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JEE Main 2021
Conic Sections
Ellipse
Medium

Question

Let θ\theta be the acute angle between the tangents to the ellipse x29+y21=1{{{x^2}} \over 9} + {{{y^2}} \over 1} = 1 and the circle x2+y2=3{x^2} + {y^2} = 3 at their point of intersection in the first quadrant. Then tanθ\theta is equal to :

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Solution

This solution aims to provide a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to solving the problem of finding the angle between tangents to an ellipse and a circle. We will break down the problem into manageable parts, explaining the rationale behind each step and using clear mathematical notation.

1. Understanding the Goal and the Master Formula

The problem asks us to determine the tangent of the acute angle, denoted by θ\theta, between two lines: the tangent to the given ellipse and the tangent to the given circle. Both tangents are drawn at their common point of intersection located in the first quadrant.

The fundamental formula for finding the acute angle θ\theta between two lines with slopes m1m_1 and m2m_2 is:

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