Solution
Related Formula
For a focal chord with ends (at₁², 2at₁) and (at₂², 2at₂), the relation is t₁t₂ = -1 Section formula: (x, y) = ( (mx₂ + nx₁)/(m+n), (my₂ + ny₁)/(m+n) )Core Logic
Step 1: Calculate coordinates of B
For t₂ = -1/2, point B is: x = 4(-1/2)² = 1 y = 8(-1/2) = -4 So, B(1, -4).
Step 2: Section formula calculations (Two cases)
Point P(α, β) divides AB in the ratio 5:2. There are two possibilities depending on which end the ratio starts from.
Case 1: Ratio 5 from B to A (i.e. A is x₂ and B is x₁):
α = (5(16) + 2(1))/(7) = (80 + 2)/(7) = (82)/(7) β = (5(16) + 2(-4))/(7) = (80 - 8)/(7) = (72)/(7)Sum: α + β = (154)/(7) = 22.
Case 2: Ratio 5 from A to B (i.e. B is x₂ and A is x₁):
α = (5(1) + 2(16))/(7) = (5 + 32)/(7) = (37)/(7) β = (5(-4) + 2(16))/(7) = (-20 + 32)/(7) = (12)/(7)Sum: α + β = (49)/(7) = 7.
Step 3: Minimum Value
Comparing the two possible sums, 7 < 22. Thus, the minimum value is 7.
Pattern Recognition
When a line segment is divided in a given ratio, 'internal division' inherently bears two solutions based on the orientation (from point A or point B). Always evaluate both cases when finding a minimum or maximum.
Chapter Mix
Class 11 Maths: Conic Sections