[Math] Equation of the line through the point $(\frac{1}{2},2)$ and tangent to the parabola $y=\frac{-x^2}{2}+2$ and secant to the curve $y=\sqrt{4-x^2}$

analytic geometrycalculusconic sectionstangent line

Find the equation of the line through the point $(\frac{1}{2},2)$ and tangent to the parabola $y=\frac{-x^2}{2}+2$ and secant to the curve $y=\sqrt{4-x^2}$


Let the required line is tangent to the parabola at the point $(x_1,y_1)$.It passes through $(\frac{1}{2},2)$.Its equation is $y-2=-x_1(x-\frac{1}{2})$.
This line is also secant to the the curve $y=\sqrt{4-x^2}$.
I solved $y=\sqrt{4-x^2}$ and the line $y-2=-x_1(x-\frac{1}{2})$.
I am stuck here.

Best Answer

Let $\left(t,-\frac{t^2}{2}+2\right)$ be a tangent point.

Since $\left(-\frac{x^2}{2}+2\right)'=-x$, we get an equation of the tangent line: $$y+\frac{t^2}{2}-2=-t(x-t).$$ Now, substitute $x=\frac{1}{2}$ and $y=2$, find a values of $t$ (I got $t=0$ or $t=1$) and choose a value, which you need.