ELLIPSE

Preface

Ellipse is a fundamental chapter of Mathematics. This chapter is very important and

has due weightage regarding competitive examinations.

As above mentioned this chapter is very important so our sincere advise is that to go
through these notes deeply and solve each problem, we assure you will find it very
interesting and easy

This book consists of theoretical & practical explanations of all the concepts involved
in the chapter. Each article followed by a ladder of illustration. At the end of the theory
part, there are miscellaneous solved examples which involve the application of multiple
concepts of this chapter.

Students are advised to go through all these solved examples in order to develop better
understanding of the chapter and to have better grasping level in the class.

Total no.of questions in Ellipse are-

Inchapter examples................................................. 11

Solved Examples..................................................... 22

Total No. of questions............................................ 33

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1 DEFINITION (ii) Major & Minor axis : The straight line AA′
An ellipse is the locus of a point which moves in is called major axis and BB′ is called minor
such a way that its distance form a fixed point is in axis. The major and minor axis taken
constant ratio to its distance from a fixed line. The together are called the principal axes and its
fixed point is called the focus and fixed line is called length will be given by
the directrix and the constant ratio is called the Length of major axis → 2a
eccentricity of a ellipse denoted by (e). Length of minor axis → 2b
In other word, we can say an ellipse is the locus of (iii) Centre : The point which bisect each chord
a point which moves in a plane so that the sum of of an ellipse is called centre (0,0) denoted by 'C'.
it distances from fixed points is constant. (iv) Directrix : ZM and Z′ M′ are two directrix and
their equation are x= a/e and x = – a/e.
2. EQUATION OF AN ELLIPSE (v) Focus : S (ae, 0) and S′ (–ae,0) are two foci
2.1 Standard Form of the equation of ellipse of an ellipse.
Let the distance between two fixed points S and S' be (vi) Latus Rectum : Such chord which passes
2ae and let C be the mid point of SS′. through either focus and perpendicular to the
Taking CS as x- axis, C as origin. major axis is called its latus rectum.
Let P(h,k) be the moving point Let SP+ SP′ = 2a Length of Latus Rectum :
(fixed distance) then If L is (ae," ) then 2" is the length of
Latus Rectum.
SP+S'P= {( h − ae ) 2 + k 2 } + {( h + ae) 2 + k 2 } = 2a 2b 2
Length of Latus rectum is given by .
h 2(1– e2) + k2 = a2(1– e 2) a
(vii) Relation between constant a, b, and e
Hence Locus of P(h, k) is given by.
a2 − b2
x 2(1– e2) + y2 = a2(1– e2) b 2 = a2(1– e2) ⇒ e2 =
a2
x2 y2
⇒ + =1 a −b
2 2

a2 a (1 − e 2 )
2
∴e=
a2
Result :
(a) Centre C is the point of intersection of the
(–ae, 0) (ae, 0) axes of an ellipse. Also C is the mid point of AA′.
S S’ (b) Another form of standard equation of ellipse
Major Axis
A A’
x 2 y2
+ = 1 when a < b.
a 2 b2
In this case major axis is BB′= 2b which is
Directrix Minor Axis Directrix along y- axis and minor axis is AA′= 2a along
x = -a/e x = a/e
x- axis. Focus S(0,be) and S′(0,–be) and
Let us assume that a2(1– e 2 )= b2 directrix are y = b/e and y = –b/e.
∴ The standard equation will be given by 2.2 General equation of the ellipse
x2 y2 The general equation of an ellipse whose focus is
=1
2
+
a b2 (h,k) and the directrix is the line ax + by + c = 0
2.1.1 Various parameter related with standard and the eccentricity will be e. Then let P(x1,y1) be any
ellipse : point on the ellipse which moves such that SP = ePM

x2 y2 e 2 (ax 1 + by 1 + c ) 2
Let the equation of the ellipse + =1 a > b ⇒ (x1–h)2 + (y1–k) 2 =
a 2 b2 a 2 + b2
(i) Vertices of an ellipse : The point of which Hence the locus of (x 1,y 1) will be given by
ellipse cut the axis x-axis at (a,0) & (– a, 0) (a2 + b2) [(x – h)2 + (y–k) 2] = e2(ax + by + c) 2
and y- axis at (0, b) & (0, – b) is called the Which is the equation of second degree from which
vertices of an ellipse. we can say that any equation of second degree
represent equation of an ellipse.
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 Note : Condition for second degree in X & Y to
1 (x − 3)2 + (y + 3 )2
represent an ellipse is that if h 2 = ab < 0 & ∴ = ;
∆ = abc + 2 fgh – af 2 – bg2 – ch2 ≠ 0 4 (x − 6 )2
or (x – 6)2 = 4 [(x– 3) 2 + (y + 3)2]
Examples
based on Equation of an ellipse or x2–12x+36 = 4 [x 2 – 6x + 9 +y2 + 6y + 9]
or 3x 2+ 4y2 – 12x + 24y + 36 = 0
Ex.1Find the equation of the ellipse having its
Ex.2 Find the centre, the length of the axes,
eccentricity and the foci of the ellipse.
12x 2 + 4y2 + 24 x – 16 y + 25 = 0
Sol. The given equation can be written in the form
12(x + 1)2 + 4(y – 2)2 = 3
M
(x + 1)2 (y − 2)2
⇒ + =1 ...(1)
1/ 4 3/4
Q
A S C Sc Co- ordinates of centre of the ellipse are given
by x + 1 = 0 and y – 2 = 0
Mc Hence centre of the ellipse is (– 1, 2)
If a and b be the lengths of the semi major
and semi-minor axes, then a 2=3/4, b2 = 1/4
∴ Length of major axis = 2a =√3,
centre at the point (2,–3), one focus at
Length of minor axis = 2b = 1
(3,– 3) and one vertex at (4,–3).
Sol. C ≡ (2, – 3), S ≡ (3, – 3) and A ≡ (4, – 3) 3 1
∴a= ,b=
2 2
Now CA = ( 4 − 2 ) 2 + ( − 3 + 3) 2 = 2 ∴ a = 2
Since b 2 = a2 (1 – e2) ∴ 1/4 = 3/4 (1– e 2)
Again CS = (3 − 2) 2 + ( − 3 + 3) 2 = 1 3 2 1
⇒ e = 2/3 ∴ ae =
× =
1 1 2 3 2
 ae = 1 ∴e= = Co-ordinates of foci are given by
a 2
Let the directrix cut the major- axis at Q. x + 1 = 0, y – 2 = ± ae
AS 1
Then = e =  1 
AQ 2 Thus foci are  − 1, 2 ± 
If Q ≡ (α, β), then  2
SA : AQ = e : 1 = 1 : 2
Ex.3 Find the equation of an ellipse whose focus is
α+6 β−6 (– 1,1), eccentricity is 1/2 and the directrix is
∴A≡  ,  = (4, – 3)
 3 3  x – y + 3 = 0.
α+6 β−6 Sol. Let P (x,y) be
⇒ = 4, =–3 any point on the ellipse whose
3 3
focus is S (–1,1) and the directrix is
∴ α = 6, β = – 3
x – y + 3 = 0.
Slope of CA = 0, therefore directrix will be
parallel to y- axis. PM
Since directrix is parallel to y- axis and it perpendicular
passes through Q(6, – 3) from P (x,y) on M • P(x,y)
the directrix
∴ equation of the directrix is x = 6.
x - y +3 = 0

x –y + 3 = 0.
Let P(x,y) be any point on the ellipse, then
Then by
definition
1 PS (x − 3)2 + (y + 3 )2 SP = ePM
e= = = •
2 PM x−6 ⇒(SP) 2=e2 (PM)2
S(1,1)
12
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 2
1 x − y + 3 5. ELLIPSE AND A LINE
⇒ (x + 1)2 +(y – 1)2 =  
4  2 
x2 y2
⇒ 8 (x2 + y 2 + 2x – 2y + 2) Let the ellipse be 2 + = 1 and the given line
a b2
= x2 + y2 + 9 – 2xy + 6x – 6y be y = mx + c.
⇒ 7x2 + 7y2 + 2xy + 10x – 10y + 7 = 0 Solving the line and ellipse we get
which is the required equation of the ellipse. x2 ( mx + c) 2
+ =1
Ex.4 The foci of an ellipse are (± 2, 0) and its a2 b2
eccentricity is 1/2, find its equation. i.e. (a 2m2 + b 2) x2 + 2 mca 2 x + a2 (c 2 – b2) = 0
above equation being a quadratic in x.
x2 y2
Sol. Let the equation of the ellipse be + = 1, ∴ discriminant = 4m2c2a4 – 4a 2 (a2m2 + b 2) ( c2– b2)
a 2 b2
Then coordinates of foci are (± ae, 0). = –b2 {c2 – (a2m2 + b2)}
 1 = b2 {(a2m2 + b2 )– c2}
1
∴ ae = 2 ⇒ a × =2  e = 2  Hence the line intersects the parabolas in
2  
⇒a=4 2 distinct points if a2m2 +b2 > c2, in one point if c2 =
a2m2 +b2, and does not intersect if a2m2+b2 < c2.
We have b2 = a2 (1– e2)
 1
∴ b2 = 16 1 − 4  = 12
∴ y = mx ± (a 2
m2 + b 2 ) touches the ellipse and
 
condition for tangency c2 = a 2m2 + b 2.
2 2
Thus, the equation of the ellipse is
x
+
y
16 12
=1 Hence y = mx ± (a 2
)
m 2 + b 2 , touches the ellipse

x
2
y 2  ±a m 2
± b2 
 
3. Parametric form of the ellipse =1 at  2 2 2 , 2 2 2
+ .
a 2 b2  a m +b a m +b 
Note : 1: x cosα + y sinα = p is a tangent if
Let the equation of ellipse in standard form will be
p2 = a2 cos 2 α + b2 sin2 α.
x2 y2
given by 2 +
2 = 1
Note : 2 : " x + my + n = 0 is a tangent if
a b n2 = a 2"2 + b 2m2.
Then the equation of ellipse in the parametric form
will be given by x= a cos φ, y = b sin φ where φ is 5.1 Equation of the Tangent :
the eccentric angle whose value vary from 0 ≤ φ < 2π. (i) The equation of the tangent at any point
Therefore coordinate of any point P on the ellipse x2 y2
will be given by (a cosφ, b sin φ). (x 1 , y 1) on the ellipse + =1 is
a2 b2
xx1 yy1
4. POINT AND ELLIPSE + 2 = 1.
a2 b
x2 y2 (ii) the equation of tangent at any point ‘φ’ is
Let P(x1,y 1) be any point and let + = 1 is the
a2 b2 x y
equation of an ellipse. cos φ + sin φ = 1.
a b
The point lies outside, on or inside the ellipse as if
5.2 Equation of the Normal :
x12 y12 (i) The equation of the normal at any point
S1 = 2 + – 1 > 0, = 0, < 0
a b2
x2 y2
Ex.5 Find the position of the point (4, – 3) relative (x1, y1) on the ellipse + = 1 is
to the ellipse 5x2 + 7y2 = 140. a2 b2
Sol. 5(4)2 + 7(– 3)2 –140 = 80 + 63 –140 =3 > 0, a2x b2 y
– = a2 – b2
so the point (4,–3) lies outside the ellipse x1 y1
5x2 + 7y2 = 140. (ii) The equation of the normal at any point ‘φ’ is
ax sec φ – by cosec φ = a2 – b2

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Examples Sol. Let m be the slope of the tangent, since the
based on Ellipse and a line tangent is perpendicular to the line y + 2x = 4.
1
Ex.6Find the condition that the line "x + my = n ∴ m × –2 = –1 ⇒m=
2
x2 y2 Since 3x2 + 4y2 = 12
may be a normal to the ellipse + = 1.
a2 b2 x2 y2
Sol. equation of normal to the given ellipse at or + =1
4 3
ax by x2 y2
(a cosθ, b sinθ) is – = a 2 – b2 ...(1) Comparing this with + =1
cos θ sin θ
a2 b2
If the line "x + my = n is also normal to the ∴ a2 = 4 and b 2 = 3
ellipse then there must be a value of θ for
So the equation of the tangents are
which line (1) and line "x + my = n are
1 1
identical. For that value of θ we have y= x ± 4x + 3
2 4
" m n 1
⇒y= x±2
( )
= = 2 or x – 2y ± 4 = 0
 a  b
−   a − b2 2
  
 cos θ   sin θ
Ex.9 Find the equations of tangent to the ellipse
an
or cosθ =
(
". a 2 − b 2 ) ...(2)
Sol.
4x 2 + 9y2 = 36 at the point (3, –2).
We have 4x2 + 9y2 = 36
− bn
( ) x 2 y2
and sinθ = ...(3)
m. a 2 − b 2 ⇒ + = 1. This is of the form
9 4
Squarring and adding (2) and (3), we get
x2 y2
2
a = 1, where a2 = 9 and b2 = 4.
+
n b  2 2 2
b2
 + 2 a
1= 2
(
a −b 2 2  "2
 )m  We know that the equation of the tangent to
which is the required condition. x2 y2
the ellipse + = 1 at (x 1,y 1) is
a2 b2
Ex.7For what value of λ does the line y = x + λ xx 1 yy 1
touches the ellipse 9x2 + 16y2 = 144. 2 + =1
a b2
Sol.  Equation of ellipse is So, the equation of the tangent to the given
x2 y2 ellipse at (3,– 2) is
9x2 + 16y2 = 144 or + =1
16 9 3x 2y x y
– =1 i.e. – =1
x2 y2 9 4 3 2
Comparing this with =1 2 +
a b2 Ex.10 Find the equations of the tangents to the
then we get a 2 = 16 and b2 = 9 ellipse x 2 + 16y2 = 16 each one of which
& comparing the line y = x +λ with y = mx +c makes an angle of 60º with the x- axis.
∴ m = 1 and c = λ
x2 y2
If the line y = x + λ touches the ellipse Sol. We have, x2 + 16y2 = 16 ⇒ + =1
42 12
9x 2 + 16y2 = 144, then
x2 y2
c2 = a2m2 + b2 This is of the form + = 1, where
a2 b2
⇒ λ 2 = 16 × 12 + 9 2
a = 16 and b = 1 2

⇒ λ2 = 25 So, the equations of the tangents are

∴λ=±5 y = mx ± a 2 m 2 + b 2
Ex.8 Find the equations of the tangents to the ellipse
3x2 + 4y2 = 12 which are perpendicular to the 3 x ± 16 x 3 + 1
i.e. y =
line y + 2x = 4. ⇒y= 3x±7
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Ex.11 If the normal at an end of a latus- rectum of x2 y2 xx1 yy1
x2 y2 S1 ≡ + – 1 = 0, T –1=0 ≡ 2 +
an ellipse + = 1 passes through one a b2 2
a b2
a2 b2 Note : The locus of the point of intersection of the
extermity of the minor axis, show that the
x2 y2
eccentricity of the ellipse is given by tangents to an ellipse = 1 which 2 +
e4 + e2 – 1 = 0 a b2
are perpendicular to each other is called
5 −1 Director circle.
or e2 =
2 Hence the equation of director circle of the
Sol. The co-ordinates of an end of the
latus- rectum are (ae, b2/a). The equation of x2 y2
ellipse + = 1 is x2 + y2 = a2+ b 2.
normal at P(ae,b2/a) is a2 b2

7. CHORD OF CONTACT
 2 
(0,b) B  ae ,b  If PA and PB be the tangents through point
P  a 
 
x2 y2
P(x1, y 1) to the ellipse 2 + 2 = 1,
(-a,0 )A ’ S A (a,0 ) a b
then the equation of the chord of contact AB is
B ’ (0 ,-b) xx1 yy1
+ 2 = 1 or T = 0 (at x1, y1)
a2 b
A
a2x b 2 (y ) , y1)
– 2 = a2 – b2 P( x 1
ae b /a X′ X
C
ax
or – ay = a 2 – b2
e B
It passes through one extremity of the minor
axis whose co-ordinates are (0, – b)
∴ 0 + ab = a2 – b2 or (a2b 2) = (a2 – b2)2 Y′
or a2.a2 (1– e2) = (a 2 e2)2 or 1– e2 = e4 8 . EQUATION OF CHORD WITH MID POINT
or e4 + e2 – 1 = 0 or (e2)2 + e2 – 1 = 0
(x1, y1)
−1 ± 1+ 4 5 −1
∴ e2 = ⇒e2 =
2 2 The equation of the chord of the ellipse
(taking positive sign) x2 y2
+ = 1, whose mid point be (x1,y1) is
6. PAIR OF TANGENTS a2 b2
T = S1
Let P(x1, y1) be any point lies outside the ellipse xx1 yy1 x 12 y 12
2 2 Where T ≡ + – 1=0,S1 ≡ + –1=0
x y a2 b2 a
2
b
2
+ = 1, and let a pair of tangents PA,PB can
a2 b2
be drawn to it from P. 9. DIAMETER
then the equation of pair of tangents of PA and PB
x2 y2 The locus of the middle points of a system of parallel
is SS1= T2 where S ≡ 2 + 2 – 1 = 0 chords is called a diameter. If y = mx + c represent a
a b
A x2 y2
system of parallel chords of the ellipse + =1
a2 b2
b2
P(x , then the line y = – x is the equation of the
1 y 1)
a2m
diameter.
B

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 SOLVED EXAMPLES
Ex.1 The equation of the ellipse which passes through 6 cos 2 φ + 2 sin2 φ = 4
origin and has its foci at the points (1, 0) and (3, or 3 cos 2 φ + sin 2 φ = 2
0) is- 2 cos 2 φ = 1
(A) 3x 2 + 4y2 = x (B) 3x2 + y2 = 12x 1 π 3π
(C) x + 4y = 12x (D) 3x2 + 4y2 = 12x
2 2 ⇒ cos φ = ± ; φ = ,
2 4 4
Sol:[D] Centre being mid point of the foci is Ex.4 If x cos α + y sin α = P is a tangent to the ellipse
 1+ 3  x2 y2
 , 0  = (2, 0) + = 1, then -
 2  a2 b2
Distance between foci 2ae = 2 (A) a cos α + b sin α = P 2
ae = 1 or a 2 – b2 = 1 ...(i) (B) a sin α + b cos α = P2
(C) a2 cos2 α + b 2 sin2 α = P2
( x − 2) 2
y 2
If the ellipse + = 1, then as it passes (D) a2 sin2 α + b2 cos2 α = P2
a2 b2
from (0, 0) Sol:[C] Given line is x cos α + y sin α = P ... (1)
Any tangent to the ellipse is
4
= 1 ⇒ a2 = 4 x cos θ y sin θ
a2 + =1 ...(2)
from (i) b2 = 3 a b
Comparing (1) and (2)
( x − 2) 2 y 2 cos θ sin θ 1
Hence + =1
4 3 = =
a cos α b sin α P
or 3x2 + 4y2 – 12x = 0
a cos α b sin α
Ex.2 A man running round a racecourse notes that the cos θ = ; sin θ =
P P
sum of the distance of two flag posts from him is Eliminate θ,
always 10 meters and the distance between the a 2 cos 2 α b 2 sin 2 α
flag posts is 8 meters. The area of the path he cos2 θ + sin2 θ = 2
+
P P2
encloses - or a cos α + b sin α = P 2
2 2 2 2

(A) 10π (B) 15π (C) 5π (D) 20π

Ex.5 The equation of tangents to the ellipse
Sol.:[B] The race course will be an ellipse with the flag 9x2 + 16y2 = 144 which pass through the point
posts as its foci. If a and b are the semi major (2, 3)-
and minor axes of the ellipse, then sum of focal (A) y = 3 (B) x + y = 2
distances 2a = 10 and 2ae = 8 (C) x – y = 3 (D) y = 3 ; x + y = 5
a = 5, e = 4/5
Sol.[D] Ellipse 9x2 + 16y 2 = 144
 16 
∴ b2 = a2(1 – e2) = 25  1 − 25  = 9 x2 y2
  or
16
+
9
=1
Area of the ellipse = πab
Any tangent is y = mx + 16m 2
+ 9 it passes
=π.5.3 =15π
Ex.3 The distance of a point on the ellipse through (2, 3)

x2
3 = 2m + 16 m 2 + 9
y2
+ = 1 from the centre is 2. Then eccentric (3 – 2m) 2 = 16m2 + 9
6 2
angle of the point is m = 0, –1
Hence the tangents are y = 3, x + y = 5
π
(A) ± (B) ± π
2 a2
π 3π π Ex.6 If tan θ1 tan θ2 = – , then the chord joining
(C) , (D) ± b2
4 4 4 x2 y2
Sol:[C] Any point on the ellipse is two point θ1 and θ2 on the ellipse + =1
( 6 cos φ, 2 sin φ), where φ is an eccentric a2 b2
will subtend a right angle at
angle. (A) Focus (B) Centre
It's distance from the center (0, 0) is given α (C) End of the major axes (D) End of minor
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Sol.[B] Let P(a cos θ1, b sin θ1) and Q(a cos θ2, b sin θ2) Ex.9 The eccentric angles of the extremities of latus
be two points on the ellipse. Then x2 y2
b rectum of the ellipse + = 1 is-
m1 = Slope of OP (O is an centre) = tan θ1 ; a2 b2
a
 ± ae   ± be 
b
m2 = Slope of OQ = tan θ2 (A) tan–1   (B) tan–1  
a  b   a 
b b  ±b   ±a 
∴ m 1m2 = tan θ1. tan θ2 (C) tan–1   (D) tan –1  
a a  ae   be 
b2 − a2 Sol.[C] The coordinate of any point on the ellipse
= 2 tan θ1 tan θ2 ( tan θ1 tan θ2 = )
a b2
x2 y2
b2  a 2  + = 1 whose eccentric angle θ are (a cos
= 2  − 2  = – 1 ∠POQ = 90° a 2
b2
a  b  θ, b sin θ) .The coordinate of the end point of
Hence PQ makes a right angle at the centre of  b 2 
the ellipse. latus rectum are  ae , ± a cos θ = ae and
 a 
Ex.7 Chords of an ellipse are drawn through the b2 b  b 
positive end of the minor axes. Then their mid b sin θ =± tan θ =± ⇒ θ = tan–1  ± 
a ae  ae 
point lies on -
(A) a circle (B) a parabola Ex.10 The equation x2 + 4y2 + 2x + 16y + 13 = 0
represents a ellipse -
(C) an ellipse (D) a hyperbola
(A) whose eccentricity is 3
Sol.[C] Let (h, k) be the mid point of a chord passing (B) whose focus is (± 3 , 0)
through the positive end of the minor axis of the
4
x2 y2 (C) whose directrix is x = ± –1
ellipse 2 + 2 = 1. Then the equation of the 3
a b (D) None of these
chord, T = S1
Sol.[C] We have x2 + 4y 2 + 2x + 16y + 13 = 0
hx ky h2 k2 (x2 + 2x + 1) + 4(y 2 + 2y + 4) = 4
2 + 2 –1= + –1
a b a 2
b2 (x + 1)2 + 4(y + 2) 2 = 4
hx ky h2 k2 ( x + 1) 2 ( y + 2) 2
or + = + + =1
a 2 b2 a 2 b2 22 12
This passes through (0, b), therefore Shifting the origin at (–1, –2) without rotating
k h2 k2
= 2 + 2 the coordinate axes
b a b
x2 y2 y x2 y2
Hence, the locus of (h, k) is + = , 2 + = 1 where x = X – 1
a2 b2 b 2 12
which is an ellipse. y=Y–2
x 2
y 2 x2 y2
Ex.8 The line x= at meets the ellipse 2
+ = 1 in This is of the form + =1,
a2 b2 a2 b2
the real points if - where a = 2, b = 1
eccentricity of the ellipse
(A) |t| < 2 (B) |t| ≤ 1
(C) |t| >1 (D) None of these b2 1 3
e = 1− 2 = 1−
=
Sol.[B] Putting x = at2 in the equation of the ellipse, we a 4 2
Focus of the ellipse (± ae, 0)
get
3
a2t2 y2 X = x + 1 = ± 2. ⇒x=± 3 –1
+ = 1 ⇒ y 2 = b2(1 – t 4) 2
a2 b2 Y=y+2=0 ⇒y=–2
y = b (1 – t2) (1 + t2)
2 2
Directrix of the ellipse X = ± a/e
This will give real values of y if 2 4
(1 – t2) ≥ 0 |t| ≤ 1 x+1=± ; x=± –1
3/2 3
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Ex.11 The line "x + my + n = 0 cut the ellipse Ex.13 The point of the intersection of the tangent at
x 2
y 2 x2 y2
+ = 1 in points whose eccentric angle the two point on the ellipse = 1 +
a2 b2 a2 b2
differ by π/2. Then the value of a2"2 + b2m2 is- whose eccentricity differ by a right angle lies on
(A) 2n2 (B) 2n (C) 2m2 (D) 2m the ellipse is-
Sol.[A] Suppose the line "x + my + n = 0 cuts the ellipse x2 y2 x y
(A) + =2 (B) + =2
at P(a cos θ, b sin θ) and a 2
b2 a b
Q(a cos (π/2 + θ), b sin (π/2 + θ)). x2 y2 x2 y2
Then these two point lie on the line (C) 2
– 2
=1 (D)
=1 2
+
"a cos θ + mb sin θ + n = 0 a b a b2
– "a sin θ + mb cos θ + n = 0 Sol.[A] Let P(a cos θ, b sin θ) and Q(a cos φ, b sin φ) be
two points an the ellipse such that
"a cos θ + mb sin θ = – n ...(i)
π
– "a sin θ + mb cos θ = – n ...(ii) θ – φ = . The equation of tangent at
2
Square and add the equations (i) and (ii) P and Q are respectively
("a cos θ + mb sin θ)2 + (–"a sin θ + mb cos θ)2 x y
= n2 + n2 cos θ + sin θ = 1 ...(i)
a b
"2a2(cos2θ + sin2θ) +m2b2 (sin2θ + cos2θ)
x y
= n 2 +n2 and cos φ + sin φ = 1 ...(ii)
a b
⇒"2a2 + m 2b2 = 2n2
π
Ex.12 Product of the perpendiculars from the foci upon since θ – φ = , so (i) can be written as
2
x2 y2 x y
any tangent to the ellipse 2 + = 1 is- – sin φ + cos φ = 1 ...(iii)
a b2 a b
2 2
(A) b (B) a (C) a (D) b Squaring (ii) and (iii) and then adding, we get
2 2
Sol.[D] The equation of any tangent to the ellipse x y   x y 
 cosφ + sin φ +  − sin φ + cos φ = 1 + 1
x2 y2 a b   a b 
+ = 1 is y = mx + a2m2 + b2 x2 y2
a2 b2 + 2 =2
a2 b
⇒ mx – y + a 2 m 2 + b 2 =0 ...(i)
Ex.14 Find the equation of the ellipse whose
The two foci of the given ellipse are S(ae, 0) and
eccentricity is 1/2, the focus is (–1, 1) and the
S′ (–ae, 0). let p1 and p2 be the lengths of
directrix is x – y + 3 = 0.
perpendicular from S and S′ respectively on (i),
Sol. Let P (x,y) be any point on the ellipse whose
Then
focus is S(–1,1) and eccentricity e =1/2.
p1 = length of perpendicular from S(ae, 0) on (i)
Let PM be perpendicular from P on the directrix.
mae + a 2 m 2 + b 2 Then,
p1 = 1
m2 +1 SP = ePM ⇒ SP = (PM) ⇒ 4 (SP)2 = PM2
2
p2 = length of perpendicular from S′(–ae, 0) on (i) 2
 x−y+3 
− mae + a m + b 2 2 2  
⇒ 4 [(x +1)2 + (y –1)2] = 
p2 =  12 + (− 1)2 
m2 + 1  
Now p 1p2 ⇒ 8 (x2 + y 2 + 2x – 2y + 2) = (x– y+3)2
 mae + a 2 m 2 + b 2   − mae + a 2 m 2 + b 2 
   ⇒ 7x 2 + 7y2+ 10x – 10y + 2xy + 7 = 0
=   This is the required equation of the ellipse.

2
m +1  m2 + 1 
Ex.15 Find the equation of the ellipse whose axes are
a 2 m 2 (1 − e 2 ) + b 2 along the coordinate axes, vertices are (± 5,0)
=  b2 = a2 (1 – e 2)
1+ m2 and foci at (± 4,0).
m 2b 2 + b 2 b 2 ( m 2 + 1) Sol. Let the equation of the required ellipse be
= = = b2
1+ m2 m2 + 1
x2 y2
2 + =1 ...(1)
a b2
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 The coordinates of its vertices and foci are 5 5
(± a, 0) and (± ae,0) respectively. a2 = and b2 = . We know that the equations
4 3
∴ a = 5 and ae = 4 ⇒ e = 4/5. of the tangents of slope m to the ellipse
 16  x2 y2
Now, b2 = a2 (1– e2) ⇒ b2 = 25 1 −  = 9. + = 1 are given by y = mx ± a 2 m 2 + b 2
 25  a2
b2
Substituting the values of a 2 and b2 in (1) , we and the coordinates of the points of contact are
x2 y2  a 2m b2 
get + = 1, ± ,# 
25 9  2 2
+ 2 2 2
+ 2 
which is the equation of the required ellipse.  a m b a m b 
Here, m = 3 , a2 = 5/4 and b2 = 5/3.
Ex.16 Find the centre, the length of the axes and the
So, the equations of the tangents are
eccentricity of the ellipse 2x2+3y2–4x–12y+13 = 0.
Sol. The given equation can be rewritten as 5  5 65
y = 3 x ±  4 × 3  + i.e. y = 3 x ±
2[x2 – 2x] + 3 [y2 – 4y] + 13 = 0   3 12
or 2 (x – 1) 2 + 3 (y– 2)2 = 1 The coordinates of the points of contact are
( x − 1) 2 ( y − 2) 2  5 3/4 5 / 3   3 65 2 195 
or + = 1, ± ,# ± ,# 
 65 / 12 
i.e  26 39  .
(1 / 2 ) 2 (1 / 3 ) 2  65 / 12 
X2 Y2 Ex.19 The radius of the circle passing through the foci of
or 2 +
=1
a b2 x2 y2
∴ Centre X = 0, Y = 0 i.e. (1,2). the ellipse + = 1, and having its
16 9
Length of major axis = 2a = 2 centre (0,3) is-
Length of minor axis = 2b = 2/ 3 and (A) 4 (B) 3 (C) 12 (D) 7/2
e= (a 2 − b 2 ) / a = 1/ 3 b2 9 7
Sol.[A] e = 1 – 2 =1– ∴e=
a 16 4
Ex.17 P,Q,R be three points α, β, γ on the ellipse x2 /
∴ Foci are (± ae, 0) or (± 7 ,0).
a2 + y2 /b 2 = 1. Show that the area of the triangle
formed by the tangents at P,Q.R is Centre is (0,3) ∴ Radius = 7 + 9 = 4
1 1 1 Ex.20 The eccentricity of the ellipse represented by the
ab tan (β – γ) tan (γ – α) tan (α– β)
2 2 2 equation 25x2 + 16y2 – 150 x – 175 = 0 is-
x cos α (A) 2/5 (B) 3/5
Sol. Equation of tangents at P(α) , Q(β) are + (C) 4/5 (D) None of these
a
y sin α x cos β y sin β
= 1 and + = 1, Sol.[B] 25(x2 – 6x + 9) + 16y 2 = 175 + 225
b a b
These intersects in (x1,y 1), then X 2 Y2
or 25(x – 3)2 + 16y2 = 400 or + = 1. Form
x1 = a cos 1/2 (α + β) / cos 1/2 (α– β); 16 25
y1 = b sin 1/2 (α + β) / cos 1/2 (α – β). X2 Y2
+=1
Similarly, other points of intersections. b2 a 2
∴ Major axis lies along y- axis. ;
Ex.18 Find the equations of the tangents to the ellipse
4x 2 + 3y 2 = 5 which are inclined at b2 16 3
∴ e2 = 1 – 2 =1– ; ∴e=
an angle of 60º to the axis of x. Also, find the a 25 5
point of contact.
Ex.21 The number of values of c such that the straight
Sol. The slope of the tangent = tan 60º = 3
x2
x2 y2 line y = 4x + c touches the curve + y2 = 1 is-
Now, 4x 2 + 3y2 = 5 ⇒ + =1 4
5/ 4 5/3 (A) 0 (B) 1
x2 y2 (C) 2 (D) infinite
This is of the form + = 1, where
a2 b2

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Sol.[C] We know that the line y = mx + c touches the Sol.[C] The equations of the chords of contact of tangents
drawn from (x 1,y 1) and (x2,y2) to the ellipse
x2 y2
curve + = 1 if c2 = a2m2 + b2
a 2
b2 x2 y2 x x1 y y1
+ = 1 are 2 + =1
2 2
Here, a = 4, b = 1, m = 4; a 2
b 2
a b2

∴ c2 = 64 + 1 ⇒ c = ± 65 ... (i)
x x2 y y2
Ex.22 If the chords of contact of tangents from two + =1 ... (ii)
a2 b2
It is given that (i) and (ii) are at right angles.
points (x 1 ,y 1 ) and (x 2 ,y 2 ) to the ellipse
− b 2 x1 − b 2 x 2
x2 y2 x 1x 2
∴ x =–1
a 2 +
b 2 = 1 are at right angles, then y y
1 2
is a 2 y1 a 2 y2
equal to-
x 1x 2 a4
a2 b2 ⇒ yy =– 4
(A) 2 (B) – 2 1 2 b
b a
4
a b4
(C) – (D) –
b4 a4

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