1
$\begingroup$

$x^2+y^2-2ax-14y+40=0$

Show that the equation is a circle for every $a$.

My answer is:

$(x-a)^2 - a^2 + (y-7)^2 -49+40=0$

$(x-a)^2+(y-7)^2=a^2+9$

$a^2+9>0$

$a^2 > -9$

For every $ a \in \mathbb{R}$, $a^2 > -9$ , so the equation is a circle for every $a$.

Is this correct? And especially, my conclusion, how would that be written correctly, because I know I've probably did something wrong.

  • 2
    It seems all correct to me.2012-10-14
  • 0
    Even the notation of my conclusion?2012-10-14
  • 0
    I've slightly edited the conclusion. My advice is "When writing a formula, be able to translate it in your language": symbols are just a useful shortcut, they don't change the meaning of what you're saying.2012-10-14
  • 0
    It would be better if you start from your equation and complete the squares to obtain the other equation. It is just a matter of formality. The part about $a^2$ is trivially true. That will provide the radius of the circle.2012-10-14
  • 0
    @AndreaOrta thank you2012-10-14

0 Answers 0