91Ó°ÊÓ

To understand this problem, we first need to delve into the concept of a locus in geometry. A locus refers to a set of points that satisfy certain geometrical conditions or rules. It represents the path traced by a moving point that follows these conditions. In our exercise, we are tasked with finding the locus of point \( C(x, y) \) such that it maintains a constant angle \( \theta \) with two fixed points \( A(a, 0) \) and \( B(-a, 0) \).

The theoretical foundation lies in understanding that these points form a triangle. By defining the relationship among these points, we can find an equation that characterizes the locus. The solution utilizes the relationship that involves angles and distances between these points to form a practical equation of locus, showcasing the power of geometry not just to position points, but to describe paths and motion.

Trigonometry plays a crucial role in solving this problem by providing a framework through which angles can be analyzed using algebraic expressions. In the context of a triangle, trigonometric identities allow us to relate the angles to the sides. Here, we use the cosine rule, which integrates the angle \( \theta \) with the sides formed by vectors \( \overrightarrow{CA} \) and \( \overrightarrow{CB} \).

Initially, the cosine rule gives:

• \( \cos \angle ACB = \frac{\overrightarrow{CA} \cdot \overrightarrow{CB}}{|\overrightarrow{CA}| \times |\overrightarrow{CB}|} \)

By substituting the dot product and magnitude, we derive a relationship that ties the internal structure of the triangle to the trigonometric function, linking \( \cos \theta \) predominantly to the coordinates \( x \) and \( y \). Simplifying these expressions in terms gives insight into how the angle condition and trigonometry intertwine in determining feasible positions for \( C \).

Through algebraic manipulation and the use of trigonometric identities (such as \( \tan \theta = \frac{\sin \theta}{\cos \theta} \)), we unravel the locus condition: \( x^2 + y^2 + 2xy \tan \theta = a^2 \).

Understanding this problem also involves the basics of coordinate geometry, which allows us to describe geometric figures in a plane using equations. With points \( A \) and \( B \) known, the position of point \( C \) is variable. We assess this variable position through coordinate geometry by establishing relationships between these coordinates given angle conditions.

The vectors \( \overrightarrow{CA} \) and \( \overrightarrow{CB} \) simplify the visualization and computation of distances and angles. By dealing in coordinates:

• \( \overrightarrow{CA} = (x-a, y) \)
• \( \overrightarrow{CB} = (x+a, y) \)

The usefulness of coordinate geometry emerges as we express the distance and angular conditions as equations in terms of \( x \) and \( y \). Our goal was achieved by applying the same principles that govern the spatial arrangement of objects, making use of simultaneous equations and symmetry inherent in coordinate geometry.

This methodical approach demonstrates how geometry can extend beyond shape and form, giving us powerful tools to solve complex problems using just positions expressed numerically.