Find the point on the curve y² = 4x which is nearest to the point (2, -8).

Find the point on the curve y² = 4x which is nearest to the point (2, -8).

• A. (1, -2)
• B. (4, -4)
• C. (9, -6)
• D. (16, -8)

Answer: B) (4, -4)

Explanation: Distance squared D² = (x - 2)² + (y + 8)² = (y²/4 - 2)² + (y + 8)². Differentiating w.r.t y and setting to zero yields y = -4. Thus x = (-4)²/4 = 4. Point is (4, -4).