lax1113
Oct12-09, 08:11 PM
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
Prove that a vertical line and a line going from a point on a parabola to the focus of the parabola form equal angles with the tangent line of the point on the parabola.
2. Relevant equations
Focus = 1/4a (maybe relevant)
3. The attempt at a solution
I know how to prove that the triangle from the vertical line, midpoint of Focus point to an arbitrary line and the point on the parabola is equal to a triangle that goes from focus point to point on parabola to midpoint.
However, I have no clue how to show that these two angles are the same. I can find the slope of each line, obviously, but where to go from here?
Prove that a vertical line and a line going from a point on a parabola to the focus of the parabola form equal angles with the tangent line of the point on the parabola.
2. Relevant equations
Focus = 1/4a (maybe relevant)
3. The attempt at a solution
I know how to prove that the triangle from the vertical line, midpoint of Focus point to an arbitrary line and the point on the parabola is equal to a triangle that goes from focus point to point on parabola to midpoint.
However, I have no clue how to show that these two angles are the same. I can find the slope of each line, obviously, but where to go from here?