Question:medium

If the major axis of an ellipse subtends an angle of $120^{\circ}$ at one end of its minor axis and the length of its semi latus rectum is $\frac{4}{\sqrt{3}}$, then the sum of the lengths of its axes is

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If the major axis subtends an angle $\theta$ at the vertex of the minor axis, use $\tan(\frac{\theta}{2}) = \frac{a}{b}$ to quickly link the semi-axes lengths.
Updated On: Jun 3, 2026
  • 12
  • 24
  • $8(\sqrt{3}+1)$
  • $4(\sqrt{3}+1)$
Show Solution

The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Set up the ellipse picture.
Take the ellipse $\dfrac{x^2}{a^2}+\dfrac{y^2}{b^2}=1$ with $a>b$. The major axis ends are $(\pm a,0)$ and one minor axis end is $B(0,b)$.
Step 2: Use the $120^\circ$ angle.
The major axis subtends $120^\circ$ at $B$. By symmetry the vertical splits it into two $60^\circ$ angles. In the right triangle with legs $b$ (vertical) and $a$ (horizontal), $\tan 60^\circ=\dfrac{a}{b}$.
Step 3: Get a relation.
\[ \sqrt3=\frac{a}{b}\ \Rightarrow\ a=b\sqrt3. \]
Step 4: Use the latus rectum.
The semi latus rectum is $\dfrac{b^2}{a}=\dfrac{4}{\sqrt3}$. Put $a=b\sqrt3$: \[ \frac{b^2}{b\sqrt3}=\frac{b}{\sqrt3}=\frac{4}{\sqrt3}\ \Rightarrow\ b=4. \]
Step 5: Find $a$.
\[ a=b\sqrt3=4\sqrt3. \]
Step 6: Add both axis lengths.
Major axis $=2a=8\sqrt3$, minor axis $=2b=8$. Sum: \[ 8\sqrt3+8=8(\sqrt3+1). \] \[ \boxed{8(\sqrt3+1)} \]
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