Topic 4. Conics.

Level 3.
Problem CON3_01.
x2 y2
For the ellipse + = 1 find (a) the eccentricity; (b) the coordinates of the foci; (c) the
16 25
equations of the directrices. Sketch the ellipse.

3 25
Answer: (a) ; (b) (0,±3) ; (c) y = ± .
5 3

Solution:

25
y=
3
5

S(0,3)

-4 0 4 x

S ′(0,−3)

-5
25
y=−
3

x2 y2 a = 4, b = 5 ⇒ b > a
+ =1 ; ,
16 25 a 2 = b 2 (1 − e 2 )
16 3
eccentricity: e = 1− = ,
25 5
foci: (0,±be) ⇒ (0,±3) ,
b 25
directrices: y=± ⇒ y=± .
e 3

Problem CON3_02.
y2 x2
For the hyperbola − = 1 find (a) the eccentricity; (b) the coordinates of the foci; (c) the
16 9
equations of the directrices. Sketch the hyperbola.

5 16
Answer: (a) ; (b) (0,±5) ; (c) y = ± .
4 5

Solution:
 y 4
ψ= ξ
3
S(0,5)

4
16
y=
5

0
16
ψ= -
5
− 4

Σ ′(0,−5)
4
ψ= - ξ
3
y2 x2 a = 3, b = 4
− =1; 2 ,
16 9 a = b 2 (e 2 − 1)
9 5
eccentricity: e = 1+ = ,
16 4
foci: (0,±be) ⇒ (0,±5) ,
b 16
directrices: y=± ⇒ y=± ,
e 5
a 3 4
asymptotes: x = ± y ⇒ x = ± y ⇒ y = ± x.
b 4 3

Problem CON3_03.
A variable point P ( x , y ) moves so that its distance from ( 0,4) is two times its distance from
y = 1 . Find the locus of P.

y2 x2
Answer: − =1.
4 12

Solution:
 y
S(0,4)

P( x, y )
2
m
1 M

0 x

−2

The locus of a variable point P( x , y ) is the hyperbola with focus at S (0, 4) , directrix m : y = 1 and
eccentricity e = 2 . Let M be the foot of the perpendicular from P to m . Then M has
coordinates (x,1) .
PS = e ⋅ PM ⇒ x 2 + ( y − 4) 2 = 2 2 ( y − 1) 2
. Therefore the Cartesian equation of the hyperbola is
x 2 + y 2 (1 − 4) = 4 − 16.
y2 x2
− = 1.
4 12

Problem CON3_04.
x2 y2
The asymptotes of the hyperbola − = 1 are inclined to each other at an angle α . Show
a2 b2
2ab
that tan α = .
a − b2
2

b
Solution: Let ϕ denote the smallest angle from positive x -axis to the asymptote y =
x . Then
a
π π b
α = 2ϕ when ϕ ≤ , or α = π − 2ϕ when ϕ > . Therefore tan α = tan 2ϕ . Since tan ϕ = , then
4 4 a
−1
2 tan ϕ 2b  b 2 
 2ab
tan α = = ⋅ 1− = .
1 − tan 2 ϕ a  a 2 
 a − b2
2

Problem CON3_05.
x2 y2
A point P( a sec θ, b tan θ) lies on the hyperbola − = 1 with foci S (a l , 0) and S ′(− a l , 0) .
a2 b2
(a) Show that PS = a e sec θ − 1 and P ′ = a e θ +1 .
(b) Deduce that PS − S = 2a .
Solution: (a) Length of PS is ( a sec θ − ae) 2 + (b tan θ) 2 = a 2 (sec θ − e) 2 + b 2 tan 2 θ . For the
x2 y2
hyperbola − = 1 we have b 2 = a 2 (e 2 − 1) . Therefore the l PS is
a2 b2
a 2 (sec θ − e) 2 + a 2 (e 2 − 1) tan 2 θ = a sec 2 θ − 2e sec θ + e 2 + e 2 tan 2 θ − tan 2 θ =

a e 2 (1 + tan 2 θ) − 2e sec θ + (sec 2 θ − tan 2 θ) = a e 2 sec 2 θ − 2e sec θ + 1 = a (e sec θ − 1) 2

Hence the length of PS is a e sec θ − 1 .
Length of PS ′ is ( a sec θ + ae) 2 + (b tan θ) 2 = a 2 (sec θ + e) 2 + b 2 tan 2 θ . For the hyperbola
x2 y2
− = 1 we have b 2 = a 2 (e 2 − 1) . Therefore the length of PS ′ is
2 2
a b
a 2 (sec θ + e) 2 + a 2 (e 2 − 1) tan 2 θ = a sec 2 θ + 2e sec θ + e 2 + e 2 tan 2 θ − tan 2 θ =

a e 2 (1 + tan 2 θ) + 2e sec θ + (sec 2 θ − tan 2 θ) = a e 2 sec 2 θ + 2e sec θ + 1 = a (e sec θ + 1) 2

Hence the length of PS ′ is a e sec θ + 1 .
π π
(b) If P lies on the right-hand branch of the hyperbola, then − < θ < . Since for hyperbola
2 2
e > 1 , PS = a(e sec θ − 1) and PS ′ = a(e sec θ + 1) . Therefore PS − PS ′ = −2a . If P lies on the left-
π π
hand branch of the hyperbola, then − π < θ < − or < θ ≤ π . Since for hyperbola e > 1 ,
2 2
PS = − a(e sec θ − 1) and PS ′ = − a(e sec θ + 1) . Therefore PS − PS ′ = +2a . Hence PS − PS ′ = 2a .

Problem CON3_06.
x2 y2
Points P( a sec θ, b tan θ) and Q (a sec φ, b tan φ) lie on the hyperbola −
= 1 . (a) Use the
a2 b2
x θ−φ y θ+φ θ+φ
result that the chord PQ has equation cos  − sin   = cos  to show that if PQ
a  2  b  2   2 
θ φ
is a local chord, then tan tan takes one of the values
2 2
1− e
1+ e
or
1+ e
1− e
. (b) The point P 2 3 , 3 3 ( )
x2 y2
is one extremity of a focus chord on the hyperbola − = 1 . Find the coordinates of the
3 9
other extremity Q.

(
Answer: 2 3 ,−3 3 or  − , .
13 
)  14 3 9 3 
 13

 θ− φ θ+φ
Solution: (a) If PQ is a focal chord through S (ae,0) , then e cos  = cos  . Expanding
 2   2 
θ φ θ φ θ φ 1− e
both cosines gives (e − 1) cos cos = −(e + 1) sin sin . Hence tan tan = . Similarly, if
2 2 2 2 2 2 1+ e
θ φ 1+ e
PQ is a focal chord through S ′(− ae,0) . Then replacing e by − e , tan tan = .
2 2 1− e

(b)
x2 y2
3
−
9
 π
( π
= 1 ⇒ a = 3 and b = 3, ∴ P 2 3 ,3 3 ≡ P 3 sec ,3 tan  .
 3 3
)
  9 π
Also b 2 = a 2 (e 2 − 1) ∴ e = 1 +  = 2 . P has parameter
. Let Q have parameter φ . Hence
 3 3
π φ 1− 2 π φ 1+ 2 φ 1 φ
tan tan = , or tan tan = , ∴ tan = − , tan = −3 3 ,
6 2 1+ 2 6 2 1− 2 2 3 2

1  1 
2 − 
sec φ =
1+
3 = 2 or sec φ = 1 + 27 = − 14 , and tan φ =
 3
= − 3 or tan φ =
2−3 3 3 3
= .
( )
1 1 − 27 13 1 1 − 27 13
1− 1−
3 3

( )
 14 3 9 3 
Q has coordinates ( 3 sec φ,3 tan φ) ⇒ Q 2 3 ,−3 3 or Q −
13
,
13
.

 

Problem CON3_07.
x2 y2
Points P( a cos θ, b sin θ) and Q (a cos φ, b sin φ) lie on the ellipse + = 1 . Find the equation
a2 b2
of the chord PQ. Hence show that if PQ subtends a right angle at the point A(a ,0) then PQ
passes through a fixed point on the x-axis.

x θ + φ y θ+ φ  θ− φ
Answer: cos  + sin   = cos .
a  2  b  2   2 

Solution:

y P(a cos θ, b sin θ)

b

T (t ,0) A(a ,0)

−a O x

−b
Q(a cos φ, b sin φ)

x2 y2 x θ + φ y θ+ φ  θ− φ
The chord PQ of the ellipse + = 1 has equation
cos  + sin   = cos ,
2 2 a  2  b  2   2 
a b
where P , Q have parameters θ , φ . The chord PQ cuts the x -axis at point T (t ,0) . So
−1
θ −φ θ+ φ  θ φ  θ φ
t = a cos  sec  = a1 + tan tan 1 − tan tan  . The gradient of AP is
 2   2   2 2  2 2
b sin θ b θ b sin θ b φ
= − cot and the gradient of AQ is = − cot . If the chord PQ
a(cos θ − 1) a 2 a(cos φ − 1) a 2
subtends a right angle at the point A , then gradient AP × gradient AQ = −1 . Therefore
−1
b2 θ φ θ φ b2  b2  b 2  a2 − b2
cot cot = −1 ⇒ tan tan = − . Hence t = a 1 − 1 + =a . But for the
a2 2 2 2 2 a2  a2  a 2  a2 + b2
 
 ae 2  ae 2 
ellipse b 2 = a 2 (1 − e 2 ) . Thus t = . So PQ passes through a fixed point T  ,0  on the
2 + e2  2 + e2 
 
x -axis.

Problem CON3_08.
x2 y2
A point P( a sec θ, b tan θ) lies on the hyperbola −
= 1 . The line through P perpendicular
b2 a2
to the x-axis meets an asymptote at Q and the normal at P meets the x-axis at N. Show that ON is
perpendicular to the asymptote.

x2 y2
Solution: The normal to the hyperbola − = 1 at the point P( a sec θ, b tan θ) has equation
a2 b2
ax by  a2 + b2 
+ = a 2 + b 2 . So the point N has coordinates  sec θ,0  . Since the asymptotes
sec θ tan θ  a 
 
b
have equations y = ± x , then the point Q has coordinates (a sec θ, ±b sec θ) . Thus the gradient
a
−1
 a 2 + b 2   a
of QN is m b sec θ ⋅  − a  sec θ =m . Therefore QN is perpendicular to the
 a 
  b
asymptote.

Problem CON3_09.
A point P( a sec θ, a tan θ) lies on the rectangular hyperbola x 2 − y 2 = a 2 . A is the point (a,0) .
M is the midpoint of AP. Find the equation of the locus of M.

Answer: (2 x − a) 2 − ( 2 y ) 2 = a 2 .

a a
Solution: If M ( x, y ) is the midpoint of AP , then x = (sec θ + 1) and y = tan θ . Therefore
2 2
2 2 2 2 2 2
(2 x − a) − ( 2 y ) = a (sec θ − tan θ) = a . Hence the locus of M is hyperbola
(2 x − a ) 2 − ( 2 y ) 2 = a 2 .

Problem CON3_10.
x2 y2
The point P( a sec θ, b tan θ) on the hyperbola − = 1 is joined to the vertices A(a,0) and
a2 b2
b
A′(− a,0) . The lines AP and A′P meet he asymptote y = x at Q and R respectively. (i) Find the
a
coordinetes of Q and R. (ii) Hence find the length QR, showing that it is independent of θ , and
1
show that the area of triangle PQR is ab(sec θ − tan θ) square units.
2

 θ θ   θ θ 
 a cos b cos   a sin b sin 
Answer: (i)  2 , 2 ,  2 , 2  ; (ii) a2 + b2 .
 θ θ θ θ  θ θ θ θ
 cos − sin cos − sin   cos − sin cos − sin 
 2 2 2 2  2 2 2 2
Solution:

y Q( x1 , y1 )
R ( x2 , y2 ) P(a sec θ, b tan θ)

A′ ( − a ,0) A(a ,0) x

O

b b
y= x y=− x
a a

b tan θ
(i) The line AP has equation y= (x − a) . Since the point Q lies on the line AP , then
a (sec θ − 1)
b tan θ b b
y1 = ( x1 − a ) . Since the point Q lies on the asymptote y= x , then y1 = x1 .
a (sec θ − 1) a a
θ θ
a cos b cos
tan θ a tan θ 2 2
Therefore x1 = ( x1 − a ) ⇒ x1 = = and y1 = .
(sec θ − 1) tan θ − sec θ + 1 θ θ θ θ
cos − sin cos − sin
2 2 2 2
 θ θ 
 a cos b cos 
Thus the point Q has coordinates  2 , 2  . Similarly the line A ′P has
 θ θ θ θ
 cos − sin cos − sin 
 2 2 2 2
b tan θ
equation y = ( x + a ) . Since the point R lies on the line A ′P , then
a (sec θ + 1)
b tan θ b b
y2 = ( x 2 + a ) . Since the point R lies on the asymptote y = x , then y 2 = x 2 . So
a (sec θ + 1) a a
θ θ
a sin b sin
tan θ − a tan θ 2 2
x2 = (x2 + a) ⇒ x2 = = and y 2 = . Thus the
(sec θ + 1) tan θ − sec θ − 1 θ θ θ θ
cos − sin cos − sin
2 2 2 2
 θ θ 
 a sin b sin 
point R has coordinates  2 , 2 .
 θ θ θ θ
 cos − sin cos − sin 
 2 2 2 2
2 2
2 θ θ 2 θ θ
a  cos  b  cos − sin 
− sin
= ( x1 − x 2 ) 2 + ( y1 − y 2 ) 2 = 
2
+ 
2 2 2 2
(ii) QR = a 2 + b 2 . Thus the
2 2
 θ θ  θ θ
 cos − sin   cos − sin 
 2 2  2 2
2
length of QR is a + b 2 and hence is independent of θ . The area of the triangle PQR is
1
⋅ QR ⋅ h where h is the height of the triangle. Since h is the distance from P ( a sec θ, b tan θ) to
2
b
⋅ a sec θ − b tan θ
b a ba sec θ − tan θ
the line y= x , then h= = . Therefore the area of the triangle
a 2 2 2
b  a +b
  +1
a 
1 2 2 ba sec θ − tan θ 1
PQR is ⋅ a + b ⋅ = ab sec θ − tan θ .
2 2
a +b
2 2

Problem CON3_11.
2 2
x y
Find the equation of the tangent and normal to (a) the ellipse + = 1 at the point ( 2 ,1) ;
8 2
2 2
π x y
(b) the ellipse x = 4 cos θ, y = 2 sin θ at the point where θ = ; (c) the hyperbola − = 1 at
3 12 27
π
the point ( 4 ,3) ; (d) the hyperbola x = 3 sec θ, y = 6 tan θ at the point where θ = .
6

Answer: (a) x + 2 y = 4 , 2x − y = 3 ; (b) x +2 3y = 8 , 6x − 3y = 9 ; (c) 3 x − y = 9 , x + 3 y = 13 ; (d)

4x − y = 6 3 , x + 4 y = 10 3 .

2 2
x y
Solution: (a) The tangent to the ellipse + = 1 at the point ( 2 ,1) has equation
8 2
2 2
2x y x y
+ = 1 ⇒ x + 2 y = 4 . The normal to the ellipse + = 1 at the point ( 2 ,1) has equation
8 2 8 2
8x 2y
− = 8 − 2 ⇒ 2x − y = 3 .
2 1
π
(b) The tangent to the ellipse x = 4 cos θ, y = 2 sin θ at the point where θ = has equation
3
π π
x cos y sin
3 + 3 =1 ⇒ x + 2 3y = 8 . The normal to the ellipse x = 4 cos θ, y = 2 sin θ at the point
4 2
π 4x 2y
where θ = has equation − = 16 − 4 ⇒ 6 x − 3 y = 9 .
3 π π
cos sin
3 3
2 2
x y
(c) The tangent to the hyperbola − = 1 at the point ( 4 ,3) has equation
12 27
2 2
4x 3y x y
− = 1 ⇒ 3 x − y = 9 . The normal to the hyperbola − = 1 at the point ( 4 ,3) has
12 27 12 27
12 x 27 y
equation + = 12 + 27 ⇒ x + 3 y = 13 .
4 3
 π
(d) The tangent to the hyperbola x = 3 sec θ, y = 6 tan θ at the point where θ = has equation
6
π π
x sec y tan
6 − 6 =1 ⇒ 4x − y = 6 3 . The normal to the hyperbola x = 3 sec θ, y = 6 tan θ at the
3 6
π 3x 6y
point where θ = has equation + = 9 + 36 ⇒ x + 4 y = 10 3 .
6 π π
sec tan
6 6

Problem CON3_12.
2 2
x y
The point P ( a cos θ, b sin θ) lies on the ellipse + = 1 . The points T and T ′ are the feet of
2 2
a b
2
the perpendiculars from the foci S and S ′ respectively to this tangent. Show that ST ⋅ S ′T ′ = b .

2 2
x y
Solution: The tangent to the ellipse + = 1 at the point P ( a cos θ, b sin θ) has equation
2 2
a b
x cos θ y sin θ
+ =1 .
a b

y
T′
P(a cos θ, b sin θ)
T

x
−a S′ O S a

−b

e cos θ − 1
Since S has coordinates ( ae , 0 ) , then ST = ( ST is the distance from S to the line
2 2
cos θ sin θ
+
2 2
a b
x cos θ y sin θ − e cos θ − 1
+ = 1 ). Since S ′ has coordinates ( − ae ,0 ) , then S ′T ′ = . Therefore
a b
cos 2 θ sin 2 θ
+
2 2
a b
2 2 2
1 − e cos θ 2 b
ST ⋅ S ′T ′ = . But for the ellipse b = a 2 (1 − e 2 ) ⇒ e 2 = 1 − . Hence
cos 2 θ sin 2 θ a
2
+
2 2
a b
2
2 b 2
1 − cos θ+ cos θ
2
a
ST ⋅ S ′T ′ = =b2 .
2 2
cos θ sin θ
+
2 2
a b
Problem CON3_13.
2 2
x y
The point P ( a sec θ, b tan θ) lies on the hyperbola − = 1 . The points T and T ′ are the feet
2 2
a b
of the perpendiculars from the foci S and S′ respectively to this tangent. Show that
2
ST ⋅ S ′T ′ = b .

2 2
x y
Solution: The tangent to the hyperbola 2
− 2
= 1 at the point P ( a sec θ, b tan θ) has equation
a b
x sec θ y tan θ
− =1 .
a b
y

P(a sec θ, b tan θ)

Τ
S¢ -a S
O x

T′

e sec θ − 1
Since S has coordinates ( ae , 0 ) , then ST = ( ST is the distance from S to the
sec 2 θ tan 2 θ
+
2 2
a b
x sec θ y tan θ − e sec θ − 1
line − = 1 ). Since S ′ has coordinates ( − ae ,0 ) , then S ′T ′ = . Hence
a b 2 2
sec θ tan θ
+
2 2
a b
2 2 2
e sec θ −1 2 b
ST ⋅ S ′T ′ = . But for the hyperbola b = a 2 ( e 2 − 1) ⇒ e 2 = + 1 . Thus
2 2 2
sec θ tan θ a
+
2 2
a b
2
b 2
sec θ + sec 2 θ − 1
2
a
ST ⋅ S ′T ′ = =b2 .
2 2
sec θ tan θ
+
2 2
a b

Problem CON3_14.
 2 2
x y
The point P ( a cos θ, b sin θ) lies on the ellipse + = 1 . The normal at the P cuts the x-axis
2 2
a b
at G, and N is the foot of the perpendicular from P to the x-axis. Show that SG = eSP , and
S ′G = e S ′P .

Solution:
y

P(a cos θ, b sin θ)

−a S′ S a
O G N x

−b
2 2
x y
The normal to the ellipse + = 1 at the point P ( a cos θ, b sin θ) has equation
2 2
a b
ax by a2 −b2 
− = a 2 − b 2 . The point G has coordinates  cos θ, 0  . Since the focus S has
cos θ sin θ  a 
 
2
a −b2
coordinates ( ae ,0 ) , then SG = ae − cos θ = ae (1 − e cos θ) and
a

2
SP = ( ae − a cos θ) + b 2 sin 2 θ = a ( e − cos θ) 2 + (1 − e 2 ) sin 2 θ

= a 1 − 2 e cos θ + e 2 cos 2 θ = a (1 − e cos θ) .

Hence SG = eSP . Since the focus S ′ has coordinates ( − ae ,0 ) ,
2
a −b2
then S ′G = − ae − cos θ = ae (1 + e cos θ)
a

2
and S ′P = ( −ae − a cos θ) + b 2 sin 2 θ = a ( e + cos θ) 2 + (1 − e 2 ) sin 2 θ

= a 1 + 2 e cos θ + e 2 cos 2 θ = a (1 + e cos θ) .

Hence S ′G = e S ′P .

Problem CON3_15.
2 2
x y
The point P ( a sec θ, b tan θ) lies on the hyperbola − = 1 . The normal at P cuts the x-axis
2 2
a b
at G, and N is the foot of the perpendicular from P to the x-axis. Show that SG = eSP , and
S ′G = e S ′P .

Solution:
 y
P(a sec θ, b tan θ)

S′ S x
-a O a N G

2 2
x y
The normal to the hyperbola − = 1 at the point P ( a sec θ, b tan θ) has equation
2 2
a b
ax by a2 +b2 
+ = a 2 + b 2 . The point G has coordinates  sec θ, 0  .
sec θ tan θ  a 
 
Since the focus S has coordinates ( ae , 0 ) ,
2
a +b2
then SG = ae − sec θ = ae 1 − e sec θ
a

2
and SP = ( ae − a sec θ) + b 2 tan 2 θ = a ( e − sec θ) 2 + ( e 2 − 1) tan 2 θ

= a 1 − 2 e sec θ + e 2 sec 2 θ = a 1 − e sec θ .

Hence SG = eSP . Since the focus S ′ has coordinates ( − ae ,0 ) ,
2
a +b2
then S ′G = − ae − sec θ = ae 1 + e sec θ
a

2
and S ′P = ( −ae − a sec θ) + b 2 tan 2 θ = a ( e + sec θ) 2 + ( e 2 − 1) tan 2 θ

= a 1 + 2 e sec θ + e 2 sec 2 θ = a 1 + e sec θ .

Hence S ′G = e S ′P .

Problem CON3_16.
Show that the chord of contact of the tangents from the point P0 ( x 0 , y 0 ) to the ellipse
2 2
x y x0 x y0 y
+ = 1 has equation + =1 .
2 2 2 2
a b a b

Solution:
 xx1 yy1 y
+ =1
a 2 b2 Q( x1 , y1 )

P0 ( x0 , y0 )

O x
R( x2 , y2 )
x 2 y2
+ =1
a 2 b2
xx2 yy2
+ 2 =1
a2 b
x 0 x1 y 0 y1
Since P0 ( x 0 , y 0 ) lies on the tangent P0 Q , then + = 1 . Since P0 ( x 0 , y 0 ) lies on the
2 2
a b
x0 x2 y0 y2 x0 x y0 y
tangent P0 R , then + = 1 . Hence both Q ( x 1 , y 1 ) and R ( x 2 , y 2 ) satisfy + =1 .
2 2 2 2
a b a b
But this is the equation of a straight line and is thus the equation of the chord of contact of
tangents from P0 ( x 0 , y 0 ) .

Problem CON3_17.
Write down the equation of the chord of contact of the tangents from the point ( 4 , −1) to the
2 2
ellipse x + 2 y = 6 . Hence find the coordinates of the points of contact and the equations of
these tangents.

2 5
Answer: 2x − y = 3 ;  , −  , x − 5 y = 9 ; ( 2 ,1) , x + y = 3 .
3 3

2 2
x y
Solution: x 2 + 2 y 2 = 6 ⇒ + = 1 . The chord of contact of tangents from the point ( 4 , −1) to
6 3
2 2
x y 4x y
the ellipse + = 1 has equation = 1 ⇒ 2 x − y = 3 . Let T ( x ′, y ′) be the extremity
− of
6 3 6 3
the chord, then 2 x ′ − y ′ = 3 ⇒ y ′ = 2 x ′ − 3 . Since the point T ( x ′, y ′) lies on the ellipse, then
2 2
x′ + 2 y′ = 6 . Hence x ′ 2 + 2 ( 2 x ′ − 3 ) 2 = 6 ⇒ 9 x ′ 2 − 24 x ′ + 12 = 0 ⇒ ( 3 x ′ − 2 )( x ′ − 2 ) = 0 .
2
Therefore the tangents to the ellipse x + 2 y 2 = 6 from the point ( 4 , −1) are
2 10 2 5
x− y = 6 ⇒ x −5y = 9 , with point of contact T  , −  and 2 x + 2 y = 6 ⇒ x + y = 3 , with
3 3 3 3
point of contact T ( 2 ,1) .

Problem CON3_18.
2 2
x y
Show that if y = mx + k is a tangent to the hyperbola − = 1 , then m 2 a 2 − b 2 = k 2 . Hence
2 2
a b
2 2
x y
find the equation of the tangents from the point (1,3 ) to the hyperbola − = 1 and the
4 15
coordinates of their points of contact.
  16 15 
Answer: y = 2 x + 1 , ( −8 , −15 ) ; y = −4 x + 7 , ,−  .
7 7 

Solution: The hyperbola has parametric equations x = a sec θ and y = b tan θ . Hence
dy b sec θ
= . If y = mx + k is a tangent to the hyperbola at P ( a sec φ, b tan φ) , then
dx a tan θ
dy
m= at P ⇒ ma tan φ − b sec φ = 0 (1)
dx
P lies on y = mx + k ⇒ ma sec φ − b tan φ = − k ( 2)
( 2 ) 2 − (1) 2 ⇒ m 2 a 2 (sec 2 φ − tan 2 φ) + b 2 (tan 2 φ − sec 2 φ) = k 2 ⇒ m 2 a 2 − b 2 = k 2 .
2
ma
( 2 ) × sec φ − (1) × tan φ ⇒ ma (sec 2 φ − tan 2 φ) = −k sec φ ⇒ a sec φ = − ,
k
2
b
( 2 ) × tan φ − (1) × sec φ ⇒ b (sec 2 φ − tan 2 φ) = − k tan φ ⇒ b tan φ = − .
k

ma
2
b  2
Therefore the point of contact of the tangent y = mx + k is P  − ,−  . Now tangents from
 k k 
 
2 2
x y
the point (1,3 ) to the hyperbola − = 1 have equations of the form y − 3 = m ( x − 1) , that is,
4 15
y = mx + ( 3 − m ) .
2 2
Hence m a − b 2 = k 2 ⇒ 4 m 2 − 15 = ( 3 − m ) 2 ⇒ 3 m 2 + 6 m − 24 = 0 ⇒ ( m − 2 )( m + 4 ) = 0 .
 ma 2 b 2 
∴ m = 2 , k = 3 − m = 1 and P  − ,−  ≡ P ( −8, −15 ) ,
 k k 
 
 ma 2
b 
2
 16 15 
or m = −4 , k = 3 − m = 7 and P  − ,− ≡ P  ,−  .
 k k  7 7 
 
2 2
x y
Hence the tangents from the point (1,3 ) to the hyperbola − = 1 are y = 2 x + 1 , with point
4 15
 16 15 
of contact P ( −8, −15 ) and y = −4 x + 7 , with point of contact P ,− .
7 7 

Problem CON3_19.
2
Find the equations and the coordinates of the points of contact of the tangents to x + 2 y 2 = 19
which are parallel to x + 6 y = 5 .

Answer: x + 6 y = 19 , (1,3 ) ; x + 6 y = −19 , ( −1, −3 ) .

Solution: The tangent to the ellipse x 2 + 2 y 2 = 19 at the point P ( x 0 , y 0 ) has equation

2 y0
xx 0 + 2 yy 0 = 19 . If this tangent is parallel to x +6y = 5, then = 6 ⇒ y 0 = 3 x 0 . Since the point
x0
2 2 2 2 2
P(x0 , y0 ) lies on the ellipse, then x 0 + 2 y 0 = 19 . Therefore x 0 + 2 ⋅ 9 x 0 = 19 ⇒ x 0 = 1 . Hence the
tangents to the ellipse x 2 + 2 y 2 = 19 are x + 6 y = 19 , with point of contact P (1,3 ) and
x + 6 y = −19 , with point of contact P ( −1, −3) .

Problem CON3_20.
 Find the equations and the coordinates of the points of contact of the tangents to 2x 2 − 3 y 2 = 5
which are parallel to 8 x = 9 y .

Answer: 8 x − 9 y = 5 , ( 4 ,3) ; 8 x − 9 y = −5 , ( −4 , −3) .

Solution: The tangent to the hyperbola 2 x 2 − 3 y 2 = 5 at the point P ( x 0 , y 0 ) has equation

2 x0 8 3
2 xx 0 − 3 yy 0 = 5 . If this tangent is parallel to 8x = 9 y , then = ⇒ y0 = x0 . Since the point
3 y0 9 4
9
P(x0 , y0 ) lies on the hyperbola, then 2 x 02 − 3 y 02 = 5 . Therefore 2 x 02 − 3 ⋅ 2
x 0 = 5 ⇒ x 0 = 16
2
.
16
Hence the tangents to the hyperbola 2 x 2 − 3 y 2 = 5 are 8x − 9 y = 5 , with point of contact P ( 4 ,3)
and 8 x − 9 y = −5 , with point of contact P ( −4 , −3 ) .

Problem CON3_21.
2
Find the equations and the coordinates of the points of contact of the tangents to x − y2 =7
which are parallel to 3 y = 4 x .

Answer: 4 x − 3 y = 7 , ( 4 ,3) ; 4 x − 3 y = −7 , ( −4 , −3) .

Solution: The tangent to the hyperbola x 2 − y 2 = 7 at the point P ( x 0 , y 0 ) has equation

x0 4 3
xx 0 − yy 0 = 7 . If this tangent is parallel to 3 y = 4x , then = ⇒ y0 = x0 . Since the point
y0 3 4
2 2 2 9 2 2
P(x0 , y0 ) lies on the hyperbola, then x0 − y0 = 7 . Therefore x0 − x 0 = 7 ⇒ x 0 = 16 . Hence
16
the tangents to the hyperbola x 2 − y 2 = 7 are 4 x − 3 y = 7 , with point of contact P ( 4 ,3)
and 4 x − 3 y = −7 , with point of contact P ( −4 , −3 ) .

Problem CON3_22.
Find the equations and the coordinates of the points of contact of the tangents to
2 5 
8x + 3 y 2 = 35 from the point  ,5  .
4 

Answer: 16 x + 3 y = 35 , ( 2 ,1) ; − 8 x + 9 y = 35 , ( −1,3) .

2
Solution: The tangent to the ellipse 8x + 3 y 2 = 35 at the point P ( x 0 , y 0 ) has equation
5  7 2
8 xx 0 + 3 yy 0 = 35 . The point  ,5  lies on this tangent. So 10 x 0 + 15 y 0 = 35 ⇒ y 0 = − x 0 .
4  3 3
Since the point P(x0 , y0 ) lies on the ellipse, then 8 x 02 + 3 y 02 = 35 .
2
2 7 2 
Therefore − x 0  = 35 ⇒ 28 x 02 − 28 x 0 − 56 = 0 ⇒ ( x 0 − 2 )( x 0 + 1) = 0 . Hence the
8x0 + 3 ⋅ 
3 3 
5 
tangents to the ellipse 8 x 2 + 3 y 2 = 35 from the point  ,5  are 16 x + 3 y = 35 , with point of
4 
contact P ( 2 ,1) and − 8 x + 9 y = 35 , with point of contact P ( −1,3 ) .

Problem CON3_23.
 2
Find the equations and the coordinates of the points of contact of the tangents to x −9y2 =9
from the point ( 3, 2 ) .

 4
Answer: x = 3 , ( 3,0 ) ; − 5 x + 12 y = 9 ,  − 5 , − .
 3

Solution: The tangent to the hyperbola x 2 − 9 y 2 = 9 at the point P ( x 0 , y 0 ) has equation

xx 0 − 9 yy 0 = 9 . The point ( 3, 2 ) lies on this tangent. So 3 x 0 − 18 y 0 = 9 ⇒ x 0 = 3 + 6 y 0 . Since the
2 2
point P(x0 , y0 ) lies on the hyperbola, then x0 − 9 y 0 = 9 .
2
Therefore (3 + 6 y 0 ) − 9 y 02 =9 ⇒ 3 y 02 + 4 y 0 = 0 ⇒ y 0 ( 3 y 0 + 4 ) = 0 . Hence the tangents to the
2
hyperbola x − 9 y 2 = 9 from the point ( 3, 2 ) are x = 3 , with point of contact P ( 3, 0 ) and
 4
− 5 x + 12 y = 9 , with point of contact P  − 5 , −  .
 3

Problem CON3_24.
The point P ( a cos θ, b sin θ) lies on an extremity of a latus rectum through one focus S of the
2 2
x y
ellipse + = 1 . The tangent at P cuts the y-axis at Q. Show that the normal at P is parallel to
2 2
a b
QS ′ , where S ′ is the other focus.

Solution:
y
Q

P(a cos θ, b sin θ)

−a S′ S a
O x

−b
2 2
x y
The tangent to the ellipse + = 1 at the point P ( a cos θ, b sin θ) has equation
2 2
a b
x cos θ y sin θ
+ = 1 . Hence the point Q has coordinates ( 0 , b cosec θ) . Thus the gradient of Q S ′ is
a b
2 2
b cosec θ x y
. The gradient of the normal to the ellipse + = 1 at the point P ( a cos θ, b sin θ) is
ae 2 2
a b
a sin θ
. Since P lies at an extremity of a latus rectum through the focus S ( ae ,0 ) , then cos θ = e
b cos θ
b b a 1
and sin θ = 1 − e 2 = . Therefore the gradient of QS ′ is ⋅ = and the gradient of the
a ae b e
a b 1
normal at P is ⋅ = . Hence the normal at P is parallel to QS ′ .
be a e
Problem CON3_25.
2 2
x y
The point P ( a cos θ, b sin θ) lies on the ellipse + = 1 . The tangent at P cuts the tangent at
2 2
a b
A ( a ,0 ) at R. Show that OR is parallel to A ′P , where A′ is the point ( − a ,0 ) .

Solution:
y
P(a cos θ, b sin θ)
R

A ′( − a ,0) S′ S A(a ,0)

O x

−b
2 2
x y
The tangent to the ellipse + = 1 at the point P ( a cos θ, b sin θ) has equation
2 2
a b
x cos θ y sin θ  b (1 − cos θ) 
+ = 1 . Hence the point R has coordinates  a ,  . Thus the gradient of OR
a b  sin θ 
b (1 − cos θ)
is . The gradient of A ′P is
a sin θ
b sin θ b sin θ(1 − cos θ) b sin θ(1 − cos θ) b (1 − cos θ)
= = = . Therefore OR is parallel to
a (cos θ + 1) a (cos θ + 1)(1 − cos θ) a (1 − cos
2
θ) a sin θ
A ′P .

Problem CON3_26.
2 2
x y
The point P ( a cos θ, b sin θ) lies on the ellipse + = 1 with foci S and S ′ . The normal at P
2 2
a b
2
meets SS ′ at G. Show that PG = (1 − e 2 ) PS ⋅ P S ′ .

Solution:

y
P(a cos θ, b sin θ)

−a S ′ ( − ae,0) S (ae,0) a
O G x

−b
 2 2
x y
The normal to the ellipse + = 1 at the point P ( a cos θ, b sin θ) has equation
2 2
a b
ax by a2 −b2 
− = a 2 − b 2 . The point G has coordinates  cos θ, 0  . Therefore
cos θ sin θ  a 
 
2
 
( )
2 2 2
a −b  cos 2 θ + b 2 sin 2 θ = b b 2 cos 2 θ + a 2 sin 2 θ .
PG
2
= a −
 a  2
  a

But for the ellipse b 2 = a 2 (1 − e 2 ) . Hence PG

2
= a 2 (1 − e 2 )(1 − e 2 cos 2 θ) .
From the other side
2
PS = a 2 ( e − cos θ) 2 + b 2 sin 2 θ = a 2 (1 − 2 e cos θ + e 2 cos 2 θ) = a 2 (1 − e cos θ) 2 ,
2 2 2
P S ′ = a ( e + cos θ) + b 2 sin 2 θ = a 2 (1 + 2 e cos θ + e 2 cos 2 θ) = a 2 (1 + e cos θ) 2 .
2
Thus PG = (1 − e 2 ) ⋅ a (1 − e cos θ) ⋅ a (1 + e cos θ) = (1 − e 2 ) PS ⋅ P S ′ .

Problem CON3_27.
2 2
x y
The point P ( a sec θ, b tan θ) lies on the hyperbola − = 1 . The tangent and the normal at P
2 2
a b
cut the y-axis at T and G respectively. Show that the circle on GT as diameter passes through the
foci S and S ′ .

Solution:

y
G

P(a sec θ, b tan θ)

S′ S
-a O a x

2 2
x y
The tangent to the hyperbola − = 1 at the point P ( a sec θ, b tan θ) has equation
2 2
a b
x sec θ y tan θ
− = 1 . The point T has coordinates ( 0 , −b cot θ) . The normal to the hyperbola
a b
2 2
x y ax by
− = 1 at the point P ( a sec θ, b tan θ) has equation + = a 2 + b 2 . The point G has
a
2
b
2 sec θ tan θ
  a2 +b2  2
a +b
2
− b cot θ
coordinates  0 , tan θ  .
So gradient SG × gradient ST = tan θ ⋅ . Since for
 b  − bae − ae
 
2
2 a +b2
the hyperbola b = a 2 ( e 2 − 1) , then gradient SG × gradient ST = − = −1 . Thus SG ⊥ ST and
2 2
a e
consequently GT subtends a right angle at focus S.
2
a +b2 − b cot θ a
2
+b2
Similarly gradient S ′G × gradient S ′T = tan θ ⋅ =−
2 2
= −1 . Thus S ′G ⊥S ′T
bae ae a e
and consequently GT subtends a right angle at focus S ′ . Therefore S , G , S ′, T are concyclic with
GT the diameter of the circle through the points.

Problem CON3_28.
2 2
x y
Show that the gradient of the tangent to the hyperbola − = 1 at the extremity in the first
2 2
a b
quadrant of its latus rectum is equal to the eccentricity of the hyperbola.

2 2
x y
Solution: The tangent to the hyperbola − = 1 at the point P ( a sec θ, b tan θ) has gradient
2 2
a b
b sec θ
. If P is an extremity in the first quadrant of a latus rectum, then a sec θ = ae . Thus
a tan θ

sec 2 θ − 1 =
2
sec θ = e ⇒ tan θ = e − 1 . Since for the hyperbola b 2 = a 2 ( e 2 − 1) , then
2 b be
e −1 = . Hence the gradient of the tangent is =e .
a b 
a 
a 

Problem CON3_29.
2 2
x y
The point P ( a cos θ, b sin θ) lies on the ellipse + = 1 , a > b > 0 . The tangent and the
2 2
a b
normal at P cut the y-axis at A and B respectively, and S is a focus of the ellipse. (i) Show that
0
ASB = 90 . (ii) Hence show that A, P, S and B are concyclic and state the location of the center
of the circle through A, P, S and B.

Solution:

y
A
P(a cos θ, b sin θ)

− a S ′( − ae,0) S (ae,0) a
O x
B

−b
 2 2
x y
The tangent to the ellipse + = 1 at the point P ( a cos θ, b sin θ) has equation
2 2
a b
x cos θ y sin θ
+ = 1 . Therefore the point A has coordinates ( 0 , b cosec θ) . The normal to the
a b
2 2
x y ax by
ellipse + = 1 at the point P ( a cos θ, b sin θ) has equation − = a 2 − b 2 . Hence the
a
2
b
2 cos θ sin θ
 b2 −a2 
point B has coordinates  0 , sin θ  .
 b 
 
2
b cosec θ ( b − a 2 ) sin θ ( b 2 − a 2 )
(i) Gradient AS × gradient BS = ⋅ = . Since for the ellipse
− ae b ( −ae ) 2 2
a e
2 2 2
b = a (1 − e ) , then gradient AS × gradient BS = −1 . Hence AB subtends a right angle at S .
(ii) Since AB subtends a right angle at P , then A , P , S , B are concyclic with AB the diameter
of the circle through the points. The center of the circle is the midpoint of AB .

Problem CON3_30.
Show that the ellipse 4 x 2 + 9 y 2 = 36 and the hyperbola 4 x 2 − y 2 = 4 meet at the right angles.
Find the equation of the circle through the points of intersection of these two curves.

2
Answer: x + y2 = 5 .

Solution: Let P(x0 , y0 ) be the point of intersection. Then

P lies on the ellipse: 4 x 02 + 9 y 02 = 36 , (1)
P lies on the hyperbola: 4 x 02 − y 02 = 4 . (2)
2 2
(1) − ( 2 ) ⇒ 10 y0 = 32 ⇒ y0 = 3 .2 , (3)
40 x 02
2
(1) + 9 × ( 2 ) ⇒ = 72 ⇒ x0 = 1 .8 . (4)
2 2
Since x0 + y0 = 5 , then the points of intersection of the ellipse and the hyperbola lie on the
2 4x0
circle x + y 2 = 5 . The tangent to the ellipse at P has gradient g e = − and the tangent to the
9 y0
4x0
hyperbola at P has gradient gh = . Therefore, using ( 3 ), ( 4 ) we obtain
y0

16 x 02 16 ⋅ 1 .8
ge ⋅gh = − =− = −1 . Hence the ellipse 4 x 2 + 9 y 2 = 36 and the hyperbola
2
9 y0 9 ⋅ 3 .2
2
4x − y 2 = 4 meet at right angles.

Problem CON3_31.
2 2
x y
The point P ( a sec θ, b tan θ) lies on the hyperbola − = 1 , where a > b > 0 . The tangent at
2 2
a b
2 2
x y
P passes through a focus of the ellipse + = 1 . Show that it is parallel to one of the lines
2 2
a b
y =x and y = −x and that its point of contact with the hyperbola lies on a directrix of the
ellipse.
 2 2
x y
Solution: The tangent to the hyperbola − = 1 at the point P ( a sec θ, b tan θ) has equation
2 2
a b
2 2
x sec θ y tan θ x y
− = 1 . Let e be the eccentricity of the ellipse + = 1 and the tangent to the
a b 2 2
a b
hyperbola passes through the focus S ( ± ae , 0 ) of the ellipse. Then ± e sec θ = 1 and consequently
2
2 1 1−e b
tan θ = sec θ −1 = −1 = = . Hence the tangent to the hyperbola has equation
2 e ae
e
x y x y
± − = 1 or ± + = 1 . So the tangent is parallel to the line y = x or to the line y = − x .
ae ae ae ae
 a b 
2  a b 2
Then the point P ( a sec θ, b tan θ) has coordinates  ± , or  ± ,−  . Therefore the point
 e ae   e ae 
   
a a
P lies on the directrix x = or x =− of the ellipse.
e e

Problem CON3_32.
For the rectangular hyperbola xy = 18 , find (a) the eccentricity; (b) the coordinates of the foci;
(c) the equations of the directrices, (d) the equations of the asymptotes. Sketch the rectangular
hyperbola.

Answer: (a) 2 ; (b) ( 6 ,6 ) , ( −6 , −6 ) ; (c) x + y = ±6 ; (d) x =0,y =0.

Solution:
y
y = −x m y=x

S(6,6)
m′

x
O
x+y =6
S ′( −6,−6)

x + y = −6
2
For the hyperbola xy = 18 we have c = 18 ⇒ c = 3 2 . Hence the hyperbola xy = 18 has
eccentricity e = 2 ,
foci S ( c 2 , c 2 ) = S ( 6 ,6 ) and S ′( −c 2 , −c 2 ) = S ( −6 , −6 ) ,
directrices x + y = ± c 2 ⇒ x + y = ±6 ,
asymptotes x = 0 and y = 0 .

Problem CON3_33.
 Show that if y = mx + k is a tangent to the rectungular hyperbola xy = c 2 , then k 2 + 4 mc 2 = 0 .
Hence find the equation of the tangents from the point ( −1, −3 ) to the rectangular hyperbola
xy = 4 and find the coordinates of their points of contact.

 2 
Answer: y = − x − 4 , ( −2 , −2 ) ; y = −9 x − 12 ,  − , −6  .
 3 

2 c
Solution: The hyperbola xy = c has parametric equations x = ct and y= . Hence
t
dy dy dt 1  c 
= =− . If y = mx + k is a tangent to the hyperbola at P  cp , , then
dx dt dx t
2
 p 
dy
m= at P ⇒ mp 2 + 1 = 0 (1)
dx
c
P lies on y = mx + k ⇒ mcp − = −k (2)
p
2
1 c
∴ (1) ⇒ p 2 = − . Thus squaring (2) we get 2 2
m c p
2
− 2 mc 2 + = k 2 ⇒ 4 mc 2 + k 2 = 0 .
m 2
p
c k
(1) × + ( 2 ) ⇒ 2 mcp = − k ⇒ cp = − ,
p 2m
c 2c c k
(1) × − (2) ⇒ =k ⇒ = .
p p p 2
 k k
Therefore the point of contact of the tangent y = mx + k
,  . Now tangents from the is P  −
 2m 2 
point ( −1, −3 ) to the hyperbola xy = 4 have equations of the form y + 3 = m ( x + 1) , i.e.
y = mx + ( m − 3 ) .

Hence 4 mc 2 + k 2 = 0 ⇒ 16 m + ( m − 3) 2 = 0 ⇒ m 2 + 10 m + 9 = 0 ⇒ ( m + 1)( m + 9 ) = 0 .
 k k
∴ m = −1, k = m − 3 = −4 and P  − ,  ≡ P ( −2 , −2 ) ,
 2m 2 
 k k  2 
or m = −9 , k = m − 3 = −12 and P  − ,  ≡ P  − , −6  .
 2 m 2   3 
Hence the tangents from the point ( −1, −3 ) to the hyperbola xy = 4 are y = − x − 4 , with point of
 2 
contact P ( −2 , −2 ) and y = −9 x − 12 , with point of contact P− , −6  .
 3 

Problem CON3_34.
  c 
c
The points  and Q  cq ,  lie on the rectangular hyperbola xy = c 2 . The tangents at P
P  cp ,
 p  q
and Q meet at R, and OR cuts PQ at M. Show that M is the midpoint of PQ.

Solution:
 y

P
M

O x
Q

 c 
Since R(x0 , y0 ) lies on the tangent at the point P  cp , , then x 0 + p 2 y 0 = 2cp . Since
 p 
 c 2
R ( x 0 , y 0 ) lies on the tangent at the point Q  cq ,  , then x 0 + q y 0 = 2 cq .
 q
2
x 0 + p y 0 = 2 cp 2 cpq 2c y0 x
⇒ x0 = and y0 = . Then OR has equation y = x = . The
2
x 0 + q y 0 = 2 cq p +q p +q x0 pq

x1
point M ( x1 , y 1 ) lies on OR . Therefore y1 = . Since PQ is the chord of contact of tangents
pq
2
from the point R(x0 , y0 ) , then PQ has equation xy0 + yx0 = 2c or substituting the values of
2 cpq 2c x p +q
x0 = and y0 = have +y =c . M ( x1 , y 1 ) lies on PQ . Hence
p +q p +q pq pq
x1 p+q 1c c 1
+ y1 = c . Thus y1 =  +  and x1 = (cp + cq ) . Therefore M is the midpoint of
pq pq 2p q 2
PQ .

Problem CON3_35.
 c 2
The point P  ct ,  lies on the rectangular hyperbola xy = c . The normal at P meets the
 t 
2
rectangular hyperbola x − y 2 = a 2 at Q and R. Show that P is the midpoint of QR.

2  c
Solution: The normal to the hyperbola xy = c at the point P  ct ,  has equation
 t 
y  1 
tx − = c  t 2 −  . Let the point Q , R have coordinates ( x 1 , y 1 ) and ( x 2 , y 2 ) respectively.
t 2
 t 
Since Q , R lie on the hyperbola x
2
− y 2 = a 2 , then subtracting x 22 − y 22 = a 2 from x 12 − y 12 = a 2
we get:
2 2 2 2
( x1 − x 2 ) − ( y 1 − y 2 ) = 0 ⇒ ( x1 − x 2 )( x1 + x 2 ) = ( y 1 − y 2 )( y 1 + y 2 ) . (1)
y2  1 
The points Q , R lie on the normal to the hyperbola. Therefore subtracting tx 2 − = c  t 2 − 
t 2
 t 
y  2 1 
from tx 1 − 1 = c  t −  we have:
t 2 
 t 
 y − y2
t ( x1 − x 2 ) − 1 =0 , (2)
t
y + y2  1 
t ( x1 + x 2 ) − 1 = 2 c  t 2 −  . (3)
t 2
 t 
Substituting (2) into (1) , we obtain
2
x1 + x 2 = t ( y 1 + y 2 ) . (4)
2 1 2c  2 1 
Then ( 3), ( 4 ) ⇒ t ( y 1 + y 2 ) − ( y1 + y 2 ) =  t −  .
2 t  2
t t 
2c
Hence y1 + y 2 = . (5)
t
Using (5) we get from (4)
x1 + x 2 = 2 ct . (6)
 x1 + x 2 y + y2 
Thus, according to (5) and (6) , the midpoint of QR the point  , 1  has
 2 2 
 c  c
coordinates  ct ,  . Hence the point P  ct ,  is the midpoint of QR .
 t   t 

Problem CON3_36.
 c 2
The point  lies on the rectangular hyperbola xy = c . The normal at P meets the
P  ct ,
t  
hyperbola again at Q. The circle on PQ as diameter meets the hyperbola again at R. Find the
coordinates of Q and R.

 c   c
Answer:  − , −ct 3  ,  − ct , −  .
 t
3
  t 

2  c
Solution: The normal to the hyperbola xy = c at the point P  ct ,  has equation
 t 
y   1  c
tx − = c  t 2 −  . The point Q  cq ,  lies on the normal. Hence
t 2 q
 t 

tcq −
c
tq
 1 
2

= c  t 2 −  ⇒ tq − t 2 1 +
 3
(
1 

)
= 0 . Since Q ≠ P , then q ≠ t . Therefore q = −
1
3
and Q
 t   t q t
 c   c
has coordinates  − 3 , −ct 3  . The point R  cr ,  lies on the circle on PQ as diameter. Hence
 t   r
1 1 1 1
gradient RP × gradient RQ = −1 . But gradient of RP is c  −  ⋅ =− and gradient of
r t  c (r − t ) rt
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
RQ is c  −  ⋅ = − . Thus = −1 ⇒ r 2 = − . Since q =− , then r
2
=t2.
r 
q c(r − q) rq r tq
2 tq t
3

 c
Therefore r = −t , because R ≠P . So the point R has coordinates  − ct , −  .
 t 

Problem CON3_37.
  c
The point  lies on the rectangular hyperbola xy = c 2 . The normal at P meets the
P  ct ,
t  
hyperbola again at Q. M is the midpoint of PQ. Find the equation of the locus of M.

Answer: 4x 3 y 3 + c 2 (x 2 − y 2 )2 = 0 .

2  c
Solution: The normal to the hyperbola xy = c at the point P  ct ,  has equation
 t 
y 
 1  c
tx − = c  t 2 −
 . The point Q  cq ,  lies on the normal.
2
t  t  q

c  1   1 
( )
Hence tcq − = c  t 2 − 2  ⇒ tq − t 2 1 + 3  = 0 . Since Q ≠ P , then q ≠ t . Therefore q = − 3
tq  t q
1
 t    t

 c 
and Q has coordinates  − , −ct 3  . If M ( x , y ) is the midpoint of PQ , then
 t3 
c c  2 1 
x = (t + q ) =  t −  (1)
2 2t  2
t 
c  1 1  ct  1 
and y =  +  =  − t 2  . (2)
2 t q  2 t 2

2 tx 2y y
We obtain from (1) , ( 2 ) that =− ⇒t2 = − . Substituting this formula for t
2
into (1) , we
c ct x
c  y x − c 2 x (x 2 − y 2 )
get x=  − +  ⇒ x 2 = ⋅ ⇒ 4 x 3 y 3 + c 2 ( x 2 − y 2 ) 2 = 0 .Therefore the
4 2 2
2 −
y  x y  y x y
x
locus of M has equation 4x 3 y 3 + c 2 (x 2 − y 2 )2 = 0 .

Problem CON3_38.
 c
The point  , where t ≠ 1, t ≠ −1 , lies on the rectangular hyperbola xy = c 2 . The tangent at
P  ct ,
t  
P meets the x-axis and the y-axis at Q and R respectively. The normal at P meets the lines y = x
and y = − x at S and T respectively. Show that QSRT is a rhombus.

2  c 2
Solution: The tangent to the hyperbola xy = c at the point P  ct ,  has equation x + t y = 2 ct .
 t 
 2c 
Hence the tangent meets the x -axis at Q ( 2 ct , 0 ) and the y -axis at R  0,  . The normal to the
 t 

2  y c 1 
hyperbola xy = c  has equation tx − = c  t 2 −  . Thus the normal meets
at the point P  ct ,
t   t  2
t 
  1   1    1   1 
the line y = x at S  c  t + , c  t +   and the line y = − x at T  c  t − , −c  t −   . Therefore
  t   t    t   t 
2 2
2  1   1  1 
QS = c 2  t + − 2 t  + c 2  t +  = 2 c 2  t 2 +  ,
 t   t  t
2

2 2
2  1 2 1  1 
SR = c 2  t +  + c 2  − t −  = 2 c 2  t 2 +  ,
 t   t t   t
2

 2 2
2  1  1 2  1 
RT = c 2  t −  + c 2  − t + −  = 2 c 2  t 2 +  ,
 t   t t   t
2

2 2
2 2 1  1  2 1
TQ = c  2 t − t +  + c  t −  = 2 c 2  t 2 +  .
 t  t  2
t 
So QS = SR = RT = TQ and, consequently, QSRT is a rhombus.

Problem CON3_39.
 c
The point P  ct ,  lies on the rectangular hyperbola xy = c 2 . Show that the normal at P cuts
 t 
 c 
the hyperbola again at the point Q with coordinates  − , −ct 3  . Hence find the coordinates of
 t3 
the point R where the normal at Q cuts the hyperbola again.

 c 
Answer:  ct 9 ,  .
9
 t 

2  c
Solution: The normal to the hyperbola xy = c at the point P  ct ,  has equation
 t 
y   1  c c  1 
tx −  . The point Q  cq ,  lies on the normal. Hence tcq − = c  t 2 −  .
= c  t 2 −
2 2
t   t  q tq  t 

( 
Therefore tq − t 2 1 +
1 
 t 3q 
)
= 0 . Since Q ≠ P , then q ≠ t . Thus q = −
t
1
3
and Q has coordinates
 
 c   c 1
 − , −ct 3  . Similarly the normal at Q cuts the hyperbola again at R  cr ,  with r = − 3 = t 9 .
3
 t   r q
 c 
So R has coordinates  ct 9 , 9
 .
 t 

Problem CON3_40.
 c 2
The point  lies on the rectangular hyperbola xy = c . The normal at P meets the x-axis
P  ct ,
t  
at A and the tangent at P meets the y-axis at B. M is the midpoint of AB. Find the equation of the
locus of M as P moves on the hyperbola.

2 4
Answer: 2 c xy = c − y4 .

2  c
Solution: The normal to the hyperbola xy = c at the point P  ct ,  has equation
 t 
y  1  c  1  
tx − = c  t 2 −  . The normal at P meets the x -axis at A   t 2 − ,0  . The tangent to the
t 2 t 2
 t    t  
2  c
hyperbola xy = c  has equation x + t 2 y = 2 ct . Hence the tangent meets the
at the point P  ct ,
t  
 2c  c  1  c
y -axis at B  0 ,  . If M ( x , y ) is the midpoint of AB , then x =  t 2 − 2  and y = . Thus
 t  2t  t  t
 y  c 
2 2
c y  . Therefore the locus of M has equation
t = and, consequently, x= −
y 2  y 2 c 
2

2 c 2 xy = c 4 − y 4 .