The Plane

Definition: A geometrical locus is a plane if it is such that if P and Q are any two points on
the locus then every point of the line P Q is also a point on the locus.

• To determine a plane, one requires a point lying on it and a direction of a normal

(perpendicular line) to a plane. Following is the equation of plane in vector form.
If ~
a is the position vector of a point on a plane and n
~ is the direction of a normal
to a plane. Then the vector equation of a plane is given by

(~r − ~
a) · n
~ = 0, [ Vector form of equation] (1)

where ~r denotes the position vector of an arbitrary point on a plane.

Suppose ~r = (x, y, z), ~
a = (a1 , a2 , a3 ) and n
~ = (n1 , n2 , n3 ), then the equation of a
plane is given by

(x − a1 )n1 + (y − a2 )n2 + (z − a3 )n3 = 0,

ax + by + cz + d = 0, (2)

where a = n1 , b = n2 , c = n3 , d = a1 n1 + a2 n2 + a3 n3 . Eqn. (2) is known as the carte-

sian equation of a plane. From eqn. (2), one can conclude that the coefficients
of x, y, z determine the direction of normal to a plane.

Proposition 1: The general equation of the first degree in x, y, z viz. ax + by + cz + d = 0 where a,

b, c and d are constants and a, b and c are not all zero, always represent a plane OR
Every equation of first degree in x, y, z represents a plane.

Proof: Let (x1 , y1 , z1 ) and (x2 , y2 , z2 ) be any two points on the locus; then

ax1 + by1 + cz1 + d = 0 (3)

ax2 + by2 + cz2 + d = 0 (4)

Multiplying (4) by k and adding the result to (3), we get

a(kx2 + x1 ) + b(ky2 + y1 ) + c(kz2 + z1 ) + d(k + 1) = 0

a(kx2 + x1 ) b(ky2 + y1 ) c(kz2 + z1 )
or + + +d = 0
k+1 k+1 k+1
 
2 +x1 ky2 +y1 ) kz2 +z1 )
This indicates that any point kxk+1 , k+1 , k+1 for different values of k , −1
lying on the line joining the points (x1 , y1 , z1 ) and (x2 , y2 , z2 ), also lies on the locus
ax + by + cz + d = 0. Hence, every point on the line is also a point on the locus,
showing thereby that the locus in a plane.

Remark: If the two planes represented by

ax + by + cz + d = 0
a x + b0 y + c0 z + d 0 = 0
0

a0 b0 c0
are parallel, then a = b = c = k (say)

a0 = ak, b0 = bk, c0 = ck

1
 Therefore, the equation of the second plane may be written as

akx + bky + ckz + d 0 = 0

d0
ax + by + cz + = 0
k
Hence, two parallel planes differs by a constant

Example 1: Find the equation of the plane through the point (2, 3, 5), parallel to the plane
2x − 4y + 3z = 9.

Solution: Let the equation of the plane, parallel to the given plane, be 2x − 4y + 3z = k. As
it passes through the point (2, 3, 5), therefore we have

2·2−4·3+3·5 = k i.e. k = 7.
The required equation to the plane is 2x − 4y + 3z = 7.

Intercept Form:

Proposition 2: Equation of a plane which cuts off intercepts a, b, c from the x, y, z axes is given by
x y z
+ + = 1.
a b c

Proof: As a plane cuts off intercepts a, b, c from the axes. The required plane passes
through the point (a, 0, 0), (0, b, 0) and (0, 0, c).
Let the equation of the plane be Ax+By+Cz+D = 0. Substituting the co-ordinates
of the above three points, we have

Aa + D = 0, Bb + D = 0, and Cc + D = 0
D D D
Therefore, A = − ,B = − ,C = − .
a b c
Hence, the equation of plane is − Da x − Db y − Dc z + D = 0
x y z
i. e., + + = 1.
a b c
Plane passing through three given points

Proposition 3: The equation of a plane passing through three given points (x1 , y1 , z1 ), (x2 , y2 , z2 ) and
(x3 , y3 , z3 ) is given by
 
 x y z 1
x1 y1 z1 1
x y z 1 = 0
 2 2 2 
x3 y3 z3 1

2
 Proof: Suppose
ax + by + cz + d = 0 (5)
is the equation of the plane through the given points (x1 , y1 , z1 ), (x2 , y2 , z2 ) and
(x3 , y3 , z3 ).
Since each point lies in the plane, its co-ordinates must satisfy the equation (5).
Therefore
ax1 + by1 + cz1 + d = 0 (6)
ax2 + by2 + cz2 + d = 0 (7)
ax3 + by3 + cz3 + d = 0 (8)
Eliminating a, b, c from (5), (6), (7) and (8), we get
 
 x y z 1
x1 y1 z1 1
x y z 1 = 0
 2 2 2 
x3 y3 z3 1
which is the required equation.
Angle between two planes:

Result 1: Let ax +by +cz +d = 0 and a0 x +b0 y +c0 z +d 0 = 0 be two planes. The angle between
these two planes is given by
aa0 + bb0 + cc0
 
−1
θ = cos p √ .
a2 + b2 + c2 a02 + b02 + c02
Therefore, the two planes are perpendicular, if aa0 + bb0 + cc0 = 0.
Example 2: Find the equation of the plane which cuts off intercepts 3, 4 and 5 from the axes.
x y
Ans: The required equation is 3 + 4 + 5z = 1.
Example 3: Find the intercepts made on the axes by the plane 3x − 4y + 6z − 12 = 0.
x y
Ans: On writing the equation in the intercept form we get, 4 − 3 + 2z = 1. Hence the
intercepts on the axes are 4, −3 and 2.
Example 4: A plane cuts the axes at A, B and C and the centroid of the triangle ABC is (a, b, c).
Find the equation of the plane.
Soln: Suppose the co-ordinates of A, B, C are (α, 0, 0), (0, β, 0) and (0, 0, γ) respectively.
Then we have
α+0+0 0+β +0 0+0+γ
= a, = b, and = c;
3 3 3
so that α = 3a, β = 3b and γ = 3c.
x y
We know that the equation of a plane with intercept α, β, γ is α + β + γz = 1.
Therefore, the required equation of a plane is
x y z
+ + = 3.
a b c

3
Example 5: Find the equation of the plane which passes through the point (2, −3, 1) and is
perpendicular to the join of the points (4, 5, −2) and (2, −1, 6).

Soln: The direction ratios of normal to a required plane proportional to 4 − 2, 5 −

(−1), −2 − 6 i. e. 2, 6, −8. Since the required plane passes through (2, −3, 1). The
required equation is given by

2(x − 2) + 6(y + 3) + (−8)(z − 1) = 0

or, x + 3y − 4z + 11 = 0.

Example 6: Find the equation of the plane which passes through the point (2, 1, 4) and is
perpendicular to the planes 9x − 7y + 6z + 48 = 0 and x + y − z = 0.

Soln: Any plane passing through the point (2, 1, 4) can be written as

A(x − 2) + B(y − 1) + C(z − 4) = 0 (9)

Since it is perpendicular to each of the planes, we have

9A − 7B + 6C = 0 (10)
A+B−C = 0 (11)

From (10) and (11) by cross-multiplication, we get

A B C
= = .
1 15 16
Therefore, the required equation of the plane is obtained as

1(x − 2) + 15(y − 1) + 16(z − 4) = 0

or, x + 15y + 16z = 81.

Distance of a point (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) from the plane ax + by + cz + d = 0

Result 2: The perpendicular distance of the point (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) from the plane

ax + by + cz + d = 0 (12)

is given by
ax0 + by 0 + cz0 + d
± √ .
a2 + b2 + c2
Remark: For numerical examples, we first write the equation of a plane in the form (12) in
which the constant term is positive (for e. g. if equation is given as 2x+3y −z = 8,
we reduced the equation to the form −2x − 3y + z + 8 = 0) and then the formula is
applied with + sign.

Example 7: Find the perpendicular distance of the points (1, 4, −2) and (5, 1, 3) from the plane
2x − 3y + z = 5.

4
 Soln: The equation of the plane is written as

−2x + 3y − z + 5 = 0.

Then the perpendicular distance from (1, 4, −2)

−2 · 1 + 3 · 4 − (−2) + 5 17
= √ =√
22 + 32 + 12 14
And the perpendicular distance from (5, 1, 3)
−2 · 5 + 3 · 1 − 3 + 5 5
= √ = −√ .
22 + 32 + 12 14
It is important to note that, since their values are opposite in sign, the two points
lie on opposite side of the plane, the first point being on the same side as the
origin.

The equations of the bisectors of angles between two planes

Let two planes be ax + by + cz + d = 0 and a0 x + b0 y + c0 z + d 0 = 0. If P (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) is

any point on either of the two bisecting planes. Then P is equidistant from the
two given planes. So we have,

ax0 + by 0 + cz0 + d a0 x0 + b0 y 0 + c0 z0 + d 0
√ =± √ .
a2 + b2 + c2 a02 + b02 + c02
Therefore the equation of the bisecting planes which bisect the angle between
two given planes are

ax + by + cz + d a0 x + b0 y + c0 z + d 0
√ =± √ .
a2 + b2 + c2 a02 + b02 + c02

Linear Combination:

Result 3: If u ≡ ax + by + cz + d = 0 and v ≡ a0 x + b0 y + c0 z + d 0 = 0 are the equations of two

planes, then

u + kv ≡ (ax + by + cz + d) + k(a0 x + b0 y + c0 z + d 0 ) = 0

is the general equation of all planes passing through the line of intersection of
the two planes u = 0 and v = 0.
The equation u + kv = 0 is of the first degree and so it represents a plane. More-
over, it is satisfied by the co-ordinates of any point, which satisfying the equa-
tions u = 0, v = 0 simultaneously. Hence, the plane represented by the equation
u + kv = 0 passes through the line of intersection of the two planes u = 0 and
v = 0.

Example 8: Find the equation of the plane passing through the point (1, −2, 1) and the line of
intersection of the planes 2x − y + 3z − 2 = 0 and x + 2y − 4z + 3 = 0.

5
Soln: The general equation of all planes passing through the line of intersection of the
two given planes is

(2x − y + 3z − 2) + k(x + 2y − 4z + 3) = 0

If it passes through (1, −2, 1), then

(2 + 2 + 3 − 2) + k(1 − 4 − 4 + 3) = 0
5
∴ k = .
4
Hence, the required equation is
5
(2x − y + 3z − 2) + (x + 2y − 4z + 3) = 0
4
or, 13x + 6y − 8z + 7 = 0.

6
 The Straight Line
The symmetrical form:
Equation of the line whose direction cosines are l, m, n and which passes through a point
(x0 , y 0 , z0 ) is given by
x − x0 y − y 0 z − z0
= = .
l m n
This is also known as the symmetrical equation of a straight line.

Line joining two points:

The direction cosines of the line joining the two points P (x1 , y1 , z1 ) and Q(x2 , y2 , z2 ) are
proportional to x2 −x1 , y2 −y1 , z2 −z1 . The required line is therefore one passing through
(x1 , y1 , z1 ) and having direction ratios as x2 −x1 , y2 −y1 , z2 −z1 . So the required equation
of a line is given by
x − x1 y − y1 z − z1
= =
x2 − x1 y2 − y1 z2 − z1

Example 1: Find the co-ordinates of the point where the join of (2, −3, 1) and (1, 2, −4) cuts
the plane 2x + 3y − 5z + 3 = 0.

Soln: Equation of a line joining points (2, −3, 1) and (1, 2, −4) is given by
x−2 y +3 z−1
= =
2 − 1 −3 − 2 1 + 4

Therefore any points on this line is of the form (λ + 2, −5λ − 3, 5λ + 1). For point
of intersection of the above line with a given plane we must have
7
2(λ + 2) + 3(−5λ − 3) − 5(5λ + 1) + 3 = 0 ⇒ λ = −
38
     
7 7 7
Hence, the co-ordinates of the meeting point is − 38 +2, −5· − 38 −3, 5· − 38 +1
 
i.e. 69
38 , − 79 3
38 38 .
,

Example 2: Prove that the lines

x−1 y −2 z−3
= =
2 3 4
and 4x − 3y + 1 = 0 = 5x − 3z + 2 are coplanar.

Soln: Any point on the first line may be expressed as

(1 + 2r, 2 + 3r, 3 + 4r).

Let us a substitute these co-ordinates in the equations of the two planes for the
second line; then

4(1 + 2r) − 3(2 + 3r) + 1 = 0 (13)

5(1 + 2r) − 3(3 + 4r) + 2 = 0 (14)

From (13) we have

8r − 9r + 4 − 6 + 1 or, r = −1.

7
 And from (14) we have

10r − 12r + 5 − 9 + 2 or, r = −1.

Since we are getting the same value of r, this shows that the first line meets the
plane 4x − 3y + 1 = 0 and 5x − 3z + 2 = 0 at the same point. Thus, the first line cuts
the line of intersection of the two planes, i. e. cuts the second line. Hence they
are coplanar.

To express equation of a line in symmetrical form:

Let us suppose that a line is given by two first degree equations ax+by +cz+d = 0,
a0 x + b0 y + c0 z + d 0 = 0 and we have to put these equations in symmetrical form.

Following are steps to obtain a symmetrical form:

1. Suppress the constant term we obtain equations

ax + by + cz = 0 ,
a x + b0 y + c0 z0 = 0 ,
0

On cross-multiplications we obtain direction ratios of a line proportional to bc0 −

b0 c, ca0 − c0 a, ab0 − a0 b.

2. Putting z = 0 once obtain

ax + by + d = 0 ,
a x + b0 y + d 0 = 0 ,
0

On solving x, y from one can obtain the coordinates of point through which a
0 −b0 d da0 −d 0 a
line passes as bd
ab0 −a0 b , ab0 −a0 b , 0 .

Hence, the required equation of a line in symmetrical form is given by

0 0 0 0
x − bd −b d
ab0 −a0 b y − da −d a
ab0 −a0 b z
0 0
= 0 0
= 0 .
bc − b c ca − c a ab − a0 b

Example 3: Put the equations 3x − 4y + 2z + 5 = 0 = 2x + 3y − 5z − 8 of a line in symmetrical

form.

Soln: Suppressing the constant terms, we have

3x − 4y + 2z = 0 and 2x + 3y − 5z = 0.

By cross-multiplication method, we have

x y z
= = .
20 − 6 4 + 15 9 + 8
Hence the direction cosines of the line are proportional to 14, 19, 17.
Next putting z = 0, we have

3x − 4y + 5 = 0 and 2x + 3y − 8 = 0

8
 Again by cross-multiplication method, we have,
x y 1
= = .
32 − 15 10 + 24 9 + 8
Therefore, (1, 2, 0) is a point on the line.
Hence the required equation is
x−1 y −2 z
= = .
14 19 17

Example 4: Find the equation of the line through the point (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) parallel to the z-axis.

Soln: The direction cosines of the z-axis are (0, 0, 1).

So the required equation of the line is

x − x0 y − y 0 z − z0
= =
0 0 1
i.e. x = x0 and y = y 0

Constants in the equation of a line:

The equations
x−α y −β z−γ
= = (15)
l m n
are equivalent to the following three equations

x−α y −β
= (16)
l m
x−α z−γ
= (17)
l n
y −β z−γ
= (18)
m n
The equation (16) represents the plane through the line (15) parallel to the z-
axis. The equation (17) represents the plane through the parallel to the y-axis.
The equation (18) represents the plane through the parallel to the x-axis.

Example 5. Find the symmetrical form of the equations x = az + b and y = cz + d.

x−b y−d
Soln: From x = az + b, we have a = z and from y = cz + d, we have c =z
Thus, we have
x−b y −d z
= = .
a c 1

Example 6. Prove that the line x = pz+q and y = p0 z+q0 intersects the conic z = 0, ax2 +by 2 = 1
if aq2 + bq02 = 1.

9
 Soln: When the given line meets the plane z = 0, we have

x = q and y = q0 .

As this point (q, q0 , 0) lies on the conic

z = 0, ax2 + by 2 = 1

We then obtain aq2 + bq02 = 1.

Example 7. Prove that any line, which passes through (α, β, γ) and intersects the conic z = 0,
ax2 + by 2 = 1, generates the surface a(αz − γx)2 + b(βz − γy)2 = (z − γ)2 .

Soln: The equation of any line through (α, β, γ) are

x−α y −β z−γ
= = (19)
l m n
For this line to meet z = 0, we will get
x−α y −β 0−γ
= = (20)
l m n
lγ mγ
   
i.e. x = α − , y = β− .
n n
If the line intersects the given conic z = 0, ax2 + by 2 = 1, we then have

lγ 2 mγ 2
   
a α− +b β− =1 (21)
n n
Eliminating l, m, n from (19) and (21), we have

x−α 2 y −β 2
   
a α−γ +b β−γ = 1,
z−γ z−γ
or
a(αz − γx)2 + b(βz − γy)2 = (z − γ)2 ,
which is the required surface.
x−1 y−2 z−3
Example 8. Find the equation of the three planes through the line 2 = 3 = 4 parallel to
the axes.

Ans: The plane through the line parallel to the x-axis is

y −2 z−3
= or 4y − 3z + 1 = 0
3 4
The plane through the line parallel to the y-axis is
x−1 z−3
= or 4x − 2z + 2 = 0
2 4
The plane through the line parallel to the z-axis is
x−1 y −2
= or 3x − 2y + 1 = 0
2 3

10
 Example 9. Find the equations of the planes through the line 2x−y +3z+4 = 0 = 3x+2y −z+1,
parallel to the co-ordinate axes.
Soln: We know that the equation
2x − y + 3z + 4 + λ(3x + 2y − z + 1) = 0 ,
(2 + 3λ)x + (−1 + 2λ)y + (3 − λ)z + (4 + λ) = 0 (22)
represents a plane through the line for all values of λ. This plane is parallel to
the x-axis, if dot product of direction ratios of normal of plane (22) and (1, 0, 0)
is zero (i.e. if the co-efficient of x in eqn (22) is zero) i.e. if
2
2 + 3λ = 0 or λ = −
3
Then the plane parallel to the x-axis is
2
2x − y + 3z + 4 − (3x + 2y − z + 1) = 0
3
or
−7y + 11z + 10 = 0
Similarly, find equations of planes parallel to y and z axes.

A plane and a line:

Suppose a plane is given by the equation ax + by + cz + d = 0 and a line is given

by the equation
x−α y −β z−γ
= =
l m n
The given line is parallel to the plane, if
al + bm + cn = 0 and aα + bβ + cγ + d , 0
The given line lies wholly in the plane, if
al + bm + cn = 0 and aα + bβ + cγ + d = 0.

Example 10. Find the equation of the plane through the line x + y + z + 3 = 0 = 2x − y + 3z + 1
y
parallel to the line 1x = 2 = 3z .
Soln: Any plane through the first line is
x + y + z + 3 + λ(2x − y + 3z + 1) = 0
or (1 + 2λ)x + (1 − λ)y + (1 + 3λ)z + (3 + λ) = 0
It is parallel to the second line, if
(1 + 2λ) · 1 + (1 − λ) · 2 + (1 + 3λ) · 3 = 0
2
or λ=−
3
Hence the required plane is
2
x + y + z + 3 − (2x − y + 3z + 1) = 0,
3
or x − 5y + 3z = 7.

11
Example 11. Find the equation of the plane through the line

x−α y −β z−γ
= =
l m n
and parallel to the line
x − α0 y − β0 z − γ 0
= = .
l0 m0 n0
Soln: The general equation of a plane through the first line is

A(x − α) + B(y − β) + C(z − γ) = 0 (23)

with the condition

Al + Bm + Cn = 0 (24)

Further, if the second line is parallel to this plane (23), then

Al 0 + Bm0 + Cn0 = 0 (25)

Eliminating A, B, C from (23), (24) and (25), we have

 
x − α y − β z − γ 
 l m n  = 0
 0 0
l m n0 


which is the required equation.

Example 12. Find the equation of the plane through the point (a, b, c) and through the line

x−α y −β z−γ
= = .
l m n

Soln: The general equation of a plane through the first line is

A(x − α) + B(y − β) + C(z − γ) = 0 (26)

with the condition

Al + Bm + Cn = 0 (27)

If the plane (26) passes through the given point (a, b, c), then we have

A(a − α) + B(b − β) + C(c − γ) = 0 (28)

Eliminating A, B, C we have
 
x − α y − β z − γ 
a − α b − β c − γ  = 0
l m n 
 

which is the required equation.

12
 Coplanar lines:

To find the condition that the lines

x−α y −β z−γ
= = (29)
l m n
x − α0 y − β0 z − γ 0
and = = (30)
l0 m0 n0
are coplanar.

The equation of a plane through the line (29) is

A(x − α) + B(y − β) + C(z − γ) = 0 (31)

with the condition

Al + Bm + Cn = 0 (32)

If this plane passes through the line (30), then we have

A(α 0 − α) + B(β 0 − β) + C(γ 0 − γ) = 0 (33)

with the condition

Al 0 + Bm0 + Cn0 = 0 (34)

Eliminating A, B, C from (32), (33) and (34), we obtain

 0 
α − α β 0 − β γ 0 − γ 
 l m n  = 0
 0
l m0 n0 


which is the required condition.

y−1 y−6
Example 13. Prove that two lines x−11 = 2 = z−1
3 and x−4
2 = 3 = z−8
4 are coplanar and find
their point of intersection.

Soln: Take a point (1+r, 1+2r, 1+3r) on the first line and a point (4+2r 0 , 6+3r 0 , 8+4r 0 )
on the second line.
If these two points are identical, then we have

1 = r = 4 + 2r 0

1 + 2r = 6 + 3r 0
1 + 3r = 8 + 4r 0
All these three equations are satisfied for the value r = 1 and r 0 = −1. Hence the
two lines are coplanar. Their common point of intersection is (2, 3, 4).

13
 Shortest distance between the lines:

To find the shortest distance between the lines

x−α y −β z−γ x − α0 y − β0 z − γ 0
= = and = =
l m n l0 m0 n0

The shortest distance between the two lines is their common perpendicular.

Let A be the point (α, β, γ) on the first line and B, (α 0 , β 0 , γ 0 ) on the second line.
Let MN be the shortest distance between them, then MN is perpendicular to
both the lines. Let λ, µ, ν be the direction cosines of MN .
Then we have
lλ + mµ + nν = 0 and l 0 λ + m0 µ + n0 ν = 0.
On cross-multiplication we get
λ µ ν
0 0
= 0 0
= 0 0 = r(say)
mn − m n nl − n l lm − l m
Since λ, µ, ν are direction cosines we have λ2 + µ2 + ν 2 = 1 i.e.
q −1
r = (mn0 − m0 n)2 + (nl 0 − n0 l)2 + (lm0 − l 0 m)2

λ µ ν 1
∴ = = =
mn0 − m0 n nl 0 − n0 l lm0 − l 0 m
p
Σ(mn0 − m0 n)2
p p
where we have denote Σ(mn0 − m0 n)2 for (mn0 − m0 n)2 + (nl 0 − n0 l)2 + (lm0 − l 0 m)2 .

The shortest distance ofMN = projection ofAB on MN ,

= λ(α − α 0 ) + µ(β − β 0 ) + ν(γ − γ 0 )
(mn0 − m0 n)(α − α 0 ) + (nl 0 − ln0 )(β − β 0 ) + (lm0 − l 0 m)(γ − γ 0 )
= p
Σ(mn0 − m0 n)2
 
α − α 0 β − β 0 γ − γ 0  q
=  l m n  ÷ Σ(mn0 − m0 n)2 (35)
 0 0 0
l m n


To find the equations of the shortest distance, we take the plane through the first
line and the shortest distance, and another plane through the second line and
the shortest distance. The equations of these two planes are
 
x − α y − β z − γ 
 l m n  = 0
λ µ ν 
 

and  
x − α 0 y − β 0 z − γ 0 
 l 0 m0 n0  = 0
λ µ ν 
 

14
 where λ, µ, ν are the direction cosines of the shortest distance. Hence the equa-
tion of the shortest distance is given by
   
x − α y − β z − γ  x − α 0 y − β 0 z − γ 0 
 l m n  = 0 =  l 0 m0 n0 
λ µ ν λ µ ν 
   

Example 14. Find the length and equation of the line of the shortest distance between the
lines
x+3 y −6 2 x+2 y z−7
= = and = = .
−4 3 2 −4 1 1
Soln: If λ, µ, ν be the direction cosines of the shortest distance, then we have

−4λ + 3µ + 2ν = 0 and − 4λ + µ + ν = 0.

λ µ ν
∴ = =
1 −4 8
Therefore, the shortest distance
 
−3 + 2 6 −7 √
=  −4 3 2  ÷ 1 + 16 + 64 = −9
−4 1 1
 

The equation of the shortest distance are

 
x + 3 y − 6 z 
 −4 3 2 = 0
1 −4 8
 

and  
x + 2 y z − 7
 −4 1 1  = 0
1 −4 8 
 
or
32x + 34y + 13z − 108 = 0 = 12x + 33y + 15z − 81

Example 15. Show that the shortest distance between any two opposite edges of the tetrahe-
dron form by the planes
2a
y + z = 0, z + x = 0, x + y = 0, x + y + z = a is √ ;
6
and the three lines of the shortest distances intersect at the point x = y = z = −a.

Soln: Let us take the two opposite edges

y + z = 0 = z + x and x + y = 0 = x + y + z − a.

In symmetrical form their equations are

x y z x y z−a
= = and = = (Verify??)
1 1 −1 1 −1 0

15
 The direction cosines λ, µ, ν of the shortest distance are given by

λ + µ − ν = 0,
λ−µ = 0
λ µ ν
∴ = =
1 1 2
Hence, the shortest distance is
 
0 0 −a √ 2a
= 1 1 −1 ÷ 12 + 12 + 22 = √

1 −1 0 
 6

Distance of a point from a line:

To find the perpendicular distance of a point (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) from the line

x−α y −β z−γ
= =
l m n
where l, m, n are the direction ratios of the line.
Let A be the point (α, β, γ) on the line and P be the point (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) outside the
line.
Draw P N perpendicular to the line. We are to find the length of the perpendic-
ular P N . Now,

AN = the projection ofAP on the given line

l(x0 − α) + m(y 0 − β) + n(z0 − γ)
∴ AN = √
l 2 + m2 + n2
From the right angle triangle AP N

P N 2 = AP 2 − AN 2 ,
[l(x0 − α) + m(y 0 − β) + n(z0 − γ)]2
= [(x0 − α)2 + (y 0 − β)2 + (z0 − γ)2 ] −
(l 2 + m2 + n2 )

Note: Two lines intersect (i.e. they are coplanar) iff the distance between them is zero.

Example 16. Find the distance of the point (1, 2, 3) from the line
x−2 y −4 z−5
= = .
1 3 4

Soln: The square of the perpendicular distance

[1(2 − 1) + 3(4 − 2) + 4(5 − 3)]2

= (2 − 1)2 + (4 − 2)2 + (5 − 3)2 −
11 + 32 + 42
(1 + 6 + 8)2 225 9
= 1+4+4− = 9− =
26 26 26
3
Therefore, the required distance = √ units.
26

16
 The Sphere

Definition: A sphere is a surface traced out by a moving point, which is always at a constant
distance from a fixed point (called the centre of a sphere). The constant distance
is called the radius of the sphere.

To find the equation of the sphere whose centre is the point (h, k, l) and radius equal to
r.
Let P (x, y, z) be any point on the sphere; then its distance from centre (h, k, l) is

equal to r.
q
(x − h)2 + (y − k)2 + (z − l)2 = r, (36)
or (x − h)2 + (y − k)2 + (z − l)2 = r 2 , (37)

which is the required equation.

Expanding this equation we have

x2 + y 2 + z2 − 2hx − 2ky − 2lz + h2 + k 2 + l 2 − r 2 = 0, (38)

which can put in the form

x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d = 0. (39)

On comparing equations (38) and (39), we see that (39) √represents the general
equation of a sphere with (−u, −v, −w) as its centre and u 2 + v 2 + w2 − d as its
radius.

Remark: If the centre of the sphere is at the origin and the radius is r, its equation is
therefore given by x2 + y 2 + z2 = r 2 .

Example 1. Find the equation of the sphere whose centre is (1, 2, 3) and radius 4.
Ans: The required equation is

(x − 1)2 + (y − 2)2 + (z − 3)2 = 16, (40)

or, x2 + y 2 + z2 − 2x − 4y − 6z − 2 = 0. (41)

Example 2. Find the centre and radius of the sphere given by

x2 + y 2 + z2 − 4x + 5y − 6z − 1 = 0

17
 Soln: On comparing with a general equation

x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d = 0

q  2
The centre is (2, − 2 , 3) and the radius is 22 + − 25 + 32 = 92 units.
5

Example 3. Find the equation of the sphere passing through the origin and the points A(a, 0, 0), B(0, b, 0)
and C(0, 0, c).

Soln: Let the equation of the sphere be

x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d = 0

Since, the sphere passing through the origin and the points A(a, 0, 0), B(0, b, 0)
and C(0, 0, c), then on substituting the coordinates of the four points, we have

d=0

a2 + 2ua = 0
b2 + 2vb = 0
c2 + 2wc = 0
respectively.
Therefore
2u = −a, 2v = −b, 2w = −c
Hence the equation of the sphere OABC is

x2 + y 2 + z2 − ax − by − cz = 0.

Intersection of two spheres:

Let

S = x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d = 0 (42)

S 0 = x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2u 0 x + 2v 0 y + 2w0 z + d 0 = 0 (43)

represent two spheres. The coordinates of a point common to the two spheres
obviously satisfy the equation

S − S 0 ≡ 2(u − u 0 )x + 2(v − v 0 )y + 2(w − w0 )z + (d − d 0 ) = 0 (44)

Hence, the sphere (42) and (43) and the plane (44) have a common curve of intersec-
tion. But a plane cuts a sphere in a circle. Hence, the section of the spheres is a circle.

18
 • To find the equation of the sphere describe on the join of the points A(x1 , y1 , z1 ) and
B(x2 , y2 , z2 ) as diameter.
Let P (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) be any point on the sphere. The plane P AB will then passes
through the centre of the sphere. Hence, P A is perpendicular to P B. Since the
direction ratios of the line P A and P B are respectively
x0 − x1 , y 0 − y1 , z0 − z1 and x0 − x2 , y 0 − y2 , z0 − z2 ,
therefore we have
(x0 − x1 )(x0 − x2 ) + (y 0 − y1 )(y 0 − y2 ) + (z0 − z1 )(z0 − z2 ) = 0.
Therefore the equation of the sphere on AB as diameter is
(x − x1 )(x − x2 ) + (y − y1 )(y − y2 ) + (z − z1 )(z − z2 ) = 0.

Sphere passing through a circle:

If
S = x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d = 0 (45)
U = ax + by + cz + d 0 = 0 (46)
represent a circle, then
S + λU = 0 (47)

represents a sphere passing through a circle. Obviously the equation (47) repre-
sents some sphere and since it is satisfied by the coordinates of any point com-
mon to (45) and (46), these spheres passes through the given circle.

Example 4. Find the equation of the sphere through the circle

x2 + y 2 + z2 = 25, x + 2y − z + 2 = 0, and the point (1, 1, 1).

Soln: The equation

x2 + y 2 + z2 − 25 + λ(x + 2y − z + 2) = 0
represents a sphere through the given circle. If it pass through the point (1, 1, 1),
then we have
11
1 + 1 + 1 − 25 + λ(1 + 2 − 1 + 2) = 0 i. e. λ =
2
Therefore the required equation is
11
x2 + y 2 + z2 − 25 + (x + 2y − z + 2) = 0.
2

19
 Spheres of the form S + λS 0 = 0:

If
S = x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d = 0 (48)
S 0 = x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2u 0 x + 2v 0 y + 2w0 z + d 0 = 0, (49)
be two spheres, then,
S + λS 0 ≡ (1 + λ)(x2 + y 2 + z2 ) + 2(u + λu 0 )x + 2(v + λv 0 )y + 2(w + λw0 )z + (d + λd 0 ) = 0
also represents a sphere passing through the circle of intersection between the
spheres S = 0 and S 0 = 0
Example 5. Find the equation of the sphere through the origin and the circle.
x2 + y 2 + z2 − 4x + 3 = 0 = x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2y + 4

Soln: Any sphere through the circle is given by

x2 + y 2 + z2 − 4x + 3 + λ(x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2y + 4) = 0
As it passes through (0, 0, 0), therefore we get
3
3 + 4λ or λ = .
4
Hence, the required equation is
3
x2 + y 2 + z2 − 4x + 3 + (x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2y + 4) = 0.
4
Tangent and Tangent Plane:

Remark (a): The equation of the tangent plane to the sphere x2 + y 2 + z2 = a2 at the point
A(x0 , y 0 , z0 ) is
xx0 + yy 0 + zz0 = a2

Remark (b): The equation of the tangent plane to the sphere given by the general equation:
x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d = 0
at a point A(x0 , y 0 , z0 ) is given by
xx0 + yy 0 + zz0 + u(x + x0 ) + v(y + y 0 ) + w(z + z0 ) + d = 0.

20
 • To find the condition that the plane lx + my + nz = p is a tangent plane to the sphere
x2 + y 2 + z2 = a2 .
The equation of the tangent plane at (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) is
xx0 + yy 0 + zz0 = a2 .
Comparing it with the equation of the given plane, we have
x0 y 0 z0 a2
= = = .
l m n p
But (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) is on the sphere; therefore we get
a4 l 2 a4 m2 a2 n2
+ 2 + 2 = a2
p2 p p
or a2 (l 2 + m2 + n2 ) = p2 ,
which is the required condition.

• To find the condition that that the plane lx + my + nz + p = 0 is a tangent plane to the
sphere
x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d = 0. (50)
√
The centre of the sphere (50) is (−u, −v, −w) and is radius is u 2 + v 2 + w2 .
If the given plane is a tangent plane to the sphere, the perpendicular distance of
the centre from the plane must equal to the radius of the sphere.
−lu − mv − nw + p √ 2
Therefore, √ = u + v 2 + w2 − d.
2 2
l +m +n 2

or, (lu + mv + nw − p)2 = (l 2 + m2 + n2 )(u 2 + v 2 + w2 − d)

which is the required condition.
Example 6. Find the equation of the sphere which passes through the origin and touches the
sphere x2 + y 2 + z2 = 56 at the point (2, −4, 6).

Soln: The tangent to the plane x2 + y 2 + z2 = 56 at the point (2, −4, 6) is

2x − 4y + 6z = 56,
or, 2x − 4y + 6z − 56 = 0.
Therefore, the equation of the required sphere is of the form
x2 + y 2 + z2 − 56 + λ(2x − 4y + 6z − 56) = 0.
Since it passes through the origin, therefore we have
−56 − 56λ = 0 i.e., λ = −1.
Hence, the equation to the required sphere is
x2 + y 2 + z2 − 56 + (−1) · (2x − 4y + 6z − 56) = 0,
or, x2 + y 2 + z2 − 2x + 4y − 6z = 0.

21
Example 7: Obtain the equation of the sphere having the circle

x2 + y 2 + z2 + 10y − 4z − 8 = 0, x + y + z = 3

as a great circle.

Soln: The general equation of a sphere passes through given circle is given by

x2 + y 2 + z2 + 10y − 4z − 8 + λ(x + y + z − 3) = 0. (51)

If the given circle is a great circle then the centre of the sphere (51) must lie on
the plane x + y + z = 3, so
λ 10 + λ 4 − λ
 
− ,− ,
2 2 2
must satisfy equation x + y + z = 3. Then we have

λ 10 + λ 4 − λ
(− − + = 3
2 2 2
⇒ λ = −4

Therefore, the required equation is

x2 + y 2 + z2 + 10y − 4z − 8 + (−4)(x + y + z − 3) = 0
or, x2 + y 2 + z2 − 4x + 6y − 8z + 4 = 0.

Pole and polar plane to a sphere

Definition: If a line drawn through a fixed point A meets a given sphere in points P , Q and
a point R is taken on this line such that the segment AR is divided internally
and externally by the points P , Q in the same ratio, then the locus of R is a plane
called the Polar plane of A w.r.t the sphere and A is called the pole.

• The equation of polar plane of a point (α, β, γ) w.r.t the sphere

x2 + y 2 + z2 = a2

is given by
αx + βy + γz − a2 = 0.

22
 • The equation of polar plane of a point (α, β, γ) w.r.t the sphere

x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d = 0

is given by

αx + βy + γz + u(x + α) + v(y + β) + w(z + γ) + d = 0.

Q8. Find the pole of the plane

lx + my + nz = p (52)
w.r.t the sphere
x2 + y 2 + z2 = a2 (53)
.

Proof: If (α, β, γ) be the required pole, then Eq. (52) is identical with

αx + βy + γz = a2 (54)

On comparing Eqs. (52) and (54), we get

α β γ a2
= = =
l m n p
2
a l a2 m a2 n
⇒α = , β= ,γ=
p p p
 2 2 2 
Thu the required pole is ap l , a pm , apn .

Results on poles and polar planes: Let the equation of a sphere be x2 + y 2 + z2 =

a2 .

1. The line joining the centre O of a sphere to any point P perpendicular to the
polar plane P .
We know that the d.r.s of the line joining the centre O(0, 0, 0) to the point
P (α, β, γ) are α, β, γ.
Further, the equation of polar plane of (α, β, γ) w.r.t the sphere is αx + βy +
γz = a2 .
Therefore, α, β, γ are d.r.s of normal to the polar plane. Thus, the line join-
ing the centre O of a sphere to any point P perpendicular to the polar plane
P.
2. If the line joining the centre O of a sphere to a point P meets the polar plane of P
in Q, then
OP · OQ = a2
where a is the radius of the sphere.
We know that q
OP = α2 + β2 + γ 2.

23
 Also, OQ gives the length of the perpendicular from the centre O(0, 0, 0) to
the polar polar plane αx + βy + γz = a2 of P (∵ the line joining the centre O
of a sphere to any point P perpendicular to the polar plane P ). Therefore,

a2
OQ = p .
α2 + β2 + γ 2

Thus, we have
OP · OQ = a2 .
3. If the polar plane of point P passes through a point Q, then the polar plane of Q
passes through P .
The polar plane of P (α1 , β1 , γ1 ) is given by

α1 x + β1 y + γ1 z = a2 .

The condition that this plane passes through point Q(α2 , β2 , γ2 ) is

α1 α2 + β1 β2 + γ1 γ2 = a2 ,

which is by symmetry, gives the condition that the polar plane of Q passes
through P .
Conjugate points: Two pointsP and Q are said to be conjugate points if polar
plane of P passes through Q and vice versa.
4. If the pole of a plane π1 lies on another plane π2 , then the pole of plane π2 also
lies on plane π1 .
 2 2 2

We know from (1) that ap1l1 , a pm1 1 , apn1 1 is the pole of the polar plane

l1 x + m1 y + n1 z = p1 .

For this pole to lies on the plane π2

l2 x + m 2 y + n 2 z = p 2

we have
a2 (l1 l2 + m1 m2 + n1 n2 ) = p1 p2
 2 
a l2 a2 m2 a2 n2
which is also the condition that the pole p2 , p2 , p2 of π2 to lie on π1 .

24
 The Cone:

Definition: A cone is a surface generated by a straight line which always passes through a fixed
point and intersect a given curve.
A fixed point is called the vertex of the cone and the given curve is called the
guiding curve of the cone. The individual straight line on the surface of the cone
is called its generator.

Theorem: The equation of a cone whose vertex is the origin is second degree homogeneous
and conversely.
Proof: We consider a general second degree equation given by
ax2 + by 2 + cz2 + 2f yz + 2gzx + 2hxy + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d = 0 (55)
We will show that it represents a cone with vertex at the origin iff u = v = w =
d = 0.
First we assume that the equation (55) represents a cone with its vertex at the
origin.
Since the vertex is at the origin, we can consider the equation
x−0 y −0 z−0
= =
l m n
as the equation of a generator of cone (55). This implies that any point P in
this generator is of the form (lr, mr, nr) for any r and it also lies on a cone (55),
therefore,
al 2 r 2 + bm2 r 2 + cn2 r 2 + 2f mnr 2 + 2glnr 2 + 2hlmr 2 + 2ulr + 2vmr + 2wnr + d = 0
⇒ r 2 (al 2 + bm2 + cn2 + 2f mn + 2gln + 2hlm) + r(2ul + 2vm + 2wn) + d = 0
(56)
Since the above equation holds for any r this implies that
⇒ al 2 + bm2 + cn2 + 2f mn + 2gln + 2hlm = 0
ul + vm + wn = 0
d = 0

⇒ ax2 + by 2 + cz2 + 2f yz + 2gxz + 2hxy = 0

ux + vy + wz = 0
d = 0

25
 As points (x, y, z) lies on the cone but ux + vy + wz = 0 is a plane. Therefore, this
is possible only if u = v = w = 0.
Hence, the equation of the cone reduces to

ax2 + by 2 + cz2 + 2f yz + 2gxz + 2hxy = 0

which is a homogeneous second degree equation.

Conversely, let us assume that the equation is second degree homogeneous i.e.
ax2 + by 2 + cz2 + 2f yz + 2gxz + 2hxy = 0. We’ll show that it represents a cone.
It is obvious that if a coordinates (x, y, z) of the point satisfies the above equation,
then (rx, ry, rz) also satisfies for any r. Hence, if any point P lies on the surface
define by the above equation, then every point on a line OP (O is the origin) also
lies on the surface.
Thus the generated surface generated by the lines through the origin O and
hence by definition is a cone with vertex at O.

Result 1: The general equation of a second degree cone passing through the coordinate
axes is
f yx + gzx + hxy.
The direction cosines of the coordinate axes are (1, 0, 0), (0, 1, 0) and (0, 0, 1). Tak-
ing the most general equation of second degree

ax2 + by 2 + cz2 + 2f yz + 2gzx + 2hxy = 0

and substituting the direction cosines of the axes, we find a = 0, b = 0 and c = 0.

Hence the result.

Q1. To find the equation of the cone whose vertex is the origin and which passes
through the curve of intersection of the plane lx + my + nz = p and the surface
f (x, y, z) = 0.

Ans: We make the equation f (x, y, z) = 0 homogeneous with the help of the
equation of the plane in the form

lx + my + nz
= 1.
p

The homogeneous equation of the second degree, thus obtained, represent the
cones, becouse it is satisfied by the coordinates of any point which satisfy the
equations of the plane and the surface simultaneously.

Example 1: Find the equation of the cone, whose vertex is the origin and the guiding curve
is given by

x + 2y + 3z = 4 (57)
5x + 7y 2 − 3z + 2 = 0.
2
(58)

26
 Soln: We make the equation (58) homogeneous with the help of equation (57) in the
form
x + 2y + 3z
=1
4
Thus, we get the required equation, viz.,

x + 2y + 3z x + 2y + 3z 2
   
2 2
5x + 7y − 3z +2 =0
4 4

or 40x2 + 56y 2 − 6(x + 2y + 3z)z + (x + 2y + 3z)2 = 0

or 41x2 + 60y 2 − 9z2 + 4xy = 0.

Example 2: To find the equation of the cone whose vertex is (α, β, γ) and the guiding curve is
the conic z = 0, f (x, y) = 0.

Soln: A line through (α, β, γ)

x−α y −β z−γ
= = (59)
l m n
meets the plane z = 0 at the point, whose coordinates are given by

l m
x = α − γ, y = β − γ, z = 0
n n
If the line (59) intersects the guiding curve, then these values of x and y must
satisfy the equation f (x, y) = 0

l m
 
f α − γ, y = β − γ (60)
n n
Eliminating l.m.n from (59) and (60) we get the equation of the cone generated
by the line (59). Thus the required equation is

x−α y −β
 
f α− ,β −
z−γ z−γ

αz − γx βz − γy
 
or f ,
z−γ z−γ

Example 3: Find the equation of the cone, whose vertex is (α, β, γ) and the base the parabola
z = 0, y 2 = 4ax.

Soln: Equation

x−α y −β z−γ
= = (61)
l m n
represents the equation of a generator. When this generator meets the plane
z = 0 we have
l m
x = α − γ, y = β − γ,
n n

27
Since the line has to intersect the parabola y 2 = 4ax, we have
2
m l
  
β− γ = 4a α − γ (62)
n n
Eliminating l, m, n from (61) and (62), we have

y −β 2 x−α
   
β− γ = 4a α − γ
z−γ z−γ

or (βz − γy)2 = 4a(αz − γx)(z − γ)

28
 Right Circular Cone:

Definition: A cone generated by a variable line through a fixed point which always makes a con-
stant angle with a fixed line through the same point is called a right circular cone.
The fixed line is called the axis of the right circular cone and the constant angle
is called the semi-vertical angle of the cone.

x y
Example 4: To find the equation of a right circular cone, whose axis is a = b = zc , vertex at
the origin and semi-vertical angle is α.

Soln: Let l, m, n be the direction ratios of any generator of the cone. Then, this gener-
ators makes an angle α with the axis whose direction ratios are a, b, c.
al + bm + cn
Therefore cos α = √ √
a2 + b2 + c2 l 2 + m2 + n2
or (a2 + b2 + c2 )(l 2 + m2 + n2 ) cos2 α = (al + bm + cn)2 .
This is homogeneous relation between l, m, n. Hence, the equation of the cone is
(a2 + b2 + c2 )(x2 + y 2 + z2 ) cos2 α = (al + bm + cn)2 .

Example 5: To find the equation of a right circular cone, whose vertex is α, β, γ, axis is
x−α y−β z−γ
λ = µ = ν and semi-vertical angle is θ.

Soln: Let
x−α y −β z−γ
= = (63)
λ µ ν
be a generator of the cone. Then θ being the constant angle between the axis and
any generator, we have
lλ + mµ + nν
cos α = √ p
l 2 + m2 + n2 λ2 + µ2 + ν 2

or, (l 2 + m2 + n2 )(λ2 + µ2 + ν 2 ) cos2 θ = (lλ + mµ + nν)2 (64)

Eliminating λ, µ, ν between (63) and (64), we get the equation of the cone as
[l(x − α) + m(y − β) + n(z − γ)]2 = (l 2 + m2 + n2 )[(x − α)2 + (y − β)2 + (z − γ)2 ] cos2 θ.

29
Example 6: Find the equation of the right circular cone, whose vertex is the origin, axis is the
z-axis and semi-vertical angle is α.

Soln: If l, m, n be the direction cosines of a generator, then by the question we have

n = cos α

Therefore n2 = cos2 α(l 2 + m2 + n2 )

or l 2 + m2 = n2 tan2 α.
Hence the equation of the cone is

x2 + y 2 = z2 tan2 α.

Example 7: Find the equation of a right circular cone whose vertex is the origin, axis is long
z-axis and semi-vertical angle is 60◦ .

Soln: Let (x, y, z) be any point on any generator of a cone. Then the equation of gener-
ator is
x y z
= =
x1 y1 z1

Since the axis is along z- axis whose dcs is 0,0,1 and the semi vertical angle is
60◦ , we have
x · 0 + y1 · 0 + z1 · 1
cos 60◦ = q 1 √
x12 + y12 + z12 02 + 02 + 12
or, x12 + y12 = 3z12

Hence, x2 + y 2 = 3z2 is the required equation of the cone.

Example 8: Find the equation of a right circular cone whose vertex is (3,2,1), axis is a line
x−3 y−2 z−1 ◦
4 = 1 = 3 and semi-vertical angle is 30 .

Soln: Let (x1 , y1 , z1 ) be any point on a generator of a cone. Then drs of generators are
x1 −3, y1 −2, z1 −1. Also since 4, 1, 3 are drs of axis and semi-vertical angle is given
to be 30◦ . So, we have,
4(x1 − 3) + 1(y1 − 1) + 3(z1 − 1)
√ p = cos 30◦
2 2 2 2
4 + 1 + 3 (x1 − 3) + (y1 − 2) + (z1 − 1)2

or, 2(4x1 + y1 + 3z1 − 17)2 = 39[(x1 − 3)2 + (y1 − 2)2 + (z1 − 1)2 ] (65)

Thus, the required equation of the cone is

2(4x + y + 3z − 17)2 = 39[(x − 3)2 + (y − 2)2 + (z − 1)2 ].

Tangent Plane:

30
 Result: The equation of the tangent plane to the cone

ax2 + by 2 + cz2 + 2f yz + 2gzx + 2hxy = 0

at the point P (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) is given by

axx0 + byy 0 + czz0 + f (yz0 + y 0 z) + g(zx0 + xz0 ) + h(xy 0 + x0 y) = 0

Result: The condition that the plane

lx + my + nz = 0

touches the cone

ax2 + by 2 + cz2 + 2f yz + 2gzx + 2hxy = 0

is given by
Al 2 + Bm2 + Cn2 + 2Fmn + 2Gnl + 2Hlm = 0
where A, B, C etc. are the co-factors of a, b, c etc. in the determinant
 
 a h g 
∆ = h b f 
g f c
 

i.e. A = bc − f 2 , B = ca − g 2 , C = ab − h2 , F = gh − af , G = hf − bg and H = f g − ch.

Example 9: Find the condition that the plane lx + my + nz = 0 touches the cone

ax2 + by 2 + cz2 = 0.

Soln: Here, A = bc, B = ca, C = ab, F = 0, G = 0 and H = 0. Hence the condition is

bcl 2 cam2 + abn2 = 0

l 2 m2 n2
or = = = 0.
a b c

Reciprocal Cone:

The cone generated by the normals to the tangent planes of a given cone drawn
through the vertex is its reciprocal cone
If lx + my + nz = 0 is a tangent plane to the cone

ax2 + by 2 + cz2 + 2f yz + 2gzx + 2hxy = 0. (66)

then

Al 2 + Bm2 + Cn2 + 2Fmn + 2Gnl + 2Hlm = 0.

x y
Hence the normal l = m = nz , generates the cone

Ax2 + By 2 + Cz2 + 2Fyz + 2Gzx + 2Hxy = 0. (67)

Thus the cone (67) is the reciprocal cone of (66).

31
 x2 y2 2
Example 10: Prove that the cones ax2 + by 2 + cz2 = 0 and a + b + zc = 0 are reciprocal.

Proof: The reciprocal cone of ax2 + by 2 + cz2 = 0 is

Ax2 + By 2 + Cz2 + 2Fyz + 2Gzx + 2Hxy = 0 (68)

where A, B, C, F, G, H are cofactors of a, b, c, f , g, h in the determinant

 
a 0 0
∆ = 0 b 0
0 0 c
 

i.e. A = bc, B = ac, C = ab, F = G = H = 0. Putting these values in Eq. (68) we get

bcx2 + acy 2 + abz2 = 0

x2 y 2 z2
or, + + = 0,
a b c
which is the required equation of the cone.

Three mutually perpendicular generators:

The condition that the cone

ax2 + by 2 + cz2 + 2f yz + 2gzx + 2hxy = 0.

has three mutually perpendicular generators is

a + b + c = 0.

Example 11: Prove that the plane

ax + by + cz = 0 cuts the cone yz + zx + xy = 0

1
in perpendicular generators, if a + 1b + 1c = 0.

Proof: If l, m, n be the direction cosines of a line of intersection, then

al + bm + cn = 0 (69)
mn + nl + lm = 0. (70)

Eliminating n, we have
al + bm
(l + m) + lm = 0
−c
or al 2 + (a + b − c)lm + bm2 = 0

 2
l l
 
a + (a + b − c) +b = 0 (71)
m m

32
 If (l1 , m1 , n1 ) and (l2 , m2 , n2 ) are the direction cosines of the two lines of intersec-
tion, then ml11 and ml22 are the roots of (71).

l1 l a+b−c l l b
Therefore + 2 =− and 1 · 2 = .
m1 m2 a m1 m2 a

Therefore al1 l2 = bm1 m2 .

Similarly eliminating m, we shall get al1 l2 = cn1 n2 .
Thus we have
l1 l2 m1 m2 n1 n2
al1 l2 = bm1 m2 = cn1 n2 or, = = .
1/a 1/b 1/c
So the two lines of intersection are perpendicular, if

l1 l2 + m1 m2 + n1 n2 = 0
1 1 1
i.e., if + + = 0.
a b c
Example 12: If the cone ax2 + by 2 + cz2 + 2f yz + 2gxz + 2hxy = 0 possess three mutually per-
pendicular tangent planes, then prove that

bc + ca + ab = f 2 + g 2 + h2 .

Proof: The equation of a cone generated by the normals of the tangent planes of a cone
is the reciprocal of the given cone and it is given by

Ax2 + By 2 + Cz2 + 2Fyz + 2Gxz + 2Hxy = 0.

If the cone possess three mutually perpendicular tangent planes then its recip-
rocal cone must possess three mutually perpendicular generators. So w must
have,

A+B+C = 0
⇒ bc − f 2 + ca − g 2 + ab − h2 = 0
⇒ bc + ca + ab = f 2 + g 2 + h2 .

Example 13: Show that the general equation of the cone which touches the three coordinate
planes is √
p √
f x ± gy ± hz = 0
where f , g, h being parameters.

Proof: The cone which touches the three coordinates planes is a reciprocal of a cone
whose generators are coordinate exes is given by

f yz + gzx + hxy = 0.

33
 Its reciprocal cone is
−f 2 x2 − g 2 y 2 − h2 z2 + 2ghyz + 2hf zx + 2f gxy = 0
⇔ f 2 x2 + g 2 y 2 + h2 z2 − 2ghyz − 2hf zx + 2f gxy = 4f gxy
⇔ (f x + gy − hz)2 = 4f gxy
p
⇔ (f x + gy − hz) = ±2 f gxy
p
⇔ (f x + gypm2 f gxy) = hz
p √
⇔ ( f x ± gy)2 = hz
p √ √
⇔ f x ± gy ± hz = 0
Condition that the general equation of second degree should represents a cone
Suppose
f (x, y, z) ≡ ax2 + by 2 + cz2 + 2f yz + 2gzx + 2hxy + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d = 0
is a given general second degree equation. Following are the steps to verify that
the equation represents a cone or not.
1. We make f (x, y, z) homogeneous by introducing a variable t and we write it
as
f (x, y, z, t) = ax2 + by 2 + cz2 + 2f yz + 2gzx + 2hxy + 2uxt + 2vyt + 2wzt + dt 2 .
2. We equate fx , fy , fz , ft to zero.
3. We replace t by unity and solve x, y, z from fx = 0, fy = 0 and fz = 0.
4. The solution obtained should satisfy the last equation ft = 0 in order that
the above equation represents a cone (if not then the equation is not a cone).
If it satisfies then the solution (x, y, z) gives us the coordinates of the vertex
of the cone.
Example 14: Show that the equation
4x2 − y 2 + 2z2 − 3yz + 2xy + 12x − 11y + 6z + 4 = 0
represents a cone with vertex (−1, −2, −3).
Proof: Making the equation homogeneous, we obtain
f (x, y, z, t) = 4x2 − y 2 + 2z2 − 3yz + 2xy + 12xt − 11yt + 6zt + 4t 2 .
Now,
fx ≡ 8x + 2y + 12t = 0 (72)
fy ≡ 2x − 2y − 3z − 11t = 0 (73)
fz ≡ −3y + 4z + 6t = 0 (74)
ft ≡ 12x − 11y + 6z + 8t = 0 (75)
(76)
Putting t = 1 and solving (72), (73), (74) for x, y, z, we get
x = −1, y = −2, z = −3.
It can also verified that these values satisfy Eq. (75) after putting t = 1. Hence,
the given equation represents a cone with vertex (−1, −2, −3).

34
 Enveloping Cone:

Definition: The cone formed by the tangent lines to a surface drawn from a given point is
called the enveloping cone of the surface with a given point as the vertex.

Result: The equation of a cone whose vertex is (α, β, γ) and whose generators touch the
sphere x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d = 0 is given by SS1 = T 2 where

S = x2 + y 2 + z2 + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d

S1 = α 2 + β 2 + γ 2 + 2uα + 2vβ + 2wγ + d
T = αx + βy + γz + u(x + α) + v(y + β) + w(z + γ) + d

The above cone is also known as the enveloping cone of the sphere S.

Example 15: Find the enveloping cone of the sphere

x2 + y 2 + z2 − 2x + 4z = 1

with vertex (1,1,1).

Proof: The enveloping cone of the sphere is

(x2 + y 2 + z2 − 2x + 4z − 1)(12 + 12 + 12 − 2 · 1 + 4 · 1 − 1) =
(1 · x + 1 · y + 1 · z − (x + 1) + 2(z + 1) − 1)2
⇒ 4x2 + 3y 2 − 5z2 − 6yz − 8x + 16z − 4 = 0.

35
 The Cylinder:

Definition: A cylinder is the surface generated by a line which is always parallel to a fixed
line and intersects a given curve.
The fixed line is called the axis of a cylinder and the given curve is the guiding
curve of a cylinder.

Result 1: The equation of the form f (x, y) = 0 represents a cylinder generated by lines
parallel to the z-axis, the guiding curve being z = 0, f (x, y) = 0.
Result 2: The equation of the form φ(y, z) = 0 represents a cylinder generated by lines
parallel to the x-axis, the guiding curve being x = 0, φ(y, z) = 0.
Result 3: The equation of the form ψ(x, u) = 0 represents a cylinder generated by lines
parallel to the y-axis, the guiding curve being y = 0, ψ(z, x) = 0.
Example 1: Find the equation of the cylinder generated by the lines parallel to the z-axis and
passing through the curve of intersection of the plane and the surface
lx + my + nz = p (77)
ax + by 2 + cz2 = 1
2
(78)

Soln: Eliminating z between (77) and (78), we get the equation

p − lx − my 2
 
ax2 + by 2 + c =1 (79)
n
This equation (79) represents a cylinder generated by lines parallel to z-axis.
Moreover, it is satisfied by the coordinates of a point which satisfy the equations
(77) and (78) simultaneously. Hence this cylinder (79) passes through the curve
of intersection of (77) and (78).
Example 2: Find the equations of orthogonal projection of the curve 2x + y − z = 3, x2 + 2y 2 +
3z2 = 1 on the z-plane.
Proof: The equation of orthogonal projection of a given curve on z-plane is the equation
of a cylinder with z-axis as the axis. And its equation is obtaining by eliminating
z from equations 2x + y − z = 3 and x2 + 2y 2 + 3z2 = 1 i.e.
x2 + 2y 2 + 3(2x + y − 3)2 = 1.
Hence, the projection of the given curve on the z-plane is given by
z = 0, x2 + 2y 2 + 3(2x + y − 3)2 = 1.

36
Example 3: Find the equation of the cylinder generated by lines parallel to a fixed line
x y z
= = (80)
l m n
the guiding curve being the conic
z = 0, ax2 + by 2 = 1. (81)

Soln: Let (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) be any point on the cylinder. then the equations of the line through
this point parallel to the given line (80) are
x − x0 y − y 0 z − z0
= = .
l m n
This line meets the plane z = 0, where
lz0 mz0
x = x0 − and y = y0 −
n n
and it intersects the guiding curve (81), if,
lz0 2 mz0 2
   
a x0 − + b y0 − = 1.
n n
Hence the equation of the cylinder is
lz 2 mz 2
   
a x− +b y − = 1.
n n
or a(nx − lz)2 + b(ny − mz)2 = n2 .
x
Example 4: Find the equation of the cylinder generated by the lines parallel to the line 1 =
y z
2 = 3 , the guiding curve being the conic

z = 2, 3x2 + 4xy + 5y 2 = 1.

Soln: Let (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) be any point on the cylinder. then the equations of the line through
this point parallel to the given line are
x − x0 y − y 0 z − z0
= = .
1 2 3
This line meets the plane z = 2, where
2 − z0 3x0 − z0 + 2
x = x0 + =
3 3
2(2 − z0 ) 3y 0 − 2z0 + 4
and y = y0 + = .
3 3
This line intersects the guiding curve, if
3x − z + 2 3y 0 − 2z0 + 4
 0
3y − 2z0 + 4 2
 0 0  0 0
3x − z + 2 2
   
3 +4 +5 = 1.
3 3 3 3
Hence the equation of the cylinder is
3(3x − z + 2)2 + 5(3x − z + 2)(3y − 2z + 4) + 5(3y − 2z + 4)2 = 9.

37
Example 5: Find the equation of the cylinder generated by the lines parallel to the line
x y z 2 2
1 = 2 = 1 and intersecting the guiding curve z = 3, x + y = 4.

Soln: Any generator of the cylinder through the point (α, β, γ) on the cylinder is

x−α y −β z−γ
= =
1 2 1
As this line intersects the plane z = 3, the point of intersection is (α + 3 − γ, β +
6 − 2γ, 3). The point must lie on the curve

x2 + y 2 = 4, z = 3.

Hence
(α + 3 − γ)2 + (β + 6 − 2γ)2 = 4.
The locus of (α, β, γ) is the required cylinder and its equation is given by

(x + z + 3)2 + (y − 2z + 6)2 = 4

or x2 + y 2 + 5z2 + 2zx − 4yz + 6x + 12y − 18z + 41 = 0.

Right Circular Cylinder:

Definition: A right circular cylinder is a cylinder whose guiding curve is a circle, and the
generators are perpendicular to the plane of the guiding circle.

Example 6: To find the equation of the right circular cylinder whose axis is the line

x−α y −β z−γ
= = (82)
l m n
and radius r

38
 Soln: Let P (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) be any point on the cylinder. Then, the square of distance of point
P from A(α, β, γ) is given by

P A2 = (x0 − α)2 + (y 0 − β)2 + (z0 − γ)2 .

Also,

P N = scalar projection of PA along the axis

= P~A · AN
d
!
0 0 0 l m n
= ((x − α), (y − β), (z − γ)) · √ ,√ ,√
l 2 + m2 + n2 l 2 + m2 + n2 l 2 + m2 + n2
Therefore, the square of the perpendicular distance of the point from the line
(82) is given by

P N 2 = P A2 − AN 2
[l(x0 − α) + m(y 0 − β) + n(z0 − γ)]2
 
r 2 = (x0 − α)2 + (y 0 − β)2 + (z0 − γ)2 −
l 2 + m2 + n2
Hence the equation of the cylinder is

[l(x − α) + m(y − β) + n(z − γ)]2

 
2 2 2
(x − α) + (y − β) + (z − γ) − 2 2 2
= r 2.
l +m +n

Example 7: The axis of the right circular cylinder is

x−1 y −2 z−3
= =
2 −1 2
and its radius is 5. Find the equation.

Soln: The equation is

[2(x − 1) − (y − 2) + 2(z − 3)]2

 
2 2 2
(x − 1) + (y − 2) + (z − 3) − = 52 .
22 + 22 + 22

or 5x2 + 8y 2 + 5z2 + 4yz − 8zx + 4xy + 6x − 48y − 30z − 135 = 0.

39
Example 8: Find the equation of the right circular cylinder of radius 3 units whose axis
passes through the point (−1, 2, 0) and has d.c.s proportional to 2, −3, −6.

Proof: The equation of the axis is given by

x+1 y −2 z
= = .
2 −3 −6
Let (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) be any point on a cylinder, then we have

2(x0 + 1) − 3(y 0 − 2) − 6(z0 − 0)

 2
(x0 + 1)2 + (y 0 − 2)2 + (z0 − 0)2 − p = 32
22 + (−3)2 + (−6)2

Therefore, the required equation is

2
2(x + 1) − 3(y − 2) − 6z

2 2 2
(x + 1) + (y − 2) + (z − 0) − = 9.
7

40
 Worked-out examples

Q1. Find the equation of the line passing through the point (2, 1, 0) and parallel to
the line joining the points (1, 5, 2) and (3, 0, −1).

Soln: Since the required line is parallel to the line joining the points (1, 5, 2) and (3, 0, −1).
Therefore, d.r.s of a required line is 3 − 1, 0 − 5, −1 − 2 i.e. 2, −5, −3. Also the point
through which the required line passes is (2, 1, 0). Hence the required equation
of a line is given by
x−2 y −1 z
= =
2 −5 −3
Q2. Find the equation of the line through the point (3, 2, 1) and is parallel to the
y+1
line x−4
2 = 3 = −5
z−2

y+1
Soln: Since the required line is parallel to the line x−4 z−2
2 = 3 = −5 . Therefore, d.r.s of
a required line is 2, 3, −5. Also the point through which the required line passes
is (3, 2, 1). Hence the required equation of a line is given by

x−3 y −2 z−1
= =
2 3 −5

Q3. Find the distance of the point (1, 2, 3) from the plane 2x + 3y + 4z = 25 measured
y
parallel to the line 2x = 3 = 4z . Show also that it is the perpendicular distance of
the given point from the given plane.

Soln: In order to find the required distance, we have to first find the point of inter-
section of a line through a point (1, 2, 3) parallel to a given line. The required
distance is the distance between this point of intersection and (1, 2, 3).

41
 x y z
Now, the equation of a line through point (1, 2, 3) parallel to the line 2 = 3 = 4 is
given by
x−1 y −2 z−3
= = (83)
2 3 4

Therefore, point on line (83) is of the form (2r + 1, 3r + 2, 4r + 3). At the point of
intersection, we have

2(2r + 1) + 3(3r + 2) + 4(4r + 3) = 25

5
⇒r = (84)
29
   
5 5 5 39 73 107
Therefore, the point of intersection is 2 · 29 + 1, 3 · 29 + 2, 4 · 29 + 3 i.e. 29 , 29 , 29 .
q 2  2  2
39 73 107
Hence, the required distance is 29 − 1 + 29 − 1 + 29 − 1 i.e. √5 units.
29
The perpendicular distance of point (1, 2, 3) from the plane 2x + 3y + 4z = 25
is given by √−2·1−3·2−4·3+25 i.e. √5 units which is equal to the above distance
2 2 2
(−2) +(−3) +(−4) 29
y
measured along the line 2x = 3 = z
4.

Q4. Find the coordinates of the centre of the circle x2 + y 2 + z2 − ax − by − cz = 0,

x y z
a + b + c = 1.

Soln: Note that the line joining the centre of the sphere x2 + y 2 + z2 − ax − by − cz = 0
y
and the centre of the circle is perpendicular to the plane xa + b + zc = 1.
 
The coordinates of the centre of the sphere is 2a , 2b , 2c . Therefore the equation of
a line joining the centre of sphere and circle is given by

x − 2a y − 2b z − 2c
1
= 1
= 1
(85)
a b c

42
 So, any point on this line is of the form
!
r a r b r c
+ , + , + (86)
a 2 b 2 c 2
x y
For point of intersection of line (85) with plane a + b + zc = 1, we must have
r
r
a + 2a b + 2b r
b + 2b
+ + = 1
a b c
1
⇒r = −   (87)
2 a12 + b12 + c12

The point of intersection i.e. the centre of the circle is obtained by putting this
value of r in Eq. (86) which is given by

 − 2 a−2 +b1−2 +c−2 − −2 1−2 −2 − −2 1−2 −2

 
 ( ) a 2(a +b +c ) b 2(a +b +c ) c 

 + , + , + 
 a 2 b 2 c 2 

a(b−2 + c−2 ) b(a−2 + c−2 ) c(b−2 + a−2 )

!
or, , ,
2(a−2 + b−2 + c−2 ) 2(a−2 + b−2 + c−2 ) 2(a−2 + b−2 + c−2 )

Q5. Find the radius of the circle where the plane x − 2y + 2z = 3 intersects the
sphere x2 + y 2 + z2 − 8x + 4y + 8z = 45.

p
Soln: The centre of the given sphere is (4, −2, −4) and its radius is R = 42 + (−2)2 + (−4)2 =
9 units
The perpendicular distance of the centre of the sphere from the given plane is

−4 + 2 · (−2) − 2 · (−4) + 3
d= p = 1 units
12 + (−2)2 + 22
√ √ √
Therefore the radius of the circle is R2 − d 2 = 81 − 1 = 16 5 units.

Q6. Prove that the plane 2x + y − z = 12 touches the sphere x2 + y 2 + z2 = 24 and find
the point of contact.

Soln: We know that the condition that the plane lx + my + nz = p touches the sphere
x2 + y 2 + z2 = a2 is given by a2 (l 2 + m2 + n2 ) = p2 .

43
 √
Here, l = 2, m = 1, n = −1, p = 12, a = 24. It can be seen that a2 (l 2 + m2 + n2 ) =
24(22 + 12 + (−1)2 ) = 144 = 122 = p2 .
∴ the given plane touches the given sphere. Let the point of contact be (x0 , y 0 z0 ).
We know that equation of tangent plane to a given sphere at any point (x0 , y 0 , z0 )
is
x0 x + y 0 y + z0 z = 24.
Therefore, by comparing this equation with the given equation of a plane we get

x0 y 0 z0 24
= = =
2 1 −1 12
⇒ x0 = 4, y 0 = 2, z0 = −2

Hence the point of contact is (4, 2, −2).

Q7. A plane passes through a fixed point (α, β, γ) and cuts the coordinate axes in A, B,
β γ
C. Prove that the locus of the centre of the sphere OABC is given by αx + y + z = 2.

Proof: Let the coordinates of A, B, C be (a, 0, 0), (0, b, 0), (0, 0, c) respectively. Then the
equation of the sphere OABC is given by

x2 + y 2 + z2 − ax − by − cz = 0
 
a b c
Therefore, the centre of the sphere is 2, 2, 2
We also know that, the equation of a plane which cuts coordinate axes at A, B, C
y
is xa + b + zc = 1. Since this plane passes through a fixed point (α, β, γ), we have

α β γ
+ + =1
a b c
α β γ
⇒ + + =2 (88)
a/2 b/2 c/2
Therefore, from Eq. (88), the centre of the sphere satisfies the equation

α β γ
+ + =2
x y z

and hence, this gives the required locus.

y
Q8. The plane xa + b + zc = 1 cuts the axes in A, B, C. Find the equation of the cone
whose vertex is the origin and the guiding curve is the circle ABC.

Soln: Note here that the coordinates of A, B, C are (a, 0, 0), (0, b, 0), (0, 0, c) respectively
Since the guiding curve is a circle ABC. Therefore the guiding curve is the inter-
section of the plane
x y z
+ + =1 (89)
a b c
and a sphere OABC whose equation is given by

x2 + y 2 + z2 − ax − by − cz = 0 (90)

44
 Since the required cone has its vertex at the origin, its equation is obtained by
making the equation (90) homogeneous with the help of Eq. (89). Therefore the
required equation is
x y z x y z x y z
     
2 2 2
x + y + z − ax + + − by + + − cz + + = 0
! a b c ! a b c a b c
b c c a a b
 
⇒ + yz + + xz + + xy = 0.
c b a c b a

Q9. Find the equation of the cone, whose vertex is (2, 2, 2) and the base is z = 0,
x2 + y 2 = 36.

Soln: Let l, m, n be drs of any generator. Then its equation is given by

x−2 y −2 z−2
= = (91)
l m n
This line meets the plane z = 0 where
x−2 y −2 0−2
= =
l m n
l m
i.e. x = 2 − 2 , y = 2 − 2 (92)
n n
Since the line has to intersect the curve x2 + y 2 = 36, we have
!2 
l m 2

2−2 + 2−2 = 36 (93)
n n
Eliminating l, m, n from (91), (93) we get

x−2 2 y −2 2
   
2−2 + 2−2 = 36
z−2 z−2
⇒ (z − x)2 + (z − y)2 = 9(z − 2)2

Q10. Find the equation of the cylinder whose generated parallel to the line 2x = y = 3z
and which passes through the circle y = 0, x2 + z2 = 8.
Soln: Let (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) be any point on the cylinder. Then equation of generator passes
through this point is given by
x − x0 y − y 0 z − z0
= = , [since generators are parallel to the line 2x = y = 3z]
1/2 1 1/3

45
 This line meets the plane y = 0 where

x − x0 −y 0 z − z0
= =
1/2 1 1/3
1 1
i.e. x = x0 − y 0 , z = z0 − y 0 (94)
2 3

Since the line has to intersect the curve x2 + z2 = 8, we have

2  2
0 1 0 0 1 0

x − y + z − y =8
2 3
⇒ 9(2x − y ) + 4(3z − y 0 )2 = 288
0 0 2 0

Hence, the required equation of cylinder is 9(2x − y)2 + 4(3z − y)2 = 288.

Q11. Find the equation of the right circular cylinder of radius 2, whose axis passes
through the point (1, 2, 3) and has a drs (2, −3, 6).

Soln: Let P (x0 , y 0 , z0 ) be any point on the cylinder. Then the square of the distance of
this point from A(1, 2, 3) is given by (x0 − 1)2 + (y 0 − 2)2 + (z0 − 3)2 .
The square of the scalar projection of P A on the axis of cylinder is given by
!2
2(x0 −1)+(−3)(y 0 −2)+6(z0 −3)
√
22 +(−3)2 +62

Therefore the square of the perpendicular distance of the point P from the axis
is
 2
 2(x 0 − 1) + (−3)(y 0 − 2) + 6(z0 − 3) 
(x0 − 1)2 + (y 0 − 2)2 + (z0 − 3)2 − 
 
(95)
 
p 
22 + (−3)2 + 62

 


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This should be equal to the square of the radius of the cylinder. Hence the re-
quired equation is
 2
 2(x − 1) + (−3)(y − 2) + 6(z − 3) 
(x − 1)2 + (y − 2)2 + (z − 3)2 −  = 22

 

p 

 2 2
2 + (−3) + 6 2 

⇒ 45x2 + 40y 2 + 13z2 + 36yz − 24zx + 12xy − 42x − 280y − 126z + 294 = 0

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