords which subtend a
right angle at a fixed point (/i, /c) is
ax^ - %2 + (4a'^ + 2ali) x - 2ahj + a {h^ + A;-) = 0.
17. Prove that the locus of the middle points of all tangents
drawn from points on the directrix to the parabola is
y^{2x + a) = a{dx + a)-.
18. Prove that the orthocentres of the triangles formed by three

tangents and the corresponding three normals to a parabola are
equidistant from the axis.
19. T is the pole of the chord PQ ;

prove that the perpendiculars
from P, T, and Q upon any tangent to the parabola are in geometrical
progression.
20. If '^1 and r^ be the lengths of radii vectores of the parabola

which are drawn at right angles to one another from the vertex, prove
that
rji^r2^=16a2{ri^ + r2^).
21. Aparabola touches the sides of a triangle ABC in the points

D, E, and F respectively ; if DE and DF cut the diameter through the
point A inb and c respectively, prove that Bb and Cc are parallel.
XXVIII.] EXAMPLES. ONE VARIABLE. 205
22. Prove that all circles described on focal radii as diameters

touch the directrix of the curve, and that all circles on focal radii as
diameters touch the tangent at the vertex,
23. -A- circle is described on a focal chord as diameter if m be the ;
tangent of the inclination of the chord to the axis, prove that the
equation to the circle is
\ m^J m
24. LOL' and
il/Oilf'are two chords of a parabola passing through
a point on its axis. Prove that the radical axis of the circles
described on LL' and MM' as diameters passes through the vertex of
the parabola.
25. -A- circle and a parabola intersect in four points; shew that the
algebraic sum of the ordinates of the four points is zero.
Shew also that the line joining one pair of these four points and
the line joining the other pair are equally inclined to the axis.
26. Circles are drawn through the vertex of the parabola to cut
the parabola orthogonally at the other point of intersection. Prove
that the locus of the centres of the circles is the curve
2i/2 (22/2 + a;2 - Viax) = ax {%x - 4a)2.

27. Prove that the equation to the circle passing through the
points {at^, 2,at^ and (2a<2^, 2at^ and the intersection of the tan-
gents to the parabola at these points is
ic2 + 2/2 - ax [(«! + «2)^ + 2] - aij [t^ + 1^ (1 - t-^ t^) + a2 1^ t^ (2 - 1-^ t^ = 0.

28. TP and tangents to the parabola and the normals at P
TQ are
and Q meet R on the curve prove that the centre of the
at a point ;
circle circumscribing the triangle TPQ Kes on the parabola
2y^ = a{x — a).
Through the vertex A of the parabola ?/2 = 4aa; two chords AP

29.
and are drawn, and the circles on AP and ^Q as diameters
AQ
intersect in R. Prove that, if 6-^, 6^,^ and be the angles made with
the axis by the tangents at P and Q and by AR, then
cot î + cot ^2 + 2 tan0 = O.
30. A- parabola is drawn such that each vertex of a given triangle
is the pole of the opposite side ; shew that the focus of the parabola
lies on the nine-point circle of the triangle, and that the orthocentre of
the triangle formed by joining the middle points of the sides lies on
the directrix.
.
THE PARABOLA. LOCI. 209
This meets the axis of ic at a distance -atit2,i.e., by (6), 4a, from

the origin.
Also, {h, k) being the middle point of PQ, we have
and 2k = 2a{tj^ + t2).

Hence k- - 2ah = a^ (f^ + 1^)^ - a^ {tj^ + 1^^)
= 2a\t2= -8a2,
so that the locus of (h, k) is, as before, the parabola
y^ — 2a{x- 4a).
Tbird Method. The equation to the chord which is bisected at
the point {h, k) is, by Art. 221,
k{y-k) = 2a{x-h),
i. e. ky - 2ax=k^ - 2ah (8).
As in
Art. 122 the equation to the straight lines joining its points
of intersection with the parabola to the vertex is
{k^ - 2ah) 2/2 = iax {ky - 2ax).

These lines are at right angles if
{k^-2ah) + 8a^ = 0.
Hence the locus as before.
Also the equation (8) becomes

ky - 2ax = - 8a^.
This straight line always goes through the point (4a, 0).
EXAMPLES. XXIX.
From an external point P tangents are drawn to the parabola find ;
the equation to the locus of P when these tangents make angles 6^ and
$2 with the axis, such that
1. tan dj^ + tan 6^ is constant (= 6).

2. tan 6^ tan d^ is constant { = c).
3. cot 6^ + cot $2 is constant { = d).
4. di + ^2 is constant ( = 2a).
5. tan^ 6-^ + tan^ ^g is constant ( = X)
6. cos ^1 cos $2 is constant ( = /u),
L. 14
7. Two tangents to a parabola meet at an angle of 45° ;

prove that
the locus of their point of intersection is the curve
y^ - \.ax = {x + of.
If they meet at an angle of 60°, prove that the locus is
2/2-3a;2-10aic-3a2^0.
8. A pair of tangents are drawn which are equally inclined to a

straight line whose inclination to the axis is a ; prove that the locus
of their point of intersection is the straight line
y = {x-a) tan 2a.
9. Prove that the locus of the point of intersection of two tangents

which intercept a given distance 4c on the tangent at the vertex is an
equal parabola.
10. Shew that the locus of the point of intersection of two tangents,
which with the tangent at the vertex form a triangle of constant area
c^, is the curve x^ [y^ - 4:ax)=4:Câ^.
11. If the normals at P and Q meet on the parabola, prove that

the point of intersection of the tangents at P and Q lies either on a
certain straight line, which is parallel to the tangent at the vertex, or
on the curve whose equation is y^ {x + 2a) + 4a^ = 0.
12. Twotangents to a parabola intercept on a fixed tangent
segments whose product is constant ; prove that the locus of their
point of intersection is a straight line.
13. Shew that the locus of the poles of chords which subtend a
constant angle a at the vertex is the curve
(x + A.af=4: cot^ a (t/^ - 4aa;).
14. In the preceding question if the constant angle be a right angle
the locus is a straight line perpendicular to the axis.
15. A point P is such that the straight line drawn through it

perpendicular to its polar with respect to the parabola y^=4:ax touches
the parabola x'^ = Aby. Prove that its locus is the straight line
2ax + by + 4:a^=0.
16. Two equal parabolas, A and B, have the same vertex and axis
but have their concavities turned in opposite directions prove that ;
the locus of poles with respect to B of tangents to A is the parabola A.
17. Prove that the locus of the poles of tangents to the parabola
y^—Aax with respect to the circle x^ + y'^=2ax is the circle x^ + y^=ax.
18. Shew the locus of the poles of tangents to the parabola

y^—Aax with respect to the parabola y^=4bx is the parabola
y'^= — X.
XXIX.] THREE NORMALS FROM ANY POINT. 211
Find the locus of the middle points of chords of the parabola

which
19. pass through the focus.
20. pass through the fixed point (/?., k).
21. are normal to the curve.
22. subtend a constant angle a at the vertex.
23. are of given length I.
24. are such that the normals at their extremities meet on the
parabola.
25. Through each point of the straight line x = niy + h is drawn

the chord of the parabola y^=4iax which is bisected at the point;
prove that it always touches the parahola
{y - 2am)^=8d {x - h).
26. Two parabolas have the same axis and tangents are drawn to
the second from points on the first ; prove that the locus of the middle
points of the chords of contact with the second parabola all lie on a
fixed parabola.
27. Prove that the locus of the feet of the perpendiculars drawn
from the vertex of the parabola upon chords, which subtend an angle
of 45° at the vertex, is the curve
r2 - 24ar cos 6 + 16a^ cos 29 = 0.
236. To prove that, in general, three normals can be

drawn from any point to the parahola and that the algebraic
sum, of the ordinates of the feet of these three normals is
zero.
The straight line
y — mx — 2am — amP (1)
is, by Art. 208, a normal to the

parabola at the points whose coordi-
nates are
arn^ and — 2am (2).
If this normal passes through

the fixed point 0, vi^hose coordinates
are h and k, we have
k = mh — 2am, — am,\
%.e. arn? + (2a — h) m + k
^P-^Q-^^ ^
Hence ^1 _^ ^^^2) (i + ^^^2) (i + ,,,^.2)
= 1 + (Wj^ + m^^ + m^) + [m^m^ + m^m^ + m^m^) + m^m^m.^.

Also, from (1) and (2),' we have
m^ + 7n2^ + Wg^ = (wi + + wis)^ - 2 (?»oW3 + ma?^! + m^mo)
7712
_ h-2a
a
and
= (^y,by (l)and(2).
„ SP.SQ.SR li-2a
+ fli-2ay
¥
Hence ^
^
=1+2 )+-
i,e. SP.SQ.SR = SO^.a.
EXAMPLES. XXX.
Find the locus of a point O when the three normals drawn from
it are such that
1. two of them make complementary angles with the axis.
2. two of them make angles with the axis the product of whose
tangents is 2.
3. one bisects the angle between the other two.

4. two of them make equal angles with the given line y = vix + c.
5. the sum of the three angles made by them with the axis is
constant.
6. the area of the triangle formed by their feet is constant.
7. the line joining the feet of two of them is always in a given

direction.
The normals and R of the parabola y^ = 4:ax

at three points P, Q,
meet in a point whose coordinates are h and k prove that ;
8. the centroid of the triangle PQR lies on the axis.
9. the point and the orthocentre of the triangle formed by the

tangents at P, Q, and R are equidistant from the axis.
,
[EXS. XXX.] THREE NORMALS. EXAMPLES. 215
10. if OP and OQ make complementary angles with the axis, then

the tangent at R is parallel to SO.
11. the sum of the intercepts which the normals cut off from the
axis is 2{h + a).
12. the sum of the squares of the sides of the triangle PQR is
equal to 2{h-2a){h + 10a).
13. the circle circumscribing the triangle PQR goes through the
vertex and its equation is 2x^ + 2y- -2x{h + 2a) -ky = 0.
14. if P
be fixed, then QR is fixed in direction and the locus of
the centre of the circle circumscribing PQR is a straight line.
15. Three normals are drawn to the parabola y^ = 4:ax cos a from
any point lying on the straight line y = h sin a. Prove that the locus
of the orthocentre of the triangles formed by the corresponding tan-
gents is the curve -2 + t^ ~ '' ^^^ angle a being variable.
16. Prove that the sum of the angles which the three normals,
drawn from any point 0,make with the axis exceeds the angle which
the focal distance of O makes with the axis by a multiple of tt.
17. Two of the normals drawn from a point to the curve make
complementary angles with the axis prove that the locus of and ;
the curve which is touched by its polar are parabolas such that their
latera recta and that of the original parabola form a geometrical
progression. Sketch the three curves.
18. Prove that the normals at the points, where the straight line
lx + my = l meets the parabola, meet on the normal at the point
/4am2 4am \
( , — r— j
„ ,
of the parabola.
. .
19. normals at the three points P, Q, and R meet in a point

If the
and PP', QQ', and RR' be chords paraUel to QR, RP, and PQ
if
respectively, prove that the normals at P\ Q', and R' also meet in a
point.
20. If the normals drawn from any point to the parabola cut the
line x=2a in points whose ordinates are in arithmetical progres-
sion, prove that the tangents of the angles which the normals make
with the axis are in geometrical progression.
21. PG, the normal at P to a parabola, cuts the axis in G and is
produced to Q so that GQ = ^PG prove that the other normals \
which pass through Q intersect at right angles.

22. Prove that the equation to the circle, which passes through the
focus and touches the parabola y^ = 4.ax at the point [at^, 2at), is
x^- + y^- ax {St^ + 1) - ay {St - t^) + SaH^=0.
Prove also that the locus of its the curve
centre is
27 ay- = {2x - a) {x - 5a)-.

;
216 COORDINATE GEOMETRY. [Exs. XXX.]
23. Shew that three circles can be drawn to touch a parabola and
also to touch at the focus a given straight line passing through the
focus, and prove that the tangents at the point of contact with the
parabola form an equilateral triangle.
24. Through a point P are drawn tangents FQ and PR to a

parabola and circles are drawn through the focus to touch the para-
bola in Q and iJ respectively prove that the common chord of these
;
circles passes through the centroid of the triangle FQR.
25. Prove that the locus of the centre of the circle, which passes
through the vertex of a parabola and through its intersections with a
normal chord, is the parabola 2y'^=iax-a^.
26. -A- circle is described whose centre is the vertex and whose
diameter is three-quarters of the latus rectum of a parabola prove ;
that the common chord of the circle and parabola bisects the distance
between the vertex and the focus.
27. Prove that the sum of the angles which the four common
tangents to a parabola and a circle make with the axis is equal to
mr + 2a, where a is the angle which the radius from the focus to the
centre of the circle makes with the axis and n is an integer.
28. QR are chords of a parabola which are normals at P

-P^ and
and Q. Prove that two of the common chords of the parabola and
the circle circumscribing the triangle PRQ meet on the directrix.
29. The two parabolas y^ = 4a(x-l) and x^ = 'ia(y-l') always

touch one another, the quantities I and V being both variable prove;
that the locus of their point of contact is the curve xy='ia^.
30. A parabola, of latus rectum moves so as always to touch an

i^,
equal parabola, their axes being parallel ; prove that the locus of their
point of contact is another parabola whose latus rectum is 21.
31. The sides of a triangle touch a parabola, and two of its angular
points lie on another parabola with its axis in the same direction
prove that the locus of the third angular point is another parabola.
239. In Art. 197 we obtained the simplest possible

form of the equation to a parabola.
We shall now transform the origin and axes in the

most general manner.
Let the new origin have as coordinates [h, k), and let
the new axis of x be inclined at to the original axis, and
let the new angle between the axes be o>'.
This straight line and (1) clearly make the same intercept on the
major axis.
Hence the straight line joining any two points on an ellipse, and
the straight line joining the corresponding points on the auxiliary
circle, meet the major axis in the same point.
EXAMPLES. XXXII.
1.Find the equation to the ellipses, whose centres are the
origin,whose axes are the axes of coordinates, and which pass
through (a) the points (2, 2), and (3, 1),
and (/3) the points (1, 4) and (-6, 1).
Find the equation of the ellipse referred to its centre

2. whose latus rectum is 5 and whose eccentricity is |,
3. whose minor axis is equal to the distance between the foci and
whose latus rectum is 10,
4. whose foci are the points (4, 0) and ( - 4, 0) and whose
eccentricity is ^.
5. Find the latus rectum, the eccentricity, and the coordinates

of the foci, of the ellipses
(1) a:^ + Sy^ = a^, (2) 5x'^ + 4y'^ = l, and (3) 9x^ + 5y^-S0y = O.
6. Find the eccentricity of an ellipse, if its latus rectum be equal
to one half its minor axis.
7. Find the equation to the ellipse, whose focus is the point

(-1, 1),whose directrix is the straight line x -y + S=0, and whose
eccentricity is ^.
8. Is the point (4, - 3) within or without the ellipse

5x^ + 7y^ = lV?
9. Find the lengths of, and the equations to, the focal radii drawn
to the point (4 ^3, 5) of the ellipse
25x2 + 162/2=1600.
10. Prove that the sum of the squares of the reciprocals of two
perpendicular diameters of an ellipse is constant.
11.Find the inclination to the major axis of the diameter of the

ellipse the square of whose length is (1) the arithmetical mean,
(2) the geometrical mean, and (3) the harmonical mean, between the
squares on the major and minor axes.
12. Find the locus of the middle points of chords of an ellipse
which are drawn through the positive end of the minor axis.
13. Prove that the locus of the intersection of with the AP
straight line through A' perpendicular to A'F is a straight line which
is perpendicular to the major axis.
. . ;
[EXS. XXXII.] THE ECCENTRIC ANGLE. 235
14. Q is the point on the auxiliary circle corresponding to P on

the ellipse; PLM
is drawn parallel to CQ to meet the axes inL andilf
prove that PL = b and PM—a.
15. Prove that the area of the triangle formed by three points on
an ellipse, whose eccentric angles are ^, 0, and \{/, is
.
lab
, . 0-^ yl/-d.
sin -^-^ sm i-^— sm

d-(t>
^
.
—
Prove also that its area is to the area of the triangle formed by the
corresponding points on the auxiliary circle as 6 a, and hence that :
its area is a maximum when the latter triangle is equilateral, i.e. when
27r
0-^ = ^-0 = —.
Any point
16. P
of an ellipse is joined to the extremities of the
major axis; prove that the portion of a directrix intercepted by them
subtends a right angle at the corresponding focus.
17. Shew that the perpendiculars from the centre upon all chords,
which join the ends of perpendicular diameters, are of constant
length.
18. If a, j8, 7, and 5 be the eccentric angles of the four points of

intersection of the ellipse and any circle, prove that
a + /3 + 7 + 5isan odd multiple
of IT radians.
[See Trigonometry, Part II, Art. 31, and Page 37, Ex. 15.]
19. The tangent

at any point P
of a circle meets the tangent at a
fixed point A
in T, and T is joined to B, the other end of the
diameter through A ; prove that the locus of the intersection of AP
and BT is an ellipse whose eccentricity is —.-
20. From any point P on the ellipse, PN is drawn perpendicular

to the axis and produced to Q, so that NQ
equals PS, where ^ is a
focus ; prove that the locus of Q is the two straight lines y±ex + a = 0.
21. Given the base of a triangle and the sum of its sides, prove
that the locus of the centre of its incircle is an ellipse.
22. With a given point and line as focus and directrix, a series
of ellipses are described; prove that the locus of the extremities of
their minor axes is a parabola.
23. A line of fixed length a + b moves so that its ends are always
on two fixed perpendicular straight lines; prove that the locus of a
point, which divides this line into portions of length a and b, is an
ellipse.
24. Prove that the extremities of the latera recta of all ellipses,
having a given major axis 2a, lie on the parabola x^= -a{y- a).
TANGENTS AND NORMALS. EXAMPLES. 245
Hence, if {h, k) be their point of intersection, we have

k — mil — sjahii? + fe- (1),
and ink +A= sjo? + Ir'nn? (2).
between (1) and (2) we eliminate m, we shall have a

If
relation between h and k. Squaring and adding these
equations, we have
(P + W) (1 + m^) = + W)
(^2 (1 + m%
i.e. h'' + k^ = a^ + h\
Hence the locus of the point (Ji, k) is the circle
a^ + 2/^ = «- + h^,
i.e.a circle, whose centre is the centre of the ellipse, and

whose radius is the length of the line joining the ends
of the major and minor axis. This circle is called the
Director Circle.
EXAMPLES. XXXIII.
Find the equation to the tangent and normal
1. at the point (1, f) of the ellipse 4a;2 + Qt/^ = 20,
2. at the point of the ellipse 5a;2 + 3z/2 = 137 whose ordinate is 2,
3. at the ends of the latera recta of the ellipse ^x^ + 16?/2 = 144.
4. Prove that the straight line y = x + ^^^ touches the ellipse
5. Find the equations to the tangents to the ellipse 4j,'- + 3?/^ = 5

which are parallel to the straight line y = Sx + 7.
Find also the coordinates of the points of contact of the tangents
which are inclined at 60° to the axis of x.
6. Find the equations to the tangents at the ends of the latera
recta of the ellipse -g + T2 =^ •'» ^^^ shew that they pass through the
intersections of the axis and the directrices.
7. Find the points on the ellipse such that the tangents there
are equally inclined to the axes. Prove also that the length of the
perpendicular from the centre on either of these tangents is
x/' 2 '
. .
8. In an ellipse, referred to its centre, the length of the sub-

tangent corresponding to the point (3, V) is -V-; prove that the
eccentricity is f
Prove that the sum of the squares of the perpendiculars on

9.
any tangent from two points on the minor axis, each distant jja?' - fe^
from the centre, is â?-.
10. Find the equations to the normals at the ends of the latera
recta, and prove that each passes through an end of the minor axis if
e4 + e2 = l.
11. If any ordinate MP meet the tangent at .L in Q, prove that
MQ and SP are equal.
12. Two
tangents to the ellipse intersect at right angles; prove
that the sum of the squares of the chords which the auxiliary circle
intercepts on them is constant, and equal to the square on the line
joining the foci.
13. If P be a point on the ellipse, whose ordinate is y', prove

that the angle between the tangent at P and the focal distance of P
is tan~i —
aey
;
14. Shew that the angle between the tangents to the ellipse
—
a^
\.^ =
Ir
'\.
and the circle x~ + y'^ = ab at their points of intersection is
a— b
tan~^ ~7=? .
y/ab
15. A circle, of radius r, is concentric with the ellipse ; prove

that the common tangent is inclined to the major axis at an angle
tan~i X I —, H and find its length,
16. Prove that the common tangent of the ellipses

a;2 y'^ _'ix T x^ y^ 2x _
a^ b^ c />- a'^ c
subtends a right angle at the origin.

17. Prove that PG.Pg = SP. ST, and CG.CT= CS^.
18. The tangent at meets the axes in T and t, and CY is the
P
perpendicular on it from the centre; prove that (1) Tt PY=a--b'^, .
and (2) the least value oiTtisa + b.

Prove that the perpendicular from the focus upon any tangent
19.
and the line joining the centre to the point of contact meet on the
corresponding directrix.
20. Prove that the straight lines, joining each focus to the foot of
the perpendicular from the other focus upon the tangent at any
point P, meet on the normal at P and bisect it.
XXXIIIJ TANGENTS AND NOKMALS. EXAMPLES. 247
21. Prove that the circle on any focal distance as diameter touches
the auxiliary circle.
22. Find the tangent of the angle between CP and the normal at
P, and prove that its greatest value is ^ , .
2a6
23. Prove that the straight line lx + my=n is a normal to the

a^ b'~ (a^ - 6^)2
fillipse, if
i2 + —2 = 9- •
24. Find the locus of the point of intersection of the two straight
lines - - l+ = t and -
a
+ ^ - 1 = 0.
a
Prove also that they meet at the point whose eccentric angle is
2tan-ii.
25. Prove that the locus of the middle points of the portions of
tangents included between the axes is the curve
26. Any ordinate NP of an ellipse meets the auxiliary circle in

Q ;
prove that the locus of the intersection of the normals at P and
Q is the circle x^ + y^ = {a + h) ^.
27. The normal at P meets the axes in G and g ; shew that the
loci of the middle points of PG and Gg are respectively the ellipses
4^.2 4^,2
+ |- = 1, anda%2 + 62^2^|(,,2_62)2.
^2(1^,2)2
28. Prove that the locus of the feet of the perpendicular drawn
from the centre upon any tangent to the ellipse is
r2 = a2 cos2 ^ + &2 sin2 e. [ Use Art. 264.]
29. If a number
of ellipses be described, having the same major
axis, but a variable minor
axis, prove that the tangents at the ends of
their latera recta pass through one or other of two fixed points.
30. The normal GP is produced to Q, so that GQ = n. GP.
Prove that the locus of Q is the ellipse -rn » jtck + -ô = 1.

a^{n + e^-ne^y n%^
31. If the straight line y = mx + c meet the ellipse, prove that the
equation to the circle, described on the line joining the points of
intersection as diameter, is
(a2m2 + 62) (a;2 + y2) + 2ma^cx - 2b'^cij + c^ {a^ + 62) - a262 (1 + wF) = 0.
32. PM and PN are perpendiculars upon the axes from any point
P on the ellipse. Prove that MN is always normal to a fixed
concentric ellipse.
248 COORDINATE GEOMETRY. [EXS. XXXIII.]
33. Prove that the sum of the eccentric angles of the extremities
of a chord, which is drawn in a given direction, is constant, and
equal to twice the eccentric angle of the point at which the tangent is
parallel to the given direction.
34. A tangent to the ellipse ~2 + fa — -^ meets the ellipse
in the points P and Q; prove that the tangents at P and Q are at

right angles.
272. To prove that through any given point (cci, 3/1)

there pass, in general, two tangents to an ellipse.
The equation to any tangent is (by Art. 263)
y = mx + sja^m^ + b^ (1).
If this pass through the fixed point (x-^^, y-^, we have

2/1
— mcci = sjo^m? + IP-,
i.e. y^ — Imx-^y^ + w^x^ — c^w? + IP",

i.e. m^{x^-a^)-'imXjy^+{y{--¥)^Q (2).
For any given values of x^ and y^ this equation is in

general a quadratic equation and gives two values of m
(real or imaginary).
Corresponding to each value of m we have, by sub-

stituting in (1), a different tangent.
The roots of (2) are real and different, if
(- 2x^y^y - 4 — a^) {y^ - If) be positive,

(a?!^
i. e. if IPx^ + a^y^ — a^lP be positive,
X 11
+^ -
"
i.e. ii ^
a^ 0^
1 be positive,
i.e. if the point {x^, y-^ be outside the curve.

The roots are equal, if
h-x^^ + a'^y^^ - a-62

be zero, i.e. if the point {x^, y-^ lie on the curve.
.
and hence the required locus is
Ex. 3. Chords of the ellipse —2 + ^2 — ' ^^^'"^^/s touch the concentric
and coaxal ellipse -k + ^ = 1; fend the locus of their poles.

Any tangent to the second ellipse is
yz=mx+ ^Ja^m^ + p^ (1).
Let the tangents at the points where it meets the first ellipse meet
in (h, k). Then (1) must be the same as the polar of {h, k) with
respect to the first ellipse, i.e. it is the same as
a^^b''
^~" ^''^•
Since (1) and (2) coincide, we have
'h~ k~ Ti
Hence m=--^T, and fja^m^ + jS^ == -

a^ k
Eliminating m, we have
a4/c2
+P -/^2'
i.e. the point {h, k) lies on the ellipse
^2 1)2
i.e. on a concentric and coaxal ellipse whose semi-axes are — and —
a p
respectively.
EXAMPLES. XXXV.
The tangents drawn from a point P to the ellipse make angles 61
and $2 with the major axis find the locus of P when ;
1. ^1 + ^2 i^ constant (=:2a). [Compare Ex. 1, Art. 235.]
2. tan î + tan 62 is constant ( = c).

3. tan ^1 - tan d^ is constant ( = d!).
4. tan^ d-i + tan^ ô is constant ( = X).
.
[EXS. XXXV.] THE ELLIPSE. EXAMPLES. 269
Find the locus of the intersection of tangents

5. which meet at a given angle a.
6. if the sum of the eccentric angles of their points of contact

be equal to a constant angle 2a.
7. if the difference of these eccentric angles be 120°.
8. if the lines joining the points of contact to the centre be
perpendicular.
9. if the sum of the ordinates of the points of contact be equal to h.
Find the locus of the midSle points of chords of an ellipse

10. whose distance from the centre is the constant length c.
11. which subtend a right angle at the centre.

12. which pass through the given point (/i, Tc).
13. whose length is constant ( = 2c).

14. whose poles are on the auxiliary circle.
15. the tangents at the ends of which intersect at right angles.
16. Prove that the locus of the intersection of normals at the
ends of conjugate diameters is the curve
2 {a?x^ + hhff= {o? - b^ {a^^^ - b^yT-
17. Prove that the locus of the intersection of normals at the ends
of chords, parallel to the tangent at the point whose eccentric angle is
a, is the conic
2 [ax sin a + by cos a) {ax cos a + by sin a) = (a^ - &2)2 g^j^ 2a cos^ 2a.
If the chords be parallel to an equiconjugate diameter, the locus
is a diameter perpendicular to the other equiconjugate.
18. A parallelogram circumscribes the ellipse and two of its

opposite angular points lie on the straight lines x'^ = h^; prove that
the locus of the other two is the conic
^2 y2
(-.:)-
19. Circles of constant radius c are drawn to pass through the
ends of a variable diameter of the ellipse. Prove that the locus of
their centres is the curve
{x^ + y"^) [a^x^ + b^y^ + a%^) = <? {o?x^ + b^y'^)
20. The polar of a point P with respect to an ellipse touches a

fixed circle, whose centre is on the major axis and which passes
through the centre of the ellipse. Shew that the locus of P is a
parabola, whose latus rectum is a third proportional to the diameter
of the circle and the latus rectum of the ellipse.
21. Prove that the locus of the pole, with respect to the ellipse, of
X
^ v^ 1
any tangent to the auxiliary circle is the curve -4 + n = -^ •
—
270 COORDINATE GEOMETRY. [EXS. XXXV.]
22. Shew that the locus of the pole, with respect to the auxiliary
circle, of a tangent to the ellipse is a similar concentric ellipse,
whose major axis is at right angles to that of the original ellipse.
23. Chords of the ellipse touch the parabola ay^= -2b^x; prove
that the locus of their poles is the parabola ay^ = 2b^x.
24. Prove that the sum

the angles that the four normals
of
drawn from any point make with the axis is equal to
to an ellipse
the sum of the angles that the two tangents from the same point
make with the axis.
[Use the equation of Art. 268.]
25. Triangles are formed by pairs of tangents drawn from any
point on the ellipse
2 2
a2a;2 + hY = {a^ + ^^f to the ellipse -g + p = 1,
and their chord of contact. Prove that the orthocentre of each such
triangle lies on the ellipse.
26. An through a right angle in its own plane

ellipse is rotated
about its centre, which
; prove that the locus of the point of
is fixed
intersection of a tangent to the ellipse in its original position with
the tangent at the same point of the curve in its new position is
(a;2 + 2/2) (a;2 + 1,2 _ ^2 _ ^2) ^ 2 {a^ - b^) xy.
27. If y and Z be the feet of the perpendiculars from the foci
upon the tangent at any point P of an ellipse, prove that the tangents
at Y and Z to the auxiliary circle meet on the ordinate of P and that
the locus of their point of intersection is another ellipse.
28. Prove that the directrices of the two parabolas that can be
drawn to have their foci at any given point of the ellipse and to P
pass through its foci meet at an angle which is equal to twice the
eccentric angle of P.
29. Chords at right angles are drawn through any point P of the
and the line joining their extremities meets the normal in the
ellipse,
point Q. Prove that Q is the same for all such chords, its
,. , ,
coordinates being
aê2cosa
.
^ ——
,
717- and
-a2&e2sina
5 z^ — .
Prove also that the major axis is the bisector of the angle PGQ,
and that the locus of Q for different positions of P is the ellipse
a;2 y^ _ '
\^^+by
EXAMPLES. XXXVI.
Find the equation to the hyperbola, referred to its axes as axes of
coordinates,
1. whose transverse and conjugate axes are respectively 3 and 4,
2. whose conjugate axis is 5 and the distance between whose foci

is 13^
3. whose transverse axis is 7 and which passes through the point

(3, -2),
4. the distance between whose foci is 16 and whose eccentricity
is^/2.
5. In the hyperbola 4a;2- 9i/^ = 36, find the axes, the coordinates
of the foci, the eccentricity, and the latus rectum.
6. Find the equation to the hyperbola of given transverse axis

whose vertex bisects the distance between the centre and the focus.
7. Find the equation to the hyperbola, whose eccentricity is |,
whose focus is {a, 0), and whose directrix is 4:X-dy = a.
Find also the coordinates of the centre and the equation to the
other directrix.
8. Find the points common to the hyperbola 25a;2- 9^/^=225

and the straight line 25a; + 12?/ -45 = 0.
9. Find the equation of the tangent to the hyperbola 4x'^ - 9y^=l
which is parallel to the line 4oy 5x + l. =
10. Prove that a circle can be drawn through the foci of a
hyperbola and the points in which any tangent meets the tangents at
the vertices.
11. An ellipse and a hyperbola have the same principal axes.

Shew that the polar of any point on either curve with respect to the
other touches the first curve.
12. In both an ellipse and a hyperbola, prove that the focal

distance of any point and the perpendicular from the centre upon the
tangent at it meet on a circle whose centre is the focus and whose
radius is the semi-transverse axis.
13
^^' Prove that the straight
° lines —
CC
ah = m
U
j- and -
5/
a
'?/
+^=m
-
1
always
meet on the hyperbola.

14. Find the equation to, and the length of, the common tangent
to the two hyperbolas -^ - p = l and —^- t^=1-
15. In the hyperbola 16^2-9^2 -144^ find the equation to the

diameter which is conjugate to the diameter whose equation is x=2,y.
[EXS. XXXVI.] THE HYPERBOLA. EXAMPLES. 283
16. Find the equation to the chord of the hyperbola

25a;2-16t/2=400
which is bisected at the point (5, 3).
17. In a rectangular hyperbola, prove that

SF.S'P=GF^.
18. the distance of any point from the centre varies inversely as
the perpendicular from the centre upon its polar.
19. if the normal at P meet the axes in G and g, then PG=Pg=PC.
20. angle subtended by any chord at the centre is the
*lie
supplement of the angle between the tangents at the ends of the
chord.
21. the angles subtended at its vertices by any chord which is
parallel to its conjugate axis are supplementary.
22. The normal to the hyperbola —, ~ ^=1 meets the axes in M

and N, and perpendiculars and MP NP are drawn to the axes ;
prove
that the locus of P is the hyperbola
23. If oiie axis of a varying central conic be fixed in magnitude

and position, prove that the locus of the point of contact of a tangent
drawn to it from a fixed point on the other axis is a parabola.
24. If the ordinate MP of a hyperbola be produced to Q, so that
MQ is equal to either of the focal distances of P, prove that the locus
of Q is one or other of a pair of parallel straight lines.
25. Shew that the locus of the centre of a circle which touches
externally two given circles is a hyperbola.
26. On a level plain the crack of the rifle and the thud of the ball
striking the target are heard at the same instant; prove that the
locus of the hearer is a hyperbola.
27. Given the base of a triangle and the ratio of the tangents of
half the base angles, prove that the vertex moves on a hyperbola
whose foci are the extremities of the base.
28. Prove that the locus of the poles of normal chords with
respect to the hyperbola —, - '^ =1 is the curve

a^ b^
yâ^ - x%^ = (a2 + 62)2 3.2^2,
29. Find the locus of the pole of a chord of the hyperbola which
subtends a right angle at (1) the centre, (2) the vertex, and (3) the
focus of the curve.
30. Shew that the

locus of poles with respect to the parabola
y^=âx of tangents to the hyperbola x^-y^=a^ is the ellipse
4a;2 + 2/2=4a2.
284 COORDINATE GEOMETRY. [EXS. XXXVI.l
31. Prove that the locus of the pole with respect to the hyperbola
—„ =\ of any tangent to the circle, whose diameter is the line
a?- W-
3j 11 1
ng the foci, is the ellipse —4 + ri =
a^ ¥ a^+b^
32. Prove that the locus of the intersection of tangents to a

hyperbola, which meet at a constant angle /3, is the curve
33. From points on the circle x^ + y^=a^ tangents are drawn to

the hyperbola x^ - y'^=a^; prove that -the locus of the middle points of
the chords of contact is the curve
(a;2 - 1/2)2 _ ^2 ^^2 ^ y2j_
34. Chords of a hyperbola are drawn, all passing through the

fixed point {h, 1c) ;
prove that the locus of their middle points is a
hyperbola whose centre is the point (

^ ,
- , and which is similar to
J
either the hyperbola or its conjugate.
Asymptote. Def. An asymptote is a straight

312.
line,which meets the conic in two points both of which are
situated at an infinite distance, but which is itself not alto-
gether at infinity.
313. To find the asymptotes of the hyperbola
As in Art. 260, the straight line
y = 7nx + c (1)
meets the hyperbola in points, whose abscissae are given by

the equation
x" {¥ - a'Tiv')- 2a^mcx - a^ (c^ + 6^) =Q (2).
If the straight line (1) be an asymptote, both roots of (2)

must be infinite.
Hence (C. Smith's Algebra, Art. 123), the coefiicients of

x^ and X in it must both be zero.
We therefcwre have
h^ — a^jn^ = 0, and a^mc — 0.
THE HYPERBOLA. EXAMPLES. 295
The constant could be easily determined in terms of the semi-

transverse and semi-conjugate axes.
In Art. 328 we shall obtain this equation by direct transformation

from the equation referred to the principal axes.
EXAMPLES. XXXVII.
1. Through the positive vertex of the hyperbola a tangent is

drawn; where does it meet the conjugate hyperbola?
2. lie and e' be the eccentricities of a hyperbola and its conjugate,
prove that _ + _=!.
3. Prove that chords of a hyperbola, which touch the conjugate

hyperbola, are bisected at the point of contact.
4. Shew that the chord, which joins the points in which a pair of
conjugate diameters meets the hyperbola and its conjugate, is parallel
to one asymptote and is bisected by the other.
5. Tangents are drawn to a hyperbola from any point on one of

the branches of the conjugate hyperbola; shew that their chord of
contact will touch the other branch of the conjugate hyperbola.
6. A straight line is drawn parallel to the conjugate axis of a

hyperbola to meet it and the conjugate hyperbola in the points P and
Q shew that the tangents at P and Q meet on the curve
;
6^'
,
296 COORDINATE GEOMETRY. [ExS. XXXVII.]
11. C is the centre of the hyperbola -3 - t2 = 1 and the tangent at
any point P meets the asymptotes

in the points Q and R. Prove that
the equation to the locus of the centre of the circle circumscribing
the triangle CQB is 4 {a^x^ - b^) (a^ + b^f. =
12. A series of hyperbolas is drawn having a common transverse
axis of length 2a. Prove that the locus of a point on each hyper- P
bola, such that its distance from the transverse axis is equal to its
distance from an asymptote, is the curve {x^-y^)'^=4:X^{x^-a^).
328. To jind the equation to a hyperbola referred to its

asymptotes.
Let P be any point on the hyperbola, whose equation

referred to its axes is
,2 '" ^ .(1).
a" 52
Draw PH parallel to one asymptote CL to meet the

other CK' in ZT, and let CH and HP
be h and k respec-
tively. Then h and k are the coordinates of P referred to
the asymptotes.
Let a be the semi-angle between the asymptotes, so that,
by Art. 313, tan a = —
sm a cos a 1
and hence , ,
Draw I{]V perpendicular to the transverse axis, and IIP

parallel to the transverse axis, to meet the ordinate of PM
the point P in P.

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Find the distances between the following pairs of points.

1. (2, 3) and (5, 7). 2. (4, -7) and (-1, 5).

4. (a, o) and (o, 6). 5. {b + c, c + a) and {c + a, a + b).

7. {am^^, 2ami) and (am^^ 2am^.

9. Find the value of x^ if the distance between the points [x^^, 2)

Find the coordinates of the point which

16. divides the same line in the ratio 3 : - 4.

17. divides, internally and externally, the line joining ( - 1, 2)

[EXS. I.] EXAMPLES. 15

18. divides, internally and externally, the line joining ( - 3, - 4)

19. The line joining the points (1, - 2) and ( - 3, 4) is trisected

20. The line joining the points ( - 6, 8) and (8, - 6) is divided

rind the coordinates of the points which divide, internally

22. The coordinates of the vertices of a triangle are [x-^, 2/i)»

coordinates of the latter point of section.

23. Prove that the coordinates, x and y, of the middle point of

27. Prove that a point can be found which is at the same

29. The above formula may also be obtained by

(^IJ 2/1/5 V^2) 2/2/3 (^35 2/3)? •••(.'^)i3 2/ra/

is i [(a?i2/2 - a?22/i) + (^22/3 - ^32/2) + • • • + (^n2/i - a'l^/ri)]-

Find the areas of the triangles the coordinates of whose angular

7. (a7?ij2^ 2a7?i;^), [arn^^ lam^ and [am^, 2avi^.

8. {awiimg, a(??ii + ??i2)}, {aWaWg, a (7?i2 + %)} ^-^cl

12. («. b + c), (6, c + a), and (c, a + b).

[EXS. II.] POLAR COORDINATES. 19

Find the areas of the quadrilaterals the coordinates of whose

15. If be the origin, and if the coordinates of any two points

30. Polar Coordinates. There is another method,

The angle XOP

The radius vector is positive if it be measured from the

measured in the opposite direction it is negative.

By taking a number of solutions, as in Arts. 39 —41, sketch

1. 2x + dy = l0. 2. ^x-y = l. 3. x'^-2ax-Vy'^ = Q.

4. a;2-4aa; + ?/2 + 3a2 = 0. 5. y'^ = x. 6. ^x = y^-^.

A and B being the fixed points (a, 0) and ( - a, 0) respectively,

15. {a + b, a-h) and {a-b, a + b).

Similarly, in Art. 50, the quantities a and h are the

65. In any equation to a locus the quantities x and y,

Find the equation to the straight line

3. cutting off an intercept 2 from the negative direction of the

4. cutting off an intercept - 3 from the axis of y and inclined at

Find the equation to the straight line

5. cutting off intercepts 3 and 2 from the axes.

9. Find the equation to the straight line which passes through

Trace the straight lines whose equations are

19. (a, &) and {a + h, a-h).

23. (acos0jLJ & sin 0j) and (acos02> ^sin^g)*

Find the equations to the sides of the triangles the coordinates of

Angles between straight lines.

66. To find the angle between two given straight lines.

I. Let their equations be

By Art. 47 we therefore have

tan L^AL^ — tan \AL^X — AL^X\

On substituting these values in (1) and (2), we have as

2. ic-4?/ = 3 and ^x-y = ll. 3. 2/ = 3a3 + 7 and 3?/-a; = 8.

4. = (2-V3)a: + 5 and 2/= (2 + ^/3) a;- 7.

5. {m'^-mn)y = (inn^-n^)x + n^ and (?n7H- m^) y = (??i?i - w'^) a; + m^