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JEE Main 2021
Conic Sections
Parabola
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Question

If the line y=4+kx,k>0y = 4 + kx,\,k > 0, is the tangent to the parabola y=xx2y = x - {x^2} at the point P and V is the vertex of the parabola, then the slope of the line through P and V is :

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Solution

1. Key Concepts and Formulas for Tangency and Parabola Vertex

This problem requires us to combine concepts from coordinate geometry, specifically dealing with lines and parabolas. We are given a line that is tangent to a parabola, and our goal is to find the slope of a line connecting the point of tangency (P) and the vertex (V) of the parabola. This will involve the following key mathematical principles:

  • Vertex of a Parabola: For a parabola in the standard quadratic form y=ax2+bx+cy = ax^2 + bx + c, the x-coordinate of its vertex is given by xV=b2ax_V = -\frac{b}{2a}. The corresponding y-coordinate is found by substituting xVx_V back into the parabola's equation.

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