Solution
Related Formula
Properties of focal chord parameter metrics in parabolas y² = 4ax:
t₁ · t₂ = -1Distance to the directrix property:
SP = a(1 + t²), SQ = a(1 + (1)/(t²))Core Logic
Given parabola y² = 12x a = 3. Focus S = (3, 0). Set up focal segments product equation:
SP · SQ = 3(1+t²) · 3(1+(1)/(t²)) = (147)/(4) 9 · ((1+t²)²)/(t²) = (147)/(4) ((1+t²)²)/(t²) = (49)/(12)Solving for t²:
12t⁴ - 25t² + 12 = 0 t² = (3)/(4) or (4)/(3)Step 1: Compute Endpoint Coordinate Bounds
Choosing t = - √(3)2 allows defining both chord coordinates symmetrically:
P(3t², 6t) P((9)/(4), -3√(3)) Q((3)/(t²), -(6)/(t)) Q(4, 4√(3))Step 2: Derive Circle Equation
Write the diameter circle form equation:
(x - 4)(x - (9)/(4)) + (y - 4√(3))(y + 3√(3)) = 0 x² + y² - (25)/(4)x - √(3)y - 27 = 0Multiply by 64 to clear the fractions and match the given equation template structure:
64x² + 64y² - 400x - 64√(3)y - 1728 = 0Comparing directly with 64x² + 64y² - α x - 64√(3)y = β yields:
α = 400, β = 1728 β - α = 1728 - 400 = 1328Pattern Recognition
The distance from focal chord endpoints to the focus equals their perpendicular distance to the directrix. This property connects parameter metrics to geometric lengths cleanly.
Chapter Mix
Class 11 Mathematics: Conic Sections Class 11 Mathematics: Circles