Let O be the vertex of the parabola y2=4x and its chords OP and OQ are perpendicular to each other. If the locus of the mid-point of the line segment PQ is a conic C, then the length of its latus rectum is :
- 1
- 2
- 4
- 8
Answer
(2) 2
Solution
[figure]
Let P(t12, 2t1), Q(t22, 2t2) on y2=4x
Slope of OP = 2t1, slope of OQ = 2t2
OP OQ 4t1t2=-1 t1t2=-4
Mid point M(h, k): 2h=t12+t22, k=t1+t2
k2=t12+t22+2t1t2=2h-8
C: y2=2(x-4), a parabola with vertex (4, 0) and 4a=2
length of latus rectum of C =2
Answer: (2)