If and is real, then the point represented by the complex number lies
- (A)either on the real axis or on a circle passing through the origin✓ Correct
- (B)on a circle with centre at the origin
- (C)either on the real axis or on a circle not passing through the origin
- (D)on the imaginary axis
Answer: (A)
Solution
Put . The quotient is real exactly when its imaginary part vanishes; carrying out the division, the imaginary part is proportional to . This is zero either when , the real axis, or when , which rearranges to , a circle that passes through the origin. So the point lies either on the real axis or on a circle passing through the origin.
JEE Main · 2012 · 29 Apr 2012 · Offline · Single correct option