JEE Mathematics · Hard

Straight Lines: JEE Advanced MCQ

Solve this quality-checked JEE multiple-choice question, then review the correct answer and explanation.

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JEE AdvancedHardQuestion 300013

Question

If a variable line has x-intercept 'a' and y-intercept 'b' with a + b = 5, the locus of midpoint of the intercept between the axes is:
  1. A
    x + y = 5/2
    Correct
  2. B
    2x + 2y = 5
  3. C
    x/a + y/b = 1
  4. D
    x + y = 5

Correct answer

x + y = 5/2

Explanation

Midpoint of segment between intercepts (a, 0) and (0, b): M = (a/2, b/2). Let h = a/2, k = b/2 → a = 2h, b = 2k. Constraint: a+b = 5 → 2h+2k = 5 → h+k = 5/2. Locus: x + y = 5/2.