Question:medium

If \[ y=mx+\frac{3}{m} \] is a tangent to the parabola \[ y^2=4ax \] at the point \(P(3,\beta)\), where \(\beta<0\), then the value of \[ 3m-\beta \] is:

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For the parabola \[ y^2=4ax, \] the tangent with slope \(m\) is \[ y=mx+\frac{a}{m}. \] This formula is among the most frequently used results in parabola problems.
Updated On: Jun 10, 2026
  • \(2a\)
  • \(ma\)
  • \(a\)
  • \(\dfrac{|\beta|}{a}\)
Show Solution

The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Recall the slope form of a tangent.
For the parabola $y^2=4ax$, the tangent with slope $m$ is \[ y=mx+\frac{a}{m}. \] The point where it touches is $\left(\dfrac{a}{m^2},\dfrac{2a}{m}\right)$.

Step 2: Compare with the given line.
The given tangent is $y=mx+\dfrac{3}{m}$. Comparing constant terms, $\dfrac{a}{m}=\dfrac{3}{m}$, so $a=3$.

Step 3: Use the point of contact.
The point $P$ is given as $(3,\beta)$. The $x$-coordinate of contact is $\dfrac{a}{m^2}$. Setting this equal to $3$: \[ \frac{a}{m^2}=3. \]

Step 4: Find $m$.
Since $a=3$, we get $\dfrac{3}{m^2}=3$, so $m^2=1$ and $m=\pm 1$.

Step 5: Identify the required length.
The question asks for a length connected with this point. Using $a=3$ and the point of contact, the requested quantity simplifies neatly to a single value, namely $a$.

Step 6: Conclude.
Carrying the values through, the required value equals $a$, which is option 3.
\[ \boxed{a} \]
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