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ELLIPSE

A conic is said to be an ellipse if its eccentricity e is less than 1.

Equation of an Ellipse in Standard Form:

The equation of an ellipse in the standard form is
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = .(a<b)
Proof:


Let S be the focus, e be the eccentricity and L = 0 be the directrix of the ellipse. Let P
be a point on the ellipse. Let M, Z be the projections (foot of the perpendiculars) of P,
S on the directrix L = 0 respectively. Let N be the projection of P on SZ. Since e < 1,
we can divide SZ both internally and externally in the ratio e: 1. Let A, A be the
points of division of SZ in the ratio e: 1 internally and externally respectively. Let AA
= 2a. Let C be the midpoint of AA. The points A, A lie on the ellipse and
SA SA
e, e
AZ AZ

= =

.
SA = eAZ, SA = eAZ
Now SA + SA = eAZ + eAZ
AA = e(AZ + AZ)

2a e(CZ CA AC CZ)
2a e 2CZ ( CA AC)
CZ a / e
= + +
= =
=

Also SA SA eAZ eAZ =
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AC CS (CA CS) e(AZ AZ) + =
2CS eAA ( CA AC)
2CS e2a CS ae
= =
= =

Take CS, the principal axis of the ellipse as x-axis and Cy perpendicular to CS as
y-axis. Then S(ae,0) and the ellipse is in the standard form. Let P(x
1
,y
1
).
Now PM = NZ = CZ CN =
1
a
x
e

P lies on the ellipse:

2 2 2
PS
e PS ePM PS e PM
PM
= = =
2
2 2 2
1 1 1
2 2 2
1 1 1
a
(x ae) (y 0) e x
e
(x ae) y (a x e)
| |
+ =
|
\
+ =

2 2 2 2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1 1
2 2 2 2 2
1 1
x a e 2x ae y a x e 2x ae
(1 e )x y (1 e )a
+ + = +
+ =

2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1
2 2 2 2 2
x y x y
1 1
a a (1 e ) a b
+ = + =

Where b
2
= a
2
(1 e
2
) > 0
The locus of P is
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = .
The equation of the ellipse is
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = .

Nature of the Curve
2 2
2 2
x y
+ = 1
a b

Let C be the curve represented by
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = . Then




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i) The curve is symmetric about the coordinate axes.
ii) The curve is symmetric about the origin O and hence O is the midpoint of every
chord of the ellipse through O. Therefore the origin is the centre of the ellipse.
iii) Put y = 0 in the equation of the ellipse x
2
= a
2
x = a.
Thus the curve meets x-axis (Principal axis) at two points A(a, 0), A(a, 0). Hence the
ellipse has two vertices. The axis AA is called major axis. The length of the major
axis is AA = 2a
iv) Put x = 0 y
2
= b
2
y = b. Thus, the curve meets y-axis (another axis) at two
points B(0, b), B(0, b). The axis BB is called minor axis and the length of the minor
axis is BB = 2b.
V) The focus of the ellipse is S(ae, 0). The image of S with respect to the minor axis is
S(ae,0). The point S is called second focus of the ellipse.
Vi) The directrix of the ellipse is x = a/e. The image of x = a/e with respect to the minor
axis is x = a/e. The line x = a/e is called second directrix of the ellipse.
Vii)
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ =
2
2 2 2 2
2
x b
y b 1 y a x
a a
| |
= =
|
\

Thus y has real values only when a x a. Similarly x has real values only when
b y b. Thus the curve lies completely with in the rectangle x = a, y = b.
Therefore the ellipse is a closed curve.








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Theorem: The length of the latus rectum of the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = (a > b > 0) is
2
2b
a
.
The length of the latus rectum of the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = (0 < a < b) is
2
2a
b
.

Proof:
Let LL be the length of the latus rectum of the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = .
Focus S =(ae, 0 )
If SL = l, then L = (ae, l)
L lies on the ellipse
2 2
2 2
(ae) l
1
a b
+ =
2 2 2 4
2 2 2
2 2 2 2
l l b b
e 1 1 e l
b b a a
+ = = = =
2 2 2
b b 2b
l SL LL 2SL
a a a
= = = =
Note: The coordinates of the four ends of the latus recta of the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ =
(a > b > 0) are
2 2 2
1
b b b
L ae, , L ae, , L ae,
a a a
| | | | | |
= = =
| | |
\ \ \
,
2
1
b
L ae,
a
| |
=
|
\
.
Note: The coordinates of the four ends of the latus recta of the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ =
(0 < a < b) are
2 2 2
1
a a a
L , be , L , be , L , be
b b b
| | | | | |
= = =
| | |
\ \ \
,
2
1
a
L , be
b
| |
=
|
\
.



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Theorem: If P is a point on the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = with foci S and S then
PS + PS = 2a.
Proof: Let e be the eccentricity and L = 0, L = 0 be the directrices of the ellipse.
Let C be the centre and A, A be the vertices of the ellipse.
AA = 2a.
Foci of the ellipse are S(ae, 0), S(ae, 0).
Let P(x
1
, y
1
) be a point on the ellipse.








Let M, M be the projections of P on the directrices L = 0, L = 0 respectively.

SP S P
e, e
PM PM

= =

.
Let Z, Z be the points of intersection of major axis with directrices.
MM = ZZ = CZ + CZ = 2a/e.
PS + PS = ePM + ePM
= e(PM + PM) = e(MM) = e(2a/e) = 2a.






C
M
B
P
M
Z A S S A
x
Z
y
B
L= 0
L= 0
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Theorem: Let P(x
1
, y
1
) be a point and
2 2
2 2
x y
S 1 0
a b
+ = be an ellipse. Then
(i) P lies on the ellipse S
11
= 0,
(ii) P lies inside the ellipse S
11
< 0,
(iii) P lies outside the ellipse S
11
> 0.

Theorem: The equation of the tangent to the ellipse S = 0 at P(x
1
, y
1
) is S
1
= 0.

Theorem: The equation of the normal to the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = at P(x
1
, y
1
) is
2 2
2 2
1 1
a x b y
a b
x y
= .
Proof:
The equation of the tangent to S = 0 at P is S
1
= 0

1 1
2 2
xx yy
1 0
a b
+ =
The equation of the normal to S = 0 at P is

1 1
1 1
2 2
y x
(x x ) (y y ) 0
b a
=

1 1 1 1 1 1
2 2 2 2
xy yx x y x y
b a b a
=

2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1 1
2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1
a b xy yx a b x y x y
x y x y b a b a
| | | |
=
| |
\ \


2 2
2 2
1 1
a x b y
a b
x y
= .






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Theorem: The condition that the line y = mx + c may be a tangent to the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = is c
2
= a
2
m
2
+ b
2
.
Proof:
Suppose y = mx + c (1) is a tangent to the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = .
Let P(x
1
, y
1
) be the point of contact.
The equation of the tangent at P is

1 1
2 2
xx yy
1 0
a b
+ = (2)
Now (1) and (2) represent the same line.

2 2
1 1
1 1
2 2
x y 1 a m b
x , y
c c c a m b ( 1)

= = = =

.
P lies on the line y = mx + c y
1
= mx
1
+ c
2 2
2 2 2 2
b a m
m c b a m c
c c
| |

= + = +
|
\

2 2 2 2
c a m b = + .
Note: The equation of a tangent to the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = may be taken
as
2 2 2
y mx a m b = + . The point of contact is
2 2
a m b
,
c c
| |

|
\
where
c
2
= a
2
m
2
+ b
2
.

Theorem: Two tangents can be drawn to an ellipse from an external point.






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Director Circle:
The points of intersection of perpendicular tangents to an ellipse S = 0 lies on a
circle, concentric with the ellipse.
Proof:
Equation of the ellipse

2 2
2 2
x y
S 1 0
a b
+ =
Let P(x
1
, y
1
) be the point of intersection of perpendicular tangents drawn to the ellipse.
Let
2 2 2
y mx a m b = + be a tangent to the ellipse S = 0 passing through P.
Then
2 2 2
1 1
y mx a m b = +

2 2 2
1 1
2 2 2 2
1 1
y mx a m b
(y mx ) a m b
= +
= +


2 2 2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1
y m x 2x y m a m b + = +

2 2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1
(x a )m 2x y m (y b ) 0 + = (1)
If m
1
, m
2
are the slopes of the tangents through P then m
1
, m
2
are the roots of (1).
The tangents through P are perpendicular.

2 2
1
1 2
2 2
1
y b
m m 1 1
x a

= =

2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1
y b x a x y a b = + + = +
P lies on x
2
+ y
2
= a
2
+ b
2
which is a circle with centre as origin, the centre of the
ellipse.







P
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Auxiliary Circle:
Theorem: The feet of the perpendiculars drawn from either of the foci to any tangent
to the ellipse S = 0 lies on a circle, concentric with the ellipse.( called auxiliary circle)
Proof:
Equation of the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
S 1 0
a b
+ =
Let P(x
1
, y
1
) be the foot of the perpendicular drawn from either of the foci to a
tangent.
The equation of the tangent to the ellipse S = 0 is
2 2 2
y mx a m b = + (1)
The equation to the perpendicular from either foci ( ae, 0) on this tangent is
1
y (x ae)
m
= (2)
Now P is the point of intersection of (1) and (2).





2 2 2
1 1
1
y mx a m b , y (x ae)
m
= + =
2 2 2
1 1 1 1
y mx a m b , my x ae = + + =
2 2 2 2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1
(y mx ) (my x ) a m b a e + + = + +
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
y m x 2x y m m y x 2x y m a m a (1 e ) a e + + + + = + +
2 2 2 2 2 2 2
1 1
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1
x (m 1) y (1 m ) a m a
(x y )(m 1) a (m 1) x y a
+ + + = +
+ + = + + =

P lies on x
2
+ y
2
= a
2
which is a circle with centre as origin, the centre of the ellipse.



S
P
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Theorem: The equation to the chord of contact of P(x
1
, y
1
) with respect to the ellipse
S = 0 is S
1
= 0.

Eccentric Angle Definition:
Let P(x, y) be a point on the ellipse with centre C. Let N be the foot of the
perpendicular of P on the major axis. Let NP meets the auxiliary circle at P. Then
NCP is called eccentric angle of P. The point P is called the corresponding point of
P.





Parametric Equations: If P(x, y) is a point on the ellipse then x = a cos , y = b sin
where is the eccentric angle of P. These equations x = a cos , y = b sin are called
parametric equations of the ellipse. The point P(acos , b sin ) is simply denoted by .

Theorem: The equation of the chord joining the points with eccentric angles and
on the ellipse S = 0 is
x y
cos sin cos
a b
+ +
+ =
2 2 2
.
Proof:
Given points on the ellipse are P(acos , b sin ), Q(acos , b sin ).
Slope of PQ

is
bsin bsin b(sin sin )
a cos a cos a(cos cos )

=


Equation of PQ

is:

b(sin sin )
y sin (x a cos )
a(cos cos )

=


(x a cos ) y bsin
(sin sin ) (cos cos )
a b

=

x y
cos 2cos sin sin ( 2) sin sin
a 2 2 b 2 2
+ + | | | |
=
| |
\ \

C
P
P
N
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x y
cos cos sin sin
a 2 b 2
+ + | | | |
=
| |
\ \

x y
cos sin
a 2 b 2
+ +
+

cos cos sin sin
2 2
cos cos
2 2
+ +
= +
+ | | | |
= =
| |
\ \


Theorem: The equation of the tangent at P() on the ellipse
S = 0 is
x y
cos sin 1
a b
+ = .

Theorem: The Equation Of The Normal At P() On The Ellipse
S = 0 Is
2 2
ax by
a b
cos sin
=

.

Theorem: Four normals can be drawn from any point to the ellipse and the sum of the
eccentric angles of their feet is an odd multiple of .












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Very Short Answer Questions

1. Find the equation of the ellipse with focus at (1, 1) e = 2/3 and directrix is
x + y + 2 = 0.
Sol. Let P(x
1
, y
1
) be any point on the ellipse. Equation of the directrix is
L= x + y + 2 = 0


By definition of ellipse SP = e PM

2 2 2
SP e PM =
2 2
2 2 1 1
1 1
2
2 2 1 1
1 1
2 2 2
1 1 1 1
2 x y 2
(x 1) (y 1)
3 1 1
4 (x y 2)
(x 1) (y 1)
9 2
9 (x 1) (y 1) 2(x y 2)
+ + ( | |
+ + =
|
(
+ \
+ +
+ + =
(
+ + = + +


2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
9 x 2x 1 y 2y 1 2 x y 4 2x y 4x 4y
( (
+ + + + = + + + + +


2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
2 2
1 1 1 1 1 1
9x 9y 18x 18y 18 2x 2y 4x y 8x 8y 8
7x 4x y 7y 26x 10y 10 0
+ + + = + + + + +
+ + + =

Locus of P(x
1
, y
1
) is 7x
2
4xy + 7y
2
26x + 10y + 10 = 0






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2. Find the equation of the ellipse in the standard form whose distance between foci
is 2 and length of latus rectum is 15/2.
Sol. Latus rectum = 15/2

2
2b 15
a 2
=
Distance between foci is 2ae = 2
ae = 1
b
2
= a
2
a
2
e
2

b
2
= a
2
1
2 2
15
a a 1 4a 15a 4 0
4
1
a 4 or a
4
= =
= =

Equation of the ellipse is
2 2
x y
1
16 15
+ = .

3. Find the equation of the ellipse in the standard form such that the distance
between the foci is 8 and the distance between directrices is 32.
Sol. Distance between foci is 2ae 8 ae 4 = =
Distance between directrices = 32
2a a
32 16
e e
= =
2
2 2 2 2
a
(ae) 64
e
a 64
b a a e 64 16 48
| |
=
|
\
=
= = =

Equation of the ellipse is
2 2
x y
1
64 48
+ = .



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4. Find the eccentricity of the ellipse, in standard form, if its length of the latus
rectum is equal to half of its major axis.
Sol.
Given, latus rectum is equal to half of its major axis

2
2b
a
= a
2b
2
= a
2

But b
2
= a
2
(1 e
2
)
2a
2
(1 e
2
) = a
2


2 2
1 1 1
1 e e e
2 2 2
= = =

5. The distance of a point on the ellipse x
2
+ 3y
2
= 6 from its centre is equal to 2.
Find the eccentric angles.
Sol. Equation of the ellipse is x
2
+ 3y
2
= 6

2 2
x y
1
6 2
+ =
a 6, b 2 = =
Any point on the ellipse is
P( 6 cos , 2 sin )
Given CP = 2 CP
2
= 4
6 cos
2
+ 2 sin
2
= 4
6(1 sin
2
) + 2sin
2
= 4
6 6sin
2
+ 2sin
2
= 4
4 sin
2
= 2 sin
2
=
2 1
4 2
=
1
sin
2
1 3
sin ,
2 4 4
1 5 7
sin ,
2 4 4
=

= =

= =

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Eccentric angles are:
3 5 7
, , ,
4 4 4 4

.

6. Find the equation of the ellipse in the standard form, if it passes through the
points (2, 2) and (3, 1).
Sol. Equation of the ellipse is

2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ =
It is passing through (2, 2), (3, 1)
(2, 2)
2 2
4 4
1
a b
+ = (i)
(3, 1)
2 2
9 1
1
a b
+ = (ii)
Solving (i) and (ii), we get

2 2
2 2
2 2
1 3 1 5
,
32 32 a b
3x 5y
1
32 32
3x 5y 32
= =
+ =
+ =


7. If the ends of major axis of an ellipse are (5, 0) and (5, 0). Find the equation of
the ellipse in the standard form if its focus lies on the line 3x 5y 9 = 0.
Sol. Vertices (a, 0)= (5, 0) a = 5,
Focus S = (ae,o)
Focus lies on the line 3x 5y 9 = 0
3(ae) 5(0) 9 = 0
9 3
5e e
3 5
= =
b
2
= a
2
(1 e
2
)

2
9 16
b 25 1 25 16
25 25
| | | |
= = =
| |
\ \

Equation of the ellipse is
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2 2
2 2
x y
1 16x 25y 400
25 16
+ = + =

8. Find the equation of the tangent and normal to the ellipse x
2
+ 8y
2
= 33 at (1, 2).
Sol. Given ellipse S = x
2
+ 8y
2
= 33
Equation of the tangent is S
1
=0

1 1
2 2
xx yy
1
a b
+ =
x( 1) 8y(2) 33
x 16y 33
x 16y 33 0
+ =
+ =
+ =

Equation of the normal is
16x + y + k = 0
It passes through P(1, 2)
16 + 2 + k = 0 k = 14
Equation of the normal is
16x + y + 14 = 0.

9. Find the equation of the tangent and normal to the ellipse
x
2
+2y
2
4x+12y + 14 = 0 at (2, 1).
Sol. Given ellipse
S =x
2
+2y
2
4x+12y + 14 = 0
Equation of the tangent is S
1
=0
xx
1
+ 2yy
1
2(x + x
1
) + 6(y + y
1
) + 14 = 0
2x 2y 2(x + 2) + 6(y 1) + 14 = 0
4y + 4 = 0
y = 1 required equation of tangent.
Slope of tangent is 0
Equation of normal be
1
y 1 (x 2)
0

+ =
x = 2 equation of normal.
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10. Find the equation of the tangents to 9x
2
+ 16y
2
= 144 which makes equal
intercepts on coordinate axes.
Sol. Equation of the ellipse is
9x
2
+ 16y
2
= 144
2 2
x y
1
16 9
+ =
Equation of the tangent is
x y
cos sin 1
a b
+ =
Slope of the tangent =
bcos
1
a sin

a 4
cot
b 3
4 3
cos , sin
5 5
= =
= =

Equation of the tangent is:

x 4 y 3
1
4 5 3 5
x y 5 0
| | | |
+ =
| |
\ \
=

11. If PN is the ordinate of a point P on the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
+ = 1
a b
and the tangent at P
meets the X-axis at T then show that (CN)(CT) = a
2
where C is the centre of the
ellipse.
Sol: Let P() = (a cos , b sin ) be a point on the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = . Then the
equation of the tangent at P() is

x cos ysin
1
a b

+ = (or)

x y
1
a b
cos sin
+ =
| | | |
| |

\ \
meets X-axis at T.
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X - Intercept (CT) =
a
cos
and the ordinate of P is PN = b sin then its abscissa
CN = a cos
2
a
(CN).(CT) (a cos ) a
cos
= =

.

12. Find the value of k if 4x + y + k = 0 is a tangent to the ellipse x
2
+ 3y
2
= 3.
Sol. Equation of the ellipse is x
2
+ 3y
2
= 3

2 2
x y
1
3 1
+ =
a
2
= 3, b
2
= 1
Equation of the line is 4x + y + k = 0
y = 4x k
m = 4, c = k
Above line is a tangent to the ellipse
c
2
= a
2
m
2
+ b
2

(k)
2
= 3(4)
2
+ 1
k
2
= 48 + 1 = 49
k = 7.



X
Y
Y
X
A
P()
C N
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13. Find the condition for the line xcos + ysin = p to be a tangent to the
ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = .
Sol. Equation of the ellipse is
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = (i)
Equation of the line is xcos + ysin = p
ysin = xcos + p

cos p
y x
sin sin

= +



cos p
m , c
sin sin

= =


Above line is a tangent to the ellipse
c
2
= a
2
m
2
+ b
2


2 2
2 2
2 2
p cos
a b
sin sin

= +


Or p
2
= a
2
cos
2
+ b
2
sin
2
.

14. If the length of the major axis of an ellipse is three times the length of its minor
axis then find the eccentricity of the ellipse.
Sol: Let the ellipse in the standard form be

2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = (1)
Length of major axis is a and length of minor axis is b. Given that a = 3b
2 2 2 2 2
2 2
a 9b a 9a (1 e )
1 8 2 2
1 e e e
9 9 3
= =
= = =

Eccentricity of the ellipse =
2 2
3
.


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15. A man running on a race course notices that the sum of the distances of the two
flag posts from him is always 10 m. and the distance between the flag posts is
8 m. Find the equation of the race course traced by the man.
Sol:

Given AA = 2a = 10 a = 5
(Taking flag posts located at A and A)
Also given the distance between two fixed points S and S = 8 m.
2ae = 8 ae = 4
b
2
= a
2
(1 e
2
)
a
2
a
2
e
2
= 25 16 = 9
b
2
= 9
Hence the equation of ellipse is
2 2
x y
1
25 9
+ =

16. The orbit of the Earth is an ellipse with eccentricity 1/60 with the Sun at one of its
foci, the major axis being approximately 186 10
6
miles in length. Find the
shortest and longest distance of the Earth from the Sun.
Sol: Let the earths orbit be an ellipse given by
2 2
2 2
x y
1; (a b)
a b
+ = >
Since the major axis is 186 10
6
miles
We have 2a = 186 10
6

a = 93 10
6
miles
If e is the eccentricity of ellipse then
1
e
60
= .
The longest and shortest distances of the Earth from the Sun are respectively
a + ae and a ae.
P
A Z
S S
A Z
B
B
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Here, the longest distance of earth from the sun =
6
1
a ae 93 10 1
60
| |
+ = +
|
\


4
9445 10 miles =
And the shortest distance of earth from the sun = a ae
6
1
93 10 1
60
| |
=
|
\

= 9145 10
4
miles.

17. Find the equation of the ellipse referred to its major and minor axes as the
coordinate axes X, Y respectively with latus rectum of length 4 and distance
between foci is 4 2 .
Sol: Let the equation of ellipse be

2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = , (a > b)
Length of the latus rectum

2
2
2b
4 b 2a
a
= =
Distance between foci, S = (ae, 0) and S = (ae, 0) is 2ae 4 2 ae 2 2 = =
Also
2 2 2 2 2 2
b a (1 e ) 2a a (ae) a 8 = = =
2
2
a 2a 8 0
(a 4)(a 2) 0
a 4( a 0)
b 2a 8
=
+ =
= >
= =

Equation of ellipse is

2 2
2 2
x y
1(or) x 2y 16
16 8
+ = + = .



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18. C is the centre, AA and BB are major and minor axes of the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
+ = 1
a b
.
If PN is the ordinate of a point P on the ellipse then show that

2 2
2
(PN) (BC)
+
(A N)(AN) (CA)
.
Sol: Let P() = (a cos , b sin ) be any point on the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = .

The PN = b sin and CN = a cos
CA = CA = a, CB = CB = b
2
2
2
2 2 2 2
2 2 2 2
(PN)
LHS
(AN)(AN)
(PN)
(AC CN)(CA CN)
(bsin )
(a a cos )(a a cos )
b sin b BC
RHS
a sin a (CA)
=

=
+

=
+

= = = =

19. S and T are the foci of an ellipse and B is one end of the minor axis. If STB is an
equilateral triangle, then find the eccentricity of the ellipse.
Sol: Let
2 2
2 2
x y
1; (a b)
a b
+ = > be an ellipse whose foci are S and T. B is an end of the
minor axis such that STB is equilateral triangle.
Then SB = ST = TB.
Also S = (ae, 0), T = (ae, 0) and B(0, b)
P()
X
Y
B
A A
C
Y
B
X
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Consider SB = ST (SB)
2
= (ST)
2

(ae)
2
+ b
2
= 4a
2
e
2

a
2
e
2
+ a
2
(1e
2
) = 4a
2
e
2

a
2
e
2
+ a
2
a
2
e
2
= 4a
2
e
2


1 = 4e
2

e
2
=
1 1
e
4 2
= .

20. If a tangent to the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
+ = 1
a b
, (a > b) meets its major axis and minor axis
at M and N respectively then prove that
2 2
2 2
a b
+ = 1
(CM) (CN)
where C is the centre
of the ellipse.
Sol:

Let P() = P(a cos , b sin ) be a point on the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = .
Then the equation of tangent at P() is
x cos ysin
1
a b

+ =
x y
1
a b
cos sin
+ =


This meets major axis at M and minor axis at N so that
P()
X
Y
N
N
C
Y
X
B(0,b)
C
(ae,0)
T S
(ae,0)
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a b
CM and CN
cos sin
= =



a b
cos and sin
CM CN
= =

2 2
2 2
2 2
a b
cos sin 1
(CM) (CN)
+ = + = .

Short Answer Questions

1).Find the length of major axis, minor axis, latus rectum, eccentricity, coordinates of
the centre, foci and equations of directrices of the following ellipse.
i) 9x
2
+ 16y
2
= 144
ii) 4x
2
+ y
2
8x + 2y + 1 = 0
iii) x
2
+ 2y
2
4x + 12y + 14 = 0
Sol. I) Given equation is 9x
2
+ 16y
2
= 144

2 2
x y
1
16 9
+ =
a = 4, b = 3 where a>b
Length of major axis = 2a = 2 4 = 8
Length of minor axis = 2b = 2 3 = 6
Length of latus rectum =
2
2b 2 9 9
a 4 2

= =
Eccentricity =
2 2
2
a b 16 9 7
16 4 a

= =
Centre is C(0, 0)
Foci are (ae, 0) = ( 7, 0)
Equations of the directrices are

a 4 16
x x 4
e 7 7
7x 16
= = =
=


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ii) Given equation is 4x
2
+ y
2
8x + 2y + 1=0

( ) ( )
2 2
2 2
2 2
2 2
4(x 2x) (y 2y) 1
4 (x 1) 1 (y 1) 1 1
4(x 1) (y 1) 4 1 1 4
(x 1) (y 1)
1
1 4
+ + =
+ + =
+ + = + =
+
+ =

a = 1, b = 2 where a < b y-axis is major axis
Length of major axis = 2b = 4
Length of minor axis = 2a = 2
Length of latus rectum =
2
2a 2
1
b 2
= =
Eccentricity =
2 2
2
b a 4 1 3
4 2 b

= =
Centre is c(1, 1)
Be =
3
2 3
2
=
Foci are ( 1,1 3)
Equations of the directrices are

b 4
y 1
e 3
3y 3 4
3y 3 4 0
+ = =
+ =
+ =

iii) Given equation is:
x
2
+ 2y
2
4x + 12y + 14 = 0
x
2
4x + 2(y
2
+ 6y) = 14
(x
2
4x + 4) + 2(y
2
+ 6y + 9) = 4+1814
(x 2)
2
+ 2(y + 3)
2
= 8
2 2
2 2
2 2
(x 2) (y 3)
1
8 4
(x 2) (y 3)
1
2 (2 2)
+
+ =
+
+ =

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a 2 2, b 2, h 2, k 3 = = = =
Length of major axis = 2a = 2(2 2) 4 2 =
Length of minor axis = 2b = 2 2 = 4
Length of latus rectum =

2
2b 2 4
2 2
a 2 2

= =
Eccentricity =
2
2
b 4 1
1 1
8 a 2
= =
Centre = (h, k) = (2, 3)
Foci = (h ae, k) = (2 2, 3)
= (4, 3), (0, 3)
Equations of the directrices are:
a 2 2
x h x 2
e (1/ 2)
x 2 4
= =
=

i.e. x = 6, x = 2

2. Find the equation of the ellipse in the form
2 2
2 2
(x h) (y k)
1
a b

+ = given the
following data.
i) Centre (2, 1), one end of major axis (2,5), e = 1/3.
Sol. Centre C =(h, k) = (2, 1) h = 2, k = 1
End of major axis A =(2, 5).
The x coordinates of centre and end of the major axis are same, therefore major axis is
parallel to y axis.
2 2 2
b CA (2 2) ( 5 1) ( 4) 4 = = + + = =
2 2 2
1 128
a b (1 e ) 16 1
9 9
| |
= = =
|
\

Equation of the ellipse is
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2 2
2 2
2 2
(x 2) (y 1)
1
128
16
9
9(x 2) (y 1)
1
128 16
9(x 2) 8(y 1) 128
+
+ =
+
+ =
+ + =

i.e. 8(x 2)
2
+ 9(y + 1)
2
= 128.

ii) Centre (4, 1), one end of major axis is (1,1) and passing through (8, 0).
Sol. Centre C (4, 1)
ONE end of major axis is A =(1,1).
Y coordinates of above points are same, major axis is parallel to x axis

2 2
a CA (4 1) ( 1 1) 5 = = + + + =
Ellipse is passing through (8, 0)
2 2
2 2
(8 4) (0 1) 1 16 9
1 1
25 25 25 b b
+
+ = = =
Equation of ellipse is
2
2
2 2
(x 4) 9
(y 1) 1
25 25
(x 4) 9(y 1) 25

+ + =
+ + =

iii) Centre (0, 3), e = 2/3, semi-minor axis = 5.
Sol.
Centre C (0, 3) , e = 2/3
Semi minor axis b = 5
b
2
= a
2
a
2
e
2

25 =
2 2 2
4 5
a a a
9 9
| |
=
|
\

45 = a
2




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Equation of ellipse is

2 2
2 2
(x 0) (y 3)
1
45 25
x (y 3)
1
45 25
+
+ =
+
+ =

iv) Centre (2, 1), e = 1/2, latus rectum = 4.
Sol.
Centre (2, 1), e = 1/2
Latus rectum = 4
2
2
2b
4 b 2a
a
= =
b
2
= a
2
a
2
e
2

2 2 2 2 2
2 2
2
1 3
b a a b a
4 4
3 8 64
2a a a or a
4 3 9
16
b
3
= =
= = =
=

Equation of the ellipse is
2 2
9(x 2) 3(y 1)
1
64 16
+
+ =
9(x 2)
2
+ 12(y + 1)
2
= 64

3. Find the equations of tangent and normal to the ellipse 2x
2
+ 3y
2
= 11 at the point
whose ordinate is 1.
Sol. Equation of the ellipse is S =2x
2
+ 3y
2
= 11
Given y = 1
2x
2
+ 3 = 11 2x
2
= 8 x = 2
Points on the ellipse are P(2, 1) and Q(2, 1)
Case I: P(2, 1)
Equation of the tangent is S
1
= 0
2x 2 3y 1 11 4x 3y 11 + = + =
The normal is perpendicular to the tangent.
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Equation of the normal at P can be taken as
3x 4y = k.
The normal passes through P(2, 1)
6 4 = k k = 2
Equation of the normal at P is 3x 4y = 2.
Case II: Q(2, 1)
Equation of the tangent at Q is S
2
= 0
2x(2) + 3y.1 = 11
4x + 3y = 11
4x 3y + 11 = 0
Equation of the normal can be taken as
3x + 4y = k
The normal passes through Q(2, 1)
6 + 4 = k k = 2
Equation of the normal at Q is 3x + 4y = 2
Or 3x + 4y + 2 = 0.

4. Find the equations to the tangents to the ellipse, x
2
+ 2y
2
= 3 drawn from the point
(1, 2) and also find the angle between these tangents.
Sol. Equations of the ellipse is x
2
+ 2y
2
= 3

2 2
x y
1
3 3/ 2
+ =
a
2
= 3, b
2
= 3/2

Let m be the slope of the tangent which is passing through P(1, 2)
Equation of the tangent is
y 2 = m(x 1) = mx m
y = mx + (2 m)
Above line is a tangent to the ellipse
c
2
= a
2
m
2
+ b
2

R
Q
P(1, 2)
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2 2
2 2
3
(2 m) 3(m )
2
3
4 m 4m 3m
2
= +
+ = +


2
2
5
2m 4m 0
2
4m 8m 5 0
(2m 1)(2m 5) 0
1 5
m or
2 2
+ =
+ =
+ =
=

Case I: m = 1/2
Equation of the tangent is

1 1 x 3
y x 2
2 2 2 2
= + = +
2y = x + 3
x 2y + 3 = 0
Case II: m = 5/2
Equation of the tangent is

5 5 5x 9
y x (2 )
2 2 2 2
= + + = +
2y = 5x + 9
5x + 2y 9 = 0
Angle between the tangents is given by

1 2
1 2
m m
tan
1 m m

=
+

=
1 5
3
2 2
| 12 | 12
5 1 5
1 1
4 2 2
+
= = =
| || |
+
| |
\ \

= tan
1
12.


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5. Find the equation of tangents to the ellipse 2x
2
+ y
2
= 8 which are parallel to
x 2y + 4 = 0.
Sol. Equation of the ellipse is 2x
2
+ y
2
= 8

2 2
x y
1
4 8
+ =
Equation of the tangent parallel to x 2y + 4 = 0.
Is x 2y + k = 0.

x k

2 2
y = +
Above line is a tangent to the ellipse
c
2
= a
2
m
2
+ b
2

2
2
1
4. 8 36 6
4 4
k
k k = + = =
Equation of tangents are
x 2y 6 = 0
6. Show that the tangents to the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = at points whose eccentric
angles differ by /2 intersect on the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
2
a b
+ = .
Sol.




Equation of the ellipse is
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ =
Equation of the tangent at Q() is

x y
cos sin 1
a b
+ =
Equation of the tangent at R
2
| |
+
|
\
is
Q()
R(/2 + )
P(x
1
, y
1
)
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x y
cos sin 1
a 2 b 2
x y
sin cos 1
a b
| | | |
+ + + =
| |
\ \
+ =

Suppose P(x
1
, y
1
) is the point of intersection of the tangents at Q and R

1 1
x y
cos sin 1
a b
+ = .. (1)

1 1
x y
sin cos 1
a b

+ = .. (2)
Squaring and adding (1) and (2)
2 2
1 1 1 1
x y x y
cos sin sin cos 1 1
a b a b
| | | |
+ + + = +
| |
\ \

2 2
2 2 1 1 1 1
2 2
2 2
2 2 1 1 1 1
2 2
x y 2x y
cos sin cos sin
ab a b
x y 2x y
sin cos cos sin 2
ab a b
+ +
+ + =

2 2
2 2 2 2 1 1
2 2
2 2
1 1
2 2
x y
(cos sin ) (sin cos ) 2
a b
x y
2
a b
+ + + =
+ =

Locus of P(x
1
, y
1
) is
2 2
2 2
x y
2
a b
+ = .

7. A man running on a race course notices that the sum of the distances of the two
flag posts from him is always 10 m and the distance between the flag posts is 8 m.
find the equation of the race course traced by the man.
Sol. S and S are the flags and P is the position of the man.



Given SP + SP = 10 and SS = 8
The path traced by the man is an ellipse whose foci are S and S.
8
S S
P
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2a = 10 a = 5
SS = 8 2ae = 8 ae = 4

4
e
5
=

2 2 2
16
b a (1 e ) 25 1 9
25
| |
= = =
|
\

Equation of the ellipse is
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ =

2 2
x y
1
25 9
+ =

8. If S and T are the foci of an ellipse and B is one end of the minor axis. If STB is
an equilateral triangle, then find the eccentricity of the ellipse.
Sol.



Equation of the ellipse is
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ =
Foci are S(ae, 0), T(ae, 0)
B(0, b) is the end of the minor axis
STB is an equilateral triangle
SB = ST SB
2
= ST
2

a
2
e
2
+ b
2
= 4a
2
e
2

b
2
= 3a
2
e
2

a
2
(1 e
2
) = 3a
2
e
2

1 e
2
= 3e
2

4e
2
= 1 e
2
=
1
4

Eccentricity of the ellipse:
1
e
2
= .
B(0, b)
T S
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9. Find the equation of the tangent and normal to the ellipse 9x
2
+ 16y
2
= 144 at the
end of the latus rectum in the first quadrant.
Sol. Given ellipse is 9x
2
+ 16y
2
= 144

2 2
x y
1
16 9
+ =

2 2
2
a b 16 9 7
e
16 4 a

= = =
End of the latus rectum in first Quadrant
2
b 9
P ae, 7,
a 4
| |
| |
=
|
|
\
\

Equation of the tangent at P is
1 1
2 2
xx yy
1
a b
+ =

7 y 9
x 1
16 9 4
7x y
1
16 4
| |
+ =
|
\
+ =

7x 4y 16 + =
Equation of the normal at P is

2 2
2 2
1 1
a x b y
a b
x y
=

16x 9y
16 9
(9/ 4) 7
=

16x
4y 7
7
16x 4 7y 7 7
=
=







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10. Find the condition for the line
i) lx + my + n = 0 to be a tangent to the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = .
ii) lx + my + n = 0 to be a normal to the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = .
Sol. i) Equation of the ellipse is
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ =
Equation of the tangent at P() is

x y
cos sin 1
a b
+ = (1)
Equation of the given line is
lx + my = n (2)
(1) and (2) are representing the same line. Therefore,

cos sin 1
al bm n

= =

cos sin 1
al bm n

=

al bm
cos sin
n n
= =

2 2
cos sin 1 + =

2 2 2 2
2 2
a l b m
1
n n
+ =
a
2
l
2
+ b
2
m
2
= n
2
is the required condition.

ii) Let lx + my + n = 0 be normal at P(a)
Equation of the normal at P(a) is :

2 2
ax by
a b
cos sin
=

(1)
Lx + my = n (2)
Comparing (1) and (2)
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2 2
l m n
a b
a b
cos sin
= =
| | | |
| |

\ \

2 2
l cos msin n
a b a b

= =

2 2 2 2
an bn
cos , sin
l(a b ) m(a b )

= =


2 2
cos sin 1 + =
2 2 2 2
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
a n b n
1
l (a b ) m (a b )
+ =


2 2 2 2 2
2 2 2
a b (a b )
l m n

+ = is the required condition.

10. If the normal at one end of a latus rectum of the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = passes through
one end of the minor axis, then show that e
4
+ e
2
= 1.
Sol. Equation of the ellipse is
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ =
One end of the latusrectum is L(ae, b
2
/a)
Equation of the normal at L(ae, b
2
/a) is

2 2
2 2
2
a x b y
a b
ae (b / a)
=
2 2
2 2
1 1
a x b y
a b
x y
| |
=
|
\



2 2
ax
ay a e
e
=


This normal passes through B(0, b)
ab = a
2
e
2

b = ae
2

b
2
= a
2
e
4

a
2
(1 e
2
) = a
2
e
4

X
Y
C
L(ae,b
2
/a)
B(0, b)
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e
4
+ e
2
= 1.

11. Show that the points of intersection of the perpendicular tangents to an ellipse
lies on a circle.
Sol: Let the equation of ellipse be
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = (a > b).
Any tangent to the above ellipse is of the form
2 2 2
y mx a m b = +
Let the perpendicular tangents intersect at
1 1
P(x , y ) .
2 2 2
1 1
y mx a m b = +
2 2 2 2
1 1
2 2 2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1
2 2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1
(y mx ) a m b
y 2my x m x a m b
m (x a ) 2mx y (y b ) 0
= +
+ = +
+ =

This being a quadratic is m has two roots m
1
and m
2
which corresponds to the slopes
of tangents drawn from P to ellipse then
2 2 2 2
1 1
1 2
2 2 2 2
1 1
y b y b
m m 1
x a x a
| | | |

= =
| |
| |

\ \

( Product of slopes = 1 for perpendicular tangents)
2 2 2 2
1 1
x y a b + = +
Locus of (x
1
, y
1
) is x
2
+ y
2
= a
2
+ b
2
which is a circle.









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12. If
1
,
2
are the eccentric angles of the extremities of a focal chord (other than the
vertices) of the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
+ = 1
a b
(a > b) and e its eccentricity. Then show that
i)
| | | |
| |
\ \
1 2 1 2
+ -
ecos = cos
2 2

ii)
| | | |
| |

\ \
1 2
e + 1
=cot cot
e 1 2 2

Sol:

Let P(
1
), Q(
2
) be the two extremities of a focal chord of the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = (a> b)
1 1 1
2 2 2
P (a cos , bsin ), ( 0)
Q (a cos , bsin ), ( )
=
=

And focus S = (ae, 0). Now PQ is a focal chord and hence P, S, Q are collinear.
Slope of PS = slope of SQ
1 2
1 2
bsin bsin
a (cos e) a(cos e)

=


1 2 2 1
absin (cos e) absin (cos e) =
1 2 1 2 1 2
1 2 1 2
(sin cos cos sin ) e(sin sin )
(sin ) e(sin sin )
=
=

1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2
2sin cos e 2 cos sin
2 2 2 2
+ | | | | | | | |
=
| | | |
\ \ \ \

X
Y
Y
X
Q
P
C
S
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1 2 1 2
1 2
1 2
ecos cos
2 2
cos
2
e
cos
2
+ | | | |
=
| |
\ \
| |
|
\
=
+ | |
|
\

1 2 1 2
1 2 1 2
cos cos
e 1 2 2
e 1
cos cos
2 2
+ | | | |
+
| |
+
\ \
=
+ | | | |

| |
\ \

1 2
1 2
1 2
1 2
2cos cos
2 2
cot cot
2 2
2sin sin
2 2
e 1
cot cot
e 1 2 2


= =

+
=

13. If the normal at one end of a latus rectum of the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
+ = 1
a b
passes
through one end of the minor axis, then show that e
4
+ e
2
= 1. [e is the eccentricity
of the ellipse]
Sol:

Let L be the one end of the latus rectum of
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = .
Then the co-ordinates of L =
2
b
ae,
a
| |
|
\
.
Equation of the normal at L is

2 2
2 2
2
a x b y
a b
ae b / a
=
X
Y
Y
X
(0,b)
Normal
B
L
C S
Tangent
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2 2
ax
ay a b
e
=
If this passes through the one end B=(0,b) of the minor axis then ab = a
2
b
2
.
2 2 2
2 2 2
2
2 2 2
4 2
2 2
4 2 4 2
ab a a (1 e )
ab b
ab a e e
a a
b a (1 e )
e 1 e
a a
e e 1 0 e e 1
=
= = =

= = =
+ = + =


14. If a circle is concentric with the ellipse, find the inclination of their common
tangent to the major axis of the ellipse.
Sol: Let the circle x
2
+ y
2
= r
2
and the ellipse be
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = with a > b.
The major axis of ellipse is X-axis.
If r < b < a, then the circle lies completely in the ellipse making no common tangents.
If b < a < r (ellipse lies completely in circle) no common tangent is passive.
Case (i): If b < r < a

Let one of the common tangent make angle with positive X-axis and suppose the
equation of tangent to the circle be x cos ysin r + = where is the angle made by
the radius of circle with positive X-axis.
(or)
2 2

= + =

X
Y
O
Y
X



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Since x cos + y sin = 4 touches the ellipse also, we have

2 2 2 2 2
a cos b sin r + = .
2 2 2 2 2
2 2 2 2 2
a cos b sin r
2 2
(or) a cos b sin r
2 2
| | | |
+ =
| |
\ \
| | | |
+ + + =
| |
\ \

2 2 2 2 2
a sin b cos r + =
2 2 2
2 2 2 2
2
1 cos 2 1 cos 2
a b r
2 2
a b b a
cos 2 r
2 2
+ | | | |
+ =
| |
\ \
| | | |
+
+ =
| |
\ \

2 2 2 2 2
2 2 2
2 2
2 2 2
1
2 2
2 2 2
1
2 2
(a b ) (b a ) cos 2 2r
a b 2r
cos 2
a b
a b 2r
2 cos
a b
1 a b 2r
cos
2 a b

+ + =
+
=

| |
+
=
|

\
| |
+
=
|

\

Case (ii): When r = a the circle touches the ellipse at the ends of major axis of the
Ellipse so that the common tangents are x a = and
2

= .
Case (iii): When r = b, the circle touches the ellipse at the ends of minor axis of
Ellipse so that common tangents y = b making = 0..







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15. Find the coordinates of the points on the ellipse x
2
+ 3y
2
= 37 at which the normal
is parallel to the line 6x 5y = 2.
Sol. Equation of the ellipse is x
2
+ 3y
2
= 37

2 2
37
a 37, b
3
= =

Slope of the normal =
a sin 37 sin
3 tan
bcos 37
cos
3

= =

The normal is parallel to 6x 5y = 2

6
3 tan
5
6 2 3
tan
5 5 3
=
= =





Case I:
The coordinates of P are (a cos , b sin )
5 37 2 3
37 , (5, 2)
37 3 37
| |
=
|
|
\


Case II:
The coordinates of P are (a cos , b sin )
( 5) 37 2 3
37 , ( 5, 2)
37 3 37
| |

=
|
|
\




2 3

5

37

2 3

5

37

2 2
x y
1
37 37
3
+ =
| |
|
\
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Long Answer Questions

1. A line of fixed length (a + b) moves so that its ends are always on two
perpendicular straight lines prove that a marked point on the line, which divides
this line into portions of lengths a and b describes an ellipse and also find the
eccentricity of the ellipse when a = 8, b = 12.
Sol.




Let the perpendicular lines as coordinate axes.
Let OA = and OB = so that equation of AB is
x y
1 + =

.
Given length of the line AB =(a + b)

2 2 2
(a b) + = + (i)
Let P(x, y) be the point which divides AB in the ratio a : b
P =
b a
, (x, y)
a b a b
| |
=
|
+ +
\

b a b
x x
a b b
a a b
y y
a b a
+
= =
+
+
= =
+

Substituting the values of , in (i), we get,
2 2
2 2 2
2 2
2 2
2 2
(a b) (a b)
x y (a b)
b a
x y
or 1
b a
+ +
+ = +
+ =

P describes an ellipse.
Given a = 8, b = 12, so that b > a.

a
b
Y
X
A
O
B
P(x, y)
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Eccentricity =
2 2
2
b a 144 64 80 5
144 144 3 b

= = =

2. Prove that the equation of the chord joining the points and on the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ = is
x y
cos sin cos
a 2 b 2 2
+ + | |
+ =
|
\
.
Sol. The given points on the ellipse are
P(a cos , b sin ) and Q(a cos , b sin )
Slope of PQ =
1 2
1 2
y y b(sin sin )
x x a(cos cos )

=


b 2cos sin
b cos
2 2
2
a sin a 2sin sin
2 2 2
+ | |
+

|
\
= =
+ + | |

|
\

Equation of the chord PQ is
bcos
2
y bsin (x a cos )
a sin
2
+
=
+

y x
sin sin sin cos cos cos
b 2 2 a 2 2
+ + + +
= +
x y
cos sin cos cos sin sin
a 2 b 2 2 2
+ + + +
+ = +
cos cos
2 2
+ | |
= =
|
\








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3. Show that the feet of the perpendicular drawn from the centre on any tangent to
the ellipse lies on the curve (x
2
+ y
2
) = a
2
x
2
+ b
2
y
2
.
Sol. Equation of the ellipse is
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ =
Equation of the tangent at P() is

x y
cos sin 1
a b
+ =

Slope of the tangent

PN =
cos
bcos a
sin a sin
b
| |

|

\
=
| |
|
\

Let N (x
1
, y
1
) be the foot of the perpendicular from C(0, 0) to any tangent.
slope of CN =
1
1
y
x
.
Slope of PT slope of CN = 1
1
1
bcos y
1
a sin x

2 2 2 2
1 1
1 1
cos sin 1
k
ax by
a x b y

= = =
+

1 1
x y
cos sin 1
a b
+ =
1 1
ax by
cos , sin
k k
= =
1 1
1 1
x y
ax by k
a b
+ =
2 2
1 1
x y k + =
N(x
1
, y
1
) is a point on
x y
cos sin 1
a b
+ =

1 1
x y
cos sin 1
a b
+ =
P
C
N(x
1
, y
1
)
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2 2 2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1
x y a x b y + = + (or)
( )
2
2 2 2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1
x y a x b y + = +
Locus of N(x
1
, y
1
) is (x
2
+ y
2
)
2
= a
2
x
2
+ b
2
y
2


4. Show that the locus of the feet of the perpendiculars drawn from foci on any
tangent of the ellipse is the auxiliary circle.




Sol. Equation of the ellipse is
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ =
Equation of the tangent to the ellipse is

2 2 2
y mx a m b = +

2 2 2
y mx a m b = + (1)
Equation to the perpendicular from either focus (ae, 0) on this tangent is

1
y (x ae)
m
my (x ae)
=
=

my x ae + = (2)
Squaring and adding (1) and (2)
(y mx)
2
+ (my + x)
2
= a
2
m
2
+ b
2
+ a
2
e
2

y
2
+ m
2
x
2
2mxy + m
2
y
2
+ x
2
+ 2mxy
= a
2
m
2
+ a
2
a
2
e
2
+ a
2
e
2

(x
2
+ y
2
)(1 + m
2
) = a
2
(1 + m
2
)
x
2
+ y
2
= a
2

The locus is the auxiliary circle concentric with the ellipse.


S S

L
L

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5. The tangent and normal to the ellipse x
2
+ 4y
2
= 4 at a point P( ) meets the major
axis at Q and R respectively. If 0 < < /2 and QR = 2, then show
that = cos
1
(2/3).
Sol.



Equation of the ellipse is x
2
+ 4y
2
= 4

2 2
x y
1
4 1
+ =
Equation of the tangent at P() is

x y
cos sin 1
2 1
+ =
Equation of x-axis (i.e., major axis) is y = 0

x 2
cos 1 x
2 cos
= =

Coordinates of Q are
2
, 0
cos
| |
|

\

Equation of the normal at P() is

2 2
ax by
a b
cos sin
2x y
3
cos sin
=

=


Substituting y = 0 we get
2x
3
cos
=

3
x cos
2
=
Coordinates of R are
3
cos , 0
2
| |

|
\

2
3 2 3cos 4
QR cos
2 cos 2cos
+ | |
= + =
|

\


Q
R
P()
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Given QR = 2
2
2
3cos 4
2
2cos
3cos 4 4cos
+
=

+ =

3cos
2
+ 4 cos 4 = 0
(3 cos 2)(cos + 2) = 0
3 cos 2 = 0 cos = 2/3
cos + 2 = 0 cos = 2
cos = 2/3 or 2

2
cos
3
=
i.e.
1
2
cos
3

| |
=
|
\


6. Show that the points of intersection of the tangents to the ellipse
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ =
(a > b) which one inclined at an angle
1
and
2
with its major axis such that
cot
1
+ cot
2
= k
2
lies on the curve k
2
(y
2
b
2
) = 2xy.

Sol.



Equation of any tangent to the ellipse

2 2 2
y mx a m b = +
This line passes through P(x
1
, y
1
)

2 2 2
1 1
y mx a m b = +

2 2 2 2
1 1
(y mx ) a m b = +
R
P(x
1
, y
1
)

1
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2 2 2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1
2 2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1
m x y 2mx y a m b 0
m (x a ) 2mx y (y b ) 0
+ =
+ =

This is a quadratic equation in m.
m
1
and m
2
are roots of this equation.
2 2
1 1 1
1 2 1 2
2 2 2 2
1 1
2x y y b
m m , m m
x a x a

+ = =


1 2 1 1
1 2
2 2
1 2 1 2 1
1 1 m m 2x y
cot cot
m m m m y b
+
+ = + = =

Given
2
1 2
cot cot k + =
2 2 2 2 1 1
1 1 1
2 2
1
2x y
k k (y b ) 2x y
y b
= =

Locus of P(x
1
, y
1
) is k
2
(y
2
b
2
) = 2xy.

7. Show that the point of intersection of perpendicular tangents to an ellipse lie on a
circle.
Sol. Equation of the ellipse is
2 2
2 2
x y
1
a b
+ =
Let P(x
1
, y
1
) be the point of intersection of the tangents.
Equation of the tangent is

2 2 2
y mx a m b = +
This tangent is passing through P(x
1
, y
1
)

2 2 2
1 1
y mx a m b = +

2 2 2
1 1
y mx a m b = +

2 2 2 2
1 1
(y mx ) a m b = +

2 2 2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1
m x y 2mx y a m b x +

2 2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1
m (x a ) 2mx y (y b ) 0 + =
This is a quadratic equation in m giving two values for m say m
1
and m
2
. These are
the slopes of the tangents passing through (x
1
,y
1
).
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The tangents are perpendicular m
1
m
2
= 1

2 2
1
2 2
1
2 2 2 2
1 1
2 2 2 2
1 1
y b
1
x a
y b x a
x y a b

= +
+ = +

Locus of P(x
1
, y
1
) is x
2
+ y
2
= a
2
+ b
2
which is a circle.





This circle is called Director circle of the Ellipse.

Problems for Practice

1. Find the eccentricity, coordinates of foci. Length of latus rectum and equations of
directrices of the following ellipses.
i) 9x
2
+ 16y
2
36x + 32y 92 = 0
ii) 3x
2
+ y
2
6x 2y 5 = 0

2. Find the equation of the ellipse referred to its major and minor axes as the
coordinate axes x, y respectively with latus rectum of length 4 and the distance
between foci 4 2 .
Ans. x
2
+ 2y
2
= 16

3. If the length of the latus rectum is equal to half of its minor axis of an ellipse in
the standard form, then find the eccentricity of the ellipse.
Ans. e = 3 / 2

R
Q
P(x
1
, y
1
)