COORDINATE GEOMETRY

(Polar Coordinates Approach)

Mukut Mani Tripathi

Department of Mathematics and Astronomy
Lucknow University
Lucknow – 226 007
India
Chapter 1

Polar coordinate system

This chapter is introductory in nature. In Section 1.1, polar co-

ordinates in the Euclidean plane are introduced. In Section 1.2,
relations between Cartesian and polar coordinates are explained.
Distance between two points is obtained in Section 1.3. Section 1.4
contains a formula for area of a triangle. In Example 4 of Section 1.5
area of a quadrilateral is obtained.

1.1 Polar coordinates

The position of a point in a two-dimensional Euclidean plane may
be determined by means of a polar coordinate system. In brief,
this is the system of coordinates in which a point is represented by
its distance from a fixed point and the angle that the line from this
point to the fixed point makes with a fixed line in anti-clockwise
direction. We introduce a polar coordinate system as follows.
We fix a point O in the plane and call it the pole. A half-line
OX starting from the pole is called the polar axis (or the initial
line). A point P (6= O) in the plane is uniquely determined by
two numbers (see Figure 1.1): the number r which is the numerical
distance OP of P from the pole O, and the number θ, which is the
angle formed by the line segment OP with the polar axis OX in
anti-clock wise direction. The numbers r and θ are called polar
coordinates of the point P . The first coordinate r is called the
radius vector and the second coordinate θ is called the polar

1
2 CHAPTER 1. POLAR COORDINATE SYSTEM

Figure 1.1: Polar Coordinates

angle or vectorial angle or amplitude of the point. The positive

value of θ is reckoned counterclock-wise. For the pole, r = 0 and θ
is arbitrary.
Now, let us allow the values of θ beyond 0 ≤ θ < 2π, and the
negative values of r. Let P be the point (r, θ) and Q be the point
on the line P O produced such that OP = OQ (see Figure 1.2).
Then the polar coordinates of Q are (r, θ+π), which we may agree
to write as (−r, θ). Thus the polar coordinates of P can be written
as (−r, θ+π). In fact, the point P can be represented by an infinite
number of polar coordinates as (r, θ±2nπ) and (−r, θ±(2n+1) π),
n = 0, 1, 2, . . ..
The consideration of points, with polar coordinates (r, θ) allow-
ing r to be negative, might simplify the discussion of some special
cases. However, we adopt in general the convention r ≥ 0 and
0 ≤ θ < 2π.
The equation to the pole is r = 0. The equation of the polar axis
is θ = 0. The equation of a straight line passing through the pole
will be of the form θ = constant, since allowing negative values of
the radius vector every point on the line will have the same vectorial
angle.
1.2. CARTESIAN AND POLAR COORDINATES 3

Figure 1.2: Different representations of polar coordinates of a point

1.2 Relation between Cartesian and

polar coordinates
Consider a system of rectangular Cartesian coordinates and a sys-
tem of polar coordinates. Let the origin of the rectangular Cartesian
coordinate system coincide with the pole of the polar coordinate
system. Furthermore, assume that the positive direction of the x-
axis coincides with the polar axis, and that the positive direction
of the y-axis coincides with the ray θ = π/2. Then the equations
of transformation from polar coordinates (r, θ) to Cartesian coordi-
nates (x, y) of the same point are given by (see Figure 1.3)

x = r cos θ , y = r sin θ . (1)

Conversely, the equations of transformation from Cartesian coor-

dinates (x, y) to polar coordinates (r, θ) of the same point may be
written as
p y
r = x2 + y 2 , θ = arctan . (2)
x
Moreover,
y x
sin θ = p , cos θ = p . (3)
x2 + y 2 x2 + y 2
Taking the radius vector to be nonnegative, r is determined
uniquely from the relation (2). In determining the value of θ from
4 CHAPTER 1. POLAR COORDINATE SYSTEM

Figure 1.3: Cartesian and Polar coordinates

the relation (2), we get two values of θ, one in the first quadrant
and the other in the third quadrant or one in the second quadrant
and the other in the fourth quadrant according as y/x is positive
or negative. Since the quadrant is fixed by the coordinates (x, y),
therefore the correct value of θ may be fixed.

1.3 Distance between two points

Let P1 (r1 , θ1 ) and P2 (r2 , θ2 ) be two points. We join OP1 , OP2 and
P1 P2 , where O is the pole. Then ∠P1 OP2 = θ2 − θ1 .

Figure 1.4: Distance between two points

1.4. AREA OF A TRIANGLE 5

Using cosine rule in the triangle OP1 P2 we get (see Figure 1.4)
OP1 2 + OP2 2 − P1 P2 2 r 1 2 + r 2 2 − P1 P2 2
cos ∠P1 OP2 = = ,
2OP1 · OP2 2r1 r2
which gives

1/2
P1 P2 = r1 2 + r2 2 − 2r1 r2 cos (θ1 − θ2 ) .

1.4 Area of a triangle

Let O be the pole and Pi (ri , θi ), i = 1, 2, 3 be the vertices the
triangle P1 P2 P3 taken in anti-clockwise order.

Figure 1.5: Area of a triangle

Then, we have (see Figure 1.5)

area of triangle P1 P2 P3
= area of triangle OP1 P2 + area of triangle OP2 P3
− area of triangle OP1 P3
1 1 1
= r1 r2 sin (θ2 − θ1 ) + r2 r3 sin (θ3 − θ2 ) − r1 r3 sin (θ3 − θ1 )
2 2 2
1
= (r1 r2 sin (θ2 − θ1 ) + r2 r3 sin (θ3 − θ2 ) + r3 r1 sin (θ1 − θ3 ))
2
1
= (r1 r2 sin (θ2 − θ1 ) + r2 r3 sin (θ3 − θ2 ) + r3 r1 sin (θ1 − θ3 )) .
2
6 CHAPTER 1. POLAR COORDINATE SYSTEM

1.5 Solved Examples

Example 1. Represent the points whose polar coordinates are
(a) (2, π/3), (b) (−2, 0), (c) (1, π/6), (d) (−3, π/4).
Solution.

Example 2(a). Consider the parabola y 2 = 4ax. Putting x =

r cos θ and y = r sin θ, the polar equation of the parabola becomes
r2 sin2 θ = 4ar cos θ or r = 4a cos θ/ sin2 θ. 
2(b). Consider the equation l/r = 1+e cos θ or r2 −(l − er cos θ)2 =
0 and using r2 = x2 +y 2 and x = r cos θ we get x2 +y 2 −(l − ex)2 =
0. 
Example 3. Show that the points (0, 0), (a, π/6) and (a, π/2) are
vertices of an equilateral triangle.
Solution. Let the given points be P (0, 0), Q (a, π/6) and R (a, π/2).
We know that the distance between points (r1 , θ1 ) and (r2 , θ2 ) is

1/2
r1 2 + r2 2 − 2r1 r2 cos (θ1 − θ2 ) .

The statement P Q = a = P R is obvious. We also have

1/2
QR = a2 + a2 − 2 (a) (a) cos (π/2 − π/6) = a.

Hence the points P , Q and R are vertices of an equilateral triangle.


Example 4. Let O be the pole and Pi (ri , θi ), i = 1, 2, 3, 4 be the
vertices the quadrilateral P1 P2 P3 P4 taken in anti-clockwise order.
1.5. SOLVED EXAMPLES 7

Then, we have

area of quadrilateral P1 P2 P3 P4
= area of triangle P1 P2 P3 + area of triangle P3 P4 P1
1
= (r1 r2 sin (θ2 − θ1 ) + r2 r3 sin (θ3 − θ2 ) + r3 r1 sin (θ1 − θ3 ))
2
1
+ (r3 r4 sin (θ4 − θ3 ) + r4 r1 sin (θ1 − θ4 ) + r1 r3 sin (θ3 − θ1 ))
2
1
= (r1 r2 sin (θ2 − θ1 ) + r2 r3 sin (θ3 − θ2 )
2
+ r3 r4 sin (θ4 − θ3 ) + r4 r1 sin (θ1 − θ4 )) .

x2 y 2
Example 5. Let P , Q, R be points on the ellipse + = 1 with
a2 b 2
centre C. If CP , CQ, CR are inclined at angle 2π/3 to each other,
then show that
 
1 1 1 3 1 1
+ + = + .
CP 2 CQ2 CR2 2 a2 b 2

Solution. Putting x = r cos θ and y = r sin θ in the equation

x2 y 2
+ 2 = 1 we get the polar equation of the ellipse
a2 b

r2 cos2 θ r2 sin2 θ
+ =1
a2 b2
or
 
1 1 1 1
= 2+ − 2 cos2 θ. (1)
r 2 b a 2 b

Let vectorial angles of P , Q, R be θ, (θ + 2π/3), (θ + 4π/3) respec-

tively. Then in view of equation (1) we get

1 1 1
+ +
CP 2 CQ2 CR2
 
3 1 1  2 π  π 
= 2 + 2 − 2 cos θ+cos2 −θ +cos2 +θ (2)
b a b 3 3
8 CHAPTER 1. POLAR COORDINATE SYSTEM

Now, we have
π  π 
cos2 θ + cos2 − θ + cos2 +θ
3 3
 π π 2  π π 2
= cos2 θ+ cos cos θ+sin sin θ + cos cos θ−sin sin θ
3 3 3 3
√ !2 √ !2
1 3 1 3
= cos2 θ + cos θ + sin θ + cos θ − sin θ
2 2 2 2
√ !
1 3 3
= cos2 θ + cos2 θ + sin2 θ + cos θ sin θ
4 4 2
√ !
1 3 3
+ cos2 θ + sin2 θ − cos θ sin θ
4 4 2
3
3
= cos2 θ + sin2 θ = .
2 2
Putting this value in equation (2) we get
   
1 1 1 3 3 1 1 3 1 1
+ + = 2+ − = + .
CP 2 CQ2 CR2 b 2 a2 b 2 2 a2 b2

1.6 Problem Set 1

1. Represent the points whose polar coordinates are
√

(a) (2, −π/2) , (b) 3, 2π/3 ,
(c) (1/2, −π/6) , (d) (−1, π/4) .
2. Locate the points in the plane whose polar coordinates satisfy
the following conditions:

(a) r = 2, (b) 1 < r < 2, (c) θ = π/6,

(d) π/3 < θ < π/4, (e) 2 ≤ r < 4.
3. Find the polar coordinates of the point symmetric to the point
(1, π/3) relative to

(a) the pole,

(b) the polar axis.
1.6. PROBLEM SET 1 9

4. Find the polar coordinates of the points:

(a) (−1, 1) , (b) (−1, −1) ,

√

(c) −1, 3 , (d) (3, −4) .
5. Find the Cartesian coordinates of the points:

2, π4 , 3, π2 .



(a) (b)

6. Transform the following Cartesian equations into the polar

form

(a) x2 + y 2 − 5x = 0,
(b) x2 = 4ay,
x2 y 2
(c) ± 2 = 1.
a2 b
7. Change the following polar equations into Cartesian form:

(a) r2 = a cos 2θ,

(b) r = 2a cos θ ,
l
(c) = 1 + e cos (θ − α) .
r
8. Find the distance between points P (a, θ) and Q (−a, π + θ).

9. Find the distance between points P (3, 50◦ ) and Q (4, 110◦ ).

10. Show that the points (a, π/3) and (b, π/3) are collinear with
the pole.

11. Show that the points (1, π/7), (4, π/7) and (7, −6π/7) are
collinear.

12. Find the area of the triangle with vertices

(i) (3, π/6) , (2, π/2) and (1, 5π/6) ,

(ii) (a, θ) , (2a, θ + π/3) and (3a, θ + 2π/3) ,
(iii) (−a, π/6) , (a, π/2) and (−2a, −2π/3) .
10 CHAPTER 1. POLAR COORDINATE SYSTEM

13. Show that the points (0, 0), (a, α) and (a, α + π/3) are vertices
of an equilateral triangle.

14. If r1 and r2 are two mutually perpendicular radius vectors of

the ellipse
b2
r2 = ,
1 − e2 cos2 θ
then show that
1 1 1 1
+ 2 = 2 + 2,
r1 2 r2 a b
where b2 = a2 (1 − e2 ).

  
Chapter 2

Straight lines

The straight lines are studied using polar coordinates. In Sec-

tion 2.1, general equation of a straight line is written. Section 2.2
deals with parallel and perpendicular lines, while in Section 2.3,
equation of a line in normal form is obtained. In section 2.4, equa-
tion of a line joining two points is obtained. In Section 2.5, distance
of a point from a line is determined. In Example 2 of Section 2.6,
point of intersection of two lines is demonstrated, while in Exam-
ple 3, three lines equally inclined to each other are discussed.

2.1 General equation of a straight line

We know that the general equation of a straight line in the rectan-
gular Cartesian coordinate system can be written as

ax + by = l , (l ≥ 0) .

Taking the pole at the origin and the positive x-axis as the polar
axis, the above equation, in polar coordinates, becomes
l
= a cos θ + b sin θ . (1)
r
Thus the equation (1) is the general equation of a straight line in
polar coordinates. Keeping l fixed and varying a and b only, we can
get different straight lines. If l = 0, the straight line passes through
the pole and its equation is

11
12 CHAPTER 2. STRAIGHT LINES

a cos θ + b sin θ = 0 or tan θ = constant or θ = constant. (2)

The polar equation of a straight line may also be taken as
l
= a cos (θ − α) + b cos (θ − ψ) , (3)
r
where α and ψ are fixed.

2.2 Parallel and perpendicular lines

Since ax + by = l and ax + by = l′ represent parallel lines, therefore
the lines
l l′
= a cos θ + b sin θ and = a cos θ + b sin θ
r r
are parallel lines. Since the equations

ax + by = l and bx − ay = l′

express two mutually perpendicular lines, therefore in the polar co-

ordinates these mutually perpendicular lines are
l l′  π  π
= a cos θ +b sin θ and = a cos θ + +b sin θ + .
r r 2 2
It is easy to verify that the lines
l l′
= a cos θ + b sin θ and = a′ cos θ + b′ sin θ
r r
are mutually perpendicular if aa′ + bb′ = 0.

2.3 Straight lines in normal form

Now, we find the equation of a straight line, in terms of the perpen-
dicular ON = p (> 0) from the pole on it and the angle α which
the perpendicular ON makes with the polar axis OX. Let P (r, θ)
be any point on the straight line.
We consider the right angled triangle ON P . Then we have
ON /OP = cos ∠P ON , that is, (see Figure 2.1)
2.4. A STRAIGHT LINE JOINING TWO POINTS 13

Figure 2.1: Straight line: p/r = cos (θ − α)

p
= cos |(θ − α)| = cos (θ − α) . (1)
r
In particular, if α = 0 then we get (see Figure 2.2)
p
= cos |θ| = cos θ. (2)
r
If α = π/2, that is, the line is parallel to the polar axis and is above
the polar axis, then the line becomes (see Figure 2.3)
p  π
= cos θ − = sin θ . (3)
r 2
If the parallel line is below the polar axis, then α = 3π/2 (or − π/2),
and in this case the equation of the line is
p
= − sin θ . (4)
r
A line perpendicular to the line p/r = cos (θ − α) is given by
p′  π
= cos θ − α + . (5)
r 2

2.4 A straight line joining two points

Let Pi (ri , θi ), i = 1, 2 be two points. Let P (r, θ) be any point on
the line P1 P2 . Since P1 , P2 and P are colinear, therefore area of the
triangle P1 P2 P is zero, that is
14 CHAPTER 2. STRAIGHT LINES

Figure 2.2: Straight line: p/r = cos θ

Figure 2.3: Straight line: p/r = sin θ

2.5. DISTANCE OF A POINT FROM A LINE 15

r1 r2 sin (θ2 − θ1 ) + r2 r sin (θ − θ2 ) + rr1 sin (θ1 − θ) = 0. (1)

Hence equation (1) is the required equation of the straight line join-
ing two points P1 (r1 , θ1 ) and P2 (r2 , θ2 ) .

2.5 Distance of a point from a line

Let P1 (r1 , θ1 ) be a point and

l
= a cos θ + b sin θ
r
be a line. In Cartesian coordinates, the point is P1 (r1 cos θ1 , r1 sin θ1 )
and the line is ax + by = l. Therefore, the required distance is
 
 ar1 cos θ1 + br1 sin θ1 − l 
 √ .
 a +b
2 2 

2.6 Solved Examples

Example 1. Find the length and direction of the perpendicular
from the pole to the line
5
= 4 cos θ − 3 sin θ.
r
Solution. This line can be put in form
 
1 4 3 −3
= cos θ − sin θ = cos (θ − α) , α = arctan .
r 5 5 4

Hence, length of perpendicular from the pole is 1 and its direction

is arctan (−3/4). 
Example 2. Find the polar coordinates of the point of intersection
of the two different straight lines
l l
= cos θ + cos (θ − 2α) and = cos θ + cos (θ − 2β) .
r r
16 CHAPTER 2. STRAIGHT LINES

Solution. Let the two lines meet in a point P (ρ, φ) . Then, we get
l
= cos φ + cos (φ − 2α) = cos φ + cos (φ − 2β) .
ρ
From the above equation we get

cos (φ − 2α) = cos (φ − 2β) or (φ − 2α) = ± (φ − 2β) .

Taking positive sign we get α = β, which makes the two lines identi-
cal, so taking negative sign we get φ = α+β. Putting θ = φ = α+β,
and r = ρ in the equation of one of the two given lines we get
l
= cos (α + β) + cos (β − α) = 2 cos α cos β,
ρ
which gives ρ = (l/2) sec α sec β. Hence the point of intersection of
the two lines is  
l
sec α sec β, α + β . 
2
Example 3. Show that the equation

y 3 − 3x2 y + m x3 − 3xy 2 = 0

represents three straight lines equally inclined to one another.

Solution. We change the given equation to polar form:

r3 sin3 θ − 3r3 cos2 θ sin θ + mr3 cos3 θ − 3 cos θ sin2 θ = 0

or
3 sin θ cos2 θ − sin3 θ = m cos3 θ − 3 cos θ sin2 θ

or
3 tan θ − tan3 θ = m 1 − 3 tan2 θ

or
3 tan θ − tan3 θ
m= or tan 3θ = m = tan α, say.
1 − 3 tan2 θ
Then
3θ = nπ + α or θ = (nπ + α) /3.
2.7. PROBLEM SET 2 17

Putting n = 1, 2, 3, we get

π α 2π α 3π α
θ1 = + , θ2 = + , θ3 = + .
3 3 3 3 3 3
π
The angles between these lines being equal to , the given lines are
3
equally inclined to one another. 

2.7 Problem Set 2

1. Find the length and direction of the perpendicular from the
pole to the line 30/r = 4 cos θ + 3 sin θ.

2. Find the vectorial angle of the point of intersection of two

straight lines

l l
= e cos θ + cos (θ − α) and = e cos θ + cos (θ − β) .
r r
When will these lines be perpendicular?

3. Show that the lines 1/r = 2 sin θ + 4 cos θ and 5/r = 3 cos θ −
6 sin θ are mutually perpendicular.

4. Show that the equation of a straight line joining two points

(r1 , θ1 ) and (r2 , θ2 ) is

1/r cos θ sin θ

1/r1 cos θ1 sin θ1 = 0.
1/r2 cos θ2 sin θ2

Hence or otherwise show that the three points (ri , θi ), i =

1, 2, 3 are collinear if

1/r1 cos θ1 sin θ1 X 1

0 = 1/r2 cos θ2 sin θ2 = sin (θ2 − θ3 ) .
r1
1/r3 cos θ3 sin θ3
18 CHAPTER 2. STRAIGHT LINES

5. Show that the equation

l
= f (θ) ≡ a cos (θ + α) + b cos (θ + β)
r
represents the equation of a straight line, and that any straight
line perpendicular to it is l′ /r = f (θ + π/2).
6. Find the equation of bisectors of the lines θ = α and θ = β.
7. Find the polar coordinates of the point of intersection of the
two different straight lines
l l
= cos θ + cos (θ − α) and = cos θ + cos (θ − β) .
r r

8. Find the polar coordinates of the point of intersection of the

two different straight lines
l l
= cos θ − cos (θ − α) and = cos θ − cos (θ − β) .
r r

9. Prove that the straight line passing through the point of inter-
section of the line 1/r = a cos θ + b sin θ and 1/r = a′ cos θ +
b′ sin θ is the straight line
1+λ
= (a + λa′ ) cos θ + (b + λb′ ) sin θ.
r
Hence or otherwise, obtain the equation of the line passing
through the pole and the point of intersection of the line 1/r =
a cos θ + b sin θ and 1/r = a′ cos θ + b′ sin θ.
10. Find the distance of a point (r1 , θ1 ) from a line r cos (θ − α) =
p.
11. Show that the polar coordinates of the foot of perpendicular
from the pole on the line joining two points P1 (r1 , θ1 ) and
P2 (r2 , θ2 ) is
!
r1 r2 sin (θ1 − θ2 ) r2 cos θ2 −r1 cos θ1
p , arctan .
r1 2 +r2 2 −2r1 r2 cos (θ1 −θ2 ) r1 sin θ1 −r2 sin θ2
2.7. PROBLEM SET 2 19

12. If the vectorial angle of a point P on the line joining two

points P1 (r1 ,θ1 ) and P2 (r2 , θ2 ) is (θ1 + θ2 ) /2, then show that
the length of the radius vector of P is
 
2r1 r2 θ1 − θ2
cos .
r1 + r2 2

13. Show that the three lines

r cos (θ − α) = a, r cos (θ − β) = bandr cos (θ − γ) = c

are concurrent if and only if

a sin (β − γ) + b sin (γ − α) + c sin (α − β) = 0.

14. Find the angle between the three straight lines given by the
equation
x3 + 3x2 y − 3xy 2 − y 3 = 0.

15. Show that the equation

sin 3α y 3 − 3x2 y +cos 3α x3 − 3xy 2 +3a x2 + y 2 −4a3 = 0

represents three straight lines, which form an equilateral triangle.

  
20 CHAPTER 2. STRAIGHT LINES
Chapter 3

Circles

Circles are studied in this chapter. In Section 3.1, general equation

of a circle with given centre and given radius is obtained. Some
particular cases are also demonstrated. In Section 3.2, we obtain
equation of a chord of a circle. In Sections 3.3 and 3.4 equations
of tangent and normal at a point of a circle are obtained respec-
tively. In Example 2 of Section 3.5, we obtain an equation a circle
circumscribing a triangle. Condition of tangency of a line to circles
are discussed in Examples 4 and 5. In Example 6, it is proved that
locus of the feet of perpendiculars from the pole on tangents to a
circle is a cardioid.

3.1 Equation of a circle

Simplest equation of a circle is when its centre is at the pole. r = a
is the equation in this case, where a is the radius of this circle.
Next, we take the general case, when the centre is C (c, α). In
fact, we obtain the polar equation of a circle whose centre is C (c, α)
and radius is a. Let P (r, θ) be any point on the circle. Then
OC = c, OP = r, CP = a, ∠COX = α and ∠P OX = θ (see
Figure 3.1).
Using the cosine formula in the triangle OCP , we have

CP 2 = OP 2 + OC 2 − 2OP · OC cos ∠P OC ,

21
22 CHAPTER 3. CIRCLES

Figure 3.1: Circle: r2 − 2cr cos (θ − α) + c2 − a2 = 0

that is,
a2 = r2 + c2 − 2rc cos (θ − α) .
Therefore, the equation of the circle is

r2 − 2cr cos (θ − α) + c2 − a2 = 0 . (1)

Particular cases
Case 1. If the circle touches the initial line, then we have a =
|c sin α| and the equation of the circle reduces to (see Figure 3.2)

r2 − 2cr cos (θ − α) + c2 cos2 α = 0 . (2)

Case 2. If the centre lies on the polar axis, then we have α = 0

and the equation of the circle reduces to (see Figure 3.3)

r2 − 2cr cos θ + c2 − a2 = 0 . (3)

Case 3. If the pole lies on the circle, then we have c = a and the
equation of the circle reduces to (see Figure 3.4)

r = 2a cos (θ − α) . (4)

Case 4. If the pole lies on the circle and the polar axis is the
diameter through that point, then it is the Case 3 with α = 0 and
the equation of the circle reduces to (see Figure 3.5)

r = 2a cos θ. (5)
3.1. EQUATION OF A CIRCLE 23

Figure 3.2: Circle: r2 − 2cr cos (θ − α) + c2 cos2 α = 0 .

Figure 3.3: Circle: r2 − 2cr cos θ + c2 − a2 = 0

24 CHAPTER 3. CIRCLES

Figure 3.4: Circle: r = 2a cos (θ − α)

Figure 3.5: Circle: r = 2a cos θ

3.2. CHORD OF THE CIRCLE 25

Case 5. If the pole lies on the circle and the diameter of the
circle through the pole is perpendicular to the polar axis, then in
the Case 3 we have α = π/2 and the equation of the circle is (see
Figure 3.6)
r = 2a sin θ .

Figure 3.6: Circle: r = 2a sin θ

Case 6. If the pole coincides with the centre of the circle, then the
equation of the circle is r = a.

3.2 Chord of the circle

Now, we obtain polar equation of the chord joining two points
P (r1 , θ1 ) and Q (r2 , θ2 ) on the circle r = 2a cos θ.
We draw the perpendicular OM to the chord P Q (See Fig-
ure 3.7). If polar coordinates of M are (p, α) then the equation
of the chord P Q is
p = r cos (θ − α) .
Now, we intend to find out p and α. First, we note that
∠M OQ = ∠P QA = ∠P OA = θ1 .
26 CHAPTER 3. CIRCLES

Figure 3.7: Chord of circle

Thus we get
α = ∠M OA = ∠M OQ + ∠QOA = θ1 + θ2 ,
and
p = OM = OQ cos ∠M OQ
= OA cos ∠QOA cos ∠M OQ
= 2a cos θ2 cos θ1 .
Thus polar coordinates of the foot of perpendicular M from the pole
on the chord joining P (θ1 ) and Q (θ2 ) on the circle r = 2a cos θ are
M (2a cos θ1 cos θ2 , θ1 +θ2 ) .
Hence, the equation of the chord P Q is
r cos (θ − θ1 − θ2 ) = 2a cos θ1 cos θ2 . (1)
Similarly, the equation of the chord joining the two points θ1 and θ2
on the circle r = 2a cos (θ − ψ) can be obtained from the equation
(1) by changing θ, θ1 and θ2 to θ − ψ, θ1 − ψ and θ2 − ψ respectively:
r cos (θ − θ1 − θ2 + ψ) = 2a cos (θ1 − ψ) cos (θ2 − ψ) . (2)
3.3. TANGENT AT A POINT OF THE CIRCLE 27

3.3 Tangent at a point of the circle

Here we obtain the polar equation of the tangent at a point T (α)
on the circle r = 2a cos θ.
The tangent at T (α) is the limiting case of the chord joining the
points P (θ1 ) and Q (θ2 ) as θ1 → α and θ2 → α. Therefore, taking
θ1 = α = θ2 in the equation
r cos (θ − θ1 − θ2 ) = 2a cos θ1 cos θ2
of the chord P Q we get the equation of the tangent at the point
T (α) as
r cos (θ − 2α) = 2a cos2 α .
Remark. Equation of the tangent at the point T (α) on the circle
r = 2a cos (θ − ψ) can be obtained from the above equation by
changing θ to θ − ψ and α to α − ψ. Thus the required equation of
the tangent is
r cos (θ + ψ − 2α) = 2a cos2 (α − ψ) .

3.4 Normal at a point of the circle

Since the normal at T (α) is perpendicular to the tangent at T (α),
therefore its equation can be taken as
 π
r cos θ − 2α + = p′ ,
2
where p′ is to be determined. Since this normal passes through the
centre C (a, 0) of the circle, therefore
′
 π
p = a cos −2α + = a sin 2α .
2
Therefore, the polar equation of the normal at the point T (α) on
the circle r = 2a cos θ is
r sin (2α − θ) = a sin 2α .
Remark. Equation of the normal at the point T (α) on the circle
r = 2a cos (θ − ψ) can be obtained from the above equation by
28 CHAPTER 3. CIRCLES

changing θ to θ − ψ and α to α − ψ. Thus the required equation of

the normal is

r sin (2α − θ − ψ) = a sin 2 (α − ψ) .

3.5 Solved Examples

Example 1. In general, the equation r = a cos θ + b sin θ represents
a circle through the pole. In fact, we can write the above equation
as
r = d cos (θ − α)
with  
2 2 1/2

b
d= a +b and α = arctan ,
a
 
d
which represents a circle through the pole with the centre ,α .
2

Example 2. Show that polar  equation of the circle
 circumscribing
l
the triangle with vertices P sec α sec β, α+β ,
  2 
l l
Q sec β sec γ, β +γ and R sec γ sec α, γ +α is
2 2

2r cos α cos β cos γ = l cos (θ − α − β − γ) .

Solution. The given equation can be written as

 
l
r= sec α sec β sec γ cos (θ − (α + β + γ)) ,
2
which
 is a circle. It can  beverified that the points

l l
P sec α sec β, α+β , Q sec β sec γ, β +γ
2  2
l
and R sec γ sec α, γ +α satisfy this equation. 
2
Example 3. Let O be a fixed point and P be any point on a
given circle. OP is joined and a point Q is taken on OP such that
3.5. SOLVED EXAMPLES 29

OP · OQ = k. Show that the locus of Q is a circle. Further, show

that the locus of Q is a straight line if the point O is taken on the
circle.
Solution. We take the fixed point O as the pole and the line joining
O with the centre C of the circle as the initial line. Let (c, 0) be
coordinates of C and a be the radius of the circle (c > a). Then the
equation of the circle is
r2 − 2cr cos θ + c2 − a2 = 0. (1)
Let P (r1 , θ1 ) be a point on the circle (1), so that
r1 2 − 2cr1 cos θ1 + c2 − a2 = 0. (2)
Let Q (ρ, θ1 ) be a point on the line OP such that
k
k = OP · OQ = r1 ρ or r1 = .
ρ
Substituting this value of r1 in (2), we get
 2
k k
− 2c cos θ1 + c2 − a2 = 0
ρ ρ
or
ρ2 c2 − a2 − 2ckρ cos θ1 + k 2 = 0.

Therefore the locus of the point Q is

r2 c2 − a2 − 2ckr cos θ + k 2 = 0,

which is a circle. If the pole O lies on the circle (1) then c = a and
the above equation reduces to 2cr cos θ = k,which is a straight line.

Example 4. Find the condition so that the straight line
l
= a cos θ + b sin θ
r
may touch the circle r = 2c cos θ.
Solution. Centre of the circle is (c, 0). Perpendicular from (c, 0)
to the straight line is
|l − ac|
√ ,
a2 + b 2
which must be c. Thus
30 CHAPTER 3. CIRCLES

(l − ac)2 = c2 a2 + b2 b2 c2 + 2alc = l2 .


or 
Example 5. Find the condition so that the line r cos (θ − α) = p
may touch the circle
r2 − 2rc cos θ + c2 − a2 = 0.
Solution. The given circle is
r2 − 2rc cos θ + c2 − a2 = 0, (1)
whose centre is (c, 0) and radius is a. The given line is
r cos θ cos α + r sin θ sin α = p. (2)
Perpendicular on (2) from (c, 0) is
|c cos α − p| .
Hence for (2) to touch (1) the condition is
|c cos α − p| = a. 
Example 6. Locus of the feet of perpendiculars from the pole on
tangents to the circle r = 2a cos θ is the cardioid r = a (1 + cos θ).
Solution. Let
r cos (θ − 2α) = 2a cos2 α (1)
3.6. PROBLEM SET 3 31

be a tangent at a point α on the circle r = 2a cos θ. Let (ρ, φ) be

the foot of perpendicular drawn from the pole to the tangent. Then
ρ cos (φ − 2α) = 2a cos2 α. (2)
Since the point (ρ, φ) also lies on the line
r cos (θ − 2α + π/2) = 0 (3)
perpendicular to (1) and passing through the pole, therefore
ρ cos (φ − 2α + π/2) = 0. (4)
Since, in general ρ 6= 0, therefore from (4) it follows that 2α = φ.
Putting 2α = φ in the equation (2) we get

ρ = 2a cos2 (φ/2) = a (1 + cos φ) ,

which shows that the locus of the point (ρ, φ) is the cardioid
r = a (1 + cos θ) . 

3.6 Problem Set 3

1. Express the following circles in the polar form:

(a) x2 + y 2 − ax = 0,
(b) x2 + y 2 − by = 0.

2. Show that r2 +2r (a cos θ + b sin θ)+c = 0 represents a circle.

3. Find the centre and radii of the circles

(a) r2 − r (4 cos θ + 3 sin θ) − 2 = 0,

√

(b) r = 7 cos θ + 3 sin θ ,
(c) r = 3 (cos θ + sin θ) ,
√

(d) r = 6 3 cos θ + sin θ .
4. Obtain the polar equation of the circle when initial line is a
tangent to the circle.
32 CHAPTER 3. CIRCLES

5. A circle passes through the point (r1 , θ1 ) and touches the ini-
tial line at a distance c from the pole. Show that its polar
equation is
r2 − 2cr cos θ + c2 r1 2 − 2cr1 cos θ1 + c2
= .
r sin θ r1 sin θ1

6. Find the polar equation of the circle passing through the

points (a, 0◦ ), (b, 0◦ ) and touching the line θ = α.
7. Obtain the polar equation of the circle drawn on the line seg-
ment joining points (a, α) and (b, β) as diameter.
8. Show that the length of the diameter of the circle passing
through the pole and the points P1 (r1 , θ1 ) and P2 (r2 , θ2 ) is
1/2
(r1 2 + r2 2 − 2r1 r2 cos (θ1 − θ2 ))
.
sin (θ1 − θ2 )

9. Show that polar equation of the circle circumscribing the

polygon of n sides with vertices

P1 (l sec α2 sec α3 · · · sec αn , α2 + α3 +· · ·+ αn) ,

P2 (l sec α1 sec α3 · · · sec αn , α1 + α3 + · · · + αn ) ,

P3 (l sec α1 sec α2 sec α4 · · · sec αn , α1 +α2 +α4 +· · ·+αn ) , . . . ,

Pn (l sec α1 sec α2 · · · sec αn−1 , α1 + α2 + · · · + αn−1 ) is

r cos α1 cos α2 · · · cos αn = l cos (θ − α1 − α2 −· · ·− αn ) .

10. Show that the feet of the perpendiculars from the pole on the
sides of the triangle formed by the points (ri , θi ), i = 1, 2, 3,
on the circle r = 2a cos θ lie on the line

r cos (θ − θ1 − θ2 − θ3 ) = 2a cos θ1 cos θ2 cos θ3 .

This line is the pedal line of the pole with respect to the
triangle.
3.6. PROBLEM SET 3 33

11. A triangle of the given species has one vertex at the pole and
a second vertex moving on the circle

r2 − 2dr cos θ + d2 − a2 = 0.

Show that the locus of the third vertex is the circle

k 2 r2 − 2dkr cos (θ − α) + d2 − a2 = 0

for suitable constants k and α.

12. Show that the equations

r2 − kr cos(θ − α) + kd = 0

represent a coaxial system of circles for different values of k.

Show that the radical axis of the system is r cos(θ − α) = d
and the limiting points are (0, α) and (2d, α).

13. P is any point on the circle S and P ′ is the inverse of P with

respect to a fixed circle S0 with centre at the pole. Prove that
as P moves on S, P ′ moves on a circle S ′ which may reduce to
a straight line in a special case, but which in any case belongs
to the coaxial system of circles determined by S and S0 .

14. Show that the triangle formed by the pole and the points of
intersection of the line r cos θ = 3 and the circle r = 4 cos θ is
equilateral.

15. Find the equation of the tangent at a point with vectorial

angle π/4 on the circle r = 2a cos θ.

16. Show that the tangent at (r1 , θ1 ) to the circle

r2 − 2cr cos (θ − α) + c2 − a2 = 0

is

rr1 cos (θ − θ1 ) − rc cos (θ − α) = r1 2 − r1 c cos (θ1 − α) .

34 CHAPTER 3. CIRCLES

17. Show that the condition for the straight line

1
= a cos θ + b sin θ
r
to touch the circle r = 2c cos θ is b2 c2 + 2ac = 1.

18. Find the condition for the straight line

1
= (1/a) cos θ + (1/b) sin θ
r
to touch the circle r = 2c cos θ.

19. Find the equation for determining the radius vectors of the
points of intersection of the circle r = 2a cos θ and the line
r cos (θ − α) = p. For what value of p the straight line is a
tangent to the circle?

20. Show that the line r cos θ = c + a touches the circle

r2 − 2cr cos θ + c2 − a2 = 0.

Find the point of contact.

21. Find the angle of intersection of the circles r = a cos (θ−α)

and r = b sin (θ − α).

22. Show that the circles r = a cos (θ−α) and r = b sin (θ−β)
intersect at an angle (α − β).

  
Chapter 4

Conics

A conic is the locus of a point which moves so that the ratio of

its distance from a fixed point to its distance from a fixed line is
a (positive finite) constant. The ratio is the eccentricity of the
conic, the fixed point the focus, and the fixed line the directrix.
The eccentricity is usually denoted by e. The conic is an ellipse,
a parabola or a hyperbola according as 0 < e < 1, e = 1 or 1 <
e < +∞ respectively. The polar equation of a conic is simplest if
its focus (or one of its foci) is at the pole. In this case the polar
equation of the conic reduces to very simple form which is widely
used in the suitable problems.
In this chapter, conics are studied using polar coordinates. In
Section 4.1, we determine equation of a conic in polar coordinates.
Several particular cases are considered. Tracing of conics are dis-
cussed in Section 4.2. Directrix of a conic is obtained in Section 4.3.
Example 2 of Section 4.4 states that the semi-latus rectum of a conic
is the harmonic mean between the segments of a focal chord, while
in Example 4, some properties of a pair of mutually perpendicular
focal chords are given. In Section 4.6, we find equation of a chord
of a conic. Section 4.9, deals with the tangent of a conic. Condi-
tion of tangency is discussed in Section 4.10. Equations of chord of
contact and pair of tangents are obtained in Sections 4.11 and 4.12
respectively. In Section 4.13, asymptotes of a conic are discussed.
Normal at a point of the conic is obtained in Section 4.16. The
chapter concludes with an objective test in Section 4.19.

35
36 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

4.1 Equation of a conic

We find the polar equation of a conic taking pole at focus and polar
axis making an angle ψ with the axis of the conic in anti-clockwise.
Let e and l denote eccentricity and semi-latus rectum of the conic
respectively.

Figure 4.1: Conic: l/r = 1 + e cos (θ − ψ)

Let S be the focus coinciding with the pole and let the axis SZ
of the conic make an angle ψ with the polar axis Sx. Let P (r, θ)
be a point on the conic. We draw perpendiculars P M and P N
from P on the directrix ZM and the axis SZ respectively. Let
SL (= l) be the semi-latus rectum of the conic and LL′ (= SZ) be
the perpendicular from L to the directrix ZM (See Figure 4.1).
By definition of the conic, we have
r = SP = eP M = e(SZ − SN ) = eLL′ − eSN = l − er cos(θ − ψ) .
Hence the polar equation of the conic is
l
= 1 + e cos(θ − ψ) . (1)
r
If the distance SZ between the focus S and the fixed line ZM is d
then the above equation of the conic can be written as
ed
= 1 + e cos(θ − ψ) . (2)
r
4.2. TRACING OF CONICS 37

Figure 4.2: Conic: l/r = 1 + e cos θ

Particular cases
Case 1. If the axis SZ of the conic coincides with the polar axis
(that is, ψ = 0), then its equation becomes (See Figure 4.2)
l
= 1 + e cos θ . (3)
r
In general, for a conic this equation is used.
Case 2. If the positive direction of the axis is opposite to the
polar axis, (that is, ψ = π), then the equation of the conic is (See
Figure 4.3)

l
= 1 − e cos θ . (4)
r

4.2 Tracing of conics

Since cos(−θ) = cos θ, therefore the equation of the conic l/r = 1 +
cos θ remains unaltered when we replace θ by −θ. Hence the curve
38 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

Figure 4.3: Conic: l/r = 1 − e cos θ

Figure 4.4: Parabola: l/r = 1 + cos θ

4.2. TRACING OF CONICS 39

is symmetrical about the polar axis. According to the behaviour of

the eccentricity e we consider the following three cases:
Case 1 – Parabola. When e = 1, the equation of the conic
reduces to the parabola
l l
= 1 + cos θ or r= .
r 1 + cos θ
As θ increases from 0 to π/2, cos θ decreases from 1 to 0 and hence r
increases from l/2 to l. Further, as θ increases from π/2 to π, cos θ
decreases from 0 to −1 and hence r increases from l to infinity. The
rest of the curve follows from the symmetry about the polar axis
(see Figure 4.4).

Figure 4.5: Ellipse: l/r = 1 + e cos θ

Case 2 – Ellipse. When 0 < e < 1, the conic is an ellipse

l
r= .
1 + e cos θ
Since 0 < e < 1, therefore 1 + e cos θ is never zero and hence r is
always finite. Thus the ellipse is a closed curve. For θ = 0, we get
r = l/(1+e). As θ increases from 0 to π/2, 1+e cos θ decreases from
1 + e to 1, and therefore r increases from l/(1 + e) to l. Further,
as θ increases from π/2 to π, 1 + e cos θ decreases from 1 to 1 − e
and hence r increases from l to l/(1 − e). Rest of the curve can be
traced by symmetry about the initial line (see Figure 4.5). We note
that as e → 0, the ellipse approaches the circle r = l.
40 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

Figure 4.6: Hyperbola : l/r = 1 + e cos θ

Case 3 – Hyperbola. When e > 1, the conic is the hyperbola

l
r= .
1 + e cos θ

For θ = 0, we get r = l/(1 + e), that is, the hyperbola meets the
axis at the point A such that SA = l/(1 + e). As θ increases from
0 to π/2, 1 + e cos θ decreases from 1 + e to 1, and therefore r
increases from l/(1 + e) to l. Let α be the obtuse angle satisfying
the equation α = cos−1 (−1/e) = ∠ASK, say. Thus for θ = α,
1 + e cos θ vanishes and r approaches infinity. Hence as θ increases
from π/2 to α, r increases from l to infinity. This part is indicated
by the portion ALB in the Figure 4.6. Further, as θ increases from
α to π, 1 + e cos θ decreases from 0 to 1 − e and hence r increases
from minus infinity to −l/(e − 1). The numerical value of r is to
be measured in the opposite direction to that of the radius vector.
This part of the hyperbola is indicated by the portion B ′ A′ in the
Figure 4.6. Rest of the hyperbola follows from symmetry about the
initial line (see Figure 4.6).

4.3 Directrices of a conic

We show that the two directrices of the conic l/r = 1 + e cos θ are
l/r = e cos θ and l/r = ((e2 − 1)/(e2 + 1))e cos θ(see Figure 4.7).
4.3. DIRECTRICES OF A CONIC 41

Figure 4.7: Directrices of a conic

If P (r, θ) is a point on the directrix corresponding to the focus

S then its equation is
r cos θ = SZ .
Since SZ = SL/e = l/e, therefore the above equation becomes
l
= e cos θ . (1)
r
Assuming the conic as an ellipse, now we obtain the equation of
the other directrix. However, the result is true in the case of a
hyperbola also. Let Q(r, θ) be a point on the other directrix. Since
SZ ′ is the perpendicular distance of this directrix from the focus and
SZ ′ makes an angle π from the polar axis, therefore the equation
of this directrix is
r cos(θ − π) = SZ ′ or r cos θ = −SZ ′ .
But
b2 a2 (1 − e2 )
l= = = a(1 − e2 )
a a
and therefore
e2 + 1
 
′ ′ 2a l 2l l l
SZ = ZZ − SZ = − = − =− .
e e e(1 − e ) e
2 e2 − 1 e
Putting this value of SZ ′ in the equation r cos θ = −SZ ′ of the
directrix we get
 2 
l e −1
= e cos θ . (2)
r e2 +1
42 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

4.4 Solved Examples

Example 1. A point P moves such that the sum of its distances
from two fixed points S and S ′ is a constant 2a. Then the locus of
the point P is an ellipse.
Solution. Let S be the pole and SS ′ be the initial line. Let P (r, θ)
be any point such that SP + S ′ P = 2a. Then SS ′ < 2a; and let
polar coordinates of S ′ be (2ae, 0), where e < 1. Using cosine rule
in the triangle SP S ′ we get

S ′ P 2 = SP 2 + SS ′2 − 2SP · SS ′ cos θ

or
(2a − r)2 = r2 + (2ae)2 − 2r(2ae) cos θ,
which implies that a(1 − e2 ) = r(1 − e cos θ). 
Example 2. The semi-latus rectum of a conic is the harmonic
mean between the segments of a focal chord.
Solution. Let P SQ be a focal chord of a conic l/r = 1 + e cos θ.
Let the vectorial angle of the point P be α. Then the vectorial angle
of the point Q will be (α + π). Since P and Q both lie on the given
conic, therefore

1 1 1 + e cos α 1 + e cos(α + π) 2
+ = + = . 
SP SQ l l l

Example 3. If a circle of diameter a passing through the focus of a

conic whose latus rectum is 2l meets the conic in four points whose
distances from the focus are r1 , r2 , r3 and r4 , then prove that

a2 l 2 1 1 1 1 2
(i) r1 r2 r3 r4 = 2 , (ii) + + + = .
e r1 r2 r3 r4 l

Solution. Let the conic be l/r = 1 + e cos θ. The equation of the

circle passing through the pole may be taken as

r = a cos(θ − α) = a(cos θ cos α + sin θ sin α) ,

4.4. SOLVED EXAMPLES 43

where a is the diameter of the circle and α is the angle which the
diameter through the pole makes with the initial line. From the
above circle, we get

(r − a cos θ cos α)2 = a2 sin2 α(1 − cos2 θ).

Hence substituting for cos θ from the equation of the conic, we have

e2 r4 +2r3 ae cos α+r2 (a2 −2ael cos α−e2 a2 sin2 α)−2a2 lr +a2 l2 = 0,

which gives the focal distances r1 , r2 , r3 , r4 of the four points of

intersection. Hence, we have
coefficient of r 2a2 l
r1 r2 r 3 + r1 r2 r 4 + r1 r3 r4 + r2 r 3 r4 = − = , (1)
coefficient of r4 e2

coefficient of r0 a2 l 2
r1 r2 r3 r4 = = . (2)
coefficient of r4 e2
The equation (2) gives the first part. Dividing the equation (1) by
the equation (2) we get the second part as
1 1 1 1 2
+ + + = . 
r1 r2 r3 r4 l
Example 4. If P SP ′ and QSQ′ are two mutually perpendicular
focal chords of a conic l/r = 1 + e cos θ then prove that

1 1 2 − e2
(a) + = ,
SP · SP ′ SQ · SQ′ l2
1 1 2 − e2
(b) + = ,
P P ′ QQ′ 2l
(SP + SP ′ + SQ + SQ′ )(SP · SP ′ · SQ · SQ′ ) l
(c) = .
(SP + SP )(SQ + SQ )(SP · SP + SQ · SQ )
′ ′ ′ ′ 2

Solution. Let the vectorial angle of P be α. Then

l l
= 1 + e cos α, = 1 + e cos(α+π) = 1 − e cos α,
SP SP ′
44 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

l  π
= 1 + e cos α+ = 1 − e sin α,
SQ 2
l  π 
= 1 + e cos α+ +π = 1 + e sin α.
SQ′ 2
Hence
l2 l2
+ = (1 − e2 cos2 α) + (1 − e2 sin2 α) = 2 − e2
SP · SP ′ SQ · SQ′

or
1 1 2 − e2
+ = , (1)
SP · SP ′ SQ · SQ′ l2
which proves the first part. Next,
l l 2l
P P ′ = SP + SP ′ = + = ,
1 + e cos α 1 − e cos α 1 − e cos2 α
2

l l 2l
QQ′ = SQ + SQ′ = + = ,
1 − e sin α 1 + e sin α 1 − e2 sin2 α
which shows that
1 1 1 − e2 cos2 α 1 − e2 sin2 α 2 − e2
+ = + = ,
P P ′ QQ′ 2l 2l 2l
or
1 1 2 − e2
+ = , (2)
P P ′ QQ′ 2l
which is the second part. Dividing equation (2) by equation (1) side
by side, we get the third part. 
Example 5. An ellipse and a parabola have a common focus S
and intersect in two real points P and Q of which P is the vertex of
the parabola. If e is the eccentricity of the ellipse and α the angle
which SP makes with the major axis, then prove that

SQ 4e2 sin2 α
=1+ .
SP (1 − e cos α)2
Solution. Let the parabola and the ellipse be
4.4. SOLVED EXAMPLES 45

l
= 1 + cos θ, (1)
r
l′
= 1 + e cos(θ − α), (2)
r
It is given that (1) and (2) intersect in the points P and Q where
P is the vertex of the parabola. Therefore
l l′
SP = = . (3)
2 1 + e cos α
If β is the vectorial angle of Q then
l l′
= 1 + cos β and = 1 + e cos(β − α)
SQ SQ
or
1 1 + cos β 1 + e cos(β − α)
= = . (4)
SQ l l′
1 + cos β 1 + e cos(β − α)
From (3) and (4) we get = , or
2 1 + e cos α
  
2 β 2 β
cos (1 + e cos α) = 1 + e cos α 2 cos −1
2 2
 
β β
+ sin α 2 sin cos .
2 2
or
β β β β
sin2 + e cos α cos2 − e cos α + 2e sin α sin cos = 0
2 2 2 2
or
 
2 β 2 β β
tan + e cos α − e cos α 1 + tan + 2e sin α tan = 0
2 2 2
or
β β β −2e sin α
(1 − e cos α) tan2 + 2e sin α tan = 0 or tan = .
2 2 2 1 − e cos α
Now from (4) we get
 
SQ 1 1 2 β 1 2 β
= = sec = 1 + tan
l 1 + e cos β 2 2 2 2
and from (3) we get SP/l = 2. Hence
46 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

SQ β 4e2 sin2 α
= 1 + tan2 = 1 + . 
SP 2 (1 − e cos α)2

4.5 Problem Set 4

1. Obtain the points on the conic 21/r = 3−8 cos θ whose radius
vector is 3.

2. Show that

l l
(a) the equations = 1 + e cos θ and = −1 + e cos θ rep-
r r
resent the same conic.
l l
(b) the equations = 1 − e cos θ and = −1 − e cos θ rep-
r r
resent the same conic.

1
3. Prove that the curve given by = a cos θ+b sin θ+c represents
r

(a) a conic with origin as a focus, if a, b and c are nonzero,

(b) a circle, if a = b = 0 6= c,

(c) a straight line, if a 6= 0 6= b, and c = 0.

4. Identify the following curves:

4.5. PROBLEM SET 4 47

(a) r sin θ + a = 0, (b) r = (a/2) cos θ,

2a
(c) r2 sin 2θ − a2 = 0, (d) = 1 − cos θ,
r
2 l
(e) = 1 + 2 cos2 (θ/2) , (f) = 3 − 2 cos θ,
r r
2
(g) = −1/2 + (1/4) cos θ, (h) r = 5 csc2 (θ/2) ,
r
l 1
(i) = 1 + sin θ, (j) = cos2 (θ/2) ,
r r
3 √ 10
(k) =2+ 3 cos θ + sin θ, (l) = 3 cos θ + 4 sin θ + 5,
r r
2 12 √
(m) = 1 + cos θ + sin θ, (n) = 4+ 3 cos θ+3 sin θ,
r r
1 √ 18
(o) = 1 + cos θ + 3 sin θ, (p) = 3 − 4 cos θ,
r r
√
16 √
(q) r 1 + 2 cos θ = 3, (r) = 4+ 3 cos θ+3 sin θ.
r
5. A straight line drawn through the common focus S of n conics
meet them in the points P1 , P2 , . . . , Pn . A point P on this
straight line is taken such that
1 1 1 1
= + + ··· + .
SP SP1 SP2 SPn
Prove that the locus of P is a conic whose focus is S and the
reciprocal of whose latus rectum is equal to the sum of the
reciprocals of the letera-recta of the given conics.

6. Let the circle r + 2a cos θ = 0 cut the conic

l
= 1 + e cos (θ − α)
r
in four points. If the algebraic sum of distances of these four
points from the pole is equal to 2a, then show that the eccen-
tricity of the conic is 2 cos α.

7. Find the points of intersection of the parabolas 1/r = 1+cos θ

and 3/r = 1 − cos θ.
48 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

8. Prove that the locus of the mid points of the focal chords of
a conic section is a conic section of the same kind.

9. Find the length of the focal chord making an angle of π/4

with the major axis of an ellipse with latus rectum 10 and
eccentricity 1/3.

10. Let P be any point on an ellipse with major axis 2a and latus
rectum 2l. If P SQ and P HR are two focal chords through
the foci S and H , then prove that
PS PH 2 (2a − l)
+ = ,
SQ HR l
which is independent of the position of P .

11. Prove that the perpendicular focal chords of a rectangular

hyperbola are equal.

12. The eccentric angle of any point P on an ellipse is α, measured

from the semi-major axis CA; S is the focus nearest to A and
∠ASP = θ. Show that
r
θ 1+e α
tan = tan .
2 1−e 2
(This relation is of importance in the theory of elliptic orbits
in dynamics.)

4.6 Equation of a chord

Let P (α − β) and Q(α + β) be two points on the conic
l
= 1 + e cos θ. (1)
r
Let the equation of a line not passing through the pole be
l
= a cos θ + b sin θ. (2)
r
Since both P and Q lie on (1) and (2), therefore
4.6. EQUATION OF A CHORD 49

l
= 1 + e cos(α − β) = a cos (α − β) + b sin(α − β) (3)
SP
and
l
= 1 + e cos(α + β) = a cos (α + β) + b sin(α + β). (4)
SQ
From (3) and (4), we get

(a − e) cos (α − β) + b sin(α − β) = 1,
(a − e) cos (α + β) + b sin(α + β) = 1.

These equations will determine a and b. We have

(a − e) (cos (α − β) sin(α + β) − cos (α + β) sin(α − β))

= sin(α + β) − sin(α − β)
or
(a − e) sin ((α + β) − (α − β)) = 2 cos α sin β
or
(a − e) = cos α sec β;
and
b (sin(α + β) cos (α − β) − sin(α − β) cos (α + β))
= cos(α − β) − cos(α + β)
or
b sin 2β = cos(α − β) − cos(α + β)
or
b = sin α sec β.
Putting the values of a and b, the chord (2) becomes
l
= (e + cos α sec β) cos θ + sin α sec β sin θ
r
= e cos θ + sec β (cos α cos θ + sin α sin θ)

or
l
= sec β cos (θ − α) + e cos θ. (5)
r
50 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

Remarks. If the vectorial angles of the points P and Q on the

conic are θ1 and θ2 respectively, then the equation of the chord P Q
is
 
l θ2 −θ1 θ1 +θ2
= sec cos θ − + e cos θ . (6)
r 2 2
If the given conic is l/r = 1 + e cos(θ − ψ) then the equation of the
chord joining two points P (α − β) and P (α + β) is
l
= sec β cos(θ − α) + e cos(θ − ψ). (7)
r

4.7 Solved Examples

Example 1. Two conics have a common focus. Then, two of their
common chords will pass through the point of intersection of their
directrices.
Let the equations of the two conics be
l l′
= 1 + e cos θ and = 1 + e′ cos(θ − α).
r r
In Cartesian coordinates these equations are
(l − ex)2 − x2 − y 2 = 0, (1)

(l′ − e′ (x cos α + y sin α))2 − x2 − y 2 = 0. (2)

Subtracting (2) from (1) we get

(l − ex)2 − (l′ − e′ (x cos α + y sin α))2 = 0, (3)
which represents some curve through the intersection of (1) and (2).
But the equation (3) is a pair of straight lines whose equations are

(l − ex) ∓ (l′ − e′ (x cos α + y sin α)) = 0

or in polar form
   ′ 
l l ′
− e cos θ ∓ − e cos(θ − α) = 0 . (4)
r r
4.7. SOLVED EXAMPLES 51

Hence two of the chords of intersection of the conics are represented

by the equation (4), and these lines clearly pass through the inter-
section of the directrices whose equations are
l l′
− e cos θ = 0 and − e′ cos(θ − α) = 0 . 
r r
Example 2. P Q is a chord of an ellipse one of whose foci is S and
P Q passes through a fixed point O. Show that
   
1 1
tan ∠P SO tan ∠QSO = constant.
2 2
Solution. Let the ellipse be l/r = 1 + e cos θ. The equation of a
chord P Q of the ellipse, where P and Q have vectorial angles α − β
and α + β respectively, is given by
l
= sec β cos (θ − α) + e cos θ.
r
This chord passes always through the point O(ρ, φ), so
l
= sec β cos (φ − α) + e cos φ
ρ
or
 
l
cos (φ − α) = − e cos φ cos β (1)
ρ
Now, ∠P SO = φ − (α − β) and ∠QSO = (α + β) − φ. Therefore,
   
1 1
tan ∠P SO tan ∠QSO
2 2
   
β + (φ − α) β − (φ − α)
= tan tan
2 2
   
β φ−α
sin2 −sin2
2 2 cos (φ − α)−cos β
=    =
β φ−α cos (φ − α)+cos β
cos2 −sin2
2 2
 
l l
− e cos φ cos β − cos β − e cos φ − 1
ρ ρ
=  = ,
l

l
− e cos φ cos β + cos β − e cos φ + 1
ρ ρ
52 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

which is constant. 
Example 3. A variable chord P Q of a conic l/r = 1+ecos θ subtends
a constant angle 2α at the focus S. ST is the internal bisector of
∠P SQ which meets the chord in T . Show that the locus of T is the
conic
l cos α
= 1 + (e cos α) cos θ.
r
Solution. Let the vectorial angles of P and Q be β − α and β + α
so that the angle P SQ is 2α. The chord P Q is
l
= sec α cos(θ − β) + e cos θ.
r
Let the internal bisector of ∠P SQ, which meets the chord in T be
ST , and the polar coordinates of T be (ρ, φ). Then φ = β and

l
= sec α cos(φ − β) + e cos φ = sec α + e cos φ.
ρ

Hence locus of T is l/r = sec α+e cos θ or

l cos α
= 1 + (e cos α) cos θ. 
r

Example 4. A chord of a rectangular hyperbola subtends a right

angle at the focus. Find the locus of the foot of perpendicular from
this focus on the chord.
Solution. Let the equation of the rectangular hyperbola be
l √
= 1 + 2 cos θ. (1)
r
Let the vectorial angles of extremities of the chord subtending a
right angle at the focus of the hyperbola (1) be α−π/4 and α+π/4.
Then the chord is
l √ π  √ √
= 2 cos θ + sec cos(θ − α) = 2 cos θ + 2 cos(θ − α). (2)
r 4
The equation to the line perpendicular to (2) and passing through
the focus, the pole, is
4.8. PROBLEM SET 5 53
√ √
0= 2 sin θ + 2 sin(θ − α). (3)
The foot of the perpendicular is the point of intersection of (2) and
(3). Hence the required locus is obtained by eliminating α between
(2) and (3). Eliminating α from (2) and (3) we get
2 
l √ √
 2
− 2 cos θ + 2 sin θ = 2
r
or
l √
= 2 2 cos θ,
r
which is a straight line. 

4.8 Problem Set 5

1. Assuming the equation of the chord of the conic
l
= 1 + e cos θ
r
joining P (α − β) and Q(α + β) as
l
= a cos(θ − α) + b cos θ
r
show that the chord is
l
= sec β cos(θ − α) + e cos θ .
r
2. Assuming the equation of the chord of the conic
l
= 1 + e cos θ
r
joining P (r1 , θ1 ) and Q(r2 , θ2 ) as
1/r cos θ sin θ
1/r1 cos θ1 sin θ1 = 0
1/r2 cos θ2 sin θ2
show that the chord is
 
l θ2 −θ1 θ1 +θ2
= sec cos θ − + e cos θ .
r 2 2
54 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

3. Find the equation of the chord of the conic l/r = 1 + e cos θ,

joining the points whose vectorial angles are π/6 and π/2.
4. If a chord P Q of a conic l/r = 1 + e cos θ subtends a right
angle at the focus S, then show that
2  2
e2

1 1 1 1
− + − = 2.
SP l SQ l l

5. Find the condition that the chord cut off by the conic l/r =
1 + e cos θ from the line l/r = a cos θ + b sin θ subtends a right
angle at the focus.
6. A chord subtends a constant angle 2α at the focus of the conic
l/r = 1+ ecos θ. Prove that, in general, the locus of the foot
of perpendicular on it from the focus is the circle
(e2 − sec2 α)r2 − 2elr cos θ + l2 = 0.
Discuss the case when the conic√is a rectangular hyperbola
(a hyperbola with eccentricity 2) and the constant angle
2α = π/2.
7. P Q is a chord of an ellipse l/r = 1 + e cos θ one of whose
foci is S and P Q passes through a fixed point O(ρ, φ). If
k = l/ρ − e cos φ then show that
   
1 1 1−k
tan ∠P SO tan ∠QSO = .
2 2 1+k

4.9 Tangent at a point of the conic

Here we obtain the equation of the tangent at a point T (α) on the
conic l/r = 1 + e cos θ.
The tangent at T (α) is the limiting position of the chord joining
the points P (α − β) and Q(α + β) on the conic as β → 0. Therefore,
taking β = 0 in the equation of the chord P Q
l
= sec β cos(θ − α) + e cos θ
r
we get the equation of the tangent at the point T (α) as
4.10. CONDITION OF TANGENCY 55

l
= cos(θ − α) + e cos θ = (e + cos α) cos θ + sin α sin θ . (1)
r
Remark. If the given conic is l/r = 1 + e cos(θ − ψ) then the
tangent at a point T (α) is
l
= cos(θ − α) + e cos(θ − ψ)
r
= (e cos ψ + cos α) cos θ + (e sin ψ + sin α) sin θ. (2)
If the tangents at the points P and Q on a conic meet in T , then
ST bisects the angle P SQ.

4.10 Condition of tangency

Let us find out the condition so that the line l/r = a cos θ + b sin θ
may touch the conic l/r = 1 + e cos θ.
If the line
l
= a cos θ + b sin θ,
r
is tangent at a point α on the conic l/r = 1 + e cos θ, then this line
must be same as
l
= e cos θ + cos(θ−α) = (e + cos α) cos θ + sin α sin θ.
r
Identifying the two lines we have
a = e + cos α and b = sin α.
Eliminating α, we get the required condition of tangency as
(a − e)2 + b2 = 1.
Similarly, we can find the condition of tangency of the line
l
= a cos θ + b sin θ,
r
to the conic
l
= 1 + e cos(θ − γ)
r
as
a2 + b2 − 2e(a cos γ + b sin γ) + (e2 − 1) = 0.
56 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

4.11 Chord of contact

We find out the equation of chord of contact of tangents from the
point P (ρ, φ) to the conic l/r = 1 + e cos θ.
Let α − β and α + β be the vectorial angles of the points of
contact Q and R of tangents from P (ρ, φ). Then the equation of
the chord QR is

l
= sec β cos(θ − α) + e cos θ. (1)
r
Tangents at Q(α − β) and R(α + β) are given by

l
= e cos θ + cos(θ − (α − β)), (2)
r

l
= e cos θ + cos(θ − (α + β)). (3)
r

Since P (ρ, φ) lies on (2) and (3), therefore we get

l
= e cos φ + cos(φ − (α − β)) = e cos φ + cos(φ − (α + β)). (4)
ρ

From equation (4) we get

cos(φ−(α−β)) = cos(φ−(α+β)) or (φ−α+β) = ±(φ−α−β).

Since β 6= 0, therefore we get φ = α. Putting α = φ in the equation

(4) we get

l
cos β = − e cos φ. (5)
ρ

Using α = φ and (5) in (1) we get the equation of the chord of

contact of tangents from the point P (ρ, φ) as
  
l l
− e cos θ − e cos φ = cos(θ − φ) . (6)
r ρ
4.12. PAIR OF TANGENTS 57

4.12 Pair of tangents

Here, we show that the equation of pair of tangents from a point
(ρ, φ) to l/r = 1+e cos θ is
 2 !  2 !
l l
− e cos θ −1 − e cos φ − 1
r ρ

   2
l l
= − e cos θ − e cos φ − cos(θ − φ) . (1)
r ρ

Let us suppose that the vectorial angle of the point of contact

of any one of the tangents drawn from (ρ, φ) to the conic l/r =
1 + e cos θ is α. The tangent at α is

l
= e cos θ + cos(θ − α), (2)
r

and this tangent passes through (ρ, φ), so that

l
= e cos φ + cos(φ − α). (3)
ρ

The equation of the pair of tangents will be obtained by eliminating

α between (2) and (3). Now, we get
 2 !  2 !
l l
− e cos θ −1 − e cos φ − 1
r ρ
= cos2 (θ − α) − 1 cos2 (φ − α) − 1

= sin2 (θ − α) sin2 (φ − α) .

or
 2 !  2 !
l l
−e cos θ −1 −e cos φ −1 = sin2 (θ−α) sin2 (φ−α) . (4)
r ρ
58 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

On the other hand, we get

  
l l
− e cos θ − e cos φ − cos(θ − φ)
r ρ
= cos(θ − α) cos(φ − α) − cos(θ − φ)
1
= (cos (θ + φ − 2α) + cos (θ − φ)) − cos(θ − φ)
2
1
= (cos (θ + φ − 2α) − cos (θ − φ))
2
= − sin(θ − α) sin(φ − α)
or
  
l l
− e cos θ − e cos φ − cos(θ − φ) = − sin(θ − α) sin(φ − α) .
r ρ
(5)
Hence in view of (4) and (5) the required equation of the pair of
tangents is given by (1).

4.13 Asymptotes
4.13.1 Asymptotes from tangents
An asymptote of a conic l/r = 1 + e cos θ is a limit of tangent to it,
as the point of contact of the tangent tends to infinity, without the
tangent itself lying wholly at infinity. The point α is at infinity if
1 + e cos α = 0, which implies that
√
1 √ e2 − 1
cos α = − and sin α = ± 1 − cos α = ±
2 .
e e
Putting these values in the equation of the tangent
l
= (e + cos α) cos θ + sin α sin θ
r
at the point α, the equations of the asymptotes are
  √
l 1 e2 − 1
= e− cos θ ± sin θ
r e e
or,
4.13. ASYMPTOTES 59

el √
= (e2 − 1) cos θ ± e2 − 1 sin θ . (1)
r

4.13.2 Asymptotes from pair of tangents

The asymptotes of a conic l/r = 1 + e cos θ are the pair of tangents
drawn from the centre of the conic. The coordinates of the centre
are (el/(e2 − 1), 0). The pair of tangents from a point (ρ, φ) to
l/r = 1+e cos θ is
 2 !  2 !
l l
− e cos θ − 1 − e cos φ − 1
r ρ
   2
l l
= − e cos θ − e cos φ − cos(θ − φ) .
r ρ
Putting ρ = el/(e2 − 1) and φ = 0 in the above equation we get
2 !  2 !
e2 − 1

l
− e cos θ − 1 −e −1
r e
2
e2 − 1
  
l
= − e cos θ − e − cos θ ,
r e
or
l2 1 − e2 l2
  
2el 2 2
− cos θ + e cos θ − 1 = ,
r2 r e2 e2 r2
or
l2 l2
 
2el 2 2 2
− cos θ + e cos θ − 1 (1 − e ) = ,
r2 r r2
or
e2 l2 2el
+ (1 − e2 ) cos θ − e2 (1 − e2 ) cos2 θ + (1 − e2 ) = 0 ,
r2 r
or
e2 l2 2el
+ (1 − e2 ) cos θ + (1 − e2 )2 cos2 θ
r2 r
= e2 (1 − e2 ) cos2 θ − (1 − e2 ) + e2 (1 − e2 ) cos2 θ ,
60 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

or  2
el
+ (1 − e2 ) cos θ = (e2 − 1) sin θ ,
r
or
el √
= (e2 − 1) cos θ ± e2 − 1 sin θ .
r

4.14 Solved Examples

Example 1. Let P SQ be a focal chord of the conic l/r = 1+e cos θ.
Then show that
(a) the tangents at P and Q intersect on the corresponding direc-
trix,  
2e sin α
(b) the angle between the tangents at P and Q is arctan
1 − e2
where α is the angle between chord and the axis of the conic.
Solution. (a) The tangents at P (α) and Q(α+π) are
l
= e cos θ + cos(θ − α)
r
and
l
= e cos θ + cos(θ − α − π) = e cos θ − cos(θ − α).
r
If these tangents intersect in a point T (ρ, φ) then substituting these
values in the two equations and eliminating α from them, we get
l/ρ = e cos φ, which shows that T lies on the directrix l/r = e cos θ.

(b) The tangent at P (α) may be written as

l
= (e + cos α) cos θ + sin α sin θ = a cos(θ − φ),
r
where
sin α
tan φ = .
e + cos α
Hence the perpendicular from the focus on the tangent at P (α)
makes an angle  
sin α
arctan
e + cos α
4.14. SOLVED EXAMPLES 61

with the polar axis. Similarly, the perpendicular from the focus on
the tangent at Q(α+π) makes an angle
 
− sin α
arctan
e − cos α
with the polar axis. Hence the angle between the tangents at P and
Q is
   
sin α − sin α
arctan − arctan
e + cos α e − cos α
 
sin α − sin α
−
= arctan 

 e + cos α e− cos α  

sin α − sin α 
1+
e + cos α e − cos α
 
2e sin α
= arctan .
1 − e2
Example 2. (Auxiliary circle) Prove that the equation to the
locus of the foot of perpendicular from focus of the conic l/r =
1 + e cos θ on a tangent to it is

(1 − e2 )r2 + 2elr cos θ − l2 = 0 .

Discuss the particular case when e = 1.

Solution. The equation of tangent at α on the conic l/r = 1+e cos θ
is
l
= cos(θ − α) + e cos θ. (1)
r
The equation to the line perpendicular to (1) and passing through
the focus, the pole, is
0 = sin(θ − α) + e sin θ. (2)
The foot of the perpendicular is the point of intersection of (1) and
(2). Hence the required locus is obtained by eliminating α between
(1) and (2). From (1) and (2) we get respectively
l
cos(θ − α) = − e cos θ and sin(θ − α) = −e sin θ.
r
62 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

Squaring and adding we get

2
l2

l 2el
1= − e cos θ + e2 sin2 θ = 2 − cos θ + e2
r r r
or
r2 (1 − e2 ) + 2elr cos θ − l2 = 0.
This locus represents a circle, when 1 − e2 6= 0, that is when the
conic is not a parabola. This circle is known as the auxiliary circle
of the conic. When e = 1, the locus becomes
l
= 2 cos θ = cos(θ − 0) + cos θ,
r
which is the equation of tangent at the vertex of the parabola. 
Example 3. (Director circle) Obtain the locus of the point of
intersection of perpendicular tangents of the conic l/r = 1 + e cos θ
as
r2 (1 − e2 ) + 2elr cos θ − 2l2 = 0.
Solution. Let the two tangents be
l
= e cos θ + cos(θ − α) = (e + cos α) cos θ + sin α sin θ, (1)
r
l
= e cos θ+cos(θ−β) = (e+cos β) cos θ+sin β sin θ. (2)
r
The tangents will meet where
1 l 1
θ = (α + β) and = e cos θ + cos (α − β). (3)
2 r 2
From (1) and (2) we see that the condition of perpendicularity is

(e + cos α)(e + cos β) + sin α sin β = 0 or

1 1 1
e2 + 2e cos (α + β) cos (α − β) + 2 cos2 (α − β) − 1 = 0.
2 2 2
Hence using the equation (3) in the above equation, we get
   2
2 l l
e − 1 + 2e cos θ − e cos θ + 2 − e cos θ = 0 or
r r
4.14. SOLVED EXAMPLES 63

r2 (1 − e2 ) + 2elr cos θ − 2l2 = 0,

which is the required locus. It is a circle if e 6= 1. This circle is
called the director circle. If e = 1, the conic is a parabola and the
above equation reduces to

2elr cos θ − 2l2 = 0 or l = r cos θ ,

which is the directrix of the parabola. Hence the locus of the

point of intersection of perpendicular tangents to a parabola is its
directrix. 
Example 4. Two conics have a common focus and directrix. If
any tangent to one intersects the other in P and Q, show that
 
1 e′
sec ∠P SQ = .
2 e
Solution. Let the two conics be
ed
= 1 + e cos θ , (1)
r
e′ d
= 1 + e′ cos θ , (2)
r
Let the tangent at a point γ to the conic (1)
ed
= (e + cos γ) cos θ + sin γ sin θ (3)
r
intersects the conic (2) in the points P (α − β) and Q(α + β). Then
the tangent (3) is identical with the chord P Q
e′ d
= (e′ + cos α sec β) cos θ + sin α sec β sin θ (4)
r
of the conic (2). Therefore
e e + cos γ sin γ
= ′ = ,
e′ e + cos α sec β sin α sec β
which implies that

e′ cos γ = e sec β cos α and e′ sin γ = e sec β sin α .

64 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

Squaring and adding we get

 
′2 2 2 e′ 1
e = e sec β or = sec β = sec ∠P SQ ,
e 2

since ∠P SQ = (α + β) − (α − β) = 2β. 
Example 5. A circle is drawn through the focus of the parabola
2a/r = 1 + cos θ to touch it at the point θ = α. Show that its
equation is
r cos3 α/2 = a cos(θ − 3α/2).
Solution. The tangent at the point P (α) is drawn. Y is a point
on this tangent, such that SY is perpendicular to the tangent at P .
The point M is the mid-point of SP and the point C lies on the
normal at P such that SC = CP . Thus the point C is the centre
of the required circle.

The tangent at P (α) to the parabola is

2a
= cos θ + cos(θ − α) = 2 cos α/2 cos(θ − α/2)
r
or
a = r cos α/2 cos(θ − α/2) .
Hence the perpendicular SY to the tangent at P makes an angle
α/2 with the initial line; and

∠Y SP = α − α/2 = α/2 or ∠M P C = α/2 .

4.14. SOLVED EXAMPLES 65

If b is the radius of the required circle,then M P/b = cos α/2 so

SP/2 = M P = b cos α/2, which gives
 
1 2a α a
= b cos or b = .
2 1 + cos α 2 2 cos α/2 cos α/2
2

Also, ∠CSx = α + ∠M SC = α + α/2 = 3α/2. Thus the equation

of required circle is
a
r = 2b cos(θ − 3α/2) = cos(θ − 3α/2)
cos3α/2
or

r cos3 α/2 = a cos(θ − 3α/2) . 

Example 6. A conic is described having the same focus and ec-

centricity as the conic l/r = 1+e cos θ and the two conics touch at
the point θ = α. Prove that the length of its latus rectum is

2l(1 − e2 )
,
e2 + 2e cos α + 1
and that the angle between their axis is
 
e + cos α
2 arctan − .
sin α

Solution. Let the two conics be

l
= 1 + e cos θ, (1)
r

k
= 1 + e cos(θ − γ). (2)
r

These conics touch at the point whose vectorial angle is α. The

tangents at the point of contact α on the conics are
l
= e cos θ + cos(θ − α) = (e + cos α) cos θ + sin α sin θ, (3)
r
66 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

k
= e cos(θ − γ) + cos(θ − α)
r
= (e cos γ + cos α) cos θ + (e sin γ + sin α) sin θ. (4)
Since (3) and (4) are identical, therefore
k e cos γ + cos α e sin γ + sin α
= = ,
l e + cos α sin α
which implies that
 
k ek
e cos γ = − 1 cos α + (5)
l l
and
 
k
e sin γ = − 1 sin α. (6)
l
Squaring and adding we get
k2 2 k
(e + 2e cos α + 1) − 2 (1 + e cos α) + (1 − e2 ) = 0,
l 2 l
which implies that
k 1 − e2
=1, 2 .
l e + 2e cos α + 1
Dividing (6) by (5) and putting k = l(1 − e2 )/(e2 + 2e cos α + 1) we
get
 
(k − l) sin α
γ = arctan
(k − l) cos α + ke
(l − le2 − le2 − 2el cos α − l) sin α
 
= arctan
(l − le2 − le2 − 2el cos α − l) cos α + le − le3
 
le(−2e − 2 cos α) sin α
= arctan
le(−2e − 2 cos α) cos α + 1 − e2
     
e + cos α e + cos α
 − sin α + −
sin α 
= arctan     
e + cos α e + cos α 
1− − −
sin α sin α
 
e + cos α
= 2 arctan − .
sin α
4.14. SOLVED EXAMPLES 67

Example 7. If A, B, C are any three points on a parabola, and

the tangents at these points form a triangle A′ B ′ C ′ , then prove that
SA · SB · SC = SA′ · SB ′ · SC ′ , where S is the focus of the parabola.
   
l 2 l 2
Solution. Let A sec α, 2α , B sec β, 2β and
  2 2
l
C sec2 γ, 2γ be three points on a parabola l/r = 1+cos θ. Then
2

SA · SB · SC = (l3 /8) sec2 α sec2 β sec2 γ.

The equations of tangents at A, B and C are

l
= cos θ + cos(θ − 2α),
r
l
= cos θ + cos(θ − 2β)
r
and
l
= cos θ + cos(θ − 2γ)
r
respectively. Hence at A′ we get
l
θ = β + γ, r= sec β sec γ ;
2
at B ′ we get
l
θ = γ + α, r= sec γ sec α ;
2
and at C ′ we get
l
θ = α + β, r= sec α sec β.
2
Hence
l3
SA′ · SB ′ · SC ′ = sec2 α sec2 β sec2 γ.
8
Thus we get
l3
SA · SB · SC = sec2 α sec2 β sec2 γ = SA′ · SB ′ · SC ′ . 
8
68 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

Example 8. If P Q is the chord of contact of tangents drawn from

a point T to a parabola with focus S, then SP · SQ = ST 2 .
Let l/r = 1 + cos θ be the given parabola and let the vectorial
angles of P and Q be α − β and α + β respectively, so that ∠P SQ =
2β. Tangents at P and Q are
l l
= cos θ + cos(θ − α + β) and = cos θ + cos(θ − α − β).
r r
These tangents intersect in the point T (l/(cos α + cos β), α). Now
l l
· = (1 + cos(α − β))(1 + cos(α + β))
SP SQ
= 1 + (cos(α + β) + cos(α − β))
+ cos(α − β) cos(α + β)
1
= 1 + 2 cos α cos β + (cos 2α + cos 2β)
2
1
= 1 + 2 cos α cos β + (2 cos2 α − 1 + 2 cos2 β − 1)
2
l2
= (cos α + cos β)2 = .
ST 2
Example 9. A variable chord P Q of a conic l/r = 1+ecos θ subtends
a constant angle 2β at the focus S. Show that the locus of the pole
of P Q is the conic
l sec β
= 1 + (e sec β) cos θ.
r
Solution. Let P Q be a chord subtending a constant angle 2β at
the focus S and let T (ρ, φ) be the point of intersection of tangents
at P and Q. Then T is the pole of the chord P Q. The vectorial
angles of P and Q can be taken as α − β and α + β so that the
angle ∠P SQ is 2β. The equations of tangents at P and Q are
l l
= e cos θ + cos(θ − α + β) and = e cos θ + cos(θ − α − β).
r r
Since the point T (ρ, φ) lies on both the tangents, therefore we have
l
= e cos φ + cos(φ − α + β) , (1)
ρ
4.14. SOLVED EXAMPLES 69

l
= e cos φ + cos(φ − α − β). (2)
ρ

From (1) and (2) we see that cos(φ − α + β) = cos(φ − α − β) or

φ − α + β = ±(φ − α − β). Taking the negative sign, we get φ = α.
Substituting this value of α in (1), we get

l l sec β
= e cos φ + cos β or = 1 + (e sec β) cos φ.
ρ ρ

Hence the locus of the point T (ρ, φ) is

l sec β
= 1 + (e sec β) cos θ.
r
We see that this conic with eccentricity e sec β has the same focus
and directrix as of the conic given in the problem. Moreover, this
conic is an ellipse, a parabola or a hyperbola according as e sec β is
less than, equal to or greater than 1; or cos β is less than, equal to
or greater than e. 
Example 10. Given the focus and the directrix of a conic, show
that the polar of a given point with respect to it passes through a
fixed point.
Solution. The conics may be taken as

de
= 1 + e cos θ, (1)
r
where the focus is the pole and directrix is d = r cos θ. Let the
given point be P (ρ, φ). The polar of P (ρ, φ) to the conic (1) is
  
de de
− e cos θ − e cos φ = cos(θ − φ),
r ρ
or
  
2 d d
e − cos θ − cos φ = cos(θ − φ). (2)
r ρ
70 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

The line passes through a fixed point, if the coefficient of e2 in (2)

is zero, which implies that
π
cos(θ − φ) = 0 or θ =φ+ .
2

Hence d/r = cos θ implies that r = d/ cos(φ + π/2) = −d csc φ.

Thus the fixed point is (−d csc φ, φ + π/2). 
Example 11. A circle has centre at one focus of a hyperbola, and
radius equal to a quarter of the latus rectum of the hyperbola. Then
the straight lines joining the focus to the points of intersection of
the circle and the hyperbola are parallel to the asymptotes of the
hyperbola.
Let the hyperbola be

l
= 1 + e cos θ. (1)
r

Asymptotes to (1) are

el √
= (e2 − 1) cos θ ± e2 − 1 sin θ . (2)
r

In Cartesian coordinates (2) is

√
el = (e2 − 1)x ± e2 − 1y ,

which implies that the slope of (2) is

√
 
−1 1
tan θ = ± e2 − 1 or θ = ± cos .
e

On the other hand, the circle r = l/2 intersects (1) in the points
whose vectorial angles are given by
 
l −1 1
= 1 + e cos θ or e cos θ = 1 or θ = cos .
l/2 e
4.15. PROBLEM SET 6 71

4.15 Problem Set 6

1. In any conic prove that the portion of tangent intercepted
between the conic and the directrix subtends a right angle at
the corresponding focus.

2. Prove that the angle between the tangents at the points α and
β on a parabola l/r = 1 + cos θ is (β − α)/2.

3. If the tangent at the extremities of a focal chord meet the

transverse axis in T and T ′ , then prove that 1/ST + 1/ST ′ is
a constant.

4. The tangents to a conic from a variable point on the latus

rectum are produced. Show that the sum of the reciprocals of
the focal distances of their points of contact is a constant.

5. Let the tangents at the points P and Q of the conic l/r =

1 + e cos θ meet in T and let P Q subtend a constant angle 2β
at the focus S. Then show that
1 1 2 cos β
+ −
SP SQ ST

is a constant.

6. Obtain the polar equation of the circle circumscribing the tri-

angle formed by the tangents to the parabola l/r = 1+cos θ at
the points whose vectorial angles are 2α, 2β, 2γ in the form

2r cos α cos β cos γ = l cos(θ − α − β − γ) .

7. Obtain the polar equation of the circle circumscribing the tri-

angle formed by the tangents to the parabola 2a/r = 1 − cos θ
at the points whose vectorial angles are α, β, γ in the form
 
α β γ α+β +γ
r = a csc csc csc sin −θ .
2 2 2 2
72 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

8. If tangents are drawn to the parabola 2a/r = 1 − cos θ at

points whose vectorial angles are α, β, γ, δ, then show that the
centres of the circle circumscribing the four triangles formed
by these four lines all lie on the circle whose equation is
 
a α β γ δ α+β+γ+δ
r = − csc csc csc csc cos θ − .
2 2 2 2 2 2

9. Let a circle, passing through the focus of a given parabola, be

given. Let a conic with latus rectum 2l and with the same
focus be given such that its directrix touches the parabola. If
the circle intersects the conic in four points whose distances
from the focus are r1 , r2 , r3 and r4 , then show that r1 r2 r3 r4 is
a constant.

10. Show that the equation of the circle, which passes through the
focus of the conic l/r = 1 + e cos θ and touches it at the point
θ = α is

r(1 + e cos α)2 = l cos(θ − α) + el cos(θ − 2α)

11. Show that the line p = r cos (θ − α) touches the parabola

l/r = 1 + cos θ if and only if p = (l/2) sec α.

12. Prove that the conics l1 /r = 1 + e1 cos θ and l2 /r = 1 +

e2 cos(θ − α) will touch one another if

l1 2 (1 − e2 2 ) + l2 2 (1 − e1 2 ) = 2l1 l2 (1 − e1 e2 cos α).

√ √ √ √
13. Show that the conics 2l 3 = r( 3 + cos θ) and l 3 = r( 3 +
cos(θ + π/3) touch where θ = π/2.

14. P , Q, R are three points on the conic l/r = 1 + e cos θ, the

focus S being the pole, SP and SR meet the tangent at Q
in M and N so that SM = SN = l. Prove that P R touches
l/r = 1 + 2e cos θ.

15. Let P P ′ and QQ′ be two focal chords of a parabola. Let the
tangent at P meets the tangents at Q and Q′ in the points N
4.15. PROBLEM SET 6 73

and N ′ respectively and the tangent at P ′ meets the tangents

at Q and Q′ in the points K ′ and K respectively. Then show
that the lines N K and N ′ K ′ pass through the focus and are
at right angles.

16. Show that the locus of point of intersection of two tangents

to the parabola l/r = 1+cos θ, which cut each other at con-
stant angle α is a conic whose latus rectum is 2l sec α and
eccentricity sec α, that is
l sec α
= 1 + sec α cos θ.
r

17. A variable chord P Q of a conic l/r = 1+ ecos θ subtends a con-

stant angle 2β at the focus S. Show that P Q always touches
a conic having the same focus and directrix.

18. Prove that the chords of a rectangular hyperbola which sub-

tend a right angle at a focus touch a fixed parabola.

19. If the tangents at two points P and Q of a conic meet in a point

T and if the straight line P Q meets the directrix corresponding
to the focus S in a point K, then prove that ∠KST is a right
angle.

20. Let S be the focus of a given conic. Let T be a fixed point.

If SK is drawn perpendicular to ST to meet the directrix in
K, then show that the polar of T will pass through the fixed
point K.

21. Show that two points having the vectorial angles α and β on
the conic l/r = 1 + e cos θ will be the ends of a diameter if
α β e+1
tan tan = .
2 2 e−1

22. Two equal ellipses of eccentricity e are placed with their axes
at right angles and have a common focus S. If P Q is a com-
mon tangent
√ to the two ellipses then prove that the ∠P SQ =
−1
2 sin (e/ 2).
74 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

23. Chords P Q and P R subtend equal angles at a focus of a conic.

Prove that the chord QR and the tangent at P meet on the
directrix corresponding to the focus.
24. Prove that two equal conics which have a common focus and
whose axes are inclined at an angle 2α to one another; inter-
sect at an angle
e2 sin 2α + 2e sin α
 
arctan 2 .
e cos 2α + 2e cos α + 1

25. Prove that the line l/r = A cos θ +B sin θ, will touch the conic
l/r = 1+e cos(θ−γ) if A2+B 2−2e(A cos γ+B sin γ)+(e2−1) = 0.
26. Tangents are drawn at the extremities of perpendicular focal
radii of a conic l/r = 1+e cos θ. Show that the locus of their
point of intersection is another conic having the same focus.
27. If P Q is the chord of contact of tangents drawn from a point
T to a conic l/r = 1 + e cos θ, whose focus is S, then prove
that
1 − e2
 
1 1 2 1
− = sin ∠P SQ .
SP · SQ ST 2 l2 2
Hence deduce that, if the conic is a parabola, then SP · SQ =
ST 2 .
28. Show that the locus of point of intersection of two tangents to
the parabola l/r = 1+cos θ, which cut another at constant angle
α is a conic whose latus rectum is 2l sec α and eccentricity
sec α, that is,
l sec α
= 1 + sec α cos θ.
r
29. Show that the polar equation of a line cutting the conic l/r =
1 − e cos θ in points (π/4 − α) and (π/4 + α) is
l
cos α = cos (θ − π/4) − e cos θ cos α.
r
Hence deduce that the polar equation of the tangent to the
conic at the point whose vectorial is π/4.
4.16. NORMAL AT A POINT OF THE CONIC 75

30. Prove that the tangents from a point to a conic subtend angles
at a focus, which are equal or supplementary.
31. Two parabolas have a common focus and their axes are in-
clined at an angle 2α to one another. Prove that the locus
of the point of intersection of perpendicular tangents one to
each is a conic.

4.16 Normal at a point of the conic

Let l/r = 
1 + e cos (θ − ψ) be aconic. The tangent to the conic at
l
a point T , α is
1 + e cos (α − ψ)
l
= cos(θ − α) + e cos (θ − ψ) .
r
The normal at the point T on the conic is perpendicular to the
tangent at T . Therefore, its equation can be taken as
l′  π  π
= cos θ − α + + e cos θ − ψ +
r 2 2
= − sin(θ − α) − e sin(θ − ψ),

where l′ is to be determined so that the point T lies on it. Since

the point T lies on the above normal, therefore
   
1 + e cos (α − ψ) ′ ′ −e sin (α − ψ)
l = −e sin (α − ψ) or l = l.
l 1 + e cos (α − ψ)
Hence, equation of the normal at the point T (l/ (1+e cos (α − ψ)) , α)
on the conic l/r = 1 + e cos (θ − ψ) is
 
e sin (α − ψ) l
= sin(θ − α) + e sin (θ − ψ) . (1)
1 + e cos (α − ψ) r
Particular cases. If the given conic is l/r = 1 + e cos θ, then the
normal at a point T (α) is
 
e sin α l
= sin(θ − α) + e sin θ. (2)
1 + e cos α r
76 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

If the given conic is l/r = 1 − e cos θ, then the normal at a point

T (α) is
 
e sin α l
= e sin θ − sin(θ − α). (3)
1 − e cos α r

4.17 Solved Examples

Example 1. Normal at (l, π/2) of l/r = 1+e cos θ meets the conic
at Q. Show that
l(1 + 3e2 + e4 )
SQ = .
1 + e2 − e4
Solution. The given conic is
l
= 1 + e cos θ . (1)
r
A normal to the conic (1) at the point (π/2) is
 
e sin(π/2) l
= e sin θ + sin(θ − π/2)
1 + e cos(π/2) r
or
el
= e sin θ − cos θ . (2)
r
The normal (2) intersects the conic (1) in the point Q whose vecto-
rial angle satisfies

e(1 + e cos θ) = e sin θ − cos θ ,

which gives
e + (e2 + 1) cos θ = e sin θ .
Squaring the above equation we get

e2 + (e2 + 1)2 cos2 θ + 2e(e2 + 1) cos θ = e2 sin2 θ ,

or
e2 (1 − sin2 θ) + (e2 + 1)2 cos2 θ + 2e(e2 + 1) cos θ = 0 ,
4.17. SOLVED EXAMPLES 77

which implies that

2e(e2 + 1)
cos θ = 0 or cos θ = − .
e4 + 3e2 + 1
Putting the last value of cos θ in the equation (1) we get
−2e(e2 + 1) l(1 + 3e2 + e4 )
 
l
=1+e 4 or SQ = .
SQ e + 3e3 + 1 1 + e2 − e4
Example 2. If the normal to the conic l/r = 1+e cos θ at a point
α meets the conic at β again, then prove that
α
α β 1 + 2e cos2 + e2
tan tan = − 2 .
2 2 2 α
1 − 2e sin + e2
2
Solution. A normal to the conic at a point α is
 
e sin α l
= sin(θ − α) + e sin θ .
1 + e cos α r

This normal meets the conic in the point (l/(1 + e cos β), β) if
e sin α(1 + e cos β)
= sin(β − α) + e sin β
(1 + e cos α)
or
0 = sin(α − β)(1 + e cos α + e2 ) + e(sin α − sin β)
α−β α−β
= 2 sin cos (1 + e cos α + e2 )
2 2
α+β α−β
+ 2e cos sin
2 2
or    
α β 2 α β
0 = cos − (1 + e cos α + e ) + e cos +
2 2 2 2
 
α β α β
= cos cos + sin sin (1 + e cos α + e2 )
2 2 2 2
 
α β α β
+ e cos cos − sin sin
2 2 2 2
or
78 CHAPTER 4. CONICS
   
α β 2 α β
0= 1 + tan tan (1 + e cos α + e ) + e 1 − tan tan
2 2 2 2
or
α β
0 = tan tan (1 + e cos α + e2 − e) + (1 + e cos α + e2 + e) ,
2 2
or α
α β 1 + 2e cos2 + e2
tan tan = − 2 . 
2 2 2 α
1 − 2e sin + e2
2
Example 3. If the normals at three points α, β, γ on the parabola
l/r = 1 + cos (θ − ψ) meet in a point (ρ, φ), then show that 2φ =
α + β + γ − ψ.
Solution. The parabola is
l
= 1 + cos (θ − ψ) . (1)
r
A normal to (1) is
 
sin (λ − ψ) l
= sin(θ − λ) + sin (θ − ψ) . (2)
1 + cos (λ − ψ) r
If (2) passes through a point (ρ, φ), then
 
sin (λ − ψ) l
= sin(φ − λ) + sin (φ − ψ)
1 + cos (λ − ψ) r
= sin((φ − ψ) − (λ − ψ)) + sin (φ − ψ)
= (1 + cos (λ − ψ)) sin (φ − ψ)
− sin (λ − ψ) cos (φ − ψ) .
Using
(λ − ψ)
2 tan
sin (λ − ψ) = 2
(λ − ψ)
1 + tan2
2
and
(λ − ψ)
1 − tan2
cos (λ − ψ) = 2
(λ − ψ)
1 + tan2
2
4.17. SOLVED EXAMPLES 79

we get
(λ − ψ)
   
2 tan
2 l 2
=   sin (φ − ψ)
  
2 ρ (λ − ψ)
 
2
1 + tan
2
(λ − ψ)
 
2 tan
− 
 2  cos (φ − ψ)

2 (λ − ψ)
1 + tan
2
or
  
(λ − ψ) 2 (λ − ψ)
l tan 1 + tan
2 2
(λ − ψ)
= 2ρ sin (φ − ψ) − 2ρ tan cos (φ − ψ)
2
or
(λ − ψ) (λ − ψ)
l tan3 +(l+2ρ cos (φ − ψ)) tan −2ρ sin (φ − ψ) = 0.
2 2
(3)
Thus the roots of this equation are tan α−ψ , tan β−ψ



2 2
and
γ−ψ


tan 2 ; and we get
tan α−ψ β−ψ γ−ψ


2
+ 2
+ 2
α−ψ β −ψ γ −ψ α−ψ β −ψ γ −ψ
tan +tan +tan −tan tan tan
= 2 2 2 2 2 2
α−ψ β −ψ β −ψ γ −ψ γ −ψ α−ψ
1−(tan tan +tan tan +tan tan )
2 2 2 2 2 2
2ρ sin (φ − ψ)
0−
= l = tan (φ − ψ) ,
l + 2ρ cos (φ − ψ)
1−
l
which implies that
α−ψ β−ψ γ−ψ
+ + = φ − ψ or 2φ = α + β + γ − ψ . 
2 2 2
Example 4. Normals at α, β, γ, δ on the conic l/r = 1 + e cos θ
meet on (ρ, φ). Then prove that
80 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

α β γ δ (1 + e)2
(a) tan tan tan tan + = 0,
2 2 2 2 (1 − e)2
(b) α + β + γ + δ − 2φ = (2n + 1)π.
Solution. A normal to the conic is
 
e sin λ l
= e sin θ + sin(θ − λ) = (e + cos λ) sin θ − sin λ cos θ
1 + e cos λ r
or
r sin θ(e + cos λ)(1 + e cos λ) − r cos θ sin λ(1 + e cos λ) = el sin λ.
If the above normal passes through a point (ρ, φ), then
ρ sin φ(e + cos λ)(1 + e cos λ) − ρ cos φ sin λ(1 + e cos λ) = el sin λ.
(1)
Using
2 tan λ2 2t 1 − tan2 λ
2 1 − t2
sin λ = λ
= and cos λ = λ
= ,
1 + tan2 2
1 + t2 1 + tan2 2
1 + t2
where tan λ2 = t, in the equation (1) we get
(1 + e)2 − (1 − e)2 t4 (1 + e)t + (1 − e)t3 2elt
ρ sin φ − 2ρ cos φ =
(1 + t )
2 2 (1 + t )
2 2 1 + t2
or
t4 ((1 − e)2 ρ sin φ) + 2t3 (el + (1 − e)ρ cos φ)+
+2t(el + (1 + e)ρ cos φ) − (e2 + 1)ρ sin φ = 0.
Thus the roots of this equation are
α β γ δ
t1 = tan , t2 = tan , t3 = tan and t4 = tan ;
2 2 2 2
and we get
X 2(el + (1 − e)ρ cos φ)
s1 ≡ t1 = − ,
(1 − e)2 ρ sin φ
X
s2 ≡ t1 t2 = 0 ,
X 2(el + (1 + e)ρ cos φ)
s3 ≡ t1 t2 t3 = ,
(1 − e)2 ρ sin φ
(1 + e)2
s1 ≡ t1 t2 t3 t4 = − .
(1 − e)2
4.17. SOLVED EXAMPLES 81

The last equation implies the first part. For the second part, we
have
 
α β γ δ s1 − s3 π 
tan + + + = = cot φ = tan +φ .
2 2 2 2 1 − s2 + s4 2
From the above equation we get
α+β+γ+δ π 
= nπ + +φ ,
2 2
which implies the second part. 
Example 5. Three normals are drawn from a point to a parabola
l/r = 1 + cos θ. Show that the distance of the point from the focus
of the parabola is equal to the diameter of the circumcircle of the
triangle formed by tangents at the three feet of the normals.
Solution. The parabola is
l
= 1 + cos θ. (1)
r
A normal at λ to (1) is
 
sin λ l
= sin(θ − λ) + sin θ. (2)
1 + cos λ r
If (2) passes through a point M (ρ, φ), then
 
l sin λ
= ρ sin(φ−λ)+ρ sin φ = ρ(1+cos λ) sin φ−ρ sin λ cos φ.
1 + cos λ
or
  
λ λ
 l 2 sin 2 cos 2 
 
 = ρ 2 cos2 λ λ λ
 sin φ − 2ρ sin cos cos φ
 λ  2 2 2
2 cos2
2
or  
λ 3 λ λ λ
l sin = ρ 2 cos sin φ − 2ρ sin cos2 cos φ
2 2 2 2
or  
λ 2 λ λ
sin l + 2ρ cos φ cos = 2ρ sin φ cos3
2 2 2
82 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

or
  2
2 λ 2 λ λ
1 − cos l + 2ρ cos φ cos = 4ρ2 sin2 φ cos6
2 2 2
or
  
2 λ 2 2 λ 2 2 4 λ
1 − cos l + 4lρ cos φ cos + 4ρ cos φ cos
2 2 2

λ
= 4ρ2 sin2 φ cos6
2
or
λ λ
4ρ2 cos6 + (4lρ cos φ + 4ρ2 cos2 φ) cos4 +
2 2

λ
+ l2 − 4lρ cos φ cos2 − l2 = 0.


(3)
2

Thus the roots of this equation are cos2 (α/2), cos2 (β/2) and cos2 (γ/2),
where α, β, γ are the vectorial angles of the three feet P , Q, R of
normals drawn from the point M (ρ, φ) to the parabola (1). From
(3) we get

α β γ l2
cos2 cos2 cos2 = 2 . (4)
2 2 2 4ρ

Equations of tangents at the points P (α), Q (β), R (γ) are respec-

tively

l α  α
= cos θ + cos(θ − α) = 2 cos cos θ − , (5)
r 2 2
 
l β β
= cos θ + cos(θ − 2β) = 2 cos cos θ − , (6)
r 2 2

l γ  γ
= cos θ + cos(θ − 2γ) = 2 cos cos θ − . (7)
r 2 2
4.18. PROBLEM SET 7 83
 
l α β α+β
The intersection point of (5) and (6) is sec sec , .
2 2 2 2 
l β γ β+γ
The intersection point of (6) and (7) is sec sec , .
2 2 2 2 
l γ α γ+α
The intersection point of (7) and (5) is sec sec , .
2 2 2 2
Then, circle passing through these three points becomes
 
 
l α β γ
r= cos θ − − − . (8)
 
α β γ 2 2 2
2 cos cos cos
2 2 2
The diameter of this circle is
l
. (9)
α β γ
2 cos cos cos
2 2 2
From (4) and (9) the result follows. 

4.18 Problem Set 7

1. If the normal at P on a conic meets the major axis in G, then
prove that SG = e · SP .

2. If the normals at three points α, β, γ on the parabola l/r =

1 +cos θ meet in a point (ρ, φ), then show that 2φ = α +β +γ.

3. If the normals at three points of the parabola r = a csc2 (θ/2)

whose vectorial angles are α, β, γ, meet in a point whose
vectorial angle is φ, then prove that 2φ = α + β + γ − π.

4. Prove that the portion of the normal to the conic l/r = 1 +

e cos θ at the point α, intercepted by the curve subtends at
the pole an angle
 2 
e + 2e cos α + 1
2 arctan .
e sin α
84 CHAPTER 4. CONICS

5. If the normals to the parabola l/r = 1 + cos θ at three points

P , Q, R meet in a point M and S is the focus, then show that

2SP · SQ · SR = lSM 2 .

6. Prove that the length of the √ shortest normal chord of the

parabola l/r =√1 + cos θ is 3l 3 and that its inclination to the
axis is arctan 2.