86 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Tangents and Normals 87

F[
⇒ Y–y = (X – x)
FZ

1B
which is the required equation of tangent at P(x, y).

Tangents and Normals Note: (a) If the function is implicit that f (x, y) = 0 then we know that from theory of
partial differentiation
CHAPTER F[ ∂H  ∂ Z HZ
= – =− .
FZ ∂H  ∂[ H[
y
(b) Equation of Normal
If m1 is the slope of the tangent, i.e., m1 = dy/dx
N
then slope of the perpendicular line, i.e., PN is m2
(Because PT and PN are perpendicular)
F[ (x, y)
1 B.1 TANGENT m = –1 P
FZ 2
Let y = f (x) be any curve and P(x, y), Q(x + δx, y + δy) be neighbourhood points on the curve. m2 = – dx/dy
When Q is moving towards P then the limting position of the straight line PQ is known as ∴ Slope of the normal PN = – dx/dy
tangent at P. x
∴ Equation of the normal at the point (x, y) is O T
(Y – y) = – dx/dy (X – x) Fig. 1 B.2
Q (x + dx, y + dy)
y N Therefore, the equation of normal at the point (x, y) is
y = f ( x)
(Y – y) = – dx/dy (X – x)
Note : (i) Equation of tangent at P is
P (x, y) H
(Y – y) = − Z (X – x)
Y
H[
x
O T (ii) Equation of the normal
H[
Fig. 1 B.1 (Y – y) = (X – x)
HZ
Normal: From Fig. 1 B.1, a line which is passing through P and perpendicular to the line (2) If curve equation is in the parametric form, i.e.
PT is known as a normal at P, i.e., line PN. x = f (t), y = φ(t)
∴ Equation of tangent at any point t
(a) Equation of the Tangent
φa V
From Fig. 1 B.1, y – φ(t) = [x – f (t)]
Ha V
Equation of chord PQ is
[ + δ[ − [ (c) Interpretation of the Tangent in the Form y
Y–y = (X – x)
Z + δZ − Z of Angle Ψ
δ[ Equation of the tangent at the point P(x, y) is
or Y–y = (X – x) F[
δZ
(Y – y) = (X – x)
∂[ F[ FZ
Considering the limit when Q tends to P at that condition, δx → 0 and → dy ⎛ dy ⎞ (x, y)
∂Z FZ y= X + y−x ...(i)
dx ⎜⎝ dx ⎟⎠ P
δy
∴ Y – y = lim (X – x) which is the standard form of y = m X + C...(ii)
Q → P δx
Y
∂[ F[ x
Y – y = NKO (X – x) From Eq. (i) and Eq. (ii) =m O
∂Z →  δZ
FZ Fig. 1 B.3
88 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Tangents and Normals 89

If Ψ is the angle which makes a tangent with the axis Z D

Y (Y – y) = −
X. 
× (X – x)
C [
F[ [
Therefore, = tan Ψ Z
FZ P (x, y) (Y – y) = −  (X – x)
D C
(a) When tangent is parallel to x-axis, we have
Yy y2 Xx x2
Ψ = 0 ⇒ tan 0 = 0 − = +
X b2 b2 a2 a2
O
F[
Ψ= =0 Yy Xx = ⎛ Z [ ⎞
FZ Fig. 1 B.4 + ⎜⎜  +  ⎟⎟ = 1
2
b a2 ⎝C D ⎠
(b) Similarly, the tangent is perpendicular to x-axis, i.e., Ψ = 90º
⇒ tan 90º = ∞ Hence, equation of tangent is yY + xX = 1
Therefore, tangent perpendicular to x-axis b2 a2
F[
= ∞ ⇒ dx/dy = 0
P (x, y) FZ C [
FZ Therefore, slope of the normal − is 
F[ D Z
Tangent at the origin
Equation of the normal at (x, y) is
Tangents at any point P (x, y) is
F[ C [
(Y – y) = (X – x)
D Z
(Y – y) = (X – x) Fig. 1 B.5
FZ

Equation of the tangent at (0, 0) is D C
(Y – y) = (X – x)
 F[  [ Z
(Y – 0) = (x – 0)
 FZ   D ; C :
⇒ – b2 = – a2
[ Z
⇒ Y =
 F[  X.
 FZ  
∴
a2 X b2 Y
− = a2 – b2
x y
SOLVED EXAMPLES which is the required equation of the normal
We have y 2 = 4ax ...(1)
EXAMPLE 1. Find the equation of the tangent and the normal to the curve at any point
Part II
(x, y) of the curve
Differentiate w.r.t. x (Eq. (1))
Z [
(i) +  = (ii) y2 = 4 ax. F[ F[ C
C D 2y = 4a ⇒ =
FZ FZ [
Z  [ Equation of tangent at (x, y) is (Y – y) = 2a/y (X – x)
Solution: We have + = 1 ...(1)
C  D Yy – y2 = 2aX – 2ax put y2 = 4 ax
Differentiate w.r.t. Eq. (1)
Yy – 2aX = 4ax – 2ax = 2ax
Z
 [ F[ F[ Z D
+ = ⇒ =−  × ∴ Equation of tangent at (x, y) is Yy – 2aX = 2ax
C  D FZ FZ C [
⇒ Equation of tangent at (x, y) ⇒ Yy = 2a (x + X)
F[ [
(Y – y) = (X – x) Slope of the normal is – dx/dy = −
FZ C
90 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Tangents and Normals 91

Equation of normal at (x, y) FZ [

Slope of normal − = −
[ F[ Z
(Y – y) = − (X – x)
C
⎛ FZ ⎞ 
2a (Y – y) + y (X – x) = 0, which is the required equation of the normal. ∴ − ⎜ ⎟ = −
⎝ F[ ⎠ 


Z [
EXAMPLE 2. Prove that + = 1 touches the curve y = be–x/a at the point where the 
C D Equation of normal (Y – 1) = − (X – 2)

curve crosses the axis of y.
6Y + X – 8 = 0
Solution: Curve crosses the y-axis at P. Then at P, x = 0 equation of curve y = be–x/a
...(1) EXAMPLE 4. Find the point on the circle x2 + y2 + 2x – 4y = 0 where the tangents are
Coordinate of P is (0, b) because y = be–0/a = b parallel to x-axis.
Differentiate Eq. (1) w.r.t. x. y Solution: x2 + y2 + 2x – 4y = 0
y = f (x )
 
 − Z C Differentiating, we have
F[
= D − G
 
FZ C F[ F[
P 2x + 2y +2–4 =0
(0, b) FZ FZ
⎛ F[ ⎞ D −Q C D
⎜ FZ ⎟ = − G =−
⎝ ⎠  D C C (y – 2) F[ = – x – 1
x FZ
∴ Eq. of tangent at (0, b) O
Fig. 1 B.6 F[ Z +
D = −
(Y – b) = – (X – 0) FZ [−
C
The tangent will be parallel to the x-axis if
Y X
−1 = − F[ Z +
b a = 0 or − =0⇒x=–1
FZ [−
X Y Put x = – 1 in the equation of circle
+ = 1 Hence, proved.
a b 1 + y2 – 2 – 4y = 0 or y2 – 4y – 1 = 0
y = 2± 
EXAMPLE 3. Find the equation of the tangent and normal to the curve y2 – 1 = 3x2 at
the point (2, 1). The required points where the tangents will be parallel to x-axis are (– 1, 2 ±  ).
Solution: y2 – 1 = 3x2 given that ...(1)
EXAMPLE 5. The equation of the tangent at the point (2, 3) on the curve y2 = = ax3 + b
Differentiate w.r.t. x. is y = 4x – 5. Find the values of a and b.
F[ F[  Z
2y – 0 = 6x ⇒ = Solution: y2 = ax3 + b
FZ FZ [
F[ F[ CZ 
⎛ F[ ⎞ × ∴ 2y = 3ax2 or =
∴ ⎜ FZ ⎟ = =6 FZ FZ [
⎝ ⎠  

∴ Eq. of tangent at (2, 1) F[ C  

at the point (2, 3) = = 2a
(Y – 1) = 6 (X – 2) FZ ×
Y – 6X + 11 = 0 The slope of the tangent y = 4x – 5 is 4.
92 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Tangents and Normals 93

F[ EXAMPLE 7. Find the equation of the tangent at the point (x, y) to the curve
ZO [O
i.e., =4
FZ
+ O
CO
= 1.
or 2 a = 4 or a = 2 D
The point (2, 3) lies on the curve y2 = ax3 + b.
∴ (3)2 = (2)3 a + b or 9 = 8a + b ZO [O
+
CO DO
Solution: The equation of the curve is = 1. ...(1)
But a= 2
∴ 9 = 8 × 2 + b or b = – 7 HZ
F[
a = 2; b = – 7 Now, = –
FZ H[

OZ O−  C O Z O− DO
EXAMPLE 6. Prove that the curve
= − =−
O[P−  DO CO [O−
P P 
 Z  +  [  =2 ...(i)
 C  D Hence, the equation of the tangent is

Z O− DO
Z [
touches the straight line + = 2 at the point (a, b), whatever the value of n. ⋅
CO [O−
C D Y–y = – (X – x)

Z P [P
Solution: + =2 ...(i) [ O − Z O −
C P DP
DO CO
or (Y – y) = – (X – x)
On differentiating Eq. (1) w.r.t. x, we get

PZ P − P[ P − F[ :Z O − ;[ O− ZO [O
+ +
CO DO CO DO
+ =0 or =
CP DP FZ
:Z O − ;[ O−

F[ Z P −
  DP +
CO DO
or = − P  P − i.e., = 1, by Eq. (1)

FZ C
  
[
EXAMPLE 8. Find the equation of the tangent at a point t on the curve whose equations
⎛ F[ ⎞
 CP−   DP 
⎜ FZ ⎟ =  − P    P−  are:
⎝ ⎠ CD  C  D

 x = a (t + sin t), y = a (1 – cos t)
Solution: Differentiating the given equations, we get
D
=–
C FZ F[
= a (1 + cos t), = a sin t
FV FV
D
Equation of a tangent which passes through (a, b) and has a slope – F[ F[  FV C UKP V V
C ∴ = = = tan
FZ FZ  FV C  + EQU V 
D Hence, the equation of the tangent is
y–b = – (x – a)
C V
y – a (1 – cos t) = tan [x – a (t + sin t)]
[ D Z C 
or − = − + V V
D D C C V
or y – 2a sin2 = (x – at) tan – a sin t tan
  
Z [
or + = 2
C D
94 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Tangents and Normals 95

V V V 1 B.2 ANGLE OF INTERSECTION OF TWO CURVES

y – 2a sin2 = (x – at) tan – 2a sin2
  
 
V Z

G Y
y = (x – at) tan . α Z

G Y

θ θ
EXAMPLE 9. If x cos α + y sin α = P touches the curve
P P
Z P− [ P−    
+ =1
C D    
Prove that (a cos α)n + (b sin α)n = Pn
Solution: The equation of the curve is Fig. 1 B.7
P P Let y = f1 (x) ...(1)
Z P −
  [ P −   y = f2 (x) ...(2)
+ = 1 ...(1)
 
C D   be the two curves intersecting at point P, draw the tangent at point P.

P  P− Let tangent at the first curve and tangent at the second curve make an angle, θ1, θ2 with
F[ HZ Z P− D  
∴ =− = −  ⋅ ...(2) the horizontal (x-axis) respectively and α is the angle between them:
FZ H[ C  
[ P− ∴ α = θ1 – θ2
This gives the slope of the tangent at the point of contact (x, y)
tan α = tan (θ1 – θ2) =
 VCP θ − VCP θ  "#
But the equation of the tangent is given as ! + VCP θ VCP θ  $
x cos a + y sin a = p ...(3) 
O − O "# ⎡ O ` O ⎤
EQU α ∴ α = tan–1  + O O = tan–1 ⎢  ⎥
Its slope = – !   $ ⎣  + O O ⎦
UKP α
which is the required formula.
Equating the values of slopes, we have
Where m1, m2 are slopes of the tangent lines of the first curve and the second curve
Z  P− DP  P− EQU α
⋅ = respectively if β is the another angle between them.
[  P− C P  − UKP α
In α and β one is acute and other is obtuse angle except both are equal to 90º and from
Fig. 1 B.7 we have α + β = 180º.
 Z  P  P−C
 [  P  P− C
 Z  P  P −
 [ P
+ 
 P −
That’s why we can write symmetric symbol (~) in place of (–)
or
 C =
 D =
 C  D =

Again the two curves are said to cut orthogonally, if the angle between the tangents at
Z EQU α [ UKP α Z EQU α + [ UKP α R
π
by given equations their common point of intersection is , m1m2 = – 1 the two curves will touch each other

P− is m1 = m2.
∴ R
 Z   

= a cos a and R
 [  P  = b sin a.
 −

 C  D EXAMPLE 10. Find the angle of intersection of the curve

(i) x2 = 4ay and 2y2 = ax.
 Z  P P +  [  P P
 −  − "# (ii) 2y2 = x3 and y2 = 32 x.
Hence, (a cos a)n + (b sin a)n = pn    D 
! C  #$ Solution: (Part I) x2 = 4ay ... (1)
or (a cos a)n + (b sin a)n = pn.
and 2y2 = ax ... (2)
96 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Tangents and Normals 97

Point of intersection of (1) and (2) is

∴ θ = tan–1
  −  "# = tan   "#
–1
x4 = 16a2 ×
CZ
⇒ x4 = 8a3x.
! +  $ !$

⇒ x [x3 – 8a3] = 0 ∴ θ = tan–1
  .


x = 0, x3 = 8a3 ⇒ x = 2a
 
∴ Point of intersection when x = 0 ⇒ y = 0 is (0, 0)
EXAMPLE 11. Find the angle of intersection of the parabolas y2 = 32x and x2 = 32y at
Point of intersection when x = 2a ⇒ y = ± a (2a, ± a) their point of intersection other than the origin.
Differentiate w.r.t. x [Eq. (1) and Eq. (2)]
Solution: The given equations of the curves are :
F[  F[   × C y 2 = 32x
2x = 4a ⇒ = = 1 = m1 ...(i)
FZ  FZ    CC C and x 2 = 32y ...(ii)

F[  F[  C Z
4y = a⇒ = =  = m From Eq. (ii) y =
FZ  FZ  CC
 
 C 2 

Let θ be the angle between the curves then Putting the value of y in Eq. (i), we get

 O + O "# Z
= 32x
θ= tan–1  
! + OO $
or x 4 = (32)3 x
 −  "      " = VCP    
− − or x4 – (32)3 x = 0
θ = tan–1  +  # = VCP
! $ # !    #$ or x[x3 – (32)3] = 0
∴ x = 0, 32 (Rejecting imaginary values)
∴ θ = tan–1    When x = 0 from Eq. (ii), y = 0
For y = – a x is an imaginary value not in real plane. When x = 32 from Eq. (ii), y = 32
(Part II) The points of interesection are (0, 0) and (32, 32)
2y2 = x3 ...(1) F[
For the curve Eq.(i) 2y = 32
and y2 = 32x ...(2) FZ
Point of intersection of Eq. (1) and (2) F[ 
or =
2.32 x = x3 ⇒ x (64 – x2) = 0 FZ [
⇒ x = 0, x = ± 8
F[
When x = 8 y2 = 32 × 8 = 256 ⇒ y = 16 For the curve Eq. (ii) 2x = 32
FZ
Coordinate of point of intersection (0, 0) and (8, 16)
For x = – 8, y is an imaginary point not in a real plane then ignore this point F[ Z
∴ =
Differentiate w.r.t. x [Eq. (1) and Eq. (2)] FZ 
At point (32, 32) the slope of Eq. (i) is
F[ ⎛ F[ ⎞ ××
4y = 3x2 ⇒ ⎜ ⎟ = = 3 = m1 F[ 
FZ ⎝ FZ ⎠   ×  =
FZ [
F[ ⎛ F[ ⎞   
2y = 32 ⇒ ⎜ ⎟ = = 1 = m2 = =
FZ ⎝ FZ ⎠   ×   ×  
98 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Tangents and Normals 99

At point (32, 32) : The slope of (ii) is Hence, at the point of interesection (x1, y2) by subtracting Eq. (2) from Eq. (1)
F[ Z x12/y12 = – (b – b¢) / (a – a¢). ...(3)
=
FZ 
F[ CZ
 ×  For the first curve = –
= = FZ D[

So at the point (32, 32) F[
i.e., m1 = at (x1, y1)
θ = tan–1
  −    "# = tan –1 
FZ
! +    $ For the second curve,
F[ C Z
EXAMPLE 12. Show that the curves m2 = =– at (x1, y1)
FZ D [
x3 – 3xy2 + 2 = 0 and 3x2y – y3 = 2 cut orthogonally.
The two curves will cut orthogonally, if
Solution: We have x3 – 3xy2 + 2 = 0 ...(1)
m1m2 = – 1
and 3x2y – y3 = 2 ...(2)
F[  − CZ   − C Z 
Differentiating Eq. (1), we get 3x2 – 3y2 – 6xy =0 i.e., if = –1
FZ  D[   D [ 
F[  Z  −  [  Z
DD
∴ m1 = = i.e., if = – ...(4)
FZ  Z[ [ CC
Hence by Eqs. (3) and (4), we have
Z  − [
or m2 = ...(3) DD D− D
 Z[ – = −
CC C−C
F[
Differentiating (2), we have 6xy + (3x2 – 3y2) = 0, D−D C−C
FZ or =
DD CC
F[  Z[
∴ m2 = =−  ...(4)    
FZ Z − [ or − = −
C D C D
From Eqs. (3) and (4), we see that
m1m2 = – 1 EXAMPLE 14. If the normal to the curve x2/3 + y2/3 = a2/3 makes an angle φ with the axis
Hence, the two curves intersect orthogonally. of x, show that its equation is y cos φ – x sin φ = a cos 2 φ.
Solution: The equation of the curve is :
EXAMPLE 13. Prove that the two curves
x2/3 + y2/3 = a2/3 ...(i)
ax2 + by2 = 1 and a¢x2 + b¢y2 = 1
Differentiating Eq. (i), we have
will intersect orthogonally, if
 –1/3  F[
    x + y–1/3 = 0
− = − .   FZ
C D C′ D′

Solution: Let (x1, y1) be the point of interesection of the curves, then ∴
F[
= –
 [  
FZ  Z
ax12 + by12 = 1 ...(1)

a¢x12 + b¢y12 = 1 ...(2)

100 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Tangents and Normals 101

Hence, the slope of the normal at (x, y) =

 Z    ANSWERS
 [ 1. (a) (y – 2a sin2 t/2) = tan t/2 {x – a (t + sin t)}, (y – 2a sin2t/2) = – cot t/2 {x – a (t + sin
t}.
But the normal makes an angle φ with x-axis
Z [

∴ tan φ =
 Z    (b)
C
sin t + cos t = 1, ax sin t – by cos t = a2 sin4 t – b2 cos4 t.
D
 [ (c) X b cosh t – Y a sinh t = ab, y b cosh t + x a sinh t = 1/4 (a2 + b2) sinh2 t
2. (2, 14), (–2, 2)
Z   [   Z    + [   C  
or = = = 3. (a) x = 0, y = 0, (b) y = ± x
UKP φ EQU φ UKP  φ + EQU  φ 
= a1/3
π π π    π
QT VCP 

5. (a)  or (b) , tan–1    (c)
    
∴ x = a sin3 φ, y = a cos3 φ
Hence, the equation of the normal at (a sin3 φ, a cos3 φ) is
y – a cos3 φ = tan φ (x – a sin3 φ)
1 B.3 LENGTH OF SUBTANGENT SUBNORMAL
or y cos φ – x sin φ = a (cos4 φ – sin4 φ) FOR CARTESIAN CURVE
= a (cos2 φ – sin2 φ) (cos2 φ + sin2 φ) Let y = f (x) be any Cartesian curve and P (x, y) be any y = f(x)
y
i.e., y cos φ – x sin φ = a cos 2 φ point on the curve, PT and PN the tangents and normal N¢
at P respectively. Draw the perpendicular from P on OX P
which meets at M then TM and MN are lengths of (x,y)
UNSOLVED PROBLEMS
subtangent and subnormal respectively. y
1. Find the equation of tangent and the normal at the point t on each of the following In this article our target is to find the following: y
curves: (i) Length of tangent, i.e., PT
y S.T. S.N.
(a) x = a (t + sin t), y = a (1 – cos t) (ii) Length of normal, i.e., PN O x
T M N
(b) x = a sin3 t, y = b cos3 t (iii) Length of subtangent, i.e., TM q
(c) x = a cosh t, y = b sinh t (iv) Length of subnormal, i.e., MN S
Fig. 1 B.8
2. Find the coordinates of the point on the curves y = x2 + 3x + 4 the tangent at which (v) Length of intercept of the tangent on x-axis, i.e., OT.
passes through the origin. (vi) Length of intercept of the tangent on y-axis, i.e., OS.
3. Find the tangent at the origin to the following curves : As we know that tangent PT makes as angle Ψ with the x-axis then ∠MPN is also Ψ.
(a) x3 + y3 = 3 axy (b) x2y2 = a2 (x2 – y2) from Δ PTM is right angle triangle

4. Prove that the curve

 Z  P +  [ P = 2 touches the straight line Z [
+ = 2 at the
sin Ψ =
2/
26
=
[
26
⇒ PT = y cosec Ψ
 C  D C D
point (a, b) whatever be the value of n. PT = y  + EQV  Ψ
5. Find the angle of interesection of the curves: F[
We know that tan Ψ = = y1
(a) x2 – y2 = a2 and x2 + y2 = a2 FZ
(b) x2 = 4ay and 2y2 = ax  [
∴ PT = y  +  = [  + [
(c) 2y2 = x3 and y2 = 32x [ 
Z [ [
6. Prove that + =  touches the curve y = be–x/a at the point where the curve ∴ Length of tangent =  + [
C D [
crosses the axis of y.
102 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Tangents and Normals 103

2/ V
tan Ψ = ⇒ TM = y cot Ψ ∴ y 1 = tan Ψ = tan
6/ 

∴
[ [ C  − EQU V
TM = Length of tangent =  + [ =  + VCP  V 
[ [ VCP V  
[
∴ Length of subtangent, i.e., TM =
[ C  −  + UKP  V  
From Δ MPN is right angle triangle = × UGE V   = 2 a sin t/2
V V
UKP UGE
2/  
cos Ψ = ⇒ PN = y sec Ψ = y  + VCP  Ψ
20
[ C  − EQU V
Length of subtangent = =
Length of normal, i.e., PN = y  + [ [ V
VCP

/0
tan Ψ = ⇒ MN = y tan Ψ
2/ ⎛ V⎞
C ⎜  −  + UKP  ⎟
Length of subnormal, i.e., MN = y y1
= ⎝ ⎠
= 2a sin V cos V
The equation of tangent at P (x, y) is V V  
UKP UGE
F[  
(Y – y) = (X – x) ...(i)
FZ = a sin t
F[
where = tan Ψ Length of normal = [  + [
FZ
The coordinate of the point T (OT, 0) will satisfy Eq. (i)
[ = a(1 – cos t)  + VCP  V  
–y = y1 (OT – x) ⇒ OT = x –
[ ⎛ V⎞
[ = a ⎜  −  + UKP  ⎟ × sec V
⎝ ⎠ 
Length of intercept of tangent on x-axis = x –
[
UKP V  
Similarly, coordinate of S (O, OS) also satisfy Eq. (A) = C ⋅ UKP V   = 2 a sin V tan V
EQU V    
OS – y = y1 (– x) ⇒ OS = y – xy1
Length of intercept of tangent on y-axis = y – xy1. Length of subnormal = Yy1
= a (1 – cos t) × tan t/2
= a (1 – 1 + 2 sin2 t/2) tan t/2
SOLVED EXAMPLES
= 2 a sin2 t/2 tan t/2
EXAMPLE 1. Find the tangent, subtangent, normal, subnormal and the intercept of the
tangent on the axes at the point t, x = a (t + sin t), y = a (1 – cos t). [ C  −  + UKP  V  
OT = x – = a (t + sin t) –
[ VCP V  
Solution: x = a (t + sin t), y = a (1 – cos t) given that
= at + a sin t – a sin t = at
FZ F[
= a (1 + cos t), = a sin t OS = y – xy1 = a (1 – 1 + 2 sin2 t/2) – a(t + sin t) × tan t/2
FV FV
C UKP V  UKP V   EQU V   ⎡ V + UKP V ⎤
F[ F[  FV = = a sin t/2 ⎢C UKP V   − ⎥
= = EQU V   ⎦
FZ FZ  FV C  + EQU V  +  EQU  V   −  ⎣
104 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Tangents and Normals 105

EXAMPLE 2. Show that in the exponential curve y = bex/a, the subtangent is of constant  ¨   ¸ 
length and the subnormal varies as the square of the ordinate. ¥ Zµ ¥ Zµ ¥ [µ ¥ Zµ
x 1= C ¦ ¶ ©¦ ¶ ¦ ¶ ¹ C–¦ ¶
§ C· § C · § D· § C·
ª© ¹º
Solution: y = bex/a given that ...(1)

y1 =
D x/a
e =
[
from Eq. (i) Z
=
 Z    ⇒ Z =  Z   
C C  C
C C  C 
∴
[ = subtangent = a = costant OS = y – xy1
[
 [      
[
subnormal = Yy1 = y   =  D  C
[
⇒ subnormal ∝ (ordinate)2 = y + x×
 C C  Z      
where

= λ, is a prportional constant Hence, proved.
 C   D
C
EXAMPLE 3. If x1, y1, are the parts of the axis intercepted by the tangent at any point = y+
 Z     [    D
 C   D
(x, y) on the curve
 Z    +  [   =  , show that Z + [ = 
 C  D C D  [   Z     [    "#
y1 = b   +   
 Z    +  [   = 1 ! D   C   D  #$
Solution: ...(i)
 C  D [  [     [    +  Z    "#
Differentiate with respect to x. =  
D  D  ! D   C  #$
−  
   Z       F[ = 
  [
+
−

   C    D FZ
C  D y [  [  
=  
D  D
 Z      [      
−
Z
[  Z    +  [   
F[
=–
 C C = −  D  C P(x, y)
∴ + 

=  
 C  D Hence, proved.
FZ  [      Z      
− C D
 D  D  C   D x1 EXAMPLE 4. Prove that the sum of the intercepts of the tangents to the curve
O x
 T Z + [ = C upon the coordinate axes is constant.
 [   Z     × D y1

OT = x –
[
,=x+
 D   C   D S
Z+
[  [     Fig. 1 B.9 Solution: We have [ = C ...(1)
 D C F[ = y = –  [  
 Differentiating, we get
= Z +  
[  Z   FZ
1  Z
 D  C  C [
Intercept of tangent on x-axis, i.e., OT = x –
 Z   [     Z    "#
= C   +  
[
 
! C   D   C  #$
106 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Tangents and Normals 107

 Z    = Z= Z + [ ? = Z C

= x+y
 [  [   = y + x
OS = y – xy1 = y + x ⋅  Z   2/3 y1/3 = y1/3 {y2/3 + x2/3} = y1/3 a2/3
= Z Z+ [

= CZ , by Eq. (1) OT 2 + OS2 = x2/3⋅ a4/3 + y2/3 a4/3 = a4/3 [x2/3 + y2/3]
Similarly, intercept of the tangent on y-axis ∴ OT 2 + OS2 = a4/3[x2/3 + y2/3] = a4/3⋅ a2/3 = a2 = constant
i.e., OS = y – xy1 [ Z
EXAMPLE 6. Prove that in the ellipse +  the length of the normal varies in-

 C D
⎛ [⎞
= y+x ⎜ ⎟ = [ Z + [ = C[ , by Eq. (1) versely as the perpendicular from the origin on the tangent.
⎝ Z⎠
Hence, the sum of intercepts = OT + OS Z [
Solution: We have +  = 1 ...(1)
= CZ + C[ = C Z+ [ C D
= a, by Eq. (1) D Z
Differentiating w.r.t. x., y1 = – ⋅ ...(2)
and it is a constant. C [
EXAMPLE 5. Prove that the part of the tangent for the curve x 2/3 + y 2/3 =
But length of the normal = [  + [ = N (say)
a2/3 intercepted between the axes of constant length.
and length of the perpendicular from the origin to the tangent
Solution: Now we have to show that TS = constant
x2/3 + y2/3 = a2/3 ...(i) xy1 − y
= = l2 (say)
Differentiate w.r.t. x. (1 + y12 )
 
    F[ ∴ Their product = y (xy1 – y)
Z + [ = 0 S
  FZ
 D Z "#


= [ − Z  [ − [ , by Eq. (2)
F[
= y1 =
Z  ! C #$
FZ 
[   D Z + C [  = −D  Z + [ 
= – 
[  
O T
 C   C D 
y 1= –    Fig. 1 B.10
Z or l1l2 = – b2, by Eq. (1), and it is a constant

x–1/3 + y–1/3 dy/dx = Z   C    Hence, l1 ∞ .
N
= x1/3 a2/3
EXAMPLE 7. Prove that catenary y = c cosh x/c, the perpendicular dropped from the foot
TS = 16  + 15 of the ordinate upon the tangent is of constant length.
[
OT = x – [ Solution: Here M is the foot of the ordinate PM. Hence, from ΔPNM,

MN = y cos Ψ = y/sec Ψ
[     Z  
OT = Z +
 [   = Z + [ = [   + [
 Z  
108 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Tangents and Normals 109

F[
tan Ψ = = y1 Y UNSOLVED PROBLEMS
FZ
Z 1. Show that the subnormal at any point of a parabola y2 = 4ax is of constant length and
From y = c cosh P (x, y)
E the subtangent varies as the abscissa of the point of contact.
F[ Z N
= sinh 2. Show that in the curve y = a1/2 x3/2, the square of the subtangent varies as subnor-
FZ E 90º y y
y mal.
[
=
[
=
[ O T M (x, o) X 3. Show that for any Cartesian curve y = f (x):
Hence, MN =
⎛  Z⎞ EQUJ
Z [ E Sub normal (length of tangent)2 = subtangent (length of normal)2.
⎜  + UKPJ ⎟ Fig. 1 B.11
⎝ E⎠ E 4. Prove that the part of tangent for the curve x = a cos3t, y = a sin3 t at any point t
intercepted between the axes is of constant length.
= c, which is a constant.

Angle between Radius Vector and Tangent, i.e., ⎛⎜ VCPI T ⎞⎟

FT
EXAMPLE 8. In the curve x = a (cos t + log tan  t), y = a sin t, show that the portion of 1B.3.1
⎝ FT ⎠
the tangent between the point of constant and the x-axis its of constant length.
Let r = f (θ) be any curve and P (r, θ) Q (r + sr, θ + δθ) be the neighbourhood points on the
Solution: We have

x = a EQU V + NQI VCP
V 
, y = a sin t
curve, produce the line OP and draw the perpendicular from Q on OP which meets at M,
   ∠OPT = φ (our target is to find the angle φ)
FZ ⎛ UGE  V   ⎞ From ΔOQM, we have
∴ = C ⎜ − UKP V + ⎟
FV ⎜  VCP V   ⎟⎠ QM = OQ sin δθ = (r + δr) sin δθ
⎝
and OM = OQ cos δθ = (r δr) cos δθ.
⎛ EQU  V ⎞ ∴ PM = OM – OP
= C ⎜ − UKP V +  ⎟
⎜ 
UKP V EQU V ⎟
  = (r + δr) cos δθ – r
⎝   ⎠ P
3/
Now, tan QPM =
⎛ ⎞ 2/

= C ⎜ − UKP V + ⎟
⎜ UKP V EQU V ⎟
  T δT UKP δθ
⎝   ⎠ =
T + δT EQU δθ − T Fig. 1 B.12

   EQU  V But, as the point Q approaches P (i.e., δθ → 0, the chord PQ tends to become the tangent
= C  − UKP V +  =C
 UKP V  UKP V PT at P and hence the angle QPM tends to φ.
∴ tan φ = limδθ→0 tan QPM
F[
and = a cos t T δT UKP δθ T δT UKP δθ
FV = NKO = NKO
δθ→ T + δT EQU δθ − T δθ→ δT EQU δθ − T  − EQU δθ
dy dy / dt = C EQU V = tan t
=
dx dx / dt C EQU  V = NKO
T δT UKP δθ
UKP V δθ→ δT EQU δθ − T UKP  δθ  

[ C UKP V
∴ Length of the tangent =  + [ =  + VCP  V = a UKP δθ
T + δT
[ VCP V δθ
= NKO
∴ Length of the tangent is constant. δθ→ δT UKP δθ 
EQU δθ − T UKP δθ  
δθ δθ  
110 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Tangents and Normals 111

=
T+
=
TFθ
 Q NKO
UKP δθ
= 1 = NKO
UKP δθ      FT
+ 
  
R
FT δθ→  δθ δθ→ δθ   = Result (b)
T
FT  
⋅  − T T Fθ
Fθ
Let u =

⇒
FW  FT
=− 
 
δT FT T Fθ T Fθ  
δθ → 0 when δθ → 0, and NKO =
δθ→ δθ Fθ
or
 FW   =   FT  
Hence, tan φ = r
Fθ  Fθ  T  Fθ 
FT
Hence, from result (b), we can write
where φ = θ + φ
and it gives the direction of φ. 
= u2 +
 FW  
R
Result (c)
 Fθ 
1 B.4 SOME IMPORTANT RESULTS
If p is the length of the perpendicular from the pole on the 1 B.5 SUBTANGENT AND SUBNORMAL FOR POLAR CURVE
tangent at P and r, θ, φ have usual meanings, then we P (r, q) Let r = f (θ) be any curve, P (r, θ) be any point on the curve, OP be the radius vector of
have r
F length r. Draw the line through the pole at right angles to the radius vector OP, this line
(a) p = r sin φ : q meets the tangent and normal at P in T and N points respectively. In this article our target
   FT  
(b)  =  +    ; and also deduce
O
P 90º
T is to find the following:
R T T Fθ (i) length of polar tangent (PT ) N
 N (ii) length of polar normal (PN )
   FW   f
(c)  = W +  
 where u = Fig. 1 B.13 (iii) length of polar subtangent, i.e., OT
R Fθ T f P (r, q)
(iv) length of polar subnormal, i.e., ON
p/2 r
Proof: (a) Let ON = P is the perpendicular from the pole O on the tangent at P to the In the ΔOPT, we have OP = r q
O
curve. and ∠OPT = φ
∴ ∠OPN = φ ∴ Length of the polar tangent = PT
Hence, from the right-angled triangle ONP, we have clearly = r sec φ T

P = r sin φ =  + VCP  φ Fig. 1 B.14

Fθ
(b) Since tan φ = r
FT  + T  Fθ   "#
∴ Polar tangent =  
∴ cot φ =
 FT !  FT  #$
T Fθ
Also, length of the polar normal = PN
Now from p = r sin φ. Result (a)
= OP cosec φ
 
We have =
T
cosec2 φ = OP  + EQV  φ
R

=
T
(1 + cot2 φ)
= T
 +   FT   "# = T +  FT   "#
 
  +   FT   "# , by (1) ! T  Fθ  #$ !  Fθ  #$
=
T
 
! T  Fθ  #$
112 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Tangents and Normals 113

 Fθ VCP φ ` VCP φ 
Hence, Polar normal = T =  + VCP φ VCP φ
FT  
Length of the polar subtangent = OT
= r tan φ
Hence, α = tan–1
%& VCP φ ` VCP φ () ...(2)
Fθ ' + VCP φ VCP φ *
= r
FT
1 B.7 PEDAL EQUATION
 Fθ
Hence, polar subtangent = T r = f (θ) be any curve A (r, θ) be any point on the curve AT is the tangent line at A. Draw the
FT
perpendicular from pole O on AT. Which meets at M and OM = P. The relation between
Length of the polar subnormal = ON
length r and P is known as pedal equation of the curve”.
= r tan (π/2 – φ)
(i) For Cartesian curve
= r cot φ
y = f (x) ...(1)
 FT The equation of the tangent of (x, y) is
= T–
T FR
F[
FT (Y – y) = y1 (X – x), where y1 =
FZ
Therefore, polar subnormal =
Fθ If P is the length of the perpendicular on tangent from
the origin
1 B.6 ANGLE OF INTERSECTION OF TWO POLAR CURVES
Z[ − [
Let the two curves be P = ...(2)
 + [
r = f (θ) and r = φ(θ)
∴ log r = log f (θ) r2 = x2 + y2 ...(3) Fig. 1 B.16
Differentiating w.r.t. θ, we have
Eiminating x and y from Eqs. (1), (2) and (3) we get a relation between P and r which is
 FT f ¢(θ) the required pedal equation of the curve.
=
T Fθ f (θ) a1 P
a2 (ii) For polar curve
Ha θ a r = f (θ) ...(i)
or cot φ1 =
H θ Fθ
We have tan φ = T ...(ii)
C T1 T2 A FT
f (θ) P = r sin φ ...(iii)
or tan φ1 = Fig. 1 B.15
f ¢(θ) Eliminating θ and φ from Eqs. (i), (ii) and (iii), we get a relation between r and P which is
where φ1 is the angle between the tangent PT1 and OP the required pedal equation of the curve
Similarly, for the second curve, we have (iii) For parametric curve
φθ x = f (t), y = φ(t)
tan φ2 = where φ2 is the angle between tangent PT2 and OP.
φa θ F[ F[  FV
= ...(i)
If α is the angle of intersection of the two curves then we have
FZ FZ  FV
∴ α = φ1 ~ φ2 ...(1) P =
Z[ [
...(ii)
∴ tan α = tan (φ1 ~ φ2)  [
r2 = x2 + y2 ...(iii)
114 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Tangents and Normals 115

Eliminating x and y from (i), (ii) and (iii) and get a relation between P and r which is the
θ
required pedal equation of the curve. EQU
θ  = a sin θ
= 2a sin2 ⋅ Result (iv)
 UKP θ
SOLVED EXAMPLES 
EXAMPLE 1. Prove that for the cardioid r = a (1 – cos θ)
C
θ θ θ EXAMPLE 2. Prove that for the parabola = (1 – cos θ)
(i) φ = (ii) 2ap2 = r3 (iii) Polar substangent = 2a sin2 tan T
  
(iv) Polar subnormal = a sin θ θ θ
(a) φ = π – (b) P = a cosec (c) P2 = ar
 
Solution: Let r = a (1 – cos θ) (1)
Taking logarithm log r = log a + log (1 – cos θ) θ
(d) Polar subtangent = 2 cosec θ (e) Polar subnormal = r cot
Differentiate w.r.t. θ 
 FT 
= 0+ (sin θ) C θ
T Fθ  − EQU θ Solution: = 1 – cos θ = 1 – 1 + 2 sin2 ...(1)
T 
θ θ
 UKP EQU
 FT
= cot φ =   = cot θ ...(2)
Taking log, log 2a – log r = log (1 – cos θ)
θ  Differentiate w.r.t. θ
 −  +  UKP 
T Fθ
   FT 
⋅0– ⋅ = (sin θ)
θ C T Fθ  − EQU θ
∴ φ = Result (i)

We know that P = r sin φ θ θ
 UKP EQU
 FT
=   = cot θ ...(2)
θ θ
P = r sin T Fθ  −  +  UKP  
 
T
P = r from Eq. (i) θ ⎛ θ⎞
C cot φ = – cot = cot ⎜ π − ⎟
2 ap = r × r ⇒ 2 ap2 = r3
2 2 Result (ii)  ⎝ ⎠

Fθ θ
Polar subtangent = r2 ∴ φ = π– Result (a)
FT 

= T   VCP θ  P = r sin φ = r sin π −

 θ  = r sin θ
 T     

= r tan
θ θ
∴ r = a cosec2 from Eq. (i)
 
θ
= 2a sin2 ⋅ tan θ Result (iii) θ θ θ
  ∴ P = a cosec2 sin = a cosec Result (b)
  
θ
Polar subnormal = FT = r × cot θ C θ C
Fθ  P = r sin = T⋅ Q sin = from Eq. (i)
 T  T
116 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Tangents and Normals 117

Let α be the intersection angle

P2 = T  ⋅
 C  = ar Result (c) then α = φ1 – φ2
 T
π π
Fθ = – (nθ + 30) – + (nθ + 45º)
Polar subtangent = r2  
FT
α = 15º
   θ  Fθ VCP θ  
= T − VCP
  Q =−
T  FT T F[
Z −[
θ EXAMPLE 4. Prove that tan φ = FZ where φ has the usual meaning
= – r × tan F[
 Z+ [
FZ
θ θ
= – a cosec2 × tan From (1) Solution: We know that θ +φ = Ψ (from Fig. 1 B.17)
 
∴ φ = Ψ–θ f P
C −C r
= – = F[ [
θ θ UKP θ
VCP :  VCP R
 y
UKP EQU
  tan φ =
 VCP : – VCP R
 FZ Z O
q

= – 2a cosec θ
 –
F[ [
FZ Z
T

P
∴ Polar subtangent = 2a cosec θ (numerically) F[ [ N
where tan Ψ = and tan φ =
FT θ FZ Z Fig. 1 B.17
Polar subnormal = = – r cot From Eq. (2)
Fθ 
F[
Z −[
FT θ ∴ tan φ = FZ Hence, proved.
∴ = r cot (Numerically) F[
Fθ  Z+ [
FZ
EXAMPLE 3. Prove that the following curves intersect at an angle 15° : r n = an sec (nθ
+ 30º) and r n = bn sec (nθ + 45°)
W
F W  FW  
−
Solution: =rn an
sec (nθ + 30º) ...(i) EXAMPLE 5. Prove that
Fφ
= Fθ   Fθ  .
n log r = n log a + log sec (nθ + 30º) Fθ 
W + 
FW  
Differentiate w.r.t. θ.  Fθ 
P FT 
⋅ = 0+ sec (nθ + 30º) tan (nθ + 30º) × n TFθ T
T Fθ UGE Pθ +  Solution: We know that tan φ = =
FT  
FT
⎡π ⎤
cot φ1 = tan (nθ + 30º) = cot ⎢ − Pθ + ° ⎥
 
Fθ
⎣ ⎦
∴ φ = tan–1
 T "# Let r =

π
∴ φ1 =

– (nθ + 30º) ! 1FT  Fθ6 #$ W

Similarly, for the curve rn = bn sec (nθ + 45º)

FT  FW
π ∴ = − 
We can write φ2 = – (nθ + 45º) Fθ
 W Fθ
118 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Tangents and Normals 119

Note: In finding φ for a curve, logarithmic differentiating is preferred, as it gives the value
  "#  "
W #  FT
φ = VCP − W = − VCP − of = cot φ directly.
∴
 FW
− 
##  FW ### T Fθ
W Fθ ! #$ !  Fθ  $ EXAMPLE 7. Find the angle of intersection of the curves.
Differentiate w.r.t. θ. (Q tan–1 (– x) = –tan–1 x] r2 = 16 sin 2θ and r2 sin 2θ = 4.
For the curve r2 = 16 sin 2θ
 FW     FW   − W ⋅ F W "# we have 2 log r = log 16 + log sin 2θ
Fφ  Fθ   Fθ  Fθ #
= −  FT  EQU θ
Fθ
W + 
 FW    FW   ## Differentiating, we have 
T Fθ
=
UKP θ
or cot φ1 = cot 2θ
 Fθ  !  Fθ  #$ Hence, φ 1 = 2θ
Similarly, for the second curve r2 sin 2θ = 4, we have
2
d 2u ⎛ du ⎞ 2 log r + log sin 2θ = log 4.
Fφ u⋅ 2 −⎜ ⎟
∴ = dθ ⎝ dθ ⎠ .  FT  EQU θ
Fθ 2 Differentiating both the sides, we have  + =0
⎛ du ⎞ T Fθ UKP θ
u2 + ⎜ ⎟
⎝ dθ ⎠ or cot φ2 = –cot 2θ = cot (π – 2θ)
Hence, φ 2 = π – 2θ.
EXAMPLE 6. Find the angle of intersection of the curves ∴ φ1 ~ φ2 = (π – 2θ) – 2θ = π – 4θ ...(1)
r = a (1 + cos θ), r = b (1 – cos θ). The two curves intersect where
The equations of curves are  
r = a (1 + cos θ) ...(1) r2 = 16 sin 2θ = or sin2 2θ =
UKP θ 
r = b (1 – cos θ) ...(2)
 π
From Eq. (1), we have, on taking logarithm of both the sides, ∴ sin 2θ = or 2θ =
 
log r = log a + log (1 + cos θ)
Hence, the angle of intersection of two given curves
Differentiating both sides w.r.t. θ, we have
 FT UKP θ θ + π – 4φ = π –
π π .
= = − VCP =
T Fθ  + EQU θ   

θ π θ
  π θ EXAMPLE 8. Show that the curve rm = am sec (mθ + α) and rm = bm sec (mθ + β)
∴ cot φ1 = – tan = cot + or φ1 = +
 
     intersect at an angle which is independent of a and b.
Similarly, for the second curve we get For the curve rm = am sec (mθ + α).
log r = log b + log (1 – cos θ) m log r = m log a + log sec (mθ + α)
Differentiating w.r.t. θ, we get  FT O ⋅ UGE Oθ + C VCP Oθ + C
Differentiating, we get m⋅ =
 FT UKP θ θ θ θ T Fθ UGE Oθ + α
= = cot or cot φ2 = cot or φ2 =
T Fθ  − EQU θ    cot φ1 = tan (mθ + α)
π θ θ π  π − Oθ + C "#
Angle of intersection = φ1 – φ2 = + − = = cot
    ! $
Hence, the two curves intersect at right angles.
120 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Tangents and Normals 121

π Similarly, eliminating y2 between Eqs. (1) and (4), we have

∴ φ1 =
– (mθ + α)
 C  D − T 
x2 =
Similarly, for the second curve r = b sec (mθ + α)
m m
D − C 
π Substituting the values of x2 and y2 in Eq. (3), we have
we have φ2 = – (mθ + β)

 C  D − T  D C  − T 
Hence, the angle of intersection = φ1 ~ φ2 =   
+  
R  C D −C D C − D
=
%& π − Oθ + α () − %& π − Oθ + β () = β − α   T

' * ' * or
R C
+  −  
=
D 
C D
which is independent of a and b.
which is the required pedal equation.
EXAMPLE 9. Find the pedal equation of the ellipse
EXAMPLE 10. Find the pedal equation of parabola
Z [ y 2 = 4a (x + a)

+  = 1.
C D Solution: We have from y2 = 4a (x + a) ...(1)
Solution: We have C
F[
=
Z [ FZ [
+  = 1 ...(1)
C D ∴ Equation of the tangent at (x, y) is
 C
Z D
Differentiating w.r.t. x, we have y1 = –  ⋅ Y–y = (X – x)
C [ [
∴ Equation of the tangent at (x, y) is Hence, p = length of the perpendicular from (0, 0) on the tangent
xb2 C
Y – y = 2 ⋅ (X – x) Z⋅ −[
a y [
=
:Z ;[ ⎡ ⎛ C ⎞ ⎤
+  = 1 ⎢ + ⎜
i.e.,
C
D
...(2) ⎟ ⎥
⎢⎣ ⎝ [ ⎠ ⎥⎦
Now, p = length of the perpendicular from (0, 0) on the tangent (2)
 2ax − 4 a( x + a)
= = , by Eq. (1)

 Z   [  "#  [4 a ( x + a) + 4 a2 ]
  +  − C Z +  C
! C   D  #$ =
= C Z + C ?
= − C Z + C ...(2)

 Z [ Also, =r2 + x2 y2 ...(3)

or =  +  ...(3)
R C D Now eliminating y between Eqs. (1) and (3), we have
Also, r = x2 + y2
2 ...(4) r2 = x2 + 4a (x + a) = (x + 2a)2
Eliminating x2 between Eqs. (1) and (4), we have ∴ r = (x + 2a)
Hence, from Eq. (2), we have p2 = ar
T  − [ T D C  − T 

+  = 1, or y = which is the pedal equation of the curve.
C D C  − D
122 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Tangents and Normals 123

EXAMPLE 11. Find the pedal equation of the astroid EXAMPLE 13. Find the pedal equation of the curve rm = am cos mθ
x2/3 + y2/3 = a2/3
Solution: We have rm = am cos mθ ..(1)
Solution: We have x2/3 + y2/3= a2/3 ..(1) Taking log, we get

∴
F[
=−
y1 =
[     m log r = m log a + log cos mθ
Differentiating w.r.t. θ, we have
FZ Z  
Hence, the equation of the tangent at (x, y) is  FT UKP Oθ
O = –O
 T Fθ EQU Oθ
Y–y = −
 [  (X – x)  π + O 
 Z or cot φ = – tan mθ = cot
 θ
: ; π
or +    = a2/3, by using Eq. (i) ∴ φ = + mθ ...(2)
Z   [ 
Hence, p = r sin φ gives
C  C    Z   [   C    Z   [  
∴ p= = =
  +  "# Z 
+[  C   p = r sin  π + Oθ = r cos mθ ...(3)
 
! Z   [  #$ Eliminating θ between Eqs. (1) and (3), we get
or p = a1/3x1/3y1/3 amp = r m+1
Also, r2 = x2 + y2 ...(2) which is the required pedal equation.
= (x2/3)3 + (y2/3)3 ...(3)
= (x2/3 + y2/3)3 – 3x2/3 x2/3. (x2/3 + x2/3) EXAMPLE 14. Find the pedal equation of the curve
= (a2/3)3 – 3x2/3, y2/3 a2/3 = a2 – 3p2, by Eq. (2) N
= 1 + e cos θ
Hence, the required pedal equation is T
r2 = a2 – 3p2 N
Solution: We have = 1 + e cos θ ...(1)
EXAMPLE 12. Find the pedal equation of the curve T
∴ log l – log r = log (1 + e cos θ)
r = a (1 – cos θ)
 FT − G UKP θ
Solution: We have r = a (1 – cos θ) (1) Differentiating – =
T Fθ  + G EQU θ
∴ log r = log a + log (1 – cos θ)
G UKP θ
or cot φ = ...(2)
 FT UKP θ θ  + G EQU θ
Differentiating, = = EQV
T Fθ  − EQU θ  Also, p = r sin φ
θ  
or cot φ = cot ⇒ φ = θ/2 ...(2) 
 ∴ = cosec2 φ =  (1 + cot2 φ)
R T T
θ
Hence, p = r sin φ = r sin ...(3)  +  G UKP θ   "#
 
=
T
 
But Eq. (1) can be written as r = 2a sin2
θ
...(4) !   + G EQU θ  #$

∴ Eliminating θ between Eqs. (3) and (4), we have     + G EQU θ + G  "
r3 = 2ap2 which is the required pedal equation.
or
R
=
T  !  + G EQU θ  #$
# ...(3)
124 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics

N
Also from Eq. (1), e cos θ = –1 ...(4)
T
Eliminating θ between Eqs. (3) and (4), we have


 =
 T
T N
 N
 + G +  − 
  "# 1C
CHAPTER
Differential Coefficient of
R ! T  $ Length of an Arc
or  =
 N 
−  + G
"#
R NT ! $
which is the required pedal equation.

UNSOLVED PROBLEMS
1. Find the pedal equation of the following curves: 1 C.1 FOR CARTESIAN CURVE
(a) r2 = a2 cos 2θ (b) r = aeθcotα Let y = f (x) be any curve A be the fixed point on the curve, chord PQ = δC
2. Find the pedal equation of the curve x = a cos3 θ, y = a sin3 θ. Arc AP = S
3. Find the angle of intersection of the following curves: Arc AQ = S + δs y
(a) r = a sin 2θ, r = a cos 2θ (b) r = a (1 + sin θ), r = a (1 – sin θ) Then Arc PQ = S + δs – S = δs Q (x + Sx, y + dy)
4. Prove that the curve rn = an cos nθ and rn = bn sin nθ intersect orthogonally. From ΔPRQ is right angle triangle dc
5. Find polar subtangent and subnormal for the curve r = a (1 + cos θ). then (PQ)2 = (PR)2 + (RQ)2 dy
(x, y) P ds
6. Show that r = aθ the polar subnormal is constant. 2 2
(δc) = (δx) + (δy) 2 ...(1) s dx R
7. Prove that the normal makes an angle (m + 1) θ with the initial line for the curve rm A
= am cos mθ.
 δE   = 1 +  δ[  
8. Show that the pedal equation of the circle x2 + y2 = 2ax is r2 = 2ap.
 δZ   δZ  O M N
x

ANSWERS
 δE ⋅ δU  = 1 +  δ[  
 Fig. 1 C.1
 δU δZ   δZ 
1. (a) r3 = a2p (b) p = r sin α δU
2. r2 + 3p2 = a2 Considering the limit as Q → P, δx → 0 →1
δE
 π
3. (a) tan–1 (b)
⎛ δc δs ⎞
2 ⎡ ⎛ δ[ ⎞ ⎤ ⎡ δE ⎤
  lim ⎜ ⋅ ⎟ = NKO ⎢ + ⎜ ⎟ ⎥ NKO →⊥ ⎥
Q → P ⎝ δsδx ⎠ 3 → 2 ⎢ ⎝ δZ ⎠ ⎥ ⎢' θ→ 2 δU
θ θ ⎣ ⎦ ⎣ ⎦
5. 2a cos cot
 
⎛ δU ⎞
 ⎡ ⎛ δ[ ⎞ ⎤
NKO  + ⎜ ⎟ = NKO ⎢ + ⎜ ⎟ ⎥
δZ → ⎝ δZ ⎠ UZ →  ⎢⎣ ⎝ δZ ⎠ ⎦⎥

 FU   = +
 F[  
 FZ  FZ 
∴
FU
=
 F[  
+  Result (1)
FZ  FZ 
126 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Differential Coefficient of Length of an Arc 127

Similarly Eq. (i) divided by δs and we get 1 C.2 FOR POLAR CURVE
FU  Let r = f (θ) be any curve Arc AP = S, arc AQ = δ + δs
=  + FZ  F[
1 6 Result (2)
F[ Arc PQ = δs
If the curve in parametric form x = f (t) y = φ (t) then differential coefficient of length of ΔPQM is a right angle triangle
an arc can be obtained from Result 1 (chord PQ)2 = (PM)2 + (MQ)2 ...(1)
1/

 FZ   +  F[  In ΔOQM cos δθ =
T + UT
⇒ OM = (r + δr) cos δθ
FU 
+
F[  FV   FV   FV 
FZ
=
 FZ  FV  = FZ sin δθ =
3/
T + UT
⇒ QM = (r + δr) sin δθ
FV
∴ PM = OM – OP = (r + δr) cos δθ – r
From Eq. (i) ∴ (chord PQ)2 = {(r + δr) cos δθ – r}2 + (r + δr)2 sin2 δθ
FU FZ
× =
 FZ   +  F[  Now divided by δθ Eq. (2)
...(2)

FZ FV  FV   FV 
⎛ %JQTF23 δU ⎞ %& T + δT EQU θ − T () + (r + δr) UKP  δθ
⎜ ⋅ ⎟ = 2
FU ⎛ FZ ⎞ ⎛ F[ ⎞
  ⎝ δU δθ ⎠ ' δθ * δθ 
∴ = ⎜ ⎟ +⎜ ⎟
FV ⎝ FV ⎠ ⎝ FV ⎠ UKP  δθ ⎛ %JQTF23 ⎞
Considering limit Q → P, δθ → 0, cos δθ → 1 δθ → 0 → 1 and ⎜ ⎟ →1
which is the required formula. δθ  ⎝ δU ⎠
F[ ⎛ δU ⎞
 ⎡⎛ δT ⎞ ⎤
We know that tan Ψ = NKO ⎜  × ⎟ = NKO ⎢⎜ ⎟ + T ⎥

FZ δθ→ ⎝ δθ ⎠ δθ→ ⎢⎝ δθ ⎠
⎣ ⎥⎦
 FU   F[  
From Result 1
 FZ  = +
 FZ  NKO  δU   = T +
 FT   ⇒ ¥ FU µ
¦ ¶  T
¥
¦
FT µ
¶


 FU  δθ→  δθ   Fθ  § FR · § FR ·
=  + VCP  Ψ Result 2 Eq. (i) divided by δr and
 FZ  Similarly, we can get
FU FZ
= sec Ψ ⇒ cos Ψ =
FZ FU FU
= +
 TFθ   (Result 2)
 FZ   FT  FT 
Similarly, from Result (2) FU = +
F[  F[  Fθ FT
We know that tan φ = r ⇒ = r cot φ
FT Fθ
=  + EQV  Ψ = cosec Ψ For result
F[
∴ sin Ψ =
FU ∴
FU
= T +
 FT   = T  + T  EQV  φ

 FZ  +  F[  Fθ  Fθ 
and = sin2Ψ + cos2Ψ = 1 FU Fθ
 FU   FU  = r cosec φ ⇒ sin φ = r ⋅
Fθ FU
 FZ   +  F[  = 1. FU  FT
 FU   FU  Result (2) =  + VCP φ = sec φ ⇒ cos φ =
FT FU
128 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Differential Coefficient of Length of an Arc 129

y = a (1 – 1 + 2 sin2 t/2)
 T Fθ   +  FT   = sin2 φ + cos2 φ = 1
 FU   FU  sin
V
=
[

∴
 T Fθ   +  FT   = 1 Result (3)
 C
 FU   FU  FU C
∴ = .
F[ [
SOLVED EXAMPLES
EXAMPLE 2. Prove that for any curve r = f (θ)
EXAMPLE 1. For the cycloid x = a (t + sin t), y = a (1 – cos t) prove that
FU T FU T 
FU C = =
(a) Ψ =
V
(b)
FU
= 2a cos
V
(c) = . FT   ; Fθ R
; where P, q, r has the usual meaning.
T −R
 FV  F[ [

Solution: x = a (t + sin t), y = a (1 – cos t)

Solution:
FU
= +
TFθ    Q tan φ = r
Fθ
FZ F[ FT FT   FT
= a (1 + cos t), = a sin t
FV FV
FU FU FT
F[ C UKP V UKP V  EQU V   ∴ =  + VCP  φ ⇒ = sec φ ⇒ cos φ =
∴ tan Ψ= = = FT FT FU
FZ C  + EQU V  +  EQU V  − 
2 R T  − R
V V P = r sin φ ⇒ = sin φ ⇒ cos φ = −  =
T
tan Ψ= tan ⇒Ψ= Result (a) Q
T T
 
FT   FU T
FU
=
 FZ   +  F[  ∴
FU
=
T
T − R ⇒
FT
=
T  − R
FV  FV   FV 
= C   + EQU V  + C  UKP  V = C  + EQU  V +  EQU V + UKP  V FU
= T +
FT    = T  + T  EQV  φ = r.cosec φ
Fθ Fθ  
= C   + EQU V = C   +  EQU  V   −  = C EQU V  
FU ¥ Tµ FU T 
FU V  T–¦ ⇒ = Hence, proved.
= 2 a cos Result (b) FR § R ¶· Fθ R
FV 
For Result (c) EXAMPLE 3. In the curve rm = am cos mθ. Prove that
 FU
FU
= +
 FZ  (a) = a (sec mθ)(m–1)/m
F[  F[  Fθ

FT
FU F[ V (b) a2m – mr2m–1 = 0
=  + EQV  V   Q = tan FU
F[ FZ 

FU = cosec V , y = a (1 – cos t) given that Solution: r m = am cos mθ ...(1)

F[  m log r = m log a + log cos mθ
130 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Differential Coefficient of Length of an Arc 131

Differentiate w.r.t. θ FT FT = r cot α. ⇒ rdθ/dr = tan α

= aeθcotα ⇒
O FT  Fθ Fθ
⋅ = 0+ (–m sin mθ)
T Fθ EQU Oθ
FT
FU
= +
 TFθ   =  + VCP  α = sec α
Fθ
= – r tan mθ FT  FT 
FT
= cos α
FU
= T +
FT   = T  + T  VCP  Oθ = r.sec mθ FU
Result (a)
Fθ Fθ   ∴ ds = dr sec α

    O Integrate both the sides ∫ FU = ∫ UGE α ⋅ FT

rm = am cos mθ ⇒ r = a (cos mθ)1/m = C
 UGE Oθ  ∴ s = cr where (c = sec α) Result (b)

∴
FU
=
C
Fθ UGE O Oθ
⋅ UGE Oθ = a (sec mθ)1–1/m = C UGE Oθ
1 6 O−   O Result (a)
EXAMPLE 5. In the curve y = a log UGE
 Z 
. Prove that
 C 
For Result (b)
FZ 
UKP
Z
FU
=  TFθ  
+ FU
= –
C C
FT  FT 

Here we have y = a log UGE
Z 
FU
=  + T ⋅ 

= cosec mθ
 C 
FT T VCP  Oθ F[ Z
∴ = VCP
FT FZ C
= sin mθ
FU
FU  +  F[   "#
F FT  F F Fθ Hence, =  
Differentiate w.r.t. s.
FU FU  =
FU
UKP Oθ =
Fθ
UKP Oθ
FU
FZ !  FZ  #$
F  T = m cos mθ ×  O O ¥ T O µ =
 + VCP  Z "# = UGE Z
= cos2 mθ =
FU T UGE Oθ T T ¦§ C O ¶· ! C$ C

FZ Z
FT or = cos
a2m – mr2m–1 = 0 Result (b) FU C
FU
FZ  
F FZ
But =
EXAMPLE 4. For the curve r = aeθcotα. Prove that FU   
FU FU
FT
(a) = cos α (b) s = cr F  FZ  FZ
FU =  
FZ  FU  FU
Solution: r = aeθcotα
F 
=
FZ 
 EQU CZ  EQU CZ
132 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Differential Coefficient of Length of an Arc 133

= −
 Z
UKP EQU
Z FT Fφ Fθ
 
∴ r = – sin φ × T
C C C FU Fθ FU 
FZ  Z Fφ Fθ
or = − UKP = – sin2 φ × ∴ T = sin φ
FU C C Fθ FU

EXAMPLE 6. Prove that for the ellipse x = a cos t, y = b sin t. Fφ FT

∴ sin2 φ × +T  = 0 Hence, proved.
Fθ FU
FU
= C  − G EQU V
FV
FU
EXAMPLE 8. Show that in the curve rm = am cos mθ, varies inversely as the
Solution: We have x = a cos t, y = b sin t Fθ
FZ F[ (m – 1)th power of r.
∴ = – a sin t, = b cos t
FV FV We have r m = am cos mθ
or m log r = m log a + log cos mθ
FU  FZ   +  F[   "# Differentiating w.r.t. θ, we have
Hence, =    
FV ! FV   FV  #$ O
 FT
= – m tan mθ or
FT
= – r tan mθ
T Fθ Fθ
= = C  UKP  V + D EQU  V ?
FU
T +  FT   "# = T  + T  VCP  Oθ
⎡ D ⎤ Now, =  
= C ⎢  − EQU V +

EQU V ⎥ Fθ !  Fθ  #$
⎣⎢ C ⎦⎥
T T
=
EQU Oθ T O  C O
= r sec mθ =

 −  − D  EQU V"# by the equation of the curve
= C  
!  C  #$ = CO
T O−
 − G  EQU  V CUD = C   − G  .
FU
i.e., =
FV 
α
T O −
Fφ FT
EXAMPLE 7. Prove that sin2φ + T  = 0. Hence,
FU
varies inversely as (m – 1)th power of r.
Fθ FU Fθ
FT
We have = cos φ
FU UNSOLVED PROBLEMS
Differentiating both sides w.r.t. s, we have
1. Find ds/dx for the curves:
FT Fφ (a) x2/3 + y2/3 = a2/3 (b) y2 = 4ax
= – sin φ ×
FU FU 2. Find ds/dθ for the curves:
(a) r = a (1 + cos θ) (b) rn = an sin nθ
Fφ Fθ
= – sin φ × ⋅
Fθ FU
134 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Maxima and Minima 135

3. Prove that for any curve r = f (θ)

FU T 

1D
FU T
(a) = (b) =
Fθ
FT T −R  
where p.r. has the usual meaning.
R
Maxima and Minima
CHAPTER
Fφ FT
4. Prove that sin2φ + T  = 0.
Fθ FU
5. Show that in the curve r m = a m cos mθ, ds/dθ varies inversely as the
(m – 1)th power of r.
6. In the curve rm = am cos mθ prove that

FT 1 D.1 MAXIMUM AND MINIMUM VALUE OF THE FUNCTION

a2m – mr2m–1 = 0.
FU y = f (x) ...(1)
Given function is maximum for value x = a, if f (a) > [ f (x)] for every value of x in a small
ANSWERS neighbourhood of a.
C   CP In other words from the definition of unit we can say ε (small positive number) can be
C
1. (a) (b) + , 2. (a) , (b) 2a cos θ/2. found such that:
Z   Z T P −
[ f (x) – f (a)] is (–) for ∀ x.
which 0 < |x – a| < ε

x
O

Fig. 1 D.1
From Fig. 1 D.1 f (x) has a maximum for x = a, i.e., f (a) is greater than the value of f (x)
for every value of x, in the neighbourhood a (x1, x2) even the value of f (a) is less than at x
= c, and f (x) has minimum at x = b, i.e, f (b) is less than the value of f (x) for every value of
x is small neighbourhood of b.
y = f (x) be a curve which has a maximum at x = P and minimum at x = Q because the
tangents at P and Q are parallel to axis of x. Since the definition of deriative it is nothing,
it is the slope of the line.
136 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Maxima and Minima 137

Supposing tangents are to be drawn between the points A and P, they will make acute F[
For maxima and minima =0
F[ FZ
angle with the axis, i.e., sign of dy/dx is positive and at P, = 0; The tangents between
FZ 60x2 [x3 – 2x2 + x – 2] = 0
F[ 60x2 (x – 2) (x2 + 1) = 0
the points P and Q, they will make obtuse angle with the axis, i.e., is negative and at
FZ x = 0; 2, p K
Q, tangent is parallel to x-axis, i.e., dy/dx = 0 
F [
Therefore, at the maximum point P or the minimum point Q = 300 x4 – 480 x3 + 180 x2 – 240 x.
FZ 
∴ dy/dx = 0
F [
Hence, when f (x) is maximum at x = a, f ¢(a) = 0 of f ¢(x) changes sign from x = 0 or =0
FZ 
positive to negative when x changes slightly from x < a to x > a.”
Hence, when f (x) is minimum at x = b, f ¢(b) = 0 of f ¢(x) changes sign from
 F  [ "# = 1200 x – 1440 x
3 2 + 360 x – 240
negative to positive when x changes slightly from x < b to x > b. ! FZ #$
Working Rule:  F  [ "# = – 240 ≠ 0
y = f (x)
(1) Differentiate the given function and find its dervatives.
...(i)
! FZ #$  Z=
∴ At x = 0, neither maxima nor minima.
F[
(2) Put = 0, and solve the equation and find the values of variable. The roots of this  F  [ "# = 300 24 – 480 23 + 180 22 – 240 2 = 1200 (+ sign)
FZ × × × ×
equation will give the critical values of the variables, i.e., x = a, b, c....
! FZ #$ Z  =
d2 y Hence, it is minimum at x = 2.
(3) Find ,[ f ≤( x)]x = a if f ²(a) is positive then f (x) is minimum at x = a.
dx2
If f ²(a) is negative then f (x) is maximum at x = a. π
EXAMPLE 2. Show that sin x (1 + cos x) is maximum when x = .
(4) If f ²(a) = 0 and f ²¢ (a) ≠ 0 is neither a maxima nor a minima, at x = a 
Solution: y = sin x (1 + cos x) ...(1)
Then find ⎡⎣ H ⎤
KX
Z
⎦ 2 W V Z = C and follow the same procedure as above for higher derivatives
Differentiate w.r.t. x.
for maxima and minima.
F[
= cos x (1 + cos x) + sin x (0 – sin x) = cos2 x – sin2 x + cos x = cos 2 x + cos x
F [ FZ
Note: (i) [Odd derivative] = 0, i.e., dy/dx, .... equal to zero will be the necessary
FZ  For maxima and minima
F[
=0
condition for maxima and a minima. FZ
(1) Sign of even order derivative negative positive will decide the maxima and minima cos 2 x + cos x = 0 ⇒ cos 2x = – cos x = cos (π – x)
respectively. π
∴ 2 x = π – x or x =

SOLVED EXAMPLES
F [
= – 2 sin 2x – sin x
FZ 
EXAMPLE 1. Discuss f (x) = 10x6 – 24x5 + 15x4 – 40x3 + 108 for maxima and minima.
Solution: y = f (x) = 10x6 – 24x5 + 15x4 – 40x3 + 108
 F  [ "# π π  
∴
F[
= 60x5 – 120 x4 + 60x3 – 120 x2
! FZ #$ Z =π  
= – 2 sin 2

– sin

=–

(negative)

FZ π
Hence, the given function is maximum at x = .

138 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Maxima and Minima 139

Z Differentiate w.r.t. x [Eq., (ii)]

EXAMPLE 3. Show that H Z  NQI Z is minimum at x = e. f ²(x) = 6x – 6
G
[f ²¢(x)]x=1 = 6 – 6 = 0
Z
Solution: y = and f ²¢(x) = 6 ≠ 0
NQI Z
Hence, the given function has neither maxima, nor minima at x = 1.

F[ NQI G Z –    – NQI G Z  
Z EXAMPLE 5. Investigate the maxima and minima of the ordinate of the curve
∴ = 


FZ NQI G Z NQI G Z y = (x – 2)6 (x – 3)5.

F[ = 0 Solution: y = (x – 2)6 (x – 3)5

For maxima and minima
FZ Taking log on both the side.
log y = log [(x – 2)6 (x – 3)5] = 6 log (x – 2) + 5 log (x – 3)
NQI G Z − 
= 0 ⇒ loge x = 1 or x = e Differentiate w.r.t. x.
1NQI Z6
G
 Z −  +  Z − 
 F[
=

+

=
 "#
   [ FZ Z− Z− Z− Z−
! $
s NQI G Z   NQI G Z s s NQI G Z  
F [ Z Z
FZ 
=
NQI G Z
 F[  Z − 
 "# = Z−  Z− 
= [ (11x – 28)
FZ Z− Z−! $ Z− Z−
 
NQI G Z  NQI G Z   F[
= (11x – 28) (x – 2)5 (x – 3)4
Z Z
=  FZ
NQI G Z
F[
For maxima and minima =0
  FZ
NQI G G  NQI G G  
 F [ =
G G
∴ x =

, x = 2, x = 3
 FZ  NQI G G


Z =G
Again differentiate w.r.t. x

= (Positive) F [
G = 11⋅ (x – 2)5 (x – 3)4 + 5 (11x – 28) (x – 2)4 (x – 3)4 + 4 (11x – 28) (x – 2)5 (x – 3)3
FZ 
 G
Hence, it is minimum at x =
G
minimum value of the function =
NQI G G
.  F [ = 0+0+0=0
 FZ 
CVZ 
=
EXAMPLE 4. Prove that for f (x) = x3 – 3x2 + 3x + 7 has neither maxima nor minima at
x = 1.
 F [ = 3=0+0+0=0
 FZ 
Solution: f (x) = x3 – 3x2 + 3x + 7 ...(i) CVZ 
=

Differentiate w.r.t. x.  F [ = 11 (+) (+) = (+) sign

f ¢(x) = 3x2 – 6x + 3 ...(ii)  FZ  
CVZ
=
For maxima and minima f ¢(x) = 0 
3x2 – 6x + 3 = 0 ⇒ x2 – 2x + 1 = 0 
Hence, it is minimum at x =
x =1 
140 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Maxima and Minima 141

From the definition it is examined at x = 2, and x = 3 R

EXAMPLE 7. Show that sinp θ cosq θ has a maximum when θ = tan–1
For x=
 F[ "# = (–) (–) (+) = (+) sign
S
! FZ $ Z  = − Solution: y = sinp θ cosq θ ...(1)
 F[ "# log y = p log sin θ + q log cos θ
=(–) (+) (+) = (–)
! FZ $ Z  Differentiate w.r.t. θ
= +
 F[ R S
F[ = (cos θ) + (– sin θ)
Sign of changes from (+) to negative hence, it is maximum at x = 2. [ Fθ UKP θ EQU θ
FZ
Similarly, we can check for x = 3 F[
= y [p cot θ – q × tan θ] ...(2)
Fθ
 "#
F[
= (+) (+) (+) = (+) sign [consider x = 2.9] F[
! $
FZ Z = − For maxima and minima, =0
Fθ
 F[ "# = (+) (+) (+) = (+) sign [consider x = 3.1] ∴
F[
= y[P cotθ – q tanθ]= 0
! FZ $ Z=+ FR
No changes from (+) to (+) hence, it is neither maxima nor minima at x = 3. R
y ≠ 0, p cot θ – q tan θ = 0 ⇒ tan2 θ =
S
EXAMPLE 6. Prove that x1/x has a maxima at x = e
R
Solution: y = f (x) = x1/x ...(1) ∴ θ = tan–1
S
log y = log x1/x = 1/x log x
Again differentiate w.r.t. to θ. Eq. (2)
 F[  
Differentate w.r.t. x. = −  NQI Z +  F [ F[
[ FZ Z Z = [P cot θ – q tan θ] + y [–P cosec2 θ – q sec2 θ]
Fθ  Fθ
 − NQI Z
  − NQI Z
"#  "#
= Z  Z
F[
FZ
= [
Z ! $ Z ! $ ...(2)  F  [ "# = 0 – y [p cosec2 θ + q sec2 θ]
F[
! Fθ #$ θ = VCP −
R
S
For maxima and minima =0y≠0
FZ
cosec θ sec θ both are even powers so it is positive for every value of θ.
 − NQI Z
∴ = 0 ⇒ 1 – log x = 0 ⇒ x = e  F  [ "# is negative when θ = tan
Z ∴ –1 R
Again differentiate w.r.t. to x. ! Fθ #$ S

F [ F[  − NQI Z
 −  Z Z  −  Z  − NQI Z
  1 6 "# R
= + [ ∴ y is maximum at θ = tan–1 .
 
FZ FZ 
Z  ! Z #$ S

 F [ C D
= is a negative sign
EXAMPLE 8. Prove that minimum radius vector of the curve

+  = 1 is of length
 FZ  (a + b)
Z [
Z =G
Hence, y is maximum at x = e Solution: Let x = r cos θ, y = r sin θ
142 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Maxima and Minima 143

EXAMPLE 9. Find the maximum and minimum radii vector of the curve
C D C D
+  = 1⇒ +
Z
[ T  EQU  θ T  EQU  θ
=1 E C D

=

+
⇒ a2 sec2 θ + b2 cosec2 θ = r2 = R (say) ...(1) T UKP V EQU  V
when r is maximum then r2 is also maximum then we have E
R = a2 sec2 θ + b2 cosec2 θ ...(1a) Solution: Let = R
T
Differentiate w.r.t. θ ∴ R = a2 cosec2t + b2 sec2t ...(1)
F4 Differentiate w.r.t. t
= 2 a2 sec2θ tan θ – 2 b2 cosec2θ.cot θ
Fθ F4
= –2a2 cosec2 t cot t + 2b2 sec2t.tan t ...(2)
For maxima and minima dR/dθ = 0 FV
2a2sec2θ tanθ – 2b2 cosec2θ cot θ = 0
F4
For maxima and minima =0
UGE  θ VCP θ D D FV
= ⇒ tan4θ =
EQUGE  θ ⋅ EQV θ C C –2a2 cosec2t cot t + 2b2 sec2t tan t = 0

D D VCP V UGE  V C
tan2θ = ⇒ θ = tan–1 ∴ × = ⇒ tan4t = a2/b2
C C EQV V EQUGE  V D

F 4 C C
= 4a2 sec2 θ tan2 θ + 2a2 sec4 θ + 4b2 cosec2θ × cot2θ + 2b2 cosec4 θ ⇒ tan t = ± ⇒ t = ± tan–1
Fθ D D
⎡ F 4 ⎤ Again differentiate w.r.t. t [Eq. (2)]
⎢ ⎥ = (+)
⎣⎢ Fθ ⎦⎥ θ= VCP− D F 4
C = 4a2 cosec2t cot2t + 4b2 sec2 t tan2 t + 2a2 cosec4t + 2b2 sec4t ...(3)
FV 
Because in above expression sec θ, tan θ, cosec θ and cot θ are even powers then it is
always positive for every value of θ. ⎡ F 4 ⎤
In above expression all trigonometric ratios are an even power hence, ⎢
 ⎥
D ⎣⎢ FV ⎦⎥ V = VCP − C
Hence, R is minimum at θ = tan–1 it is positive. D
C
C
D Hence, R is minimum at t = tan–1
Hence, r is also minimum at θ = tan–1 C D
C
E
Minimum value of the given function ∴ R= [R and r have the reciprocal relation]
T
C+D C+D then when R is minimum then r is maximum.
∴ sec θ = , cosec θ =
C D
Öa+b Öb EXAMPLE 10. Prove that maximum rectangle inscribed in a circle is a square.
From Eq. (1)
Solution: Let AB = 2x, BC = 2y, 0 be the centre of the circle, r be the radius of the circle
R= C
  C + D + D  C + D = a (a + b) + b (a + b)
q Area of ABCD is = 2x.2y ⇒ A = 4xy ...(1)
 C   D  A Öa B r2 = x2 + y2 ...(2)
R2 = (a + b)2 = R ⇒ (a + b) Fig. 1 D.2 A1 = A2 = 16x2y2 = 16x2 (r2 – x2)
Hence, the minimum radius vector of the curve is (a + b). ∴ A1 = 16x2r2 – 16x4
144 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Maxima and Minima 145

Differentiate w.r.t. x. π
nx = π – x ⇒ x =
F# P +
= 32 x r2 – 64 x3 Again differentiate w. r.t. x.
FZ
F [
=ndy/dx (cot x + cot nx) + ny {–cosec2nx. n – a sec2x}
For maxima and minima
F#
=0
D C
FZ 
FZ
O
 F [ =0 – n2y [cosec2nx + cosec2x] ...(2)
∴ 32 x r2 – 64 x3 = 0 r  FZ   π
q Z =
⇒ 32 xr2 = 64 x3 ⇒ r = Z  A B P +
M

F # In Eq. (2) cosec nx and cosec x are even powers and are always positive for every value
 = 32 r2 – 192 x2 F [ π
FZ of x, hence, is negative at x = hence, it is maximum at x = π/(n + 1).
Fig. 1 D.3 FZ  P +

⎡ F # ⎤
⎢ = 64 x2 – 192 x2 EXAMPLE 12. The fuel charges for running a train are proportional to the square of the
 ⎥
...(1)
⎣⎢ FZ ⎦⎥ T = Z  speed generated in kilometres per hour and costs ` 48 per hour at 16 kilometres per hour.
What is the most economical speed if the fixed charges, i.e., salaries, etc., amount to ` 300
Hence, A1 is maximum when r = Z  , per hour?
substitue the value of r in Eq. (2)
Solution: Let the speed of the train be v and the distance to be travelled be s.
2x2 = x2 + y2
U
y = ± x. Total time taken in hours =
X
Hence, y = x Cost of fuel per hour = Kv2, where K is a constant.
$/ Z Z  Also it is given that when v = 16, then fuel cost is ` 48.
cos θ = = = =
1$ T Z   
∴ 48 = K(16)2 or K =
θ = 45º 
Hence, ∠ MBC = 90º  2
Hence, cost of fuel per hour = v .
Therefore, y = x and 2θ = 90º, ABCD is a square. 
Now miscellaneous expenses per hour = 300.
EXAMPLE 11. Investigate the maxima and minima of sin nx. sinnx where n is a positive  2
integer. ∴ Total expenses per hour = v + 300.

Solution: Let y = sin nx. sin nx ...(1) Hence, the total expenses, for the complete journey which takes s/v hours, are given by
log y = log sin nx + n log sin x
Differentiate w.r.t. x. E=
  X +  U =  UX + U
   X  X
 F[ P P For a maximum or minimum we have
= EQU PZ + EQU Z = n [cot nx + cot x]
[ FZ UKP PZ UKP Z
dE 3 s
F[ = s − 300 2 = 0 or v2 = 1600 or v = 40
∴ = yn (cot nx + cot x], for maxima and minima dy/dx = 0 dv 16 v
FZ
Q y ≠ 0, ∴ cot nx + cot x = 0 ⇒ cot nx = – cot x = cot (π – x) F ' U
Also = 600 which is positive when v = 40.
FX X
∴ E is minimum when v = 40 km/hour.
146 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Maxima and Minima 147

EXAMPLE 13. A person being in a boat at a km from the nearest point of the beach, FR
wishes to reach as quickly as possible a point b km, from that point along the share. The = x [0 – 1] + (k – x) 1 = k – 2 x
FZ
ratio of his rate of walking to his rate of rowing is sec α. Prove that he should land at a
For maxima and minima dp/dx = 0
distance (b – a cot α) from the place to be reached.
∴ k – 2x = 0 ⇒ x = k/2
Solution: Let the person start from A to reach the point C : B is the point at a distance a
along the same share. F R
and = –2
Suppose the person lands at D where FZ 
BD = x which is negative hence, P is maximum.
The rest of the distance b – x is covered by walking.
C EXAMPLE 15. Find the length and width of the maximum area of rectangle which is
Let us suppose that the man can row at the rate of v
inscribed in a radius of half circle.
kilometres per hour. Then he can walk at the rate of v sec b
α kilometres per hour. Solution: Let rectangle ABCD can be drawn in the circle x2 + y2 = a2 and the coordinate
D
B (a cos θ, a sin θ).
Now, AD = Z  + C
Ö(a2+x2) Then AB = a sin θ, AD = 2 a cos θ
  x Area of ABCD (A) = AD × AB = 2a cos θ × a sin θ = a2 sin 2θ
Z +C
∴ Time to cross AD = ∴ A = a2 sin 2θ ...(1)
X
A a B Differentiate w.r.t. θ
D− Z D− Z
and time to travel CD = = cos a. Fig. 1 D.4 F#
X UGE α X = 2a2 cos 2θ
Fθ
Thus, if T is the total time, then
  "#
T= Z  + C  + D − Z EQU α
X ! $
F6  ⎡ Z ⎤
∴ = ⎢ − EQU α ⎥ = 0 for a maximum or minimum
FZ X ⎢⎣ Z  + C  ⎦⎥

i.e., x2 =(x2 + a2) cos2 a

or x2 =a2 cot2 α
∴ x =a cot α Fig. 1 D.5

F 6 For maxima and minima dA/dθ = 0 ⇒ 2 a2 cos 2θ = 0

Also, =+ ve, for x = a cot α
FZ ∴ 2 θ = π/2 ⇒ θ = π /4
Again differentiate w.r.t. θ
Hence, x = a cot α gives a minimum value so the rest of the distance b – a cot α is covered
by walking for time to be minimum. F #
= – 4a2 sin 2θ
Fθ
EXAMPLE 14. Sum of the two numbers is fixed. Prove that the product of these two
numbers is maximum when each number is half of their sum. ⎛ F # ⎞
⎜⎜  ⎟⎟ = 4a2 sin π/2 = – 4a2
Solution: Let the sum of the two numbers be k. If one number is x then the other ⎝ Fθ ⎠θ=π  
number is k – x and if the product is P then
Hence, A is negative at θ = π /4 hence, it is maximum.
P = x (k – x) ...(1)
148 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Maxima and Minima 149

C C 
h tan α.
Length AD = 2a cos θ = 2 a cos π/4 = = When x = 0 or x =
  
When x = 0, V = 0, i.e., minimum
C
Width AB = sin θ = a sin π/4 =
 F 8
Now = π(2h – 6x cot a)
C FZ 
The maximum area of rectangle when the length and width are equal, i.e.,
  
which is negative for x = h tan α. Therefore, V is maximum when x = h tan α.
EXAMPLE 16. Show that the right circular cylinder of a given surface and maximum  
volume is such that its height is equal to the diameter of the base. ∴ Minimum V =
 2  
h tan2 a J − J VCP αEQV α

Solution: Let h be the height and r be the radius of the base of the cylinder. Also let S and
   
V denote the total surface and volume of the cylinder. Then we have 
= πh3 tan2 α.
S = 2πr2 + 2πrh (given) ...(1) 
Particular case: h = 30 cm α = 30º;
5 − πT  ⎛ 5 − πT  ⎞
∴ h= and V = πr2h = πr2 ⎜⎜ ⎟⎟  π
πT ⎝ πT ⎠ A D
Maximum volume =

π(10)3 =


i.e., V= (Sr – 2πr3)
 EXAMPLE 18. Prove that a conical tent of a given capacity will
l
F8  h require the least amount of canvas when the height is  times
Hence, = (S – 6πr2) = 0 for a max. or min.
FT  the radius of the base.
∴ S = 6πr2
Solution: Let r, h and l be the radius, height and slant height of

F 8 B C the conical tent, AC = l, OC = r and OA = h
Again = –6πr, which is negative. C
FT  ∴ l2 = r2 + h2. O
Fig. 1 D.6
Hence, the volume is maximum when S = 6πr2 The canvas forms only curved surface of the cone. Therefore, Fig. 1 D.8
∴ By (1), 6πr2 = 2πr2 + 2πrh or h = 2r. canvas will be least when the curved surface S is least.
∴ Volume is maximum when height is equal to the diameter of the base of the cylinder.
Since volume V =


πr2h, Þ h = π8T
EXAMPLE 17. Show that the volume of the greatest cylinder which can be inscribed in
 Again S = πrl gives S2 = π2r2l2 = π2r2 (r2 + h2)
a cone of height h and semi-vertical angle α is πh3 tan2 α.
 ⎛  8  ⎞
= π2r2 ⎜⎜ T +   ⎟⎟
Solution: Let x be the radius of the inscribed cylinder. From ⎝ π T ⎠
Fig. 1 D.7, we have
AO = h, AO¢ = x cot a 8 
i.e., S2 = π2r4 +
Height of the cylinder = h – x cot a. T
If V is the volume of the cylinder, we then have
8 
V = πx2 (h – x cot a), or z = π2r4 + where S2 = z.
T
F8
= π(2hx – 3x2 cot α) S is minimum when z is minimum. We have, therefore,
FZ
= 0 for a max. or min. F\ 8 
= 4π2r3 – = 0 for max. or min.
Fig. 1 D.7 FT T
150 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Maxima and Minima 151

 2 4 2 EXAMPLE 20. An open tank with a square base and vertical sides is to be constructed of
i.e., 4π2r6 = 18 v2 or 4π2r6 = π r h
 a sheet metal to hold a given quantity of water. Show that the cost of material will be least
∴ h = when the depth is half of the width.
T
 Solution: Let x be the width of the tank and y be its depth. Also let v be the given
F \ 2 2 8 
Again  = 12π r + 
which is always positive. quantity of water it can contain; then
FT T
v = x2y (given) ...(A)
Hence, S is minimum when h = T . Let s be the area of the metal sheet required to construct the tank; then we have

EXAMPLE 19. Show that the semi-vertical angle of the right cone of the given total 8
s = x2 + 4xy = x2 + (from Eq. A)
 Z
surface and maximum volume is sin–1 . X
 FU
∴ = 2x –  = 0 for a max. or min., i.e., x3 = 2v. ...(1)
Solution: Let r, h, l denote the radius, height and the slant height of a cone. FZ Z
U
∴ OA = h, OC = r, AC = l,  %1# = α, l2 = r2 + h2 Again F  X
=  +  which is positive when x is positive.
The total surface S = πrl + πr2 (given) FZ  Z
Consequently, v is minimum when x3 = 2v.
= πr(l + r) ...(1)
Hence, by (A), x3 = 2x2y
 
Also volume V = πr2h = πr2 N  − T  
  or y= x, i.e., when depth is half of the width.
l 
 2 4 2
or V2 = π r (l – r2)
 EXAMPLE 21. Show that the semi-vertical angle of a cone of
A

  ⎡ 5 T   5T ⎤ maximum volume and gives slant height is tan–1  .
= π ⎢ − ⎥ by Eq. (1)
 ⎣⎢ π π ⎦⎥ B C Solution: l2 =r2 + h2 ...(1)
O r

5 Fig. 1 D.9 Volume of the cone = πr2h
or V2 = (Sr2 – 2 πr4)  l

 2 4 2
5 V1 = V = π r (l – r2)
2

Let (Sr2 – 2πr4)
z = V2 =

π  T  N π  T  B C
∴ V is maximum when z is maximum. ∴ V1 = − ...(2) O
 
F\ 5
Now = (2Sr – 8πr3) =0 for max. or min. Differentiate w.r.t. r Fig. 1 D.10
FT 
F8  π  T  N  π  T 
∴ 2 Sr = 8πr3 or S = 4πr2 = −
FT  
Hence, by (1), πr2 + πrl = 4πr2 or l = 3r.
If θ is the semi-vertical angle of the cone, then we have F8
for maxima and minima = 0
T  FT
sin θ = = or θ = sin–1 (1/3)
N   π  T  N π  T  = r2 ⇒ r = 
N

F < 5 − 
Again = (2S – 24πr2) which is negative when S = 4πr2.  
FT  
¥ µ ∴ F  X =  l2 π2 3r2 –  π 2 × 5r4
Hence, the volume V is maximum when the semi-vertical angle of the cone is sin–1 ¦§  ¶· . FT 
 
152 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics Maxima and Minima 153

Hence, volume is maximum when S = 3πr2

 F X  =
    
N π

N − × π   × N  × = (–) Negative ∴ 3πr2 = 2πrh + πr2
 FT       2πr2 = 2πrh ⇒ h = r
T= N

EXAMPLE 23. Show that triangle of maximum area that can be inscribed in a given

Hence, V1 is maximum when r = N circle is an equilateral triangle.

From ΔABC, Solution: Area of triangle
 &%
N cos θ = ⇒ DC = r cos θ
T  T
tan α = =
J N  BC = 2r cos θ
∴ α = tan–1  A
1&
sin θ = ⇒ OD = r sin θ
 2 T q
For (i) l2 = l + h2
 ∴ Height of ΔABC, i.e., AD = (r + r sin θ)
O
∴ N  = h2 ∴ Area of the ΔABC =

BC × AD
r
 
C
N  D
h = Hence, proved A = 2r cos θ (r + r sin θ) B
 

EXAMPLE 22. Show that the height of an open cylinder of a given surface and greatest T  UKP θ
A = r2 cos θ + Fig. 1 D.12
volume is equal to the radius of the base. 
Solution: S = surface of open cylinder = 2πrh + πr2 F# T
Volume of the cylinder = πr2h = V = –r2 sin θ + cos 2θ.2
A D Fθ 

V = πr2
%K 5 − πT (K for maximum and minimum. dA/dθ = 0 ⇒ r2 sin θ = r2 cos 2θ
&K πT )K
' * ¥Q µ
sin θ = cos 2θ ⇒ EQU ¦  R ¶ = cos 2θ
5T πT  h
§ ·
V= −
  ∴ π/2 – θ = 2θ ⇒ 3θ = π/2 ⇒ θ = π/6
Differentiate w.r.t. r
B 
F8 5 π 
C F #
= − T ∴ = –r2 cos θ – 2r2 sin 2θ
FT   Fθ
Fig. 1 D.11
for maxia and minima dV/dr = 0 ⎡ F # ⎤
5 π  ⎢ ⎥ = (–)
∴ 0 = − T ⇒ S = 3πr2 ⎣⎢ Fθ ⎦⎥ θ=π 
 
Again differentiate w.r.t. r Hence, A is maximum when θ = π/6
F 8 In ΔADC (AC)2 = (AD)2 + (DC)2
= 0 – 3πr, r is always positive
FT 
F 8 (AC)2 =
 T + T   + r ⋅ 3/4
2
then is negative.  
FT 
154 Comprehensive Applied Mathematics

= r2
  +  "# = 3r2
! $
AC = T 

 T
∴ BC = 2DC = 2 × r × cos 30 =  – T 
 
∴ AC = BC and ∠BCA = 60º
and ∠BAC, ∠ ABC are equal because AC = BC
Hence, ABC is an equilateral triangle.

UNSOLVED PROBLEMS
1. Find maxima and minima of sin x + cos 2x is 0 ≤ x ≤ 2π.
2. Prove that x1/x has a maxima at x = e.

λ C
3. The velocity of the wavelength λ on deep water is proportional to+ , where a is
C λ
a certain linear magnitude. Prove that the velocity is maximum when λ = a.

C D
4. Prove that the minimum radius vector of the curve +  =  is of length (a + b).

Z [
5. Find maximum and minimum values of 12x5 – 5x4 + 40x3 + 6.
6. The three sides of a trapezium are equal each being 6 cm long. Find the maximum
area of trapezium.
7. If the sum of the lengths of the hypotenuse and another side of a right angled tri-
angle is given, show that the area of the triangle is maximum when the angle be-
tween them is π/3.
8. Show that the triangle of the maximum rectangle that can be inscribed in a given
circle is an equilateral triangle.
9. Show that the height of the cylinder of maximum volume that can be inscribed in a
C
sphere of radius a is .

10. Prove that maximum rectangle inscribed in a circle is a square.

ANSWERS
1. x = π/2, 3π/2, minimum, x = sin–1 1/4 maximum.
5. No maximum, No minimum.
6.   sq. cm.