If the line x + 4y = 7, where R, touches the ellipse 3x2 + 4y2 = 1 at the point P in the first quadrant, then one of the focal distances of P is :
- 1 3 - 12 11
- 1 3 - 12 5
- 1 3 + 12 5
- 1 3 + 12 7
Answer
(4) 1 3 + 12 7
Solution
Ellipse: x21/3 + y21/4 = 1 ⇒ a2 = 13, b2 = 14
Tangent at P(x1, y1): 3x x1 + 4y y1 = 1
Comparing with x + 4y = 7: 3x1 = 4y14 = 1 7
y1 = 1 7, x1 = 3 7
P lies on the ellipse: 3 263 + 4 17 = 1
221 = 37 ⇒ 2 = 9
P in first quadrant ⇒ x1 > 0 ⇒ = 3 ⇒ x1 = 1 7
e2 = 1 - b2a2 = 1 - 34 = 14 ⇒ e = 12
Focal distances = a e x1 = 1 3 12 1 7
One focal distance = 1 3 + 12 7
Answer: (4)