Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
Definition: A geometrical locus is a plane if it is such that if P and Q are any two points on
the locus then every point of the line P Q is also a point on the locus.
(~r − ~
a) · n
~ = 0, [ Vector form of equation] (1)
Proof: Let (x1 , y1 , z1 ) and (x2 , y2 , z2 ) be any two points on the locus; then
ax + by + cz + d = 0
a x + b0 y + c0 z + d 0 = 0
0
a0 b0 c0
are parallel, then a = b = c = k (say)
a0 = ak, b0 = bk, c0 = ck
1
Therefore, the equation of the second plane may be written as
Example 1: Find the equation of the plane through the point (2, 3, 5), parallel to the plane
2x − 4y + 3z = 9.
Solution: Let the equation of the plane, parallel to the given plane, be 2x − 4y + 3z = k. As
it passes through the point (2, 3, 5), therefore we have
2·2−4·3+3·5 = k i.e. k = 7.
The required equation to the plane is 2x − 4y + 3z = 7.
Intercept Form:
Proposition 2: Equation of a plane which cuts off intercepts a, b, c from the x, y, z axes is given by
x y z
+ + = 1.
a b c
Proof: As a plane cuts off intercepts a, b, c from the axes. The required plane passes
through the point (a, 0, 0), (0, b, 0) and (0, 0, c).
Let the equation of the plane be Ax+By+Cz+D = 0. Substituting the co-ordinates
of the above three points, we have
Aa + D = 0, Bb + D = 0, and Cc + D = 0
D D D
Therefore, A = − ,B = − ,C = − .
a b c
Hence, the equation of plane is − Da x − Db y − Dc z + D = 0
x y z
i. e., + + = 1.
a b c
Plane passing through three given points
Proposition 3: The equation of a plane passing through three given points (x1 , y1 , z1 ), (x2 , y2 , z2 ) and
(x3 , y3 , z3 ) is given by
x y z 1
x1 y1 z1 1
x y z 1 = 0
2 2 2
x3 y3 z3 1
2
Proof: Suppose
ax + by + cz + d = 0 (5)
is the equation of the plane through the given points (x1 , y1 , z1 ), (x2 , y2 , z2 ) and
(x3 , y3 , z3 ).
Since each point lies in the plane, its co-ordinates must satisfy the equation (5).
Therefore
ax1 + by1 + cz1 + d = 0 (6)
ax2 + by2 + cz2 + d = 0 (7)
ax3 + by3 + cz3 + d = 0 (8)
Eliminating a, b, c from (5), (6), (7) and (8), we get
x y z 1
x1 y1 z1 1
x y z 1 = 0
2 2 2
x3 y3 z3 1
which is the required equation.
Angle between two planes:
Result 1: Let ax +by +cz +d = 0 and a0 x +b0 y +c0 z +d 0 = 0 be two planes. The angle between
these two planes is given by
aa0 + bb0 + cc0
−1
θ = cos p √ .
a2 + b2 + c2 a02 + b02 + c02
Therefore, the two planes are perpendicular, if aa0 + bb0 + cc0 = 0.
Example 2: Find the equation of the plane which cuts off intercepts 3, 4 and 5 from the axes.
x y
Ans: The required equation is 3 + 4 + 5z = 1.
Example 3: Find the intercepts made on the axes by the plane 3x − 4y + 6z − 12 = 0.
x y
Ans: On writing the equation in the intercept form we get, 4 − 3 + 2z = 1. Hence the
intercepts on the axes are 4, −3 and 2.
Example 4: A plane cuts the axes at A, B and C and the centroid of the triangle ABC is (a, b, c).
Find the equation of the plane.
Soln: Suppose the co-ordinates of A, B, C are (α, 0, 0), (0, β, 0) and (0, 0, γ) respectively.
Then we have
α+0+0 0+β +0 0+0+γ
= a, = b, and = c;
3 3 3
so that α = 3a, β = 3b and γ = 3c.
x y
We know that the equation of a plane with intercept α, β, γ is α + β + γz = 1.
Therefore, the required equation of a plane is
x y z
+ + = 3.
a b c
3
Example 5: Find the equation of the plane which passes through the point (2, −3, 1) and is
perpendicular to the join of the points (4, 5, −2) and (2, −1, 6).
Example 6: Find the equation of the plane which passes through the point (2, 1, 4) and is
perpendicular to the planes 9x − 7y + 6z + 48 = 0 and x + y − z = 0.
Soln: Any plane passing through the point (2, 1, 4) can be written as
9A − 7B + 6C = 0 (10)
A+B−C = 0 (11)
A B C
= = .
1 15 16
Therefore, the required equation of the plane is obtained as
Result 2: The perpendicular distance of the point (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) from the plane
ax + by + cz + d = 0 (12)
is given by
ax0 + by 0 + cz0 + d
± √ .
a2 + b2 + c2
Remark: For numerical examples, we first write the equation of a plane in the form (12) in
which the constant term is positive (for e. g. if equation is given as 2x+3y −z = 8,
we reduced the equation to the form −2x − 3y + z + 8 = 0) and then the formula is
applied with + sign.
Example 7: Find the perpendicular distance of the points (1, 4, −2) and (5, 1, 3) from the plane
2x − 3y + z = 5.
4
Soln: The equation of the plane is written as
−2x + 3y − z + 5 = 0.
−2 · 1 + 3 · 4 − (−2) + 5 17
= √ =√
22 + 32 + 12 14
And the perpendicular distance from (5, 1, 3)
−2 · 5 + 3 · 1 − 3 + 5 5
= √ = −√ .
22 + 32 + 12 14
It is important to note that, since their values are opposite in sign, the two points
lie on opposite side of the plane, the first point being on the same side as the
origin.
ax0 + by 0 + cz0 + d a0 x0 + b0 y 0 + c0 z0 + d 0
√ =± √ .
a2 + b2 + c2 a02 + b02 + c02
Therefore the equation of the bisecting planes which bisect the angle between
two given planes are
ax + by + cz + d a0 x + b0 y + c0 z + d 0
√ =± √ .
a2 + b2 + c2 a02 + b02 + c02
Linear Combination:
u + kv ≡ (ax + by + cz + d) + k(a0 x + b0 y + c0 z + d 0 ) = 0
is the general equation of all planes passing through the line of intersection of
the two planes u = 0 and v = 0.
The equation u + kv = 0 is of the first degree and so it represents a plane. More-
over, it is satisfied by the co-ordinates of any point, which satisfying the equa-
tions u = 0, v = 0 simultaneously. Hence, the plane represented by the equation
u + kv = 0 passes through the line of intersection of the two planes u = 0 and
v = 0.
Example 8: Find the equation of the plane passing through the point (1, −2, 1) and the line of
intersection of the planes 2x − y + 3z − 2 = 0 and x + 2y − 4z + 3 = 0.
5
Soln: The general equation of all planes passing through the line of intersection of the
two given planes is
(2x − y + 3z − 2) + k(x + 2y − 4z + 3) = 0
(2 + 2 + 3 − 2) + k(1 − 4 − 4 + 3) = 0
5
∴ k = .
4
Hence, the required equation is
5
(2x − y + 3z − 2) + (x + 2y − 4z + 3) = 0
4
or, 13x + 6y − 8z + 7 = 0.
6
The Straight Line
The symmetrical form:
Equation of the line whose direction cosines are l, m, n and which passes through a point
(x0 , y 0 , z0 ) is given by
x − x0 y − y 0 z − z0
= = .
l m n
This is also known as the symmetrical equation of a straight line.
Example 1: Find the co-ordinates of the point where the join of (2, −3, 1) and (1, 2, −4) cuts
the plane 2x + 3y − 5z + 3 = 0.
Soln: Equation of a line joining points (2, −3, 1) and (1, 2, −4) is given by
x−2 y +3 z−1
= =
2 − 1 −3 − 2 1 + 4
Therefore any points on this line is of the form (λ + 2, −5λ − 3, 5λ + 1). For point
of intersection of the above line with a given plane we must have
7
2(λ + 2) + 3(−5λ − 3) − 5(5λ + 1) + 3 = 0 ⇒ λ = −
38
7 7 7
Hence, the co-ordinates of the meeting point is − 38 +2, −5· − 38 −3, 5· − 38 +1
i.e. 69
38 , − 79 3
38 38 .
,
Let us a substitute these co-ordinates in the equations of the two planes for the
second line; then
7
And from (14) we have
Since we are getting the same value of r, this shows that the first line meets the
plane 4x − 3y + 1 = 0 and 5x − 3z + 2 = 0 at the same point. Thus, the first line cuts
the line of intersection of the two planes, i. e. cuts the second line. Hence they
are coplanar.
ax + by + cz = 0 ,
a x + b0 y + c0 z0 = 0 ,
0
ax + by + d = 0 ,
a x + b0 y + d 0 = 0 ,
0
On solving x, y from one can obtain the coordinates of point through which a
0 −b0 d da0 −d 0 a
line passes as bd
ab0 −a0 b , ab0 −a0 b , 0 .
3x − 4y + 2z = 0 and 2x + 3y − 5z = 0.
3x − 4y + 5 = 0 and 2x + 3y − 8 = 0
8
Again by cross-multiplication method, we have,
x y 1
= = .
32 − 15 10 + 24 9 + 8
Therefore, (1, 2, 0) is a point on the line.
Hence the required equation is
x−1 y −2 z
= = .
14 19 17
Example 4: Find the equation of the line through the point (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) parallel to the z-axis.
x − x0 y − y 0 z − z0
= =
0 0 1
i.e. x = x0 and y = y 0
The equations
x−α y −β z−γ
= = (15)
l m n
are equivalent to the following three equations
x−α y −β
= (16)
l m
x−α z−γ
= (17)
l n
y −β z−γ
= (18)
m n
The equation (16) represents the plane through the line (15) parallel to the z-
axis. The equation (17) represents the plane through the parallel to the y-axis.
The equation (18) represents the plane through the parallel to the x-axis.
x−b y−d
Soln: From x = az + b, we have a = z and from y = cz + d, we have c =z
Thus, we have
x−b y −d z
= = .
a c 1
Example 6. Prove that the line x = pz+q and y = p0 z+q0 intersects the conic z = 0, ax2 +by 2 = 1
if aq2 + bq02 = 1.
9
Soln: When the given line meets the plane z = 0, we have
x = q and y = q0 .
z = 0, ax2 + by 2 = 1
Example 7. Prove that any line, which passes through (α, β, γ) and intersects the conic z = 0,
ax2 + by 2 = 1, generates the surface a(αz − γx)2 + b(βz − γy)2 = (z − γ)2 .
lγ 2 mγ 2
a α− +b β− =1 (21)
n n
Eliminating l, m, n from (19) and (21), we have
x−α 2 y −β 2
a α−γ +b β−γ = 1,
z−γ z−γ
or
a(αz − γx)2 + b(βz − γy)2 = (z − γ)2 ,
which is the required surface.
x−1 y−2 z−3
Example 8. Find the equation of the three planes through the line 2 = 3 = 4 parallel to
the axes.
10
Example 9. Find the equations of the planes through the line 2x−y +3z+4 = 0 = 3x+2y −z+1,
parallel to the co-ordinate axes.
Soln: We know that the equation
2x − y + 3z + 4 + λ(3x + 2y − z + 1) = 0 ,
(2 + 3λ)x + (−1 + 2λ)y + (3 − λ)z + (4 + λ) = 0 (22)
represents a plane through the line for all values of λ. This plane is parallel to
the x-axis, if dot product of direction ratios of normal of plane (22) and (1, 0, 0)
is zero (i.e. if the co-efficient of x in eqn (22) is zero) i.e. if
2
2 + 3λ = 0 or λ = −
3
Then the plane parallel to the x-axis is
2
2x − y + 3z + 4 − (3x + 2y − z + 1) = 0
3
or
−7y + 11z + 10 = 0
Similarly, find equations of planes parallel to y and z axes.
Example 10. Find the equation of the plane through the line x + y + z + 3 = 0 = 2x − y + 3z + 1
y
parallel to the line 1x = 2 = 3z .
Soln: Any plane through the first line is
x + y + z + 3 + λ(2x − y + 3z + 1) = 0
or (1 + 2λ)x + (1 − λ)y + (1 + 3λ)z + (3 + λ) = 0
It is parallel to the second line, if
(1 + 2λ) · 1 + (1 − λ) · 2 + (1 + 3λ) · 3 = 0
2
or λ=−
3
Hence the required plane is
2
x + y + z + 3 − (2x − y + 3z + 1) = 0,
3
or x − 5y + 3z = 7.
11
Example 11. Find the equation of the plane through the line
x−α y −β z−γ
= =
l m n
and parallel to the line
x − α0 y − β0 z − γ 0
= = .
l0 m0 n0
Soln: The general equation of a plane through the first line is
Al + Bm + Cn = 0 (24)
Example 12. Find the equation of the plane through the point (a, b, c) and through the line
x−α y −β z−γ
= = .
l m n
Al + Bm + Cn = 0 (27)
If the plane (26) passes through the given point (a, b, c), then we have
Eliminating A, B, C we have
x − α y − β z − γ
a − α b − β c − γ = 0
l m n
12
Coplanar lines:
x−α y −β z−γ
= = (29)
l m n
x − α0 y − β0 z − γ 0
and = = (30)
l0 m0 n0
are coplanar.
Al + Bm + Cn = 0 (32)
Soln: Take a point (1+r, 1+2r, 1+3r) on the first line and a point (4+2r 0 , 6+3r 0 , 8+4r 0 )
on the second line.
If these two points are identical, then we have
1 = r = 4 + 2r 0
1 + 2r = 6 + 3r 0
1 + 3r = 8 + 4r 0
All these three equations are satisfied for the value r = 1 and r 0 = −1. Hence the
two lines are coplanar. Their common point of intersection is (2, 3, 4).
13
Shortest distance between the lines:
The shortest distance between the two lines is their common perpendicular.
Let A be the point (α, β, γ) on the first line and B, (α 0 , β 0 , γ 0 ) on the second line.
Let MN be the shortest distance between them, then MN is perpendicular to
both the lines. Let λ, µ, ν be the direction cosines of MN .
Then we have
lλ + mµ + nν = 0 and l 0 λ + m0 µ + n0 ν = 0.
On cross-multiplication we get
λ µ ν
0 0
= 0 0
= 0 0 = r(say)
mn − m n nl − n l lm − l m
Since λ, µ, ν are direction cosines we have λ2 + µ2 + ν 2 = 1 i.e.
q −1
r = (mn0 − m0 n)2 + (nl 0 − n0 l)2 + (lm0 − l 0 m)2
λ µ ν 1
∴ = = =
mn0 − m0 n nl 0 − n0 l lm0 − l 0 m
p
Σ(mn0 − m0 n)2
p p
where we have denote Σ(mn0 − m0 n)2 for (mn0 − m0 n)2 + (nl 0 − n0 l)2 + (lm0 − l 0 m)2 .
To find the equations of the shortest distance, we take the plane through the first
line and the shortest distance, and another plane through the second line and
the shortest distance. The equations of these two planes are
x − α y − β z − γ
l m n = 0
λ µ ν
and
x − α 0 y − β 0 z − γ 0
l 0 m0 n0 = 0
λ µ ν
14
where λ, µ, ν are the direction cosines of the shortest distance. Hence the equa-
tion of the shortest distance is given by
x − α y − β z − γ x − α 0 y − β 0 z − γ 0
l m n = 0 = l 0 m0 n0
λ µ ν λ µ ν
Example 14. Find the length and equation of the line of the shortest distance between the
lines
x+3 y −6 2 x+2 y z−7
= = and = = .
−4 3 2 −4 1 1
Soln: If λ, µ, ν be the direction cosines of the shortest distance, then we have
−4λ + 3µ + 2ν = 0 and − 4λ + µ + ν = 0.
λ µ ν
∴ = =
1 −4 8
Therefore, the shortest distance
−3 + 2 6 −7 √
= −4 3 2 ÷ 1 + 16 + 64 = −9
−4 1 1
and
x + 2 y z − 7
−4 1 1 = 0
1 −4 8
or
32x + 34y + 13z − 108 = 0 = 12x + 33y + 15z − 81
Example 15. Show that the shortest distance between any two opposite edges of the tetrahe-
dron form by the planes
2a
y + z = 0, z + x = 0, x + y = 0, x + y + z = a is √ ;
6
and the three lines of the shortest distances intersect at the point x = y = z = −a.
y + z = 0 = z + x and x + y = 0 = x + y + z − a.
15
The direction cosines λ, µ, ν of the shortest distance are given by
λ + µ − ν = 0,
λ−µ = 0
λ µ ν
∴ = =
1 1 2
Hence, the shortest distance is
0 0 −a √ 2a
= 1 1 −1 ÷ 12 + 12 + 22 = √
1 −1 0
6
P N 2 = AP 2 − AN 2 ,
[l(x0 − α) + m(y 0 − β) + n(z0 − γ)]2
= [(x0 − α)2 + (y 0 − β)2 + (z0 − γ)2 ] −
(l 2 + m2 + n2 )
Note: Two lines intersect (i.e. they are coplanar) iff the distance between them is zero.
Example 16. Find the distance of the point (1, 2, 3) from the line
x−2 y −4 z−5
= = .
1 3 4
16
The Sphere
Definition: A sphere is a surface traced out by a moving point, which is always at a constant
distance from a fixed point (called the centre of a sphere). The constant distance
is called the radius of the sphere.
To find the equation of the sphere whose centre is the point (h, k, l) and radius equal to
r.
Let P (x, y, z) be any point on the sphere; then its distance from centre (h, k, l) is
equal to r.
q
(x − h)2 + (y − k)2 + (z − l)2 = r, (36)
or (x − h)2 + (y − k)2 + (z − l)2 = r 2 , (37)
On comparing equations (38) and (39), we see that (39) √represents the general
equation of a sphere with (−u, −v, −w) as its centre and u 2 + v 2 + w2 − d as its
radius.
Remark: If the centre of the sphere is at the origin and the radius is r, its equation is
therefore given by x2 + y 2 + z2 = r 2 .
Example 1. Find the equation of the sphere whose centre is (1, 2, 3) and radius 4.
Ans: The required equation is
x2 + y 2 + z2 − 4x + 5y − 6z − 1 = 0
17
Soln: On comparing with a general equation
Example 3. Find the equation of the sphere passing through the origin and the points A(a, 0, 0), B(0, b, 0)
and C(0, 0, c).
Since, the sphere passing through the origin and the points A(a, 0, 0), B(0, b, 0)
and C(0, 0, c), then on substituting the coordinates of the four points, we have
d=0
a2 + 2ua = 0
b2 + 2vb = 0
c2 + 2wc = 0
respectively.
Therefore
2u = −a, 2v = −b, 2w = −c
Hence the equation of the sphere OABC is
x2 + y 2 + z2 − ax − by − cz = 0.
Let
represent two spheres. The coordinates of a point common to the two spheres
obviously satisfy the equation
Hence, the sphere (42) and (43) and the plane (44) have a common curve of intersec-
tion. But a plane cuts a sphere in a circle. Hence, the section of the spheres is a circle.
18
• To find the equation of the sphere describe on the join of the points A(x1 , y1 , z1 ) and
B(x2 , y2 , z2 ) as diameter.
Let P (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) be any point on the sphere. The plane P AB will then passes
through the centre of the sphere. Hence, P A is perpendicular to P B. Since the
direction ratios of the line P A and P B are respectively
x0 − x1 , y 0 − y1 , z0 − z1 and x0 − x2 , y 0 − y2 , z0 − z2 ,
therefore we have
(x0 − x1 )(x0 − x2 ) + (y 0 − y1 )(y 0 − y2 ) + (z0 − z1 )(z0 − z2 ) = 0.
Therefore the equation of the sphere on AB as diameter is
(x − x1 )(x − x2 ) + (y − y1 )(y − y2 ) + (z − z1 )(z − z2 ) = 0.
If
S = x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d = 0 (45)
U = ax + by + cz + d 0 = 0 (46)
represent a circle, then
S + λU = 0 (47)
represents a sphere passing through a circle. Obviously the equation (47) repre-
sents some sphere and since it is satisfied by the coordinates of any point com-
mon to (45) and (46), these spheres passes through the given circle.
19
Spheres of the form S + λS 0 = 0:
If
S = x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d = 0 (48)
S 0 = x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2u 0 x + 2v 0 y + 2w0 z + d 0 = 0, (49)
be two spheres, then,
S + λS 0 ≡ (1 + λ)(x2 + y 2 + z2 ) + 2(u + λu 0 )x + 2(v + λv 0 )y + 2(w + λw0 )z + (d + λd 0 ) = 0
also represents a sphere passing through the circle of intersection between the
spheres S = 0 and S 0 = 0
Example 5. Find the equation of the sphere through the origin and the circle.
x2 + y 2 + z2 − 4x + 3 = 0 = x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2y + 4
Remark (a): The equation of the tangent plane to the sphere x2 + y 2 + z2 = a2 at the point
A(x0 , y 0 , z0 ) is
xx0 + yy 0 + zz0 = a2
Remark (b): The equation of the tangent plane to the sphere given by the general equation:
x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d = 0
at a point A(x0 , y 0 , z0 ) is given by
xx0 + yy 0 + zz0 + u(x + x0 ) + v(y + y 0 ) + w(z + z0 ) + d = 0.
20
• To find the condition that the plane lx + my + nz = p is a tangent plane to the sphere
x2 + y 2 + z2 = a2 .
The equation of the tangent plane at (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) is
xx0 + yy 0 + zz0 = a2 .
Comparing it with the equation of the given plane, we have
x0 y 0 z0 a2
= = = .
l m n p
But (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) is on the sphere; therefore we get
a4 l 2 a4 m2 a2 n2
+ 2 + 2 = a2
p2 p p
or a2 (l 2 + m2 + n2 ) = p2 ,
which is the required condition.
• To find the condition that that the plane lx + my + nz + p = 0 is a tangent plane to the
sphere
x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d = 0. (50)
√
The centre of the sphere (50) is (−u, −v, −w) and is radius is u 2 + v 2 + w2 .
If the given plane is a tangent plane to the sphere, the perpendicular distance of
the centre from the plane must equal to the radius of the sphere.
−lu − mv − nw + p √ 2
Therefore, √ = u + v 2 + w2 − d.
2 2
l +m +n 2
21
Example 7: Obtain the equation of the sphere having the circle
x2 + y 2 + z2 + 10y − 4z − 8 = 0, x + y + z = 3
as a great circle.
Soln: The general equation of a sphere passes through given circle is given by
If the given circle is a great circle then the centre of the sphere (51) must lie on
the plane x + y + z = 3, so
λ 10 + λ 4 − λ
− ,− ,
2 2 2
must satisfy equation x + y + z = 3. Then we have
λ 10 + λ 4 − λ
(− − + = 3
2 2 2
⇒ λ = −4
x2 + y 2 + z2 + 10y − 4z − 8 + (−4)(x + y + z − 3) = 0
or, x2 + y 2 + z2 − 4x + 6y − 8z + 4 = 0.
Definition: If a line drawn through a fixed point A meets a given sphere in points P , Q and
a point R is taken on this line such that the segment AR is divided internally
and externally by the points P , Q in the same ratio, then the locus of R is a plane
called the Polar plane of A w.r.t the sphere and A is called the pole.
x2 + y 2 + z2 = a2
is given by
αx + βy + γz − a2 = 0.
22
• The equation of polar plane of a point (α, β, γ) w.r.t the sphere
is given by
Proof: If (α, β, γ) be the required pole, then Eq. (52) is identical with
αx + βy + γz = a2 (54)
α β γ a2
= = =
l m n p
2
a l a2 m a2 n
⇒α = , β= ,γ=
p p p
2 2 2
Thu the required pole is ap l , a pm , apn .
1. The line joining the centre O of a sphere to any point P perpendicular to the
polar plane P .
We know that the d.r.s of the line joining the centre O(0, 0, 0) to the point
P (α, β, γ) are α, β, γ.
Further, the equation of polar plane of (α, β, γ) w.r.t the sphere is αx + βy +
γz = a2 .
Therefore, α, β, γ are d.r.s of normal to the polar plane. Thus, the line join-
ing the centre O of a sphere to any point P perpendicular to the polar plane
P.
2. If the line joining the centre O of a sphere to a point P meets the polar plane of P
in Q, then
OP · OQ = a2
where a is the radius of the sphere.
We know that q
OP = α2 + β2 + γ 2.
23
Also, OQ gives the length of the perpendicular from the centre O(0, 0, 0) to
the polar polar plane αx + βy + γz = a2 of P (∵ the line joining the centre O
of a sphere to any point P perpendicular to the polar plane P ). Therefore,
a2
OQ = p .
α2 + β2 + γ 2
Thus, we have
OP · OQ = a2 .
3. If the polar plane of point P passes through a point Q, then the polar plane of Q
passes through P .
The polar plane of P (α1 , β1 , γ1 ) is given by
α1 x + β1 y + γ1 z = a2 .
α1 α2 + β1 β2 + γ1 γ2 = a2 ,
which is by symmetry, gives the condition that the polar plane of Q passes
through P .
Conjugate points: Two pointsP and Q are said to be conjugate points if polar
plane of P passes through Q and vice versa.
4. If the pole of a plane π1 lies on another plane π2 , then the pole of plane π2 also
lies on plane π1 .
2 2 2
We know from (1) that ap1l1 , a pm1 1 , apn1 1 is the pole of the polar plane
l1 x + m1 y + n1 z = p1 .
l2 x + m 2 y + n 2 z = p 2
we have
a2 (l1 l2 + m1 m2 + n1 n2 ) = p1 p2
2
a l2 a2 m2 a2 n2
which is also the condition that the pole p2 , p2 , p2 of π2 to lie on π1 .
24
The Cone:
Definition: A cone is a surface generated by a straight line which always passes through a fixed
point and intersect a given curve.
A fixed point is called the vertex of the cone and the given curve is called the
guiding curve of the cone. The individual straight line on the surface of the cone
is called its generator.
Theorem: The equation of a cone whose vertex is the origin is second degree homogeneous
and conversely.
Proof: We consider a general second degree equation given by
ax2 + by 2 + cz2 + 2f yz + 2gzx + 2hxy + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d = 0 (55)
We will show that it represents a cone with vertex at the origin iff u = v = w =
d = 0.
First we assume that the equation (55) represents a cone with its vertex at the
origin.
Since the vertex is at the origin, we can consider the equation
x−0 y −0 z−0
= =
l m n
as the equation of a generator of cone (55). This implies that any point P in
this generator is of the form (lr, mr, nr) for any r and it also lies on a cone (55),
therefore,
al 2 r 2 + bm2 r 2 + cn2 r 2 + 2f mnr 2 + 2glnr 2 + 2hlmr 2 + 2ulr + 2vmr + 2wnr + d = 0
⇒ r 2 (al 2 + bm2 + cn2 + 2f mn + 2gln + 2hlm) + r(2ul + 2vm + 2wn) + d = 0
(56)
Since the above equation holds for any r this implies that
⇒ al 2 + bm2 + cn2 + 2f mn + 2gln + 2hlm = 0
ul + vm + wn = 0
d = 0
25
As points (x, y, z) lies on the cone but ux + vy + wz = 0 is a plane. Therefore, this
is possible only if u = v = w = 0.
Hence, the equation of the cone reduces to
Result 1: The general equation of a second degree cone passing through the coordinate
axes is
f yx + gzx + hxy.
The direction cosines of the coordinate axes are (1, 0, 0), (0, 1, 0) and (0, 0, 1). Tak-
ing the most general equation of second degree
Q1. To find the equation of the cone whose vertex is the origin and which passes
through the curve of intersection of the plane lx + my + nz = p and the surface
f (x, y, z) = 0.
Ans: We make the equation f (x, y, z) = 0 homogeneous with the help of the
equation of the plane in the form
lx + my + nz
= 1.
p
The homogeneous equation of the second degree, thus obtained, represent the
cones, becouse it is satisfied by the coordinates of any point which satisfy the
equations of the plane and the surface simultaneously.
Example 1: Find the equation of the cone, whose vertex is the origin and the guiding curve
is given by
x + 2y + 3z = 4 (57)
5x + 7y 2 − 3z + 2 = 0.
2
(58)
26
Soln: We make the equation (58) homogeneous with the help of equation (57) in the
form
x + 2y + 3z
=1
4
Thus, we get the required equation, viz.,
x + 2y + 3z x + 2y + 3z 2
2 2
5x + 7y − 3z +2 =0
4 4
Example 2: To find the equation of the cone whose vertex is (α, β, γ) and the guiding curve is
the conic z = 0, f (x, y) = 0.
x−α y −β z−γ
= = (59)
l m n
meets the plane z = 0 at the point, whose coordinates are given by
l m
x = α − γ, y = β − γ, z = 0
n n
If the line (59) intersects the guiding curve, then these values of x and y must
satisfy the equation f (x, y) = 0
l m
f α − γ, y = β − γ (60)
n n
Eliminating l.m.n from (59) and (60) we get the equation of the cone generated
by the line (59). Thus the required equation is
x−α y −β
f α− ,β −
z−γ z−γ
αz − γx βz − γy
or f ,
z−γ z−γ
Example 3: Find the equation of the cone, whose vertex is (α, β, γ) and the base the parabola
z = 0, y 2 = 4ax.
Soln: Equation
x−α y −β z−γ
= = (61)
l m n
represents the equation of a generator. When this generator meets the plane
z = 0 we have
l m
x = α − γ, y = β − γ,
n n
27
Since the line has to intersect the parabola y 2 = 4ax, we have
2
m l
β− γ = 4a α − γ (62)
n n
Eliminating l, m, n from (61) and (62), we have
y −β 2 x−α
β− γ = 4a α − γ
z−γ z−γ
28
Right Circular Cone:
Definition: A cone generated by a variable line through a fixed point which always makes a con-
stant angle with a fixed line through the same point is called a right circular cone.
The fixed line is called the axis of the right circular cone and the constant angle
is called the semi-vertical angle of the cone.
x y
Example 4: To find the equation of a right circular cone, whose axis is a = b = zc , vertex at
the origin and semi-vertical angle is α.
Soln: Let l, m, n be the direction ratios of any generator of the cone. Then, this gener-
ators makes an angle α with the axis whose direction ratios are a, b, c.
al + bm + cn
Therefore cos α = √ √
a2 + b2 + c2 l 2 + m2 + n2
or (a2 + b2 + c2 )(l 2 + m2 + n2 ) cos2 α = (al + bm + cn)2 .
This is homogeneous relation between l, m, n. Hence, the equation of the cone is
(a2 + b2 + c2 )(x2 + y 2 + z2 ) cos2 α = (al + bm + cn)2 .
Example 5: To find the equation of a right circular cone, whose vertex is α, β, γ, axis is
x−α y−β z−γ
λ = µ = ν and semi-vertical angle is θ.
Soln: Let
x−α y −β z−γ
= = (63)
λ µ ν
be a generator of the cone. Then θ being the constant angle between the axis and
any generator, we have
lλ + mµ + nν
cos α = √ p
l 2 + m2 + n2 λ2 + µ2 + ν 2
29
Example 6: Find the equation of the right circular cone, whose vertex is the origin, axis is the
z-axis and semi-vertical angle is α.
n = cos α
x2 + y 2 = z2 tan2 α.
Example 7: Find the equation of a right circular cone whose vertex is the origin, axis is long
z-axis and semi-vertical angle is 60◦ .
Soln: Let (x, y, z) be any point on any generator of a cone. Then the equation of gener-
ator is
x y z
= =
x1 y1 z1
Since the axis is along z- axis whose dcs is 0,0,1 and the semi vertical angle is
60◦ , we have
x · 0 + y1 · 0 + z1 · 1
cos 60◦ = q 1 √
x12 + y12 + z12 02 + 02 + 12
or, x12 + y12 = 3z12
Example 8: Find the equation of a right circular cone whose vertex is (3,2,1), axis is a line
x−3 y−2 z−1 ◦
4 = 1 = 3 and semi-vertical angle is 30 .
Soln: Let (x1 , y1 , z1 ) be any point on a generator of a cone. Then drs of generators are
x1 −3, y1 −2, z1 −1. Also since 4, 1, 3 are drs of axis and semi-vertical angle is given
to be 30◦ . So, we have,
4(x1 − 3) + 1(y1 − 1) + 3(z1 − 1)
√ p = cos 30◦
2 2 2 2
4 + 1 + 3 (x1 − 3) + (y1 − 2) + (z1 − 1)2
or, 2(4x1 + y1 + 3z1 − 17)2 = 39[(x1 − 3)2 + (y1 − 2)2 + (z1 − 1)2 ] (65)
Tangent Plane:
30
Result: The equation of the tangent plane to the cone
lx + my + nz = 0
is given by
Al 2 + Bm2 + Cn2 + 2Fmn + 2Gnl + 2Hlm = 0
where A, B, C etc. are the co-factors of a, b, c etc. in the determinant
a h g
∆ = h b f
g f c
ax2 + by 2 + cz2 = 0.
Reciprocal Cone:
The cone generated by the normals to the tangent planes of a given cone drawn
through the vertex is its reciprocal cone
If lx + my + nz = 0 is a tangent plane to the cone
then
31
x2 y2 2
Example 10: Prove that the cones ax2 + by 2 + cz2 = 0 and a + b + zc = 0 are reciprocal.
i.e. A = bc, B = ac, C = ab, F = G = H = 0. Putting these values in Eq. (68) we get
a + b + c = 0.
al + bm + cn = 0 (69)
mn + nl + lm = 0. (70)
Eliminating n, we have
al + bm
(l + m) + lm = 0
−c
or al 2 + (a + b − c)lm + bm2 = 0
2
l l
a + (a + b − c) +b = 0 (71)
m m
32
If (l1 , m1 , n1 ) and (l2 , m2 , n2 ) are the direction cosines of the two lines of intersec-
tion, then ml11 and ml22 are the roots of (71).
l1 l a+b−c l l b
Therefore + 2 =− and 1 · 2 = .
m1 m2 a m1 m2 a
l1 l2 + m1 m2 + n1 n2 = 0
1 1 1
i.e., if + + = 0.
a b c
Example 12: If the cone ax2 + by 2 + cz2 + 2f yz + 2gxz + 2hxy = 0 possess three mutually per-
pendicular tangent planes, then prove that
bc + ca + ab = f 2 + g 2 + h2 .
Proof: The equation of a cone generated by the normals of the tangent planes of a cone
is the reciprocal of the given cone and it is given by
If the cone possess three mutually perpendicular tangent planes then its recip-
rocal cone must possess three mutually perpendicular generators. So w must
have,
A+B+C = 0
⇒ bc − f 2 + ca − g 2 + ab − h2 = 0
⇒ bc + ca + ab = f 2 + g 2 + h2 .
Example 13: Show that the general equation of the cone which touches the three coordinate
planes is √
p √
f x ± gy ± hz = 0
where f , g, h being parameters.
Proof: The cone which touches the three coordinates planes is a reciprocal of a cone
whose generators are coordinate exes is given by
f yz + gzx + hxy = 0.
33
Its reciprocal cone is
−f 2 x2 − g 2 y 2 − h2 z2 + 2ghyz + 2hf zx + 2f gxy = 0
⇔ f 2 x2 + g 2 y 2 + h2 z2 − 2ghyz − 2hf zx + 2f gxy = 4f gxy
⇔ (f x + gy − hz)2 = 4f gxy
p
⇔ (f x + gy − hz) = ±2 f gxy
p
⇔ (f x + gypm2 f gxy) = hz
p √
⇔ ( f x ± gy)2 = hz
p √ √
⇔ f x ± gy ± hz = 0
Condition that the general equation of second degree should represents a cone
Suppose
f (x, y, z) ≡ ax2 + by 2 + cz2 + 2f yz + 2gzx + 2hxy + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d = 0
is a given general second degree equation. Following are the steps to verify that
the equation represents a cone or not.
1. We make f (x, y, z) homogeneous by introducing a variable t and we write it
as
f (x, y, z, t) = ax2 + by 2 + cz2 + 2f yz + 2gzx + 2hxy + 2uxt + 2vyt + 2wzt + dt 2 .
2. We equate fx , fy , fz , ft to zero.
3. We replace t by unity and solve x, y, z from fx = 0, fy = 0 and fz = 0.
4. The solution obtained should satisfy the last equation ft = 0 in order that
the above equation represents a cone (if not then the equation is not a cone).
If it satisfies then the solution (x, y, z) gives us the coordinates of the vertex
of the cone.
Example 14: Show that the equation
4x2 − y 2 + 2z2 − 3yz + 2xy + 12x − 11y + 6z + 4 = 0
represents a cone with vertex (−1, −2, −3).
Proof: Making the equation homogeneous, we obtain
f (x, y, z, t) = 4x2 − y 2 + 2z2 − 3yz + 2xy + 12xt − 11yt + 6zt + 4t 2 .
Now,
fx ≡ 8x + 2y + 12t = 0 (72)
fy ≡ 2x − 2y − 3z − 11t = 0 (73)
fz ≡ −3y + 4z + 6t = 0 (74)
ft ≡ 12x − 11y + 6z + 8t = 0 (75)
(76)
Putting t = 1 and solving (72), (73), (74) for x, y, z, we get
x = −1, y = −2, z = −3.
It can also verified that these values satisfy Eq. (75) after putting t = 1. Hence,
the given equation represents a cone with vertex (−1, −2, −3).
34
Enveloping Cone:
Definition: The cone formed by the tangent lines to a surface drawn from a given point is
called the enveloping cone of the surface with a given point as the vertex.
Result: The equation of a cone whose vertex is (α, β, γ) and whose generators touch the
sphere x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d = 0 is given by SS1 = T 2 where
The above cone is also known as the enveloping cone of the sphere S.
x2 + y 2 + z2 − 2x + 4z = 1
(x2 + y 2 + z2 − 2x + 4z − 1)(12 + 12 + 12 − 2 · 1 + 4 · 1 − 1) =
(1 · x + 1 · y + 1 · z − (x + 1) + 2(z + 1) − 1)2
⇒ 4x2 + 3y 2 − 5z2 − 6yz − 8x + 16z − 4 = 0.
35
The Cylinder:
Definition: A cylinder is the surface generated by a line which is always parallel to a fixed
line and intersects a given curve.
The fixed line is called the axis of a cylinder and the given curve is the guiding
curve of a cylinder.
Result 1: The equation of the form f (x, y) = 0 represents a cylinder generated by lines
parallel to the z-axis, the guiding curve being z = 0, f (x, y) = 0.
Result 2: The equation of the form φ(y, z) = 0 represents a cylinder generated by lines
parallel to the x-axis, the guiding curve being x = 0, φ(y, z) = 0.
Result 3: The equation of the form ψ(x, u) = 0 represents a cylinder generated by lines
parallel to the y-axis, the guiding curve being y = 0, ψ(z, x) = 0.
Example 1: Find the equation of the cylinder generated by the lines parallel to the z-axis and
passing through the curve of intersection of the plane and the surface
lx + my + nz = p (77)
ax + by 2 + cz2 = 1
2
(78)
36
Example 3: Find the equation of the cylinder generated by lines parallel to a fixed line
x y z
= = (80)
l m n
the guiding curve being the conic
z = 0, ax2 + by 2 = 1. (81)
Soln: Let (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) be any point on the cylinder. then the equations of the line through
this point parallel to the given line (80) are
x − x0 y − y 0 z − z0
= = .
l m n
This line meets the plane z = 0, where
lz0 mz0
x = x0 − and y = y0 −
n n
and it intersects the guiding curve (81), if,
lz0 2 mz0 2
a x0 − + b y0 − = 1.
n n
Hence the equation of the cylinder is
lz 2 mz 2
a x− +b y − = 1.
n n
or a(nx − lz)2 + b(ny − mz)2 = n2 .
x
Example 4: Find the equation of the cylinder generated by the lines parallel to the line 1 =
y z
2 = 3 , the guiding curve being the conic
z = 2, 3x2 + 4xy + 5y 2 = 1.
Soln: Let (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) be any point on the cylinder. then the equations of the line through
this point parallel to the given line are
x − x0 y − y 0 z − z0
= = .
1 2 3
This line meets the plane z = 2, where
2 − z0 3x0 − z0 + 2
x = x0 + =
3 3
2(2 − z0 ) 3y 0 − 2z0 + 4
and y = y0 + = .
3 3
This line intersects the guiding curve, if
3x − z + 2 3y 0 − 2z0 + 4
0
3y − 2z0 + 4 2
0 0 0 0
3x − z + 2 2
3 +4 +5 = 1.
3 3 3 3
Hence the equation of the cylinder is
3(3x − z + 2)2 + 5(3x − z + 2)(3y − 2z + 4) + 5(3y − 2z + 4)2 = 9.
37
Example 5: Find the equation of the cylinder generated by the lines parallel to the line
x y z 2 2
1 = 2 = 1 and intersecting the guiding curve z = 3, x + y = 4.
Soln: Any generator of the cylinder through the point (α, β, γ) on the cylinder is
x−α y −β z−γ
= =
1 2 1
As this line intersects the plane z = 3, the point of intersection is (α + 3 − γ, β +
6 − 2γ, 3). The point must lie on the curve
x2 + y 2 = 4, z = 3.
Hence
(α + 3 − γ)2 + (β + 6 − 2γ)2 = 4.
The locus of (α, β, γ) is the required cylinder and its equation is given by
(x + z + 3)2 + (y − 2z + 6)2 = 4
Definition: A right circular cylinder is a cylinder whose guiding curve is a circle, and the
generators are perpendicular to the plane of the guiding circle.
Example 6: To find the equation of the right circular cylinder whose axis is the line
x−α y −β z−γ
= = (82)
l m n
and radius r
38
Soln: Let P (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) be any point on the cylinder. Then, the square of distance of point
P from A(α, β, γ) is given by
Also,
P N 2 = P A2 − AN 2
[l(x0 − α) + m(y 0 − β) + n(z0 − γ)]2
r 2 = (x0 − α)2 + (y 0 − β)2 + (z0 − γ)2 −
l 2 + m2 + n2
Hence the equation of the cylinder is
39
Example 8: Find the equation of the right circular cylinder of radius 3 units whose axis
passes through the point (−1, 2, 0) and has d.c.s proportional to 2, −3, −6.
x+1 y −2 z
= = .
2 −3 −6
Let (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) be any point on a cylinder, then we have
40
Worked-out examples
Q1. Find the equation of the line passing through the point (2, 1, 0) and parallel to
the line joining the points (1, 5, 2) and (3, 0, −1).
Soln: Since the required line is parallel to the line joining the points (1, 5, 2) and (3, 0, −1).
Therefore, d.r.s of a required line is 3 − 1, 0 − 5, −1 − 2 i.e. 2, −5, −3. Also the point
through which the required line passes is (2, 1, 0). Hence the required equation
of a line is given by
x−2 y −1 z
= =
2 −5 −3
Q2. Find the equation of the line through the point (3, 2, 1) and is parallel to the
y+1
line x−4
2 = 3 = −5
z−2
y+1
Soln: Since the required line is parallel to the line x−4 z−2
2 = 3 = −5 . Therefore, d.r.s of
a required line is 2, 3, −5. Also the point through which the required line passes
is (3, 2, 1). Hence the required equation of a line is given by
x−3 y −2 z−1
= =
2 3 −5
Q3. Find the distance of the point (1, 2, 3) from the plane 2x + 3y + 4z = 25 measured
y
parallel to the line 2x = 3 = 4z . Show also that it is the perpendicular distance of
the given point from the given plane.
Soln: In order to find the required distance, we have to first find the point of inter-
section of a line through a point (1, 2, 3) parallel to a given line. The required
distance is the distance between this point of intersection and (1, 2, 3).
41
x y z
Now, the equation of a line through point (1, 2, 3) parallel to the line 2 = 3 = 4 is
given by
x−1 y −2 z−3
= = (83)
2 3 4
Therefore, point on line (83) is of the form (2r + 1, 3r + 2, 4r + 3). At the point of
intersection, we have
Soln: Note that the line joining the centre of the sphere x2 + y 2 + z2 − ax − by − cz = 0
y
and the centre of the circle is perpendicular to the plane xa + b + zc = 1.
The coordinates of the centre of the sphere is 2a , 2b , 2c . Therefore the equation of
a line joining the centre of sphere and circle is given by
x − 2a y − 2b z − 2c
1
= 1
= 1
(85)
a b c
42
So, any point on this line is of the form
!
r a r b r c
+ , + , + (86)
a 2 b 2 c 2
x y
For point of intersection of line (85) with plane a + b + zc = 1, we must have
r
r
a + 2a b + 2b r
b + 2b
+ + = 1
a b c
1
⇒r = − (87)
2 a12 + b12 + c12
The point of intersection i.e. the centre of the circle is obtained by putting this
value of r in Eq. (86) which is given by
Q5. Find the radius of the circle where the plane x − 2y + 2z = 3 intersects the
sphere x2 + y 2 + z2 − 8x + 4y + 8z = 45.
p
Soln: The centre of the given sphere is (4, −2, −4) and its radius is R = 42 + (−2)2 + (−4)2 =
9 units
The perpendicular distance of the centre of the sphere from the given plane is
−4 + 2 · (−2) − 2 · (−4) + 3
d= p = 1 units
12 + (−2)2 + 22
√ √ √
Therefore the radius of the circle is R2 − d 2 = 81 − 1 = 16 5 units.
Q6. Prove that the plane 2x + y − z = 12 touches the sphere x2 + y 2 + z2 = 24 and find
the point of contact.
Soln: We know that the condition that the plane lx + my + nz = p touches the sphere
x2 + y 2 + z2 = a2 is given by a2 (l 2 + m2 + n2 ) = p2 .
43
√
Here, l = 2, m = 1, n = −1, p = 12, a = 24. It can be seen that a2 (l 2 + m2 + n2 ) =
24(22 + 12 + (−1)2 ) = 144 = 122 = p2 .
∴ the given plane touches the given sphere. Let the point of contact be (x0 , y 0 z0 ).
We know that equation of tangent plane to a given sphere at any point (x0 , y 0 , z0 )
is
x0 x + y 0 y + z0 z = 24.
Therefore, by comparing this equation with the given equation of a plane we get
x0 y 0 z0 24
= = =
2 1 −1 12
⇒ x0 = 4, y 0 = 2, z0 = −2
Q7. A plane passes through a fixed point (α, β, γ) and cuts the coordinate axes in A, B,
β γ
C. Prove that the locus of the centre of the sphere OABC is given by αx + y + z = 2.
Proof: Let the coordinates of A, B, C be (a, 0, 0), (0, b, 0), (0, 0, c) respectively. Then the
equation of the sphere OABC is given by
x2 + y 2 + z2 − ax − by − cz = 0
a b c
Therefore, the centre of the sphere is 2, 2, 2
We also know that, the equation of a plane which cuts coordinate axes at A, B, C
y
is xa + b + zc = 1. Since this plane passes through a fixed point (α, β, γ), we have
α β γ
+ + =1
a b c
α β γ
⇒ + + =2 (88)
a/2 b/2 c/2
Therefore, from Eq. (88), the centre of the sphere satisfies the equation
α β γ
+ + =2
x y z
Soln: Note here that the coordinates of A, B, C are (a, 0, 0), (0, b, 0), (0, 0, c) respectively
Since the guiding curve is a circle ABC. Therefore the guiding curve is the inter-
section of the plane
x y z
+ + =1 (89)
a b c
and a sphere OABC whose equation is given by
x2 + y 2 + z2 − ax − by − cz = 0 (90)
44
Since the required cone has its vertex at the origin, its equation is obtained by
making the equation (90) homogeneous with the help of Eq. (89). Therefore the
required equation is
x y z x y z x y z
2 2 2
x + y + z − ax + + − by + + − cz + + = 0
! a b c ! a b c a b c
b c c a a b
⇒ + yz + + xz + + xy = 0.
c b a c b a
Q9. Find the equation of the cone, whose vertex is (2, 2, 2) and the base is z = 0,
x2 + y 2 = 36.
x−2 2 y −2 2
2−2 + 2−2 = 36
z−2 z−2
⇒ (z − x)2 + (z − y)2 = 9(z − 2)2
Q10. Find the equation of the cylinder whose generated parallel to the line 2x = y = 3z
and which passes through the circle y = 0, x2 + z2 = 8.
Soln: Let (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) be any point on the cylinder. Then equation of generator passes
through this point is given by
x − x0 y − y 0 z − z0
= = , [since generators are parallel to the line 2x = y = 3z]
1/2 1 1/3
45
This line meets the plane y = 0 where
x − x0 −y 0 z − z0
= =
1/2 1 1/3
1 1
i.e. x = x0 − y 0 , z = z0 − y 0 (94)
2 3
Hence, the required equation of cylinder is 9(2x − y)2 + 4(3z − y)2 = 288.
Q11. Find the equation of the right circular cylinder of radius 2, whose axis passes
through the point (1, 2, 3) and has a drs (2, −3, 6).
Soln: Let P (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) be any point on the cylinder. Then the square of the distance of
this point from A(1, 2, 3) is given by (x0 − 1)2 + (y 0 − 2)2 + (z0 − 3)2 .
The square of the scalar projection of P A on the axis of cylinder is given by
!2
2(x0 −1)+(−3)(y 0 −2)+6(z0 −3)
√
22 +(−3)2 +62
Therefore the square of the perpendicular distance of the point P from the axis
is
2
2(x 0 − 1) + (−3)(y 0 − 2) + 6(z0 − 3)
(x0 − 1)2 + (y 0 − 2)2 + (z0 − 3)2 −
(95)
p
22 + (−3)2 + 62
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This should be equal to the square of the radius of the cylinder. Hence the re-
quired equation is
2
2(x − 1) + (−3)(y − 2) + 6(z − 3)
(x − 1)2 + (y − 2)2 + (z − 3)2 − = 22
p
2 2
2 + (−3) + 6 2
⇒ 45x2 + 40y 2 + 13z2 + 36yz − 24zx + 12xy − 42x − 280y − 126z + 294 = 0
47