Let the function f(x)=2x2−logex,x>0, be decreasing in (0,a) and increasing in (a,4). A tangent to the parabola y2=4ax at a point P on it passes through the point (8a,8a−1) but does not pass through the point (−a1,0). If the equation of the normal at P is αx+βy=1, then α+β is equal to ______.
Answer: 45
Solution
Key concept: Critical points and tangent-normal to parabola.
Step 1: Find a from the decreasing/increasing condition.
f′(x)=4x−x1=0⇒x=21
So a=21, giving parabola y2=2x.
Step 2: Find point P. Let P(x1,y1) on y2=2x. Tangent equation: yy1=x+x1
Passes through (4,3):
3y1=4+x1
Since y12=2x1:
y12−6y1+8=0⇒y1=2 or 4
Check: tangent at (2,2) passes through (−2,0) (rejected). Tangent at (8,4) does not pass through (−2,0) (accepted).
So P(8,4).
Step 3: Normal at P has slope −1/m=−4 where m=1/y1=1/4.