A curve has the equation, 6x^2 +3xy−y^2 +6=0 and passes through the point A (-5, 10). Find the equation of the normal to the curve at A.

Use implicit differentiation on original equation-
12x + 3x(dy/dx) + 3y - 2y(dy/dx) = 0
dy/dx= -12x -3y/(3x-2y) at A, x= -5 and y= 10 therefore, dy/dx=-6/7

To find the normal of the curve, use the negative reciprocal of the gradient calculated for the gradient of the normal, 7/6. Now we can form the equation,
y= mx + c
y= 7/6.x + c

Input y and x values in the question to calculate c;
c= 10-7/6(-5)= 95/6
So, y= 7/6x + 95/6

CG
Answered by Chantal G. Maths tutor

6327 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is differentiation?


How can I remember how to differentiate and integrate cos and sin?


I don't understand how to visualise differentiation, please could you show my an example to allow me to understand what it actually is better?


How to differentiate tan(x)?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning