MATHEMATICS Desta Shimelis

Profession Doctor of Medicine

Petros Feleke
Profession Economist and Manager

Grade 11 Unit 3 Entrance

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Coordinate Geometry

ELLIPSE It is the path traced by a point which moves in a plane in such a way that the
sum of its distance from two fixed points in the plane is a constant.
The two fixed points are called the foci of the ellipse.
NOTE The plural of focus is foci.
In the given figure, F1 and F2 are two
fixed points and P is a point which moves
in such a way that PF1 + PF2 = constant.
The path traced by the point P is called an
ellipse, and the points F1 and F2 are called
its foci.

SOME MORE TERMS RELATED TO AN ELLIPSE

(I) CENTRE OF THE ELLIPSE

The midpoint of the line segment joining the

foci, is called the centre of the ellipse.
In the given figure, F1 and F2 are the
foci of the ellipse and O is its centre,
where OF1 = OF2 .
(II) AXES OF THE ELLIPSE
MAJOR AXIS: The line segment through the foci of the ellipse with its end points on
the ellipse, is called its major axis.
In the given figure, AB is the major axis of the ellipse.
MINOR AXIS: The line segment through the centre and perpendicular to the major axis
with its end points on the ellipse, is called its minor axis.
In the given figure, CD is the minor axis of the ellipse.
(III) VERTICES OF AN ELLIPSE
The end points of the major axis of an ellipse are called its vertices.
In the given figure, A and B are the vertices of the ellipse.
AN IMPORTANT NOTE In an ellipse, we take:
Length of the major axis = AB = 2a.
Length of the minor axis = CD = 2b.
743
 Distance between the foci = F1 F2 = 2c.
Length of the semi-major axis = a.
Length of the semi-minor axis = b.
(IV) ECCENTRICITY OF AN ELLIPSE
c
The ratio is always constant and it is denoted by e, called the eccentricity of
a
the ellipse.
For an ellipse, we have 0 < e < 1 ⎡Q c < a ⇔ e = < 1⎤ ⋅
c
⎢⎣ a ⎥⎦

AN IMPORTANT RESULT
In the given ellipse, it is being given that AB = 2a , CD = 2b and F1 F2 = 2c.
Prove that: ( a 2 − c2 ) = b 2 .

PROOF Clearly, COD is the perpendicular bisector of F1 F2 .

Join F1C and F2C.
Now, F1O = c, OC = b ⇒ F1C = c2 + b 2 .

And, OF2 = c, OC = b ⇒ F2C = c2 + b 2 .

Since B and C both lie on the given ellipse, we have
F1 B + F2 B = F1C + F2C = constant [by the definition of an ellipse]
⇒ ( F1O + OB) + (OB − OF2 ) = F1C + F2C
⇒ ( c + a) + ( a − c) = 2 c2 + b 2
[Q F1O = c, OF2 = c, OB = a and F1C = F2C = c2 + b 2 ]
⇒ a = c2 + b 2 ⇒ a 2 = ( c2 + b 2 ) ⇒ ( a 2 − c2 ) = b 2 .
Hence, ( a 2 − c2 ) = b 2 .

STANDARD EQUATION OF AN ELLIPSE

THEOREM Prove that the standard equation of an ellipse is

x2 y2
+ 2 = 1,
a2 b
where a and b are the lengths of the semi-major axis and the semi-minor
axis respectively and a > b.
PROOF Let X′ OX and YOY′ be the coordinate axes.
Let us consider an ellipse in which a and b are the lengths of the
semi-major axis and semi-minor axis respectively.

Choose a real number c such that c2 = ( a 2 − b 2 ).

Let F1 ( − c, 0) and F2 ( c, 0) be the two fixed points and let P( x , y) be an
arbitrary point on the given ellipse, moving on it in such a way that
PF1 + PF2 = 2a. Then,
PF1 + PF2 = 2a
⇒ ( x + c) 2 + y 2 + ( x − c) 2 + y 2 = 2a
⇒ ( x + c) 2 + y 2 = 2a − ( x − c) 2 + y 2
⇒ ( x + c) 2 + y 2 = 4a 2 + ( x − c) 2 + y 2 − 4a ( x − c) 2 + y 2
[on squaring both sides]
⇒ ( x + c) 2 − ( x − c) 2 − 4a 2 = −4a ( x − c) 2 + y 2
⇒ 4cx − 4a 2 = −4a ( x − c) 2 + y 2
cx
⇒ ( x − c) 2 + y 2 = a − [on dividing both sides by −4a]
a
c2 x 2
⇒ ( x − c) + y = a − 2cx + 2
2 2 2
[on squaring both sides]
a
c2 x 2
⇒ x − 2 + y = (a − c )
2 2 2 2
a
2⎛ c2 ⎞
⇒ x ⎜ 1 − 2 ⎟ + y 2 = ( a 2 − c2 )
⎝ a ⎠
x 2 ( a 2 − c2 )
⇒ + y 2 = ( a 2 − c2 )
a2
x2 y2
⇒ 2 + 2 =1 [on dividing both sides by ( a 2 − c2 )]
a ( a − c2 )
x2 y2
⇒ 2 + 2 =1 [Q ( a 2 − c2 ) = b 2 ].
a b
x2 y2
Thus, every point on the ellipse satisfies the equation + 2 = 1.
a2 b
 x2 y2
Conversely, let the equation of the given curve be + 2 = 1 and let
a2 b
P( x , y) be an arbitrary point on this curve.
x2 y2 ⎛ x2 ⎞
Then, 2
+ 2 = 1 ⇒ y 2 = b2 ⎜1 − 2 ⎟
a b ⎝ a ⎠
b2 ( a 2 − x 2 )
⇒ y2 = ⋅ … (i)
a2
Also, let ( a 2 − b 2 ) = c2 . … (ii)
Let F1 ( − c, 0) and F2 ( c, 0) be two fixed points on the x-axis. Then,
PF1 = ( x + c) 2 + y 2
b2 ( a 2 − x 2 )
= ( x + c) 2 + [using (i)]
a2
( a 2 − c2 )( a 2 − x 2 )
= ( x + c) 2 + [using (ii)]
a2
2
c2 x 2
= ⎛⎜ a + ⎞⎟ = ⎛⎜ a + ⎞⎟
cx cx
= a 2 + 2cx +
a2 ⎝ a⎠ ⎝ a⎠

Similarly, PF2 = ⎛⎜ a − ⎞⎟ ⋅
cx
⎝ a⎠
PF1 + PF2 = ⎛⎜ a + + a − ⎞⎟
cx cx
∴
⎝ a a⎠
⇔ PF1 + PF2 = 2a.
This shows that the given curve is an ellipse.
x2 y2
Hence, the equation of the ellipse is + 2 = 1.
a2 b
AN IMPORTANT NOTE The foci of an ellipse always lie on the major axis.

HORIZONTAL ELLIPSE
In the given equation of an ellipse, if the coefficient of x 2 has the larger denominator
then its major axis lies along the x-axis.
Such an ellipse is called a horizontal ellipse.
x2 y2
Thus, 2 + 2 = 1 is an horizontal ellipse, if a 2 > b 2 .
a b
x2 y2
EXAMPLE + = 1 is an horizontal ellipse.
16 9

LATUS RECTUM OF A HORIZONTAL ELLIPSE

The latus rectum of an ellipse is a line segment perpendicular to the major axis,
passing through any of the foci with end points lying on the ellipse.
 x2 y2
To Find the Length of Latus Rectum of the Ellipse + = 1, a > b.
a2 b 2
Let X′ OX and YOY′ be the coordinate axes.
Let F1 ( − c, 0) and F2 ( c, 0) be the foci of the given ellipse, where
c2 = ( a 2 − b 2 ).
Let LF1 M and PF2Q be the latus rectums.
Let PF2 = l. Then, the coordinates of P are P( c, l).

x2 y2
+ 2 = 1, we have
Since P( c, l) lies on the ellipse
a2 b
c 2
l 2
l 2
⎛ c ⎞
2
+ = 1 ⇒ 2 = ⎜1 − 2 ⎟
a 2 b2 b ⎝ a ⎠
⎛ c2 ⎞ ⎡ ( a 2 − b2 ) ⎤
⇒ l 2 = b 2 ⎜1 − 2 ⎟ = b 2 ⎢1 − ⎥ [Q c2 = ( a 2 − b 2 )]
⎝ a ⎠ ⎣ a2 ⎦
b4 b2
⇒ l2 = 2
⇒ l= ⋅
a a
2 2
b 2b
∴ PF2 = l = ⇔ PF2Q = 2l = ⋅
a a
2b 2
Similarly, LF1 M = 2l = ⋅
a
2b 2
Hence, the length of the latus rectum is ⋅
a
RESULTS ON HORIZONTAL ELLIPSE
(i) The standard form of equation of a horizontal ellipse is
x2 y2
+ 2 = 1, 0 < b < a.
a2 b
(ii) Its centre is O( 0, 0).
(iii) Its vertices are A( − a , 0) and B( a , 0).
(iv) Its foci are F1 ( − c, 0) and F2 ( c, 0), where c2 = ( a 2 − b 2 ).
 (v) Length of the major axis, AB = 2a and length of the minor axis, CD = 2b.
(vi) Equation of the major axis is y = 0 and that of the minor axis is x = 0.
2b 2
(vii) Length of the latus rectum = ⋅
a
c a 2 − b2
(viii) Eccentricity, e = = ⋅
a a
VERTICAL ELLIPSE
In the given equation of an ellipse, if the coefficient of x 2 has the smaller denominator,
then its major axis lies along the y-axis.
Such an ellipse is called a vertical ellipse.

RESULTS ON VERTICAL ELLIPSE

x2 y2
(i) The standard form of the equation of a vertical ellipse is 2 + 2 = 1,
where 0 < b < a. b a
(ii) Its centre is O( 0, 0).
(iii) Its vertices are A( 0, − a) and B( 0, a).
(iv) Its foci are F1 ( 0, − c) and F2 ( 0, c), where a 2 − b 2 = c2 ,
i.e., F1 ( 0, − ae) and F2 ( 0, ae).
(v) Length of the major axis = 2a and length of the minor axis = 2b.
 (vi) Equation of the major axis is x = 0 and that of the minor axis is y = 0.
2b 2
(vii) Length of latus rectum = ⋅
a
c a 2 − b2
(viii) Eccentricity, e = = ⋅
a a
SUMMARY

Horizontal Ellipse Vertical Ellipse

x2 y 2 x2 y 2
Properties + =1 + =1
a2 b 2 b 2 a2
0 < b < a and c 2 = (a2 − b 2 ) 0 < b < a and c 2 = (a2 − b 2 )
(i) Centre (0, 0) (0, 0)
(ii) Vertices A( − a , 0), B( a , 0) A( 0, − a) and B( 0, a )
(iii) Foci F1 ( − c, 0) and F2 ( c, 0) or F1 ( 0, − c) and F2 ( 0, c) or
( −ae, 0) and ( ae, 0) ( 0, − ae) and ( 0, ae)
(iv) Length of the 2a 2a
major axis
(v) Length of the 2b 2b
minor axis
(vi) Equation of the y=0 x=0
major axis
(vii) Equation of the x=0 y=0
minor axis
(viii) Length of the 2b 2 2b 2
latus rectum a a
(ix) Eccentricity c a 2 − b2 c a 2 − b2
e= = e= =
a a a a

SOLVED EXAMPLES

EXAMPLE 1 Find the lengths of the major and minor axes; coordinates of the vertices
and the foci, the eccentricity and length of the latus rectum of the ellipse:
x2 y2
+ = 1.
16 9
2 2
x y
SOLUTION Given equation is + = 1.
16 9
x2 y2
This is of the form 2 + 2 = 1, where a 2 > b 2 .
a b
So, it is an equation of a horizontal ellipse.
Now, (a 2 = 16 and b 2 = 9 ⇒ (a = 4 and b = 3).
∴ c = a 2 − b 2 = 16 − 9 = 7.
 Thus, a = 4, b = 3 and c = 7.
(i) Length of the major axis = 2a = ( 2 × 4) units = 8 units.
Length of the minor axis = 2b = ( 2 × 3) units = 6 units.
(ii) Coordinates of the vertices are A( − a , 0) and B( a , 0), i.e., A( −4, 0)
and B( 4, 0).
(iii) Coordinates of the foci are F1 ( − c, 0) and F2 ( c, 0), i.e., F1 ( − 7 , 0)
and F2 ( 7 , 0).
c 7
(iv) Eccentricity, e = = ⋅
a 4
2b 2 ( 2 × 9) 9
(v) Length of the latus rectum = = units = units.
a 3 2
EXAMPLE 2 Find the lengths of the major and minor axes; coordinates of the vertices
and the foci; the eccentricity and length of the latus rectum of the ellipse:
4x 2 + 9y 2 = 144.
SOLUTION The given equation may be written as
x2 y2
+ = 1.
36 16
2 2
x y
This is of the form 2 + 2 = 1, where a 2 > b 2 .
a b
So, it is an equation of a horizontal ellipse.
Now, ( a 2 = 36 and b 2 = 16) ⇒ ( a = 6 and b = 4).
∴ c = a 2 − b2 = 36 − 16 = 20 = 2 5.
Thus, a = 6, b = 4 and c = 2 5.
(i) Length of the major axis = 2a = ( 2 × 6) units = 12 units.
Length of the minor axis = 2b = ( 2 × 4) units = 8 units.
(ii) Coordinates of the vertices are A( − a , 0) and B( a , 0), i.e., A( −6, 0)
and B( 6, 0).
(iii) Coordinates of the foci are F1 ( − c, 0) and F2 ( c, 0), i.e., F1 ( −2 5 , 0)
and F2 ( 2 5 , 0).
c 2 5 5
(iv) Eccentricity, e = = = ⋅
a 6 3
2b 2 ( 2 × 16) 16
(v) Length of the latus rectum = = units = units.
a 6 3
EXAMPLE 3 Find the lengths of the major and minor axes; coordinates of the vertices
and the foci; the eccentricity and length of the latus rectum of the ellipse:
x2 y2
+ = 1.
4 36
2 2
x y
SOLUTION Given equation is + = 1.
4 36
x2 y2
This is of the form 2 + 2 = 1, where a 2 > b 2 .
b a
So, it is an equation of a vertical ellipse.
Now, ( b 2 = 4 and a 2 = 36) ⇒ ( b = 2 and a = 6).
 ∴ c = a 2 − b2 = 36 − 4 = 32 = 4 2.
Thus, a = 6, b = 2 and c = 4 2.
(i) Length of the major axis = 2a = ( 2 × 6) units = 12 units.
Length of the minor axis = 2b = ( 2 × 2) units = 4 units.
(ii) Coordinates of its vertices are A( 0, − a) and B( 0, a), i.e., A( 0, − 6)
and B( 0, 6).
(iii) Coordinates of its foci are F1 ( 0, − c) and F2 ( 0, c), i.e., F1 ( 0, − 4 2)
and F2 ( 0, 4 2 ).
c 4 2 2 2
(iv) Eccentricity, e = = = ⋅
a 6 3
2b 2
( 2 × 4) 4
(v) Length of the latus rectum = = units = units.
a 6 3
EXAMPLE 4 Find the lengths of the major and minor axes; coordinates of the vertices
and the foci; the eccentricity and length of the latus rectum of the ellipse:
4x 2 + y 2 = 100.
SOLUTION The given equation of the ellipse may be written as
x2 y2
+ = 1.
25 100
2 2
x y
This is of the form 2 + 2 = 1, where a 2 > b 2 .
b a
So, it is an equation of a vertical ellipse.
Now, ( b 2 = 25 and a 2 = 100) ⇒ ( b = 5 and a = 10).
∴ c = a 2 − b 2 = 100 − 25 = 75 = 5 3.
Thus, a = 10, b = 5 and c = 5 3.
(i) Length of the major axis = 2a = ( 2 × 10) units = 20 units.
Length of the minor axis = 2b = ( 2 × 5) units = 10 units.
(ii) Coordinates of the vertices are A( 0, − a) and B( 0, a), i.e.,
A( 0, − 10) and B( 0, 10).
(iii) Coordinates of the foci are F1 ( 0, − c) and F2 ( 0, c), i.e., F1 ( 0, −5 3 )
and F2 ( 0, 5 3 ).
c 5 3 3
(iv) Eccentricity, e = = = ⋅
a 10 2
2b 2 ( 2 × 25)
(v) Length of the latus rectum = = units = 5 units.
a 10
EXAMPLE 5 Find the equation of an ellipse whose vertices are at ( ± 5 , 0) and foci at
( ± 4, 0).
SOLUTION Since the vertices of the given ellipse are on the x-axis, so it is a
horizontal ellipse.
x2 y2
Let the equation of the ellipse be 2 + 2 = 1, where a 2 > b 2 .
a b
Its vertices are ( ± a , 0) and therefore, a = 5.
Its foci are ( ± c, 0) and therefore, c = 4.
 ∴ c2 = ( a 2 − b 2 ) ⇒ b 2 = ( a 2 − c2 ) = ( 25 − 16) = 9.
Thus, a 2 = 5 2 = 25 and b 2 = 9.
x2 y2
Hence, the required equation is + = 1.
25 9
1
EXAMPLE 6 Find the equation of an ellipse whose foci are ( ±4, 0) and the eccentricity is ⋅
3
SOLUTION Since the foci of the given ellipse are on the x-axis, so it is a horizontal
ellipse.
Let the required equation of the ellipse be
x2 y2
+ 2 = 1, where a 2 > b 2 .
a2 b
Let its foci be ( ± c, 0). Then, c = 4.
c c 4
Also, e = ⇔ a= = = 12.
a e (1/ 3)
Now, c2 = ( a 2 − b 2 ) ⇒ b 2 = ( a 2 − c2 ) = (144 − 16) = 128.
∴ a 2 = (12) 2 = 144 and b 2 = 128.
x2 y2
Hence, the required equation is + = 1.
144 128
EXAMPLE 7 Find the equation of an ellipse whose major axis lies on the x-axis and
which passes through the points (4, 3) and (6, 2).
SOLUTION Since the major axis of the ellipse lies on the x-axis, so it is a horizontal
ellipse.
Let the required equation of the ellipse be
x2 y2
+ 2 = 1 (where a 2 > b 2 ). … (i)
a2 b
16 9
Since (4, 3) lies on (i), we have 2 + 2 = 1. … (ii)
a b
36 4
Also, since (6, 2) lies on (i), we have 2 + 2 = 1. … (iii)
a b
1 1
Putting 2 = u and 2 = v in (ii) and (iii), we get
a b
16u + 9v = 1 … (iv)
36u + 4v = 1 … (v)
On multiplying (iv) by 9 and (v) by 4, and subtracting, we get
1 1 1
65v = 5 ⇔ v = ⇔ 2 = ⇔ b 2 = 13.
13 b 13
1
Putting v = in (iv), we get
13
16u = ⎛⎜1 − ⎞⎟ ⇔ 16u = ⇔ u = ⎛⎜ × ⎞⎟ =
9 4 4 1 1
⎝ 13 ⎠ 13 ⎝ 13 16 ⎠ 52
1 1
⇔ 2 = ⇔ a = 52.
2
a 52
 Thus, a 2 = 52 and b 2 = 13.
x2 y2
Hence, the required equation is + = 1.
52 13
EXAMPLE 8 Find the equation of the ellipse, the ends of whose major axis are ( ±3 , 0)
and the ends of whose minor axis are ( 0, ± 2).
SOLUTION Clearly, the major axis of the given ellipse lies on the x-axis. So, it is a
horizontal ellipse.
x2 y2
Let the required equation be + 2 = 1, where a 2 > b 2 .
a2 b
Its vertices are ( ± a , 0) and, therefore, a = 3
[Q ends of the major axis are the vertices].
Ends of the minor axis are C( 0, − 2) and D( 0, 2).
∴ CD = 4, i.e., length of the minor axis = 4 units.
∴ 2b = 4 ⇔ b = 2.
Now, ( a = 3 and b = 2) ⇒ ( a 2 = 9 and b 2 = 4).
x2 y2
Hence, the required equation is + = 1.
9 4
EXAMPLE 9 Find the equation of the ellipse whose centre lies at the origin, major axis
2
lies on the x-axis, the eccentricity is and the length of the latus rectum
3
is 5 units.
SOLUTION Since the major axis of the ellipse lies on the x-axis, it is a horizontal
ellipse.
x2 y2
Let the required equation be + 2 = 1, where a 2 > b 2 .
a2 b
2b 2
Length of its latus rectum = ⋅
a
2b 2
2a (1 − e )
2 2
∴ =5 ⇔ =5 [Q b 2 = a 2 (1 − e2 )]
a a
= ⎛⎜ × ⎞⎟ = ⋅
5 5 5 9 9
⇔ a= =
2(1 − e2 ) ⎛ 4⎞ ⎝ 2 5 ⎠ 2
2⎜1 − ⎟
⎝ 9⎠
81 ⎛
× ⎜1 − ⎞⎟ = ⎛⎜
4 81 5 ⎞ 45
Also, b = a (1 − e ) =
2 2 2
× ⎟ = ⋅
4 ⎝ 9⎠ ⎝ 4 9⎠ 4
2
∴ a 2 = ⎛⎜ ⎞⎟ =
9 81 45
and b 2 = ⋅
⎝ 2⎠ 4 4
Hence, the required equation is
x2 y2 4x 2 4y 2
+ =1 ⇔ + = 1 ⇔ 20x 2 + 36y 2 = 405.
( 81/4) ( 45/4) 81 45
EXAMPLE 10 Find the equation of an ellipse whose vertices are ( 0, ± 13) and the foci are
( 0, ± 5).
SOLUTION Since the vertices of the ellipse lie on the y-axis, it is a vertical ellipse.
x2 y2
Let the required equation be + 2 = 1, where a 2 > b 2 .
b2 a
Its vertices are ( 0, ± a) and therefore, a = 13.
Let its foci be ( 0, ± c). Then, c = 5.
∴ b 2 = ( a 2 − c2 ) = (169 − 25) = 144.
Thus, b 2 = 144 and a 2 = (13) 2 = 169.
x2 y2
Hence, the required equation is + = 1.
144 169
EXAMPLE 11 Find the equation of the ellipse whose foci are ( 0, ± 6) and the length of
whose minor axis is 16.
SOLUTION Since the foci of the given ellipse lie on the y-axis, it is a vertical ellipse.
x2 y2
Let the required equation be + 2 = 1, where a 2 > b 2 .
b2 a
Let c2 = ( a 2 − b 2 ).
Then, its foci are ( 0, ± c) and therefore, c = 6.
Also, b = length of the semi-minor axis = ⎛⎜ × 16⎞⎟ = 8.
1
⎝2 ⎠
∴ a 2 = ( c2 + b 2 ) = ( 36 + 64) = 100.
Thus, b 2 = 64 and a 2 = 100.
x2 y2
Hence, the required equation is + = 1.
64 100
EXAMPLE 12 Find the equation of the ellipse whose foci are ( 0, ± 5) and the length of
whose major axis is 20.
SOLUTION Since the foci of the ellipse lie on the y-axis, it is a vertical ellipse.
x2 y2
Let the required equation be + 2 = 1, where a 2 > b 2 .
b2 a
Let c2 = ( a 2 − b 2 ).
Its foci are ( 0, ± c) and therefore, c = 5.
Also, a = length of the semi-major axis = ⎛⎜ × 20⎞⎟ = 10.
1
⎝2 ⎠
Now, c2 = ( a 2 − b 2 ) ⇔ b 2 = ( a 2 − c2 ) = (100 − 25) = 75.
Thus, a 2 = (10) 2 = 100 and b 2 = 75.
x2 y2
Hence, the required equation is + = 1.
75 100
 4
EXAMPLE 13 Find the equation of the ellipse for which e = and whose vertices are
5
( 0, ± 10).
SOLUTION Since the vertices of the ellipse lie on the y-axis, it is a vertical ellipse.
x2 y2
Let the required equation be + 2 = 1, where a 2 > b 2 .
b2 a
Its vertices are ( 0, ± a) and therefore, a = 10.
Let c2 = ( a 2 − b 2 ).

Then, e =
c ⎛ 4⎞
⇒ c = ae = ⎜10 × ⎟ = 8.
a ⎝ 5⎠
Now, c2 = ( a 2 − b 2 ) ⇔ b 2 = ( a 2 − c2 ) = (100 − 64) = 36.
∴ a 2 = (10) 2 = 100 and b 2 = 36.
x2 y2
Hence, the required equation is + = 1.
36 100
EXAMPLE 14 Find the equation of the ellipse with centre at the origin, major-axis on
the y-axis and passing through the points (3, 2) and (1, 6).
SOLUTION Since the major axis of the ellipse lies on the y-axis, it is a vertical
ellipse.
x2 y2
Let the required equation be + 2 = 1 (where a 2 > b 2 ). … (i)
b2 a
9 4
Since (3, 2) lies on (i), we have 2 + 2 = 1. … (ii)
b a
1 36
Also, since (1, 6) lies on (i), we have 2 + 2 = 1. … (iii)
b a
1 1
Putting 2 = u and 2 = v , these equations become:
b a
9u + 4v = 1 … (iv)
and u + 36v = 1 … (v)
On multiplying (v) by 9 and subtracting (iv) from it, we get
8 1 1 1
320v = 8 ⇔ v = = ⇔ 2 = ⇔ a 2 = 40.
320 40 a 40
1
Putting v = in (v), we get
40

u + ⎛⎜ 36 × ⎞⎟ = 1 ⇔ u = ⎛⎜1 − ⎞⎟ =
1 9 1 1 1
⇔ 2 = ⇔ b 2 = 10.
⎝ 40⎠ ⎝ 10⎠ 10 b 10
Thus, b 2 = 10 and a 2 = 40.
x2 y2
Hence, the required equation is + = 1.
10 40
 Entrance Hub Practice Questions
Find the (i) lengths of major and minor axes, (ii) coordinates of the vertices,
(iii) coordinates of the foci, (iv) eccentricity, and (v) length of the latus rectum of
each of the following ellipses.
x2 y2 x2 y2
1. + =1 2. + =1 3. 16x 2 + 25 y 2 = 400
25 9 49 36
4. x 2 + 4y 2 = 100 5. 9x 2 + 16y 2 = 144 6. 4x 2 + 9y 2 = 1
x2 y2 x2 y2
7. + =1 8. + =1 9. 3 x 2 + 2y 2 = 18
4 25 9 16
10. 9x 2 + y 2 = 36 11. 16x 2 + y 2 = 16 12. 25 x 2 + 4y 2 = 100
13. Find the equation of the ellipse whose vertices are at ( ±6, 0) and foci at
( ±4, 0).
14. Find the equation of the ellipse whose vertices are at ( 0, ± 4) and foci at
( 0, ± 7 ).
15. Find the equation of the ellipse the ends of whose major and minor axes are
( ±4, 0) and ( 0, ± 3) respectively.
16. The length of the major axis of an ellipse is 20 units and its foci are( ±5 3 , 0).
Find the equation of the ellipse.
17. Find the equation of the ellipse whose foci are ( ±2, 0) and the eccentricity
1
is ⋅
2
1
18. Find the equation of the ellipse whose foci are at ( ±1, 0) and e = ⋅
2
4
19. Find the equation of the ellipse whose foci are at ( 0, ± 4) and e = ⋅
5
20. Find the equation of the ellipse with centre at the origin, major axis on the
x-axis and passing through the points (4, 3) and ( −1, 4).
3
21. Find the equation of the ellipse with eccentricity , foci on the y-axis, centre
4
at the origin and passing through the point (6, 4).
22. Find the equation of the ellipse which passes through the point (4, 1) and
having its foci at ( ±3 , 0).
23. Find the equation of an ellipse, the lengths of whose major and minor axes
are 10 and 8 units respectively.
2
24. Find the equation of an ellipse whose eccentricity is , the latus rectum is
3
5 and the centre is at the origin.
25. Find the eccentricity of an ellipse whose latus rectum is one half of its
minor axis.
26. Find the eccentricity of an ellipse whose latus rectum is one half of its
major axis.

Entrance Hub Practice Questions

1. (i) 10 units, 6 units (ii) A( −5 , 0) and B(5 , 0) (iii) F1 ( −4, 0) and F2 ( 4, 0)

4
(iv) e = (v) 3.6 units
5
2. (i) 14 units, 12 units (ii) A( −7 , 0) and B(7 , 0)
13 72
(iii) F1 ( − 13 , 0) and F2 ( 13 , 0) (iv) e = (v) units
7 7
3. (i) 10 units, 8 units (ii) A( −5 , 0) and B(5 , 0) (iii) F1 ( −3 , 0) and F2 ( 3 , 0)
3 32
(iv) e = (v) units
5 5
4. (i) 20 units, 10 units (ii) A( −10, 0) and B(10, 0)
3
(iii) F1 ( −5 3 , 0) and F2 (5 3 , 0) (iv) e = (v) 5 units
2
5. (i) 8 units, 6 units (ii) A( −4, 0) and B( 4, 0) (iii) F1 ( − 7 , 0), F2 ( 7 , 0)

7 9
(iv) e = (v) units
4 2

(ii) A ⎛⎜ − , 0⎞⎟ and B ⎛⎜ , 0⎞⎟

2 1 1
6. (i) 1 unit, unit
3 ⎝ 2 ⎠ ⎝2 ⎠

⎛− 5 ⎞ ⎛ 5 ⎞ 5 4
(iii) F1 ⎜ , 0⎟ and F2 ⎜ , 0⎟ (iv) e = (v) unit
⎝ 6 ⎠ ⎝ 6 ⎠ 3 9

7. (i) 10 units, 4 units (ii) A( 0, − 5 ) and B( 0, 5 )

21 8
(iii) F1 ( 0, − 21 ) and F2 ( 0, 21 ) (iv) e = (v) units
5 5
8. (i) 8 units, 6 units (ii) A( 0, − 4) and B( 0, 4)
7 1
(iii) F1 ( 0, − 7 ) and F2 ( 0, 7 ) (iv) e = (v) 4 units
4 2
9. (i) 6 units, 2 6 units (ii) A( 0, − 3) and B( 0, 3)
1
(iii) F1 ( 0, − 3 ) and F2 ( 0, 3) (iv) e = (v) 4 units
3
10. (i) 12 units, 4 units (ii) A( 0, − 6) and B( 0, 6)
2 2 1
(iii) F1 ( 0, − 4 2 ) and F2 ( 0, 4 2 ) (iv) e = (v) 1 units
3 3
11. (i) 8 units, 2 units (ii) A( 0, − 4) and B( 0, 4)
15 1
(iii) F1 ( 0, − 15 ) and F2 ( 0, 15 ) (iv) e = (v) unit
4 2
12. (i) 10 units, 4 units (ii) A( 0, − 5 ) and B( 0, 5 )
21 3
(iii) F1 ( 0, − 21) and F2 ( 0, 21) (iv) e = (v) 1 units
5 5
x2 y2 x2 y2 x2 y2
13. + =1 14. + =1 15. + =1
36 20 9 16 16 9
x2 y2 x2 y2 x2 y2
16. + =1 17. + =1 18. + =1
100 25 16 12 4 3
x2 y2
19. + =1 20. 7 x 2 + 15 y 2 = 247 21. 16x 2 + 7 y 2 = 688
9 25
x2 y2 x2 y2 4x 2 4y 2
22. + =1 23. + =1 24. + =1
18 9 25 16 81 45
3 1
25. e = 26. e =
2 2

HINTS TO SOME SELECTED QUESTIONS

2 2
x y
6. Given equation is + = 1.
( 1/ 4 ) ( 1/ 9 )

, b = and c 2 = ( a2 − b 2 ) = ⎛⎜ − ⎞⎟ =
1 2 1 1 1 5
∴ a2 = ⋅
4 9 ⎝ 4 9 ⎠ 36
1 1 5
∴ a= , b = and c = ⋅
2 3 6
15. The ends of the major axis are ( ± a, 0 ) and the ends of the minor axis are ( 0 , ± b ).
∴ a = 4 and b = 3.
x2 y2
16. Let the equation of the ellipse be = 1. +
2
a b2
Length of the major axis = 20 ⇔ 2 a = 20 ⇔ a = 10.
Foci are ( ± c , 0 ) ⇒ c = 5 3 .
Now, c 2 = ( a2 − b 2 ) ⇔ b 2 = ( a2 − c 2 ) = ( 100 − 75 ) = 25.
x2 y2
∴ the required equation is + = 1.
100 25
19. Clearly, the major axis lies along the y-axis.
x2 y2
Let the required equation be + = 1.
b2 a2
 4 c
Here, c = 4 and e = ⋅ So, a = = 5.
5 e
∴ b 2 = ( a2 − c 2 ) = ( 25 − 16 ) = 9.
21. Since the centre of the ellipse lies at the origin and its foci lie on the y-axis, it is a
vertical ellipse.
x2 y2
Let its equation be + = 1. … (i)
b2 a2
Let c 2 = a2 − b 2 .
3 c 3 3
Now, e = ⇔ = ⇔ c = a.
4 a 4 4
9 2 ⎞ 7 a2
∴ b 2 = ( a2 − c 2 ) = ⎛⎜ a2 − a ⎟= ⋅
⎝ 16 ⎠ 16
So, the equation of the ellipse is
x2 y2
+ = 1 ⇔ 16 x 2 + 7 y 2 = 7 a2 . ... (ii)
2
7a a2
16
Since it passes through (6, 4), putting x = 6 and y = 4 in (ii), we get
7 a2 = 688.
Hence, the required equation is 16 x 2 + 7 y 2 = 688.
23. 2 a = 10 and 2 b = 8.
2b 2 2 a2 ( 1 − e 2 ) 9
24. =5 ⇒ =5 ⇒ a= ⋅
a a 2
Also, b =2 5a ⎛ 5 9 ⎞ 45
=⎜ × ⎟= ⋅
2 ⎝ 2 2⎠ 4
⎧ 2b 2 1 a⎫
25. ⎨ = × 2b ⇒ b = ⎬ ⋅
⎩ a 2 2⎭
a2
So, b 2 = a2 ( 1 − e 2 ) ⇒ = a2 ( 1 − e 2 ).
4
2b 2 1 b 1
26. = × 2 a ⇒ a2 = 2 b 2 ⇒ a = 2 b. So, e = = ⋅
a 2 a 2