Given a parabola with the equation y2=8x, a moving point M on the parabola, a focus F, and a fixed point P(2,1), find the minimum value of |MP|+|MF|.
Problem 123
Official solution
Let D be the projection of point M on the directrix. According to the definition of a parabola, we know that |MF|=|MD|.
To find the minimum value of |MP|+|MF|, we need to find the minimum value of |MP|+|MD|. This occurs when points D, M, and P are collinear, with a minimum value of 2-(−2)=4.
Therefore, the answer is .
By setting point D as the projection of M on the directrix, we can transform the problem into finding the minimum value of |MP|+|MD|. We can then deduce that the minimum value occurs when points D, M, and P are collinear, providing us with the answer.
This problem tests your understanding of the definition and standard equation of a parabola, as well as the application of its simple properties. Recognizing that |PM|+|MD| is minimum when points D, M, and P are collinear is the key to solving this problem.