Problem 9

Question

If the focus of the parabola \((y-\beta)^{2}=4(x-\alpha)\) always lies between the lines \(x+y=1\) and \(x+y=3\), then (A) \(1<\alpha+\beta<2\) (B) \(0<\alpha+\beta<1\) (C) \(0<\alpha+\beta<2\) (D) none of these

Step-by-Step Solution

Verified
Answer
The correct option is (C) \(0 < \alpha + \beta < 2\).
1Step 1: Identify the focus of the parabola
The given parabola equation is \[(y-\beta)^{2}=4(x-\alpha)\]This represents a parabola that opens horizontally, with its vertex at \((\alpha, \beta)\). The focus of such a parabola is located at \((\alpha + 1, \beta)\).
2Step 2: Consider the given conditions
The problem states that the focus, \((\alpha + 1, \beta)\), lies between the lines\[x+y=1 \quad \text{and} \quad x+y=3\]This translates to:\[1 < (\alpha + 1) + \beta < 3\]
3Step 3: Simplify the inequality
Substitute \(\alpha + 1\) into the inequality:\[1 < \alpha + 1 + \beta < 3\]Simplifying the inequality, we get:\[0 < \alpha + \beta < 2\]
4Step 4: Choose the correct option
The simplified inequality is \(0 < \alpha + \beta < 2\). Compare this with the given choices:(A) \(1 < \alpha + \beta < 2\) (B) \(0 < \alpha + \beta < 1\) (C) \(0 < \alpha + \beta < 2\) (D) None of these. The correct choice is (C) \(0 < \alpha + \beta < 2\).

Key Concepts

Parabola EquationFocus of a ParabolaInequality Solution
Parabola Equation
The equation \((y-\beta)^{2}=4(x-\alpha)\) represents a parabola. This particular equation is for a horizontal parabola. In general, a parabola can open vertically or horizontally. Each type has a distinct equation form.
For a vertically opening parabola, the general form is \((x-h)^2 = 4p(y-k)\). The vertex of this parabola is at the point \((h,k)\). For a horizontally opening parabola, like in this case, the form is \((y-k)^2 = 4p(x-h)\).
Here, the vertex is at \((h,k)\) or in our equation, \((\alpha, \beta)\). **p** dictates the direction and width of the opening. If **p** is positive, the parabola opens towards positive x or y axis; if negative, in the opposite direction. This gives us a framework to understand parabola equations and distinguish between orientations.
Focus of a Parabola
The focus is a crucial part of a parabola and determines its direction. For a horizontally opening parabola like \((y-\beta)^{2}=4(x-\alpha)\), the focus is calculated as \((\alpha+1, \beta)\). The formula changes depending on whether the parabola is vertical or horizontal.
  • For horizontal parabolas, the formula for the focus is given by \((h+p, k)\).
  • For vertical parabolas, it is \((h, k+p)\).
The focus is always a step away from the vertex at \((h,k)\), distance being defined by the parameter **p**. The significance of the focus lies in the reflective property of the parabola: any light or signal rays parallel to the axis of symmetry will reflect off the surface of the parabola and pass through the focus. Understanding the position of the focus is essential when solving problems involving parabola equations.
Inequality Solution
Inequalities are crucial in determining boundaries of regions a point can reside. In our exercise, we see how inequalities define where the focus can lie between two lines. These lines: \(x+y=1\) and \(x+y=3\), form boundaries.
To ensure the focus \((\alpha + 1, \beta)\) fits between these two boundaries, an inequality is set up: \[ 1 < (\alpha + 1) + \beta < 3 \]Breaking this down: for the focus to be valid, the sum of its related components must be greater than 1, but less than 3.
  • First step involves simplifying the expression \((\alpha + 1) + \beta\) which becomes \(\alpha + \beta + 1\).
  • Upon simplification, you achieve the inequality \(0 < \alpha + \beta < 2\).
This inequality helps determine potential values for \(\alpha\) and \(\beta\) ensuring they fit within the correct range. Inequalities often provide a pathway to concise results by defining its necessary constraints.