1 [Type text]

Parabola
IIT - JEE Syllabus

Conic Section (Parabola)

DEFINITION
A parabola is the locus of a point which moves Z y
P
in a plane so that its distance from a fixed point M L
(called focus) is equal to its distance from a
fixed straight line (called directrix).
The parabola shown has the equation x
K A S (a, 0)
y2 = 4ax. For this parabola
(i) Vertex A is (0, 0)
(ii) Focus S is (a, 0) L
(iii) Equation of directrix ZZ is x = − a
Z
(iv) Equation of the axis AX is y = 0

FOCAL DISTANCE
The distance of a point on the parabola from the focus is called the focal distance
of the point. Focal distance = PS. Focal distance of any point (x1, y1) on y2 = 4ax is given by
x1 + a.

FOCAL CHORD
A chord of a parabola which passes through the focus is called a focal chord.

LATUS RECTUM
The latus rectum of a parabola is the focal chord perpendicular to the axis.
In the fig. LL is the latus rectum. The coordinates of the ends are L  (a, 2a) and
L  (a, −2a).
Length of latus rectum LL is = 4a.
Equation of latus rectum is x = a
Note: Parabolas are said to be equal, if their latus – recta are equal, because then the distance
between focus and directrix becomes fixed.
 FS2K9-MA-2

EQUATION OF PARABOLA IN STANDARD FORM Y Y

L L Y
Z Y
Z Z Z
A
L S L X

Shape A S
X S
A
X

L L
X S
A

Z L L Z Z Z

Equation y2 = 4ax y2 = − 4ax x2 = 4ay x2 = −4ay

Focus (a, 0) (−a, 0) (0, a) (0, −a)
Vertex (0, 0) (0, 0) (0, 0) (0, 0)
Directrix x+a=0 x−a=0 y+a=0 y−a=0
Axis y=0 y=0 x=0 x=0
Length of Latus Rectum 4a 4a 4a 4a
Equation of Latus x−a=0 x+a=0 y−a=0 y+a=0
Rectum

GENERAL EQUATION
ax2+2hxy + by2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 represents a parabola if
abc + 2fgh − af2−bg2 − ch2  0 and h2 = ab.

PARAMETRIC FORM
Parametric form of the parabola y2 = 4ax is x = at2, y = 2at, t  R..
 parametric coordinates of any point are (at2, 2at).

POSITION OF A POINT w.r.t. A PARABOLA

A point P(x1, y1) lies inside, on or outside the parabola y2 = 4ax according as
y12 − 4ax1 i.e., S1 <, = or > 0.

EQUATION OF TANGENT
Let S  y2 − 4ax = 0 be a parabola. Then equation of the tangent to the parabola S = 0

(i) at the point P(x1, y1) is T  yy1 − 2a(x + x1) = 0.

(ii) at the point (at2, 2at) is ty = x + at2.

a  a 2a 
(iii) in slope form is y = mx + . Its point of contact is  2 ,  .
m m m 

(iv) The line y = mx + c is tangent to the parabola S  y2 − 4ax = 0 if c = a/m.

(v) If the line y = mx + c intersects the parabola y2 = 4ax, then

the length of the chord intercepted = 1 + m 2 |x2 − x1|
where x1 and x2 are the abscissa of the points of intersection and are the roots of the
equation m2x2 + 2x(mc − 2a) + c2 = 0.
 FS2K9-MA -3

EQUATION OF NORMAL
(i) Equation of normal to the parabola y2 = 4ax at the point (x1, y1) is
y
y − y1 = − 1 (x − x1)
2a
(ii) Equation of normal to the parabola y2 = 4ax in the slope form is
y = mx − 2am − am3
Its foot is given by (am2, −2am)
(iii) Through given point, in general, three normals, can be drawn to a parabola.
(iv) Sum of the slopes of the normals drawn from a given point to a parabola is zero.
(v) Sum of the ordinates of the feet of normals drawn form a given point to a parabola is 0.
(vi) Equation of normal to the parabola y2 = 4ax drawn at (at2, 2at) is
y = −tx + 2at + at3

NUMBER OF NORMALS
Consider the parabola having equation y2 = 4ax. Its normal of slope m is given by
y = mx – 2am – am3. If this normal passes through a point P(h, k), then
am3 + (2a – h) m + k = 0. (A)
Now (A) being a cubic in m has three roots. Hence from a given point P three normals can
be drawn in general (real or imaginary, depending on the choice of P). Since (A) is a cubic,
it has at least one real root and hence at least one real normal. Moreover if three normals are
real having slopes m1, m2 and m3 (roots of (A)), then m1 + m2 + m3 = 0. The points A, B and
( )(
C, where drawn normals are concurrent at P, have coordinates am12 ,−2am1 , am22 ,−2am2 )
( )
and am , − 2am3 and are called conomral points. Note that sum of y–coordinates of
2
3

conormal points is zero. Now let us find the condition on P for (i) three distinct normals (ii)
three normals of which two are coincident (iii) three coincident normals and (iv) only one
real normal.
Let f(m) = am3 + (2a – h) m + k.
h − 2a
 f(m) = 3am2 + 2a – h = 0 for m =  =   (say)
3a
Now 27 ay2 = 4 (x – 2a)3
y
(i) Will occur, if  non–zero real and (iv)
(i)
y2 = 4 ax
f() f(– ) < 0 i.e., 27ak2 < 4 (h – 2a)3.
(ii) Will occur, if  is non–zero real and
(iv) (iv) (i)
f().f(–) = 0 i.e., 27ak2 = 4(h – 2a)3.
(iii) Will occur , if  = 0 and f() = f(0) = 0 i.e., A
x
O (2a, a)
h = 2a, k = 0 and (iv)
(i)
(iv) Will occur, if any one of the above condition is (iv)
not satisfied i.e., 27 ak2 > 4 (h – 2a)3.
Figure has shown the regions of point P for cases (iv)
(i)
(i), (ii), (iii), and (v)
For case (ii) the points P lies on the curve 27ay2 = 4 (x – 2a)3 and for case (iii) there is only
one point A.
 FS2K9-MA-4

PROPERTIES OF A PARABOLA
PT is tangent to the parabola, PN is normal to this y
parabola and PM ⊥ to the directrix. Then
(i) PT bisects the SPM i.e. SPT = TPM,
M P
(ii) PS = TS = SN, SPT = STP
NPS = SNP, NSP = 2STP Q

(iii) Tangents at the extremities of a focal chord are x

T A S N
perpendicular to each other and intersect at a
point on the directrix.
(iv) Foot of perpendicular drawn from the focus to
any tangent to a parabola always lie on the
tangent to the parabola at its vertex.
(v) QSP = 1rt. Angle.

(vi) If t1 and t2 are the extremities of a focal chord, then t1t2 = −1.

(vii) If the normal at the point P(at12, 2at1) of the parabola

2
y2 = 4ax meets the parabola again at the point Q(at22,2at2), then t2= −t1 − .
t1

(viii) If the normals at t1 and t2 intersect at a point of the parabola, then t1t2 = 2.

CHORD OF CONTACT
Equation of the chord of contact of the point (x1, y1) w.r.t. the parabola
S  y2 − 4ax = 0 is T  yy1 − 2a(x + x1) = 0

EQUATION OF CHORD IN MID-POINT FORM

Equation of the chord with (x1, y1) as its mid-point is
T = S1 i.e yy1 − 2a (x + x1) = y12 − 4ax1

POINTS OF INTERSECTION OF TWO TANGENTS

The tangents to the parabola S  y2 − 4ax = 0 drawn at the points (at12, 2at1) and
(at22, 2at2) intersect at the point (at1t2, a(t1 + t2)).

Illustration 1
Consider a circle with centre lying at the focus of the parabola y2 = 2px such that it touches
the directrix of the parabola. Find the points of intersects of the circle and the parabola.

Solution
Focus of the parabola is (p/2, 0)
Equation of directrix is x + p/2 = 0
 Centre of the circle is (p/2, 0)
radius of the circle is the perpendicular distance of C from the directrix
i.e. radius = |p/2 + p/2| = |p|
 FS2K9-MA -5

equation of the circle is

(x −p/2)2 + (y − 0)2 = p2
3 p2
i.e. x + y − px −
2 2 =0 (1)
4
x−coordinates of the points of intersection of the circle and the parabola are given by
3p2
x + 2px − px −
2 =0
4
3p2
i.e. x2 + px − =0
4
− p p2 + 3p2 − p  2p p
x= = =
2 2 2
2
On putting the value of x in y = 2px, we gets
y=p
Hence the points are (p/2, −p) and (p/2, p).

Illustration 2
Show that the locus of the point that divides a chord of slope 2 of the parabola
y2 = 4x internally in the ratio 1:2 is a parabola.

Solution
2t 2 − 2t 1
Let A(t12, 2t1) and B(t22, 2t2) be the extremeties of a chord of slope 2. Then = 2 i.e
t 22 − t 12
t1 + t2 = 1 (1)
and the point which divides AB in the ratio 1:2 are given by

x=
t22 + 2t12
=
(1 − t1 ) + 2t12
2
=
1 − 2t1 + 3t12
(2)
3 3 3
2t + 4t1 2(1 − t1 ) + 4t1 2 + 2t1
y= 2 = = (3)
3 3 3
Now locus of (x, y) is obtained on eliminating t1 from (2) & (3)
 3y − 2 
2

i.e. 3x = 1 − 1(3y − 2) + 3  
 2 
12x = 4 − 12y + 8 + 27y2 −36y + 12
i.e. 12x = 27y2 −48y + 24 which is a parabola. (varify h2 − ab = 0 and   0)

Illustration 3
a2
Common tangents are drawn to the circle + =x2 y2 and the parabola y2 = 4ax. Let these
2
common tangents intersect at the point A. Find the area of the quadrilateral formed by the
common tangents and the chord of contact of the point A w.r.t the circle and the parabola.
 FS2K9-MA-6

Solution
Any tangent to the parabola y2 = 4ax (1)
is y = mx + a/m
2 2 a2
It is tangent to the circle x + y = (2)
2
a2
also if the equation x2 + (mx + a/m)2 =
2
has two equal roots.
P R
a2 a2
i.e. (1 + m )x + 2ax + 2 −
2 2 = 0 has A(-a, 0) L M
m 2
equal root
Q
 a2 a2  S
i.e. 4a − 4(1 + m )  2 −  = 0
2 2

m 2 
 1 1
i.e. 1 − (1 + m2)  2 −  = 0
m 2
m=1 (rejected m2 = −2)
 the equation of the common tangents are
y = −x −a and y = x + a
these common tangents intersects at ( −a, 0)
a2 a
chord of contact of (−a, 0) w.r.t the circle x2 + y2 = is x = −
2 2
and chord of contact of (−a, 0) w.r.t the parabola y = 4ax is x = a.
2

a2
Let the chord of contact x = −a/2 intersects the circle x2 + y2 = in P and Q. Then
2
 a a  a a
coordinates of P and Q are P − ,  and Q  − ,− 
 2 2  2 2
 PQ = a
Let the chord of contact x = a intersects the parabola y2 = 4ax in R and S. Then coordinates
of the point R and S
R (a, 2a) and S(a, −2a)
Area of Quadrilateral PQRS
= area of ARS − area of APQ
−a 0 1 −a 0 1
1 1
= a − 2a 1 − − a / 2 − a / 2 1
2 2
a 2a 1 −a/2 a/2 1
15 a 2
=
4
Alternative Method
Let AM be ⊥ to RS intersects PQ in L.
Then AM = 2a and AL = a/2
 LM = 3a/2
 FS2K9-MA -7

1
 area of Trap PQRS = (PQ + RS)LM
2
1 3a 15 a 2
=  (a + 4a). =
2 2 4

Illustration 4
Perpendicular chords OP and OQ are drawn through the vertex O of the parabola y2 = 4ax.
Prove that for all positions of P, PQ intersects the axis at a fixed point. Find also the locus
of the middle points of PQ.

Solution
Let P be(at2, 2at)
2 at 2
Slope of OP = =
at 2 t
t
Slope of OQ = −
2
Equation of OQ is
t
y =− x
2
 2y = −tx (1)
Solving (1) and equation of parabola
 16 a 8 a 
y2 = 4ax, Q =  2 ,− 
 t t 
Equation of PQ is
− 8a
− 2 at
y − 2at = t (x − at2)
16 a
− at 2

t2
This meets axis of the parabola at R for which (y = 0)
− 8 at − 2at 3 4 + t2
 0 − 2at = (x − at ) 1= (x − at2)
( )( )
2
16 a − at 4 a 4 + t2 4 − t2
 4a − at2 = x − at2
 x = 4a
Thus R = (4a, 0) which being independent of t, is a fixed point. Let M(h, k) be the mid point
of PQ then
1  16 a  a  16 
h = at 2 + 2  =  t 2 + 2 
2  t  2 t 
1  8a   4
k = − + 2 at  = a t − 
2  t   t
 16   2h 
k2 = a2  t 2 + 2 − 8  = a2  − 8  = 2a(h − 4a)
 t   a 
The locus of (h, k) is
y2 = 2a(x − 4a)
 FS2K9-MA-8

Illustration 5
3 1/3 1/3
If a2/3 + b2/3 = .a b . Then prove that the angle of intersection of the parabolas
2

y2 = 4ax and x2 = 4by at a point other than the origin is .
3

Solution
Angle between the two curves is equal to the angle between the tangents at their common
point. Solving the two we find the points of inter-section as (0, 0) and (4a1/3b2/3, 4a2/3b1/3)
Slope of tangent to the parabola y2 = 4ax at the point (4a1/3b2/3, 4a2/3b1/3)
2a 1 a1 / 3
is m1 = =
4a 2 / 3b1 / 3 2 b1 / 3
Equation of tangent to the parabola
x2 = 4by at (4a1/3b2/3, 4a2/3b1/3) is 4a1/3b1/3x = 2b(y + 4a2/3b1/3)
2a 1 / 3
Its slope m2 = 1 / 3
b
 The angle  between the tangents is given by
a1 / 3  1
1/ 3 
2− 
 m − m1  b  2
tan =  2  =
 1 + m1m2   a 
2/3
 1 + 2 / 3 
 b 
3a 1 / 3 b 1 / 3 3a 1 / 3 b 1 / 3
=
(
2 a2 / 3 + b2 / 3 ) =
(
3 a1 / 3 + b1 / 3 )
(Using given condition)

= 3   = /3

Illustration 6
The tangents at P and Q to y2 = 4ax meet in T and the corresponding normals meet in R. If
the locus of T is a straight line parallel to the axis of the parabola prove that the locus of R
is a straight line normal to the parabola.

Solution
Let points P and Q be (at12, 2at1) and (at22, 2at2) respectively.
Equation of tangent at P is
t1y = x + at12 …(1)
and equation of tangent at Q is
t2y = x + at22 …(2)
Subtracting, y = a(t1 + t2) and then x = at1t2
Thus point of intersection T of (1) and (2) is [at1t2, a(t1 + t2)].
Again, equation of normal at P is
t1x + y = 2at1 + at13 …(3)
and equation of normal at Q is
t2x + y = 2at2 + at23 …(4)
Subtracting (4) and (3),
(t1 − t2)x = 2a(t1 − t2) + a(t13 − t23)
 FS2K9-MA -9

 x = 2a + a(t12 + t22 + t1t2)

Putting this in (3)
2at1 + at13 + at1t22 + at12t2 + y = 2at1 + at13
 y = −at1t2(t1 + t2)
Thus point R is [2a + a(t12 + t22 + t1t2), − at1t2(t1 + t2)]
Given that point T lies on a straight line parallel to the axis say y = 

 a(t1 + t2) =   t1 + t2 = = m(say).
a
Now 2a + a(t12 + t22 + t1t2)
2a + a{(t1 + t2)2 − t1t2} = 2a + a(m2 − t1t2) = h
and −at1t2(t1 + t2) = k
 locus of R is obtained on eliminating t1 and t2 among
x = 2a + a(m2 − t1t2) and y = −amt1t2
 y  2 am + am 3 + y
 The locus is x = 2a + a  m 2 + =
 am  m
i.e., y = mx −2am − am 3

which is clearly a normal to the parabola.

Illustration 7
Find the locus of the intersection of the tangents to the parabola y2 = 4ax, the angle between
them being always a given angle . Discuss the case, when  = /2.

Solution
The straight line y = mx + a/m is always a tangent to the parabola. If it passes through the
point (h, k), we have
m2h - mk + a = 0 (i)
If m1 and m2 be the roots of this equation we have
k
m1 + m2 = (ii)
h
a
and m1 m2 = (iii)
h
and equations of TP and TQ are then
y = m1x + a/m1 and y = m2x + a/m2
Hence, y
T(h, k) Q
k 2 4a 
−
m1 − m2 h 2
h = k − 4ah
2
tan  = =
1 + m1m2 1 + a/h a+h x

or, (a + h)2 tan2 = (k2 - 4ah). Therefore, required

locus is (a + x)2 tan2 = (y2 - 4ax). P
when  =  / 2, a + x = 0.
 FS2K9-MA-10

Illustration 8
If P, Q, R be the foot of normals to the parabola y2 = 4ax that pass through the point T, then
prove that SP.SQ.SR = a.ST2

Solution
Let P(am12, −2am1) etc., then
P
SP = a + x = a + am12
 SP.SQ.SR = a3(1 + m12) (1 + m22)(1 + m32)
= a3[1 + m12 + m12m22 + m12m22m32] T(h, k)

 2a − h 
m12 = (m1)2 − 2m1m2 = 0 − 2   S
 a 
m12m22 = (m1m2)2 − 2m1m2m3m1 Q
 2a − h 
2
R
=  −0
 a 
k2
m12m22m32 = 2  SP.SQ.SR
a
  2 a − h  (2 a − h ) k 
2 2
= a3 1 − 2  + + 2
= a[a2 − 2ah + h2 + k2]
 a 
2
 a a 
= a[(h −a)2 + k2] = a.ST2
where S is (a, 0) and T is (h, k) through which pass the three normals.

Illustration 9
Show that x + y = 1 is a part of a parabola. Find the focus, directrix and latus–rectum of
this parabola.

Solution
x + y =1  y = 1 – 2 x + x (1)
 ( y − x − 1) = 4 x  x2 – 2xy + y2 – 2x – 2y + 1 = 0 (2)
2

Comparing with ax2 + 2h xy + by2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0, we get

a = 1, h = –1, b = 1, g = –1, f = –1, c = 1.
Now h = ab and  = abc + 2f gh – af2 – bg2 – ch2  0.
2

Hence (2) represents a parabola and (1) represents the part of this parabola, present in the
first quadrant, as x, y  0.
Now (2) can be re–written as
(x − y +  )2 = 2 x + 2 y − 1 + 2x − 2y + 2 ,   R (3)
Now we choose , so that the lines x – y +  = 0 and 2x + 2y – 1 + 2x – 2y + 2 = 0 are
perpendicular lines.
 2 + 2 
We have (1)  −  = −1   = 0 .
 2 − 2 
1
Thus (3) reduces to (x – y)2 = 2(x + y – ).
2
 FS2K9-MA -11

1
Now x – y = 0 is the equation of the axis of the parabola and x + y = is the equation of
2
the tangent to the parabola at the vertex.
1 1 y
Thus vertex V   ,  .
4 4
Latus rectum = 2
y=x
1 1
If F is the focus, then VF =  2 = .
4 2
 2 +1 2 +1
 F   , .

F
 4 4  V
1 D
If l is the directrix, then VD = x
2 O
l x+ y = 1/2
directrix
 2 −1 2 −1
 D   , 
 4 4 
2 −1
Thus directrix is x + y =
2

Illustration 10
From a point P on the line y = b there normals are drawn to the parabola y2 = 4ax. Show that
the orthocentre of the triangle formed by the tangents drawn at the feet of the normals is
independent of the choice of the point P.

Solution
The slope of the three normals from the y y=b
point P are given by
b = m – 2am – am3 P(, b)
am3 + (2a – )m + b = 0
(1)
Let m1, m2 and m3 be slope of these O x
three normals.
Then the feet of the normals will be
( ) (
A am12 , − 2am1 , B am22 , − 2am2 and )
C (am 2
,−2am3 )
3
y2 = 4ax
Now, the points of intersection of the tangents drawn from A, B, and C will be
R{am1 m2, –a(m1 + m2)}, S{am2m3, –a(m2 + m3)} and T{am1m3, –a(m1 + m3)}
Let (h, k) be the orthocentre of RST.
k + a(m1 + m2 )
 = m3 (as the altitude will be || to the corresponding normals).
h − am1 m2
 k + a(m1 + m2) = hm3 – am1m2m3 (2)
 FS2K9-MA-12

Similarly k + a(m2 + m3) = hm1 – am1m2m3 (3)

and k + a(m1 + m3) = hm2 – a(m1m2m3) (4)
adding (2), (3) and (4) and using (1) we get
 b
3k + 2a(0) = h(0) – 3a  − 
 a
 k=b (5)
Putting this in (2), we get
b + a(0 – m3) = hm3 + b
 h = –a
 The required orthocentre is (–a, b) which is independent of the choice of the point P
on the line y = b.
 FS2K9-MA -13

Solved Objective Problems

Example 1 If the focus of a parabola is (−2, 1) and the directrix has the equation x + y = 3, then
vertex is
(a) (0, 3) (b) (−1, 1/2)
(c) (−1, 2) (d) (2, −1)

Solution c
The vertex is middle point of focus and foot of perpendicular on x + y = 3 dropped
from (−2, 1) and foot of perpendicular is intersection point of x + y = 3 and
x −y + 3 = 0 i.e. (0, 3). So mid-point is (−1, 2).

Example 2 The focus of the 7parabola y2 − x − 2y + 2 = 0 is

(a) (5/4, 1) (b) (1/4, 0)
(c) (1, 1) (d) none of these

Solution a
(y − 1)2 = (x − 1)
Let y − 1 = Y and x − 1 = X.
1 
So parabola reduces to Y2 = X. And it's focus is  , 0 
4 
So focus with respect to original frame is (5/4, 1).

Example 3 The length of latus rectum of the parabola x = ay2 + ay + a is

(a) a/4 (b) a/3
(c) 1/a (d) 1/4a

Solution c
2
 1 3a
x=a y+  +
 2 4
2
1 3a   1
x−  = y+ 
a 4   2
1
Y2 = X
a
1
is length of latus rectum.
a

Example 4 The range of values of  for which the point (, 1) is interior to both the parabolas
y2 = x and y2 = 4(x + 4) is
15  15 
(a)  < − or  > 1 (b)  − , 1
4  4 
(c) (1, ) (d) none of these
 FS2K9-MA-14

Solution c
(, 1) lies inside if S1 < 0
1 −  < 0 & 1 − 4 − 16 < 0
So  > 1

Example 5 The set of points on the axis of the parabola y2 = 4x + 8 from which the 3 normals
to the parabola are all real and different is
(a) {(k, 0) |k  −2} (b) {(k, 0)|k > −2}
(c) {(0, k)|k > −2} (d) none of these

Solution d
The equation of the normal at (−2 + t2, 2t) is
−1 2t
y − 2t = .(x + 2− t2) or y −2t = − .(x + 2 − t2)
 dy  2
 
 dx  (− 2 + t 2 , 2t )
or tx + y = 2t −2t + t3 or tx + y = t3
It passes through (k, 0) if tk = t3.
or t(t2 − k) = 0.
It has three real values of t if k > 0. So, the set of points (k, 0) is such that k > 0.

Example 6 The tangents from the origin to the parabola y2 + 4 = 4x are inclined at
(a) /6 (b) /6
(c) /3 (d) /2

Solution d
y2 = 4(x − 1).
1
Any tangent to it is y = m(x − 1) + . It is through the origin if
m
1
0 = −m +
m
 m = 1, −1.

So, the two tangents are inclined at .
2

Example 7 The locus of the middle points of chords of the parabola y2 = 4x drawn through the
vertex is a parabola whose vertex is
(a) (0, 0) (b) (1/2, 0)
(c) (−1/2, 0) (d) (1, 0)

Solution a
Let point on parabola y2 = 4x is (t2, 2t). (h, k) be the point whose locus is to be find.
t2
h= ,k=t
2
So parabola is y2 = 2x
Vertex is (0, 0).
 FS2K9-MA -15

Example 8 If chords lx + my = 1 to the parabola y2 = 4ax make angle 90° at the origin then all
chord pass through
(a) (2a, 0) (b) (4a, 0)
(c) (0, 4a) (d) none of these

Solution b
On homoginising y2 = 4ax with chord lx + my = 1
y2 = 4ax (lx + my)
Now coeff. of x2 + coeff. of y2 = 0
1 − 4al =0
l = 1/4a
So x + 4amy = 4a.
 (x − 4a) + 4amy = 0 (L1 + L2 = 0)
which passes through (4a, 0)

Example 9 The line lx + my + n = 0 is a normal to the parabola y2 = 4ax if

(a) al(l2 + 2m2) + m2n = 0 (b) al(l2 + 2m2) = m2n
(c) al(2l2 + m2) + m2n = 0 (d) al(2l2 + m2) = 2m2n

Solution a
l n
y=− x−
m m
c = −2am − am3 (Condition for a line y = mx + c to be a normal)
n  l   l3 
− = −2a  −  − a  − 3 
m  m  m 
−m2n = +2am2l + al3

Example 10 The arithmetic mean of the ordinates of the feet of the normals from (3, 5) to the
parabola y2 = 8x is
(a) 4 (b) 0
(c) 8 (d) none of these

Solution b
The sum of the ordinates of the feet of three normals = y1 + y2 + y3 = 0
 FS2K9-MA-16

O - Level Problems
1. Find the vertex, axis, latus rectum, and focus of the parabola
(i) y2 = 4(x + y)
(ii) x2 = 2a(x − y)
2. Find the set of values of k when the point (1–k2, k) lies (i) inside (ii) outside the parabola y2
= 4x.
3. If y = 2x + c − 4 is a normal to the parabola y2 = 4x, then find the value of c.

4. Prove that the straight line x + y = 1 touches the parabola y = x − x2.

5. Write the equations of tangents and normals at the points (, ) of the parabola y2 = 12x,
where || = ||.

6. Find the equation of tangents to the parabola y2 = 9x which pass through the point (4, 10).

7. Find slope of the chord of the parabola y2 = 4x whose mid−point is (1, 1).

8. Prove that the locus of the middle points of all chords of the parabola y2 = 4ax passing
through the vertex is the parabola y2 = 2ax.

9. Tangent to the parabola y2 = 4ax makes an angle of 60° with the axis; find its point of
contact.
10. Prove that the straight line lx + my + n = 0 touches the parabola y2 = 4ax if ln = am2.
11. For a parabola y2 = 4ax if tangents at the points (x, y) and (x, y) meet at the point
(x1, y1) and normals at the same points in (x2, y2). Prove that
yy y + y
(i) x1 = and y1 =
4a 2
 2
 
y + y y + y2 y + y
(ii) x2 = 2a + and y2 = −yy
4a 8a
12. Find the length of the normals drawn from the point on the axis of the parabola y 2 = 8ax
whose distance from the focus is 8a.

13. The straight line lx + my = 1 meets the parabola y2 = 4x at the points P and Q. Find the point
R(lying on the parabola) if normals at P, Q and R are concurrent.

14. Find the vertex and the directrix of the parabola y2 - 3x - 2y + 7 = 0.

15. Prove that the chord of the parabola y2 = 4ax, whose equation is y - x 2 + 4a 2 = 0, is a
normal to the curve and that its length is 63a.
16. Find the equation of common tangent to the parabolas
y2 = 4ax and x2 = 4by
 FS2K9-MA -17

I - Level Problems
1. Circles are described on any two focal chords (as diameters) of a parabola, prove that their
common chord passes through the vertex.

2. Find the set of values of , for which the line y = (x − 11)cos −cos3 is a normal to the
parabola y2 = 16x.

3. Prove that the circle described on any focal chord of a parabola as the diameter touches the
directrix of the parabola.

4. Show that the harmonic mean of the segments of any focal chord by the focus is independent
of the choice of the chord.

5. From an external point P, tangents are drawn to the parabola; find the equation
of the locus of P when these tangents make angles 1 and 2 with the axis, such
that cos1 cos2 = , which is constant.

6. Prove that the locus of the mid-points of all the tangents drawn from points on the directrix
to the parabola y2 = 4ax is y2(2x + a) = a(3x + a)2.

7. Find the point(s) on the parabola y2 = 4x which is (are) at the shortest distance from the
circle x2 + y2 - 24y + 128 = 0. Find the shortest distance also.

8. Tangents to the parabola y2 = 8x make an angle of 45° with the straight line y = 3x + 5.
Find the equations of the tangents and their points of contact.

9. Prove that the length of intercept on the normal at the point P(at2, 2at) of the parabola
y2 = 4ax made by the circle on the line joining the focus and P as diameter is a 1 + t 2 .

10. If a tangent to the parabola y2 = 4ax meets the axis in T and the tangent at the vertex A in
Y, and the rectangle TAYG is completed, show that the locus of G is y2 + ax = 0.

11. Tangents are drawn from the parabola y2 = 4ax to the parabola y2 = 4b (x - c). Find the locus
of the mid point of chord of contact.

12. Show that the locus of the points of intersection of tangents to y2 = 4ax, which intercept a
constant length d on the directrix is (y2 - 4ax) (x + a)2 = d2 x2.

13. Show that the locus of a point such that two of the three normals drawn from it to the
parabola y2 = 4ax coincide is 27ay2 = 4(x − 2a)3

14. If the three normals drawn at three different points on the parabola y2 = 4x pass through the
point (h, k), then prove that h > 2.
 FS2K9-MA-18

15. Prove that the area of triangle formed by the tangents at points t1 and t2 on the parabola
a2
y2 = 4ax with the chord joining these two points is |t1 − t2|3.
2
16. Points A, B and C lie on the parabola y2 = 4ax. The tangents to the parabola at A, B and C
taken in pairs, intersect at points P, Q and R. Determine the ratio of the areas of the triangles
ABC and PQR.

17. If a circle passes through the feet of the normals drawn from a point to the parabola
y2 = 4ax, prove that the circle also passes through the origin.

18. Prove that only one normal passes through the point (at2, 2at) of the parabola y2 = 4ax if and
only if | t | < 2 2 .

19. Let P be a fixed point outside a parabola. A line through P cuts the parabola at Q and R. A
point S is chosen on the line PQR, such that PS is the H.M. between PQ and PR. Prove that
the locus of S, for different lines through P is a straight line, whose slope is independent of
the abscissa of the point P.

20. Two perpendicular chords are drawn through a fixed point of the parabola y2 = 4x. Prove
that the join of their extremities passes through a fixed point.
 FS2K9-MA -19

E - Level Problems
1. Three normals with slopes m1, m2 and m3 are drawn from a point P not on the axis of the
parabola y2 = 4x. If m1m2 = , results in the locus of P being a part of the parabola, find the
value of .

2. If a, b and f are non–zero real numbers, then show that the equation (ax + by)2 + 2fy = 0
represents a parabola. Find the equation of its axis.

3. A parabola of latus rectum l, touches a fixed equal parabola, the axes of the two curves being
parallel. Prove that the locus of the vertex of the moving curve is a parabola of latus rectum
2l.

4. Find the locus of centres of a family of circles passing through the vertex of the parabola
y2 = 4ax and cutting the parabola orthogonally at the other point of intersection.

 1
5. Find the set of points on the axis of the parabola (x – 2)2 = – 4 y −  from which three
 2
distinct normals can be drawn to the parabola.

6. If normals at the points P and Q of the parabola y2 = 4ax meet at the point R of the parabola,
show that the locus of the centroid of the triangle PQR is a ray. Find the equation of the ray.

7. If a triangle PQR be inscribed in a parabola, so that the focus S is the orthocentre and the
sides meet the axis in points K, L, M then prove that
SK.SL.SM + 4(SA)3 = 0
where, A is the vertex of the parabola.

8. Tangent is drawn at any point (x1, y1) on the parabola y2 = 4ax. Now tangents are drawn
from any point on this tangent to the circle x2 + y2 = a2 such that all the chords of contact
2
x y 
pass through a fixed point (x2, y2). Prove that 4 1 +  1  = 0.
x2  y2 

9. TP and TQ are any two tangents to a parabola and the tangent at a third point R cuts them in
TP  TQ 
P and Q; Prove that + = 1.
TP TQ

10. Let C1 and C2 be, respectively, the parabolas x2 = y − 1 and y2 = x − 1. Let P be any point
on C1 and Q be any point on C2. Let P1 and Q1 be the reflections of P and Q, respectively,
with respect to the line y = x. Prove that P1 lies on C2, Q1 lies on C1 and PQ  min {PP1,
QQ1}. Hence or otherwise determine points Po and Qo on the parabolas C1 and C2
respectively such that PoQo  PQ for all pairs of points (P, Q) with P on C1 and Q on C2.
 FS2K9-MA-20

Objective Problems
1. Which of the following is a parametric form of the parabola y2= 4ax?
(a) x = acos2, y = 2a cos,   R
(b) x = a sec2, y = 2a sec,   R – {(2n + 1) /2, n  I}
(c) x = atan2, y = 2atan,   (–/2, /2)
(d) x = at, y = 2a t , t  0

2. The angle between the tangents drawn from the origin to the parabola y2 = 4a(x - a) is
(a) 90° (b) 45°
(c) 60° (d) tan-12.

3. The set of points on the axis of the parabola y2 - 4x - 2y + 5 = 0 from which all the three
normals to the parabola are real and distinct is
(a) {(x, 1) : x > 3} (b) {(x, -1) : x > 1}
(c) {(x, 3) : x > 1} (d) {(x, -3) : x > 3}

4. The condition that the straight line lx + my + n = 0 touches the parabola y2 = 4ax is
(a) mn = al2 (b) bn = an2
(c) am = ln2 (d) ln = am2

5. The vertex of the parabola, whose focus is (-1, 1) and directrix is 4x + 3y - 24 = 0 is

(a) (0, 3/2) (b) (0, 5/2)
(c) (1, 3/2) (d) (1, 5/2)

6. The line y = mx + 1 is a tangent to the parabola y2 = 4x if m is equal to

(a) 1 (b) 2
(c) 4 (d) 3

7. The length of the chord of the parabola y2 = 4ax passing through the vertex and making an
angle  with the axis is
(a) 4a cosec2 (b) 4a cos cosec2
(c) 4a cot cosec2 (d) 2a cosec2

8. If the line x + y − 1 = 0 touches the parabola y2 = kx, then the value of k is

(a) 4 (b) −4
(c) 2 (d) −2
9. If t is the parameter for one end of a focal chord of the parabola y2 = 4ax, then its length is
2 2
 1  1
(a) a t +  (b) a t − 
 t  t
 1  1
(c) a t +  (d) a t − 
 t  t
 FS2K9-MA -21

10. The normal at (ap2, 2ap) on y2 = 4ax, meet the curve again at (aq2, 2aq) then
(a) p2 + pq + 2 = 0 (b) p2 − pq + 2 = 0
2
(c) q + pq + 2 = 0 (d) p2 + pq + 1 = 0
11. The normal at the point P(ap2, 2ap) meets the parabola y2 = 4ax again at Q(aq2, 2aq) such
that the lines joining the origin to P and Q are at right angle. Then
(a) p2 = 2 (b) q2 = 2
(c) p = 2q (d) q = 2p
12. If the normals at two points P and Q of a parabola y2 = 4ax intersect at a third point R on
the curve, then the product of ordinates of P and Q is
(a) 4a2 (b) 2a2
(c) −4a 2 (d) 8a2
13. The normals at three points P, Q, R of the parabola y2 = 4ax meet in (h, k). The centroid of
triangle PQR lies on
(a) x = 0 (b) y = 0
(c) x = −a (d) y = a

14. The equation of the common tangent to the curve y2 = 8x and xy = −1 is

(a) 3y = 9x + 2 (b) y = 2x + 1
(c) 2y = x + 8 (d) y = x + 2

15. The equation to the parabola whose vertex and focus are on the axis of x at distances
a and a from the origin respectively, is
(a) y2 = 4(a − a) (x − a) (b) y2 = 4(a − a)(x − a)
(c) x2 = 4(a − a) (y − a) (d) y2 = 4(a − a)(x − a)

16. If the tangents to the parabola y2 = 4ax at the points (x1, y1) and (x2, y2) meet at the
point (x3, y3) then
(a) y3 = y1 y2 (b) 2y3 = y1 + y2
2 1 1
(c) = + (d) none of these
y3 y1 y2

17. The equation of a tangent to the parabola y2 = 8x is y = x + 2. The point on this line from
which the other tangent to the parabola is perpendicular to the given tangent, is
(a) (2, 4) (b) (−2, 0)
(c) (−1, 1) (d) none of these

18. The angle subtended at the focus by the normal chord at the point ( , ),  0 on the parabola
y2 = 4ax is
(a) /4 (b) tan-1(/a)
(c) tan-1(1/4) (d) /2
 FS2K9-MA-22

19. If a line x + y = 1 cut the parabola y2 = 4x in points A and B and normals drawn at A and B
meet at C. The normal to the parabola from C other than above two meet the parabola in D,
then the coordinates of D are
(a) (−4, 4) (b) (2, 1)
(c) (4, 4) (d) None of these

20. The range of values of  for which the point (, −1) is exterior to both the parabolas
y2 = |x| is
(a) (0, 1) (b) (−1, 1)
(c) (−1, 0) (d) none of these

21. The locus of the mid−point of the line segment joining the focus to a moving point on the
parabola y2 = 4ax is another parabola with directrix
a
(a) x = −a (b) x = −
2
a
(c) x = 0 (d) x =
2

22. Radius of the largest circle which passes through the focus of the parabola y2 = 4x and
contained in it, is
(a) 8 (b) 4
(c) 2 (d) 5

23. If the distances of two points P and Q from the focus of a parabola y2 = 4x are 4 and 9
respectively, then the distance of the point of intersection of tangents at P and Q of the
parabola from the focus is
(a) 8 (b) 6
(c) 5 (d) 13

24. Set of values of 'h' for which the number of distinct common normals of
(x − 1)2 = 4(y − 3) and x2 + y2 − 2x − hy − c = 0 (c > 0) is 3, is
(a) (10, ) (b) (2, )
(c) (2, 4) (d) none of these

25. The length of the common chord of the parabola 2y2 = 3(x + 1) and the circle
x2 + y2 + 2x = 0 is
(a) 3 (b) 2 3
3
(c) (d) none of these
2

26. The parabolas y2 = x and 25[(x −3)2 + (y + 2)2] = (3x − 4y − 2)2

are equal if  equals
(a) 1 (b) 2
(c) 4 (d) 6
 FS2K9-MA -23

27. If (h, k) is a point on the axis of the parabola

2(x −1)2 + 2(y − 1)2 = (x + y + 2)2 from where three distinct normals may be drawn then
(a) h > 2 (b) h < 4
(c) h > 8 (d) h < 8

28. The number of points with integral coordinates (2a, a − 1) that fall in the interior of the
larger segment of the circle x2 + y2 = 25 cut of by the parabola x2 + 4y = 0, is
(a) one (b) two
(c) three (d) none of these

29. The radius of the circle whose centre is (−4, 0) and which cuts the parabola y2 = 8x at A and
B such that its common chord AB subtends a right angle at the vertex of the parabola, is
equal to
(a) 4 13 (b) 3
(c) 18 (d) 5

30. If a normal to the parabola y2 = 4ax makes an angle  with its axis then it will cut the curve
again at an angle

(a) (b) tan−1(2tan)
2
1 
(c) tan−1  tan   (d) none of these
2 
 FS2K9-MA-24

ANSWERS
O - Level

1. (i) (−1, 2); y = 2; 4;(0, 2)

 a
(ii)  a ,  ; x = a; 2a; (a, 0)
 2

2 2 2 2
2. (i) − k (ii) k  − or k 
5 5 5 5

3. c = −8

5. Tangents : x = 0, x – 2y – 12 = 0, x + 2y + 12 = 0
Normals : y = 0, 2x + y = 36, 2x – y – 36 = 0

6. 4y = 9x + 4
4y = x + 36

7. 2.

 a 2a 
9.  , 
3 3

12. 10a, 8a, 8a.

 4m 2 4m 
13.  2 , 
 l l 

14. Vertex (2, 1); directrix 4x = 5 16. xa1/3 + yb1/3 + a2/3b2/3 = 0

I - Level
2. R

5. x2 = 2{(x − a)2 + y2}

7. (4, 4) , 4(5 − 1)

8. x − 2y + 8 = 0, (8, 8) ; y = −2x −1, (1/2, −2).

 FS2K9-MA -25

11. (2a −b)y2 = 4ab(x − 2c)

 ABC
16. =2
 PQR

E - Level

1. =2

bf
2. ax + by + =0
a2 + b2

4. 2y2(2y2 + x2 - 12ax) = ax (3x - 4a)2

 3
5. (2, k ): k  − 
 2

6. y = 0, x  4a

P0  ,  and Q0  , 
1 5 5 1
10.
2 4 4 2

Objective

1. c 2. a 3. a 4. d 5. d
6. a 7. b 8. b 9. a 10. a
11. a 12. d 13. b 14. d 15. a
16. b 17. b 18. d 19. c 20. b
21. c 22. b 23. b 24. a 25. a
26. d 27. a 28. c 29. a 30. c