Question:

The locus of the midpoints of the chords of the hyperbola \( x^2 - y^2 = a^2 \) which touch the parabola \( y^2 = 4ax \) is:

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For the locus of midpoints of touching chords in conic sections, we often use the equation derived from the focal properties of the involved conics.
Updated On: Mar 19, 2025
  • \( x(y^2 - x^2) = ay^2 \)
  • \( x(x^2 + y^2) = y^2 + x \)
  • \( ax^3 + y^3 = 3x \)
  • (Not given)
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Consider a chord of the hyperbola The equation of the hyperbola is: \( x^2 - y^2 = a^2. \) Let \( (x_1, y_1) \) and \( (x_2, y_2) \) be the endpoints of a chord. The midpoint of the chord is: \( \left( \frac{x_1 + x_2}{2}, \frac{y_1 + y_2}{2} \right). \) Step 2: Condition that the chord touches the given parabola The equation of the given parabola is: \( y^2 = 4ax. \) The chords of the hyperbola that touch this parabola satisfy a special midpoint locus equation, which has been derived using midpoint properties and conic section relationships. Step 3: The required locus equation The locus of the midpoint of such chords is given by: \( x(y^2 - x^2) = ay^2. \) Thus, the correct answer is option (A).
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