Question:

The common tangent of the parabolas $y^2 = 4x$ and $x^2 = -8y$ is

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Use slope form directly for common tangent problems.
Updated On: Apr 23, 2026
  • $y = x + 2$
  • $y = x - 2$
  • $y = 2x + 3$
  • None of these
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Tangent in slope form for parabola

Step 1:
Tangent to $y^2 = 4x$ is \[ y = mx + \frac{1}{m} \]

Step 2:
Tangent to $x^2 = -8y$ is \[ y = mx - 2m^2 \]

Step 3:
Common tangent $\Rightarrow$ equate both: \[ mx + \frac{1}{m} = mx - 2m^2 \]

Step 4:
\[ \frac{1}{m} = -2m^2 \Rightarrow 1 = -2m^3 \] \[ m^3 = -\frac{1}{2} \]

Step 5:
Value of $m$ is not simple integer, so no option matches.
Conclusion:
Answer = None of these
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