Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Notes Circle PDF
Notes Circle PDF
.in
ps
te
yS
ud
St
Page 1 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
TEACHING NOTES
CIRCLE
BASIC GEOMETRY WITH CIRCLES
(iv) Angles in the same segment of a circle are equal. fig - (iv)
.in
(v) The sum of the opposite angles of a cyclic quadrilateral
is 1800 and vice-versa. fig - (v)
ps
(vi) If a line touches a circle and from the point of contact
te
The angle between the tangents is bisected by the straight line, which joins their point
of intersection to the centre. This straight line also bisects at right angles the chord,
which joins the points where they touch the circle
Page 2 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
LECTURE 1
1. DEFINITION : Circle is defined as a locus of a point 'P' which moves in x-y plane in
such a way such that its distance from the fixed point in the same plane is always
constant.
i.e. (h a)2 + (k b)2 = r2
(x a)2 + (y b)2 = r2 ....(1)
fixed point is centre of the circle and fixed distance is radius of circle.
a, b centre
r radius
Note: If centre is origin then the equation of circle :
x2 + y2 = r2
Expand (1) x2 + y2 2ax 2by + a2 + b2 r2 = 0.
hence the general equation of the circle is taken as
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0. ....(2)
2
This can be written as (x + g)2 + (y + f)2 = g 2 f 2 c
1 1
hence, Centre (g, f) i.e. ( coefficient of x ; coefficient of y )
2 2
Radius g2 f 2 c
Remember that every second degree equation in x & y in which coeff. of x2=coeff. of 2y
and there is no xy term represents a circle.
Note: .in
ps
(i) Necessary and sufficient condition for general equation of degree 2
i.e. ax2 + 2hxy + by2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 to represent a circle is
te
(b) coefficient of xy = 0
(ii) The general equation of circle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 contains 3 independent
ud
arbitrary constants g, f and c that a unique circle passes through 3 non-collinear points
hence 3 points on a circle or 3 tangents to a circle or 2 tangents to a circle and a point
St
If g2 + f2 c > 0 If g2 + f2 c = 0 If g2 + f2 c < 0
Real circle with finite radius point circle imaginary circle
Note: Always chase for centre and radius to get the equation of circle.
EXAMPLES :
Ex-1 Find the equation of the circle
(a) through 3 non-collinear points (or to prove that the
points (3, 4), ( 3, 4), (0, 5) and (5, 0) are concyclic.
(b) having lines 2x 3y = 5 and 3x 4y = 7 as its diameter / Normal / longest chord and
whose area is 154 sq. units.
[Sol. r2 = 154 r = 7 solve lines to get centre. ]
Page 3 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
(c) which is concentric with 3x + 3y5x6y14 = 0 and perimeter of its semicircle is 36.
(d) Centre is on the line y = 2x and passing through (1, 2) and (3, 2).
(e) passes through (2, 3) and centre on the x-axis radius being 5.
(f) which has its centre as the point (4, 3) and touching the line 5x 12y 10 = 0.
(g) circumscribing the triangle formed by the lines 2x + y = 4 ; x + 2y = 5 ; x + y = 6.
(h) passing through the extremities of the diameter of
the circle x2 + y2 = 4 ; x2 + y2 + 2x 4y 2 = 0
and x2 + y2 6x 8y + 10 = 0
[Sol. r2 = a2 + b2 + 4
= (a + 1)2 + (b 2)2 + 7
= (a 3)2 + (b 4)2 + 15]
EXAMPLES :
Ex-1 The abscissa of 2 points 'A' and 'B' are the roots of the equation x2 + 2x a2 = 0 and
ud
the ordinate are the roots of the equation y2 + 4y b2 = 0. Find the equation of circle
with AB as diameter.
St
Ex-2 Find the equation of a circle circumscribing the quadrilateral formed by the lines
2x + 3y = 2 ; 3x 2y = 4 ; x + 2y = 3 ; 2x y = 3
Ex-3 Equation of the circle which touches the lines x = 0, y = 0 and x = c will be the circle
described on the line joining the points (0, c/2) and (c, c/2) as diameter.
[Ans. 4(x2 + y2) 4cx 4cy + c2 = 0]
| x1 x2 | = 2 g2 c
Page 4 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
(i) If g2 c > 0
circle cuts the x-axis at 2 distinct points.
(ii) If g2 c = 0
circle touches the x-axis
(iii) If g2 < c
circle lies completely above or below the x-axis.
| y1 y2 | = 2 f2 c
(i) If f2 c > 0
circle cuts the y-axis at 2 distinct points.
(ii) If f2 = c
circle touches the y-axis
.in
ps
(iii) If f2 < c
te
EXAMPLES :
ud
Ex-1 Find the equation of a circle which touches the +ve axis of y at a distance of 4 units
from origin and cuts off an intercept of 6 units from the positive axis of x.
[Sol. From figure
St
equation of circle
(x 5)2 + (y 4)2 = 52
or (x + 5)2 + (y 4)2 = 252
Aliter : Let the equation of circle be
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0
passes through (0, 4) 16 + 8 f + c = 0 ....(1)
x-intercept = 6 2 g2 c = 6 g2 c = 9 ....(2)
Also touches the y-axis f2 = c ....(3)
Now proceed. ]
Page 5 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
Ex-3 Find the equation of a circle passing through
origin cutting off intercept equals to unity on
the lines y2 x2 = 0.
Ex-4 Find the equation of the locus of the centre of a circle which touches the positive
y-axis and having intercept on x-axis equals to 2l.
[Sol. from figure
h2 = k2 + l2
required locus is
x2 y2 = l2 ]
Ex-5 Two rods whose lengths are 2a and 2b slide along the rectangular axes in such a way
that their extremities are always concyclic. Find the equation of the locus of the centre
of the circle. [Ans. x2 y2 = a2 b2]
H. W. After Lecture-1 : Exercise-17 (S.L. Loney) Leave Q.No. 10, 11, 12, 33
LECTURE 2
4. POSITION OF A POINT W.R.T. A CIRCLE :
.in
Point 'P' lies outside / on / inside the circle according as
ps
OP r
i.e. (x1 + g)2 + (y1 + f)2 r2
te
Note: Greatest and least distance of a point A (x1, y1) from a circle with centre 'C' and
radius 'r' is
St
| AC + r | and | AC r |
EXAMPLES :
Ex-1 If the join of (x1, y1) & (x2, y2) makes an obtuse angle at (x3, y3) then prove that
(x3 x1) (x3 x2) + (y3 y1) (y3 y2) < 0
[Sol. Equation of circle with AB as diameter
(x x1) (x x2) + (y y1) (y y2) = 0
since AB subtends obtuse angle at (x3 , y3)
P lies inside the circle
(x3 x1) (x3 x2) + (y3 y1) (y3 y2) < 0 H.P. ]
Ex-2 S1 = x2 + y2 4x + 6y 3 = 0
S2 = x2 + y2 + 4x 6y 3 = 0
point (1, 2) lies
(A) inside S1 = 0 and inside S2 = 0
(B) outside S1 = 0 and outside S2 = 0
(C) inside S1 = 0 and outside S2 = 0
(D) outside S1 = 0 and inside S2 = 0
Page 6 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
Ex-3 For what value of a the point (a, a + 1) lies inside the region
bounded by the circle x2 + 2y = 4 and the line x + y = 2 in
the first quadrant.
1 7 1
[Ans. , ]
2 2
Note: If is eliminated we get Cartesian form of a circle i.e. (x x 1)2 + (y y1)2 = r2.
C.B.S.E.
.in
ps
(1) x2 + y2 6x + 4y 3 = 0. convert into parametric form
[Sol. x = 3 + 4 cos
te
y = 2 + 4 sin ]
yS
(2) If A (cos 1, sin 1) ; B (cos 2, sin 2) ; C (cos 3, sin 3) are the vertices of a triangle
ABC then find the orthocenter of the triangle.
ud
(3) 'P' is the variable point on the circle with centre at C. CA & CB are perpendicular from
C on x-axis and y-axis respectively. Show that the locus of the centroid of triangle PAB
is a circle with centre at the centroid of triangle CAB and radius equal to the third of the
radius of the given circle.
[Sol. Let the circle be x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0
Let the centroid of the CAB be (h, k)
3h = x1 g + r cos
and 3k = y1 f + r sin
where x1 = g ; y1 = f
3h = 2g + r cos
3k = 2f + 4 sin
(3h + 2g)2 + (3k + 2f)2 = r2 Now proceed ]
Page 7 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
6. LINE AND A CIRCLE :
Let L = 0 be a line and S =0 be a circle. If 'r' is the radius of the circle and 'p' is the
length of perpendicular from the centre on the line, then
(i) If p > r
line is neither secant nor tangent ; passes outside the circle
(ii) If p = r line is tangent to the circle.
(iii) If p < r line is a secant.
(iv) If p = 0 line is a diameter.
Alternatively : Solve the line with the circle and if
(i) D>0 line is a Secant.
(ii) D = 0 line is a Tangent.
(iii) D < 0 line passes outside the circle.
This is true for a line with any 2nd degree curve.
Objective :
(1) For what value of 'm' the line 3x my + 5 = 0 is tangent to the circle
x2 + y2 4x + 6y 3 = 0.
[Hint: use p = r ]
(2) If 4l2 5m2 + 6l + 1 = 0 then show that the line lx + my + 1 = 0 touches a fixed circle.
Find the centre and radius of the circle.
[Sol. Method-I : 4l2 5m2 + 6l + 1 = 5m2
.in
Add 5l2 on both sides
9l2 + 6l + 1 = 5 (l2 + m2)
ps
(3l + 1)2 = 5 (l2 + m2)
3l 1
te
= 5 ....(1)
l 2 m2
yS
Equation (1) shows that the line lx + my + 1 touches a fixed circle whose centre is
(3, 0) and radius = 5 .
ud
Let line (2) touches the circle whose centre is (, ) and radius is 'a'.
| l m 1 |
then =a
l 2 m2
(l + m + 1)2 = a2(l2 + m2)
(2 a2) l2 + (2 a)m2 + 2lm + 2 l + 2m + 1 = 0 ....(3)
Comparing (1) and (3) we get
2 a2 = 4
2 a2 = 5
2 = 6 =3
2 = 0 =0 a= 5
2 = 0
Hence centre of the required circle is (3, 0) and radius = 5 .
Note: Length of the chord intercepted on the circle by a given line
l= r 2 p2
AB = 2l = 2 r 2 p2
H.W. After Lecture - 2 : Nil
Page 8 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
LECTURE 3
7. TANGENT AND NORMAL :
Tangent : Tangent is the limiting case of the secant
as the point B A
Normal : Normal is a line perpendicular to the tangent passing through the point of
tangency. In case of circle normal always passes through centre.
Equation of the tangent drawn to the circle in various forms :
(i) Tangent drawn to the circle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 at its point (x1, y1) is given by
xx1 + yy1 + g(x + x1) + f (y + y1) + c = 0
If circle is x2 + y2 = a2
then tangent is xx1 + yy1 = a2 (Cartesian form)
x a cos
(ii) Parametric form : y1 a sin
1
}
equation of tangent is x cos + y sin = a.
(iii) Slope form : y = mx + c is tangent to the circle x2 + y2 = a2
if c2 = a2(1 + m2) condition of tangency.
y = mx a 1 m 2 is the equation of the tangent to x2 + y2 = a2.
Note:
(i) For a unique value of m there will be 2 tangent which are parallel to each other.
(ii)
.in
From an external point 2 tangents can be drawn to the circle which are equal in length
and are equally inclined to the line joining the point and the centre of the circle.
ps
te
yS
(iii) Equation of tangent drawn to any second degree centre at P (x1, y1) on it can be
ud
obtained by replacing.
x2 x x1 ; y2 y y1 ; 2x x + x1 ; 2y y + y1 ; 2xy xy1 + yx1
St
Ex-3 Find the equation of the tangent to the circle x2 + y2 = 4 drawn from the point (2, 3).
[Sol. Method-I : y 3 = m(x 2)
use p = r
m ; m = 5 12
Method-II : Equation of 'T' drawn to the circle x2 + y2 = 4 is
y = mx 2 1 m 2
passes from (2, 3) ; (3 2m)2 = 4 (1 + m)2
Note: With m = 5 12 we get 2 tangents which are parallel to each other and one of
them passes through (2, 3).
Ex-5 Tangent is drawn from the point P (4, 0) to the circle x2 + y2 = 8 touches it at the point
yS
A in the 1st quadrant. Find the coordinates of another point B on the circle such that
AB = 4.
ud
2 2 1
[Sol. cos = =
4 2
St
= 45
A (2, 2)
Let B (x1, y1)
Given AB = 4
(x1 2)2 + (y1 2)2 = 16
x12 y12 4 x1 4 y1 = 8
Also x12 y12 = 8
x1 + y1 = 0
2 x12 = 8
x1 = 2
B (2, 2) or (2, 2) ]
Page 10 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
Note: Point of intersection of the tangent drawn to the circle x + y = a at the point
P () and Q () is
a cos a sin
2 2
h= ; k =
cos cos
2 2
EXAMPLES :
Ex-1 Find the locus of the point of intersection of the pair of tangents drawn to a circle
x2 + y2 = a2 at P () and Q (), where | | = 120.
a cos a sin
2 2
[Sol. h = ; k = h = 2a cos & k = 2a sin
cos cos 2 2
2 2
x2 + y2 = 4a2 ]
where = +
.in
ps
=
2 2
te
Ex-3 Prove that the perpendicular from any point on the circle x2 + y2 = a2 on the line joining
ud
p = a cos cos
2 2
p = 2a sin sin ....(1)
2 2
Tangent at '' and ''
x cos + y sin = a and x cos + y sin = a
p1 = | a (cos cos + sin sin 1) | = a {cos ( ) 1}
|||ly p2 = a {cos ( ) 1}
p1 p2 = a2 {1 cos ( )}{1 cos ( )}
Page 11 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
2 2
= a2 2 sin 2 sin
2 2
p1 p2 = 4a2 sin2 sin2 ....(2)
2 2
clearly 2
p = p1 p2 Hence proved. ]
Note: All these formulae are applicable when coeff. of x2 & y2 is unity
(i) Area of Quad PAOB = 2 POA
1
=2
RL=RL
2
(ii) Find AB i.e length of chord of contact
.in
ps
R
AB = 2 L sin where tan =
L
te
2R L
=
yS
R 2 L2
(iii) Area of PAB ( formed by pair of Tangent & corresponding C.O.C.)
ud
1
PAB = AB PD
2
St
1
= ( 2 L sin) (L cos)
2
= L2 sin cos
R L3
=
R 2 L2
(iv) Angle 2 between the pair of Tangents
2 tan 2R L2
tan 2 = =
1 tan 2 L(L2 R 2 )
2RL
2 = tan1 2
L R2
(v) Equation of the circle circumscribing the PAB. ( One such circle described on OP as
diameter)
i.e. (x x1) (x + g) + (y y1) (y + f) = 0
Page 12 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
Power of a point :
Square of the length of the tangent from the point P is called power of the point P w.r.t
a given circle i.e. PT2 = S1
Note: Power of a point remains constant w.r.t a circle
PA PB = (PT)2
Analytical proof :
x x1 y y1
= = r ; substituting x = x1 + r cos and y = y1 + r sin in x2 + y2 = a2,
cos sin
we get,
r2 + 2r (x1 cos + y1 sin) + x12 y12 a2 = 0
r1r2 = x12 y12 a2 = constant = (PT)2
EXAMPLES :
Ex-1 Find the length of the Tangent from any point on the circle
S1 x2 + y2 + 2g1x + 2f1y + = 0 to the circle
.in
S2 x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + = 0 is
[Sol. P(x1y1) on S1 S2
ps
= ]
te
Ex-2 Find the value of 'p' for which the power of a point P(2, 5) is negative w.r.t a circle
yS
x2 + y28x12y+p=0 and the circle neither touches nor intersects the coordinate axis.
[Sol. 4 + 25 16 60 + b < 0
ud
p < 47 ....(1)
also g2 < c & f2 < c
St
16 < p ....(2)
36 < p ....(3)
from (1), (2) and (3) 36 < p < 47 ]
Ex-3
(a) A point moves such that a tangent from it to the circle x2 + y2 + 4x 5y + 6 = 0 is
double the length of the tangent to the circle x2 + y2 = 4. Show that the locus is a circle.
2 5 305
Find its centre and radius. [Ans. centre : , ; radius = ]
3 6 6
[Sol. Let the point be P (x1, y1) and let the lengths of the tangents from P to the two circles be
t1 and t2 respectively.
Then t12 x12 y12 4 x1 5 y1 6 and t 22 x12 y12 4
but t1 = 2t2 t12 4 t 22
h2 a2
x2 + y2 = 2a2
yS
R= g 2 f 2 c2
Method-II : OAPB is square
a2 + a2 = OP2
2a2 = h2 + k2
x2 + y2 = 2a2
EXAMPLES :
Ex-1 Locus of point 'P' which moves such that the angle made by the pair of tangents drawn
to the circle x2 + y2 = a2 is 60.
a
[Sol. sin 30 =
h2 k2
i.e. h2 + k2 = 4a2 or x2 + y2 = 4a2.
(m1 m 2 ) 2
Alternate : use tan260 =
(1 m1m 2 ) 2
(m1 m2 )2 4m1m2
3=
(1 m1m2 )2
Page 14 ofwhere
32 equation (mh k)2 = a2 (1 + m2) ]
m1 & m2 are the roots of thewww.StudySteps.in
Ex-2 Find the range of values of 'a' such that the angles '' between the pair of tangents
drawn from the point (a, 0) to the circle x2 + y2 = 1 satisfies < < .
2
[Sol.
Draw the director circle of x2 + y2 = 1
i.e. x2 + y2 = 2
a ( 2 , 1) (1, 2 ) Ans. ]
y y1 y12 = x12 x x1
x x1 + y y1 = x12 y12
x x1 + y y1 a2 = x12 y12 a2
T = S1 (not to be used in case of circle) ....(1)
Note: Of all the chords which passes through a given point M (a, b) inside the circle
the shortest chord is one whose middle point is (a, b)
Proof : From the figure
l= R 2 p2 ....(1)
.in
ps
and L= R 2 q2 ....(2)
te
clearly p > q
l<L
yS
(a 2 b 2 2ag 2bf c)
St
EXAMPLES :
Ex-1 Locus of the middle point of the chords of the circles x2 + y2 +2gx + 2fy + c = 0 which
passes through a fixed point (a, b) lying outside the circle.
[Sol. m1 m2 = 1
k f k b
=1
h g ha
(x a) (x + g) + (y b) (y + f ) = 0
Locus represent the arc of a circle described on CP as diameter. ]
Ex-2 Find the equation to the locus of the middle point of the chord of the circle
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 which subtends right angle at a given point P (a, b)
[Sol. From figure
AC2 = AM2 + CM2
but AM = PM
AC2 = PM2 + CM2
R2 = (h a)2 + (k b)2 + (h + g)2 + (k + f)2 ]
Page 15 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
Ex-3 Find the equation to the locus of the feet of the perpendicular drawn from the origin
upon a variable chord of the circle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 which subtends right
angle at origin.
[Sol. Equation of chord AB with mid point M (h, k)
h
yk= (x h)
k
ky k2 = h2 hx
hx + ky = h2 + k2 ....(1)
Now homogenising S = 0 with the help of (1)
hx ky
2
hx ky
x2 + + 2 (gx + fy) 2
y2 + c 2 2
=0
h k2 h k
2 2
Coefficient of x + coefficient of y = 0 ]
9. CHORD OF CONTACT :
Definition : It is defined as the straight line
joining the point of contact of the pair of
tangents drawn from an external point P (x1, y1)
to a circle.
Note: Chord of contact will exist only if the point P does not lie inside the circle.
.in
Equation of chord of contact AB :
Tangent at 'A' x x' + y y' = a2
passes through (x1, y1) x1 x' + y1 y' = a2
ps
....(1)
|||ly at 'B' x x" + y y" = a 2
....(2)
from (1) and (2) equation if chord of contact can be written by replacing x', x" by x
yS
Page 16 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
[Sol.
(i) 'P' is a variable point moving on line
equation of chord of contact is
x x1 + y y1 = 8 ....(1)
also 2x1 + y1 = 4 ....(2)
x x1 + y (4 2x1) = 1
x1 (x 2y) + (4y 1) = 0
1 1
it represent a family of line passes through a fixed point , .
2 4
(ii) M (h , k)
equation of chord with variable given middle point (h, k)
is xh + yk = h2 + k2 ....(1)
Also C.O.C is x x1 + y y1 = 1 ....(2)
x1 y 1
comparing (1) and (2) = 1 = 2
h k h k2
h k
x1 = ; y1 =
h2 k2 h2 k2
Also 2x1 + y1 = 4
2h + k = 4 (h2 + k2)
2x + y = 4 (x2 + y2) ]
.in
Ex-3 Chord of contact of the tangent drawn from a point on the circle x2 + y2 = a2 to the
ps
circle x2 + y2 = b2 touches the circle x2 + y2 = c2. Prove that a, b, c are in G.P.
(a, b, c > 0)
te
b2
touches the circle x2 + y2 = c2 c=
ud
x12 y12
St
b2
c= a b2 = ac hence proved. ]
Ex-4 If 2 distinct chords of the circle x2 + y2 ax by = 0 drawn from the point (a, b) is
divided by the x-axis in the ratio 2 : 1 then prove that a2 > 3b2.
1 b 2k b
[Sol. We have, 0 = k=
3 2
b
hence y = satisfy the given circle x2 + y2 ax by = 0
2
b2 b
2
x + ax + b = 0
4 2
3b 2
x2 ax + = 0. For two distinct values of h,
4
D>0 a2 3b2 > 0 a2 > 3b2 ]
Page 17 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
Ex-5 If the chord of contact of tangents drawn from P to the circle x + y = a subtends a
right angle at the centre, find the locus of P.
[Sol. Let P be the point (x1, y1)
Then QR is x x1 + y y1 = a2
The combined equation CQ and CR is
2
xx1 yy1
x2 + y2 = a2
a2
x 2 2x y x y y2
1
i.e. x2 1 2 + y2 1 2 = 0
1 1 1
2
a a a
Since QCR = 90, coefficient of x2 + coefficient of y2 = 0
x12 y12
1 + 1 1 2 = 0
a2 a
i.e. x1 y1 2a
2 2 2
.in
circle is SS1 = T2 , where S x2 + y2 a2 ; S1 x12 y12 a 2 .
Proof : Equation of COC AB is x x1 + y y1 = a2
ps
triangles AQN and APM are similar
AQ QN l p1
te
= = p
AP PM L 2
yS
h2 k2 a2 hx1 ky1 a 2
=
ud
S S1 = T2 ]
EXAMPLES :
Ex-1 Show that the equation to the pair of tangents drawn from the origin to the circle
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 is (gx + fy)2 = c(x2 + y2)
Ex-2101/05 Tangents are drawn to the circle x2 + y2 = a2 from two points on the axis of x, equidistant
from the point (k, 0). Show that the locus of their intersection is ky2 = a2(k x)
[Sol. SS1 = T2
( x12 y12 a 2 ) [(k )2 a2] = [(k )x1 a2 ]2 ....(1)
again
( x12 y12 a 2 ) [(k + )2 a2] = [(k + )x1 a2 ]2 ....(2)
(2) (1) gives
4( x12 y12 a 2 ) k = [(k + ) x1 a2 + (k ) a2] [(k + )x1 (k )x1]
= [2 (kx1 a2)] [2x1] = 4x1 [kx1 a2]
= k ( x12 y12 a 2 ) = k x12 a2x1
2
= k y1 = a2(k x1)
hence the locus is ky2 = a2 (k x) ]
Page 18 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
LECTURE - 5
11. FAMILY OF CIRCLES :
In how many different models we can lay down the equation of family of circles.
Type-1 : Equation of the family of circles which passes through the points of intersection of
two circles S1 = 0 and S2 = 0 is
S1 + S2 = 0 1 (Justify the family)
Find the equation of a circle which passes through the point of intersection of S1= 0
and S2 = 0
S1 : x2 + y2 4x + 6y 3 = 0
S2 : x2 + y2 + 4x 6y + 12 = 0
(i) which passes through (0, 0) / (a, b)
(ii) Radius = 5 ; g2 f 2 c = 5
(iii) x-intercept = 5 i.e. 2 g 2 c = 5
(iv) y-intercept = 5 i.e. 2 f 2 c = 5
(v) Line 3x + 4y 5 = 0 is tangent to the circle i.e. p = r
(vi) Centre lies on x-axis i.e. f = 0
or centre lies on y-axis i.e. g = 0
(vii) line 4x 7y = 10 is normal to the circle i.e. centre lies on the line.
[Hint: Equation of the family of circle is S1 + S2
.in
i.e. x2 (1 + ) + y2(1 + ) 4x ( ) + 6y (1 ) + 12 3 = 0 ]
ps
Type-2 : Equation of the family of circles passes through the point
of intersection of a circle S = 0 and a line L = 0 is given by
te
S + L = 0
Conversely the eqution S + L = 0 represents a family of circles passing through two
yS
Ex-1 Find the equation of a circle drawn on the chord x cos + y sin = p of the circle
x2 + y2 = a2 as its diameter.
St
Type-3: Equation of the family of circles passes through two given points A (x1, y1) &
yS
x y 1
(xx1) (xx2) + (yy1) (yy2) + x1 y1 1 = 0
St
x2 y2 1
Note: Fixed circle of this family is the circle described on
AB as diameter.
Ex-4 Two circles are drawn through the point (a, 5a) & (4a, a) to touch the axis of 'y'. Prove
40
that they intersect at an angle of tan1
9
[Sol. Family of circle's passes through two fixed points is given by:
(xa) (x4a) + (y5a) (ya) + L = 0
L 4x + 3y = 19a
x2 + y2 5ax 6ay + 4a2 + 5a2 + ( 4x + 13y 19a) = 0
touches y-axis f2 = L & now proceed ]
Type-4 : Equation of family of circles touching a line at its fixed point (x1, y1) is:
(xx1)2 + (yy1)2 + L = 0
Page 20 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
EXAMPLES:
Ex-1 Find the equation of a circle which touches the line 2xy = 4
at the point (1, 2) and
(a) Passes through (3, 4)
(b) Radius = 5
Ex-2 Find the equations of the circle which passes through the point (1, 2) & touches the
circle x2 + y2 8x + 6y = 0 at origin.
[Sol. Equations of tangent is: 4x 3y = 0
equation of the family of the circle is
(x 0)2 + (y 0)2 + (4x 3y) = 0
passes through P (1, 2) & get
Note:
(i) Equation of a circle circumscribing a triangle whose sides are given by l1 = 0;
l2 =0 & l3 = 0 is given by l1l2 + l2l3 + l3l1 = 0 ....(1)
provided coefficient of x2 = coefficient of y2 & coefficient of xy = 0
(a) Represent a 2nd degree curve & A, B, C satisfy equation (1).
This could also be used to compute circumcentre of a triangle
without finding the coordinates of its vertices.
(ii) Equation of a circle circumscribing a quadrilateral whose sides in
order are represented by the lines l1 = 0; l2 =0 ; l3 = 0; l4 = 0 is given
by l1l3 + l2l4 = 0
.in....(1)
(a) represents a second degree curve & also A, B, C, D satisfy ....(1)
ps
l1l3 + l2l4 = 0 is the equation of circle provided coefficient of
x2 = coefficient of y2 & coefficient of xy = 0
te
LECTURE - 6
yS
meet the circle in Q and R, the locus of the point of intersection of the tangents
at Q & R is called the Polar of the point P and P is called the Pole of the Polar.
St
(ii) The equation to the polar of a point P (x1 , y1) w.r.t. the circle x2 + y2 = a2 is given by
xx1 + yy1 = a2, & if the circle is general then the equation of the polar becomes
xx1 + yy1 + g (x + x1) + f (y + y1) + c = 0. Note that if the point (x1, y1) be on the circle
then the chord of contact, tangent & polar will be represented by the same equation.
Aa 2 Ba 2
(iii) Pole of a given line Ax + By + C = 0 w.r.t. any circle x2 + y2 = a2 is C , C .
(iv) If the polar of a point P pass through a point Q, then the polar of Q passes through P.
Explanation :
Page 21 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
Equation of the polar:
Equation of the variable chord of contact of the point (h, k) w.r.t x2 + y2 = a2 is:
xh + yk = a2
passes through x1, y1
x1h + y1k = a2
EXAMPLE :
Ex-1 To find the pole of a given line lx + my = n w.r.t a circle x2 + y2 = a2
i.e we have to find the coordinates of the point whose polar w.r.t the given circle is the
line lx + my = n
Let the pole be P (x1, y1)
its polar w.r.t. the circle x2 + y2 = a2 is
x x1 + y y1 = a2 ....(1)
also l x + m y = n ....(2)
(1) and (2) must be identical
a 2lx1 y1 a 2
n m n
a 2l a 2m .in
ps
x1 = and y1 = (not to be remember)
n n
te
(i) Conjugate Points : Two points P and Q are said to be the conjugate of each other
w.r.t. the circle if polar of 'p' passes through 'Q' and vice versa.
ud
(ii) Conjugate Lines: Two lines l1 and l2 are conjugate of each other if pole of one lies
on other and vice versa.
St
EXAMPLES :
Ex-1 find the value of 'k' for which the points (2, k) and (k, 3) are conjugate of each other
w.r.t. the circle x2 + y2 = 10.
[Sol. Polar of (2, k) is 2x + ky = 10 ....(1)
passes through (k, 3)
2k + 3k = 10 k=2 ]
Ex-2(a) The lengths of the tangents from two points A and B to a circle are l1 and l2 respectively.
If the points are conjugate with respect to the circle x2 + y2 = a2 then, show that
(AB)2 = l12 + l22.
[Hint: Let A (x1, y1) and B (x2, y2).
Now x12 y12 a 2 l12 and x 22 y 22 a 2 l22 .
Also x x1 + y y1 = a2 contains (x2, y2)
Hence x1 x2 + y1 y2 = a2. Now (AB)2 = (x1 x2)2 + (y1 y2)2 result ]
Page 22 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
(b) Prove that if two lines at right angles are conjugate with respect to a circle, one of them
must pass through the centre.
[Hint: Let the line be ax + by + c = 0 ....(1)
and bx ay + d = 0 ....(2)
now pole of (1) passes through (2) d = 0 ]
Ex-3 A variable circle is drawn to touch the axis of 'x' at origin. Find the locus of the pole of
the straight line lx + my + n = 0 w.r.t. the circle.
[Sol. Equation of the variable circle is
(x 0)2 + (y )2 = 2
x2 + y2 2y = 0 ....(1)
Let the pole of lx + my + n = 0 be (h, k)
its polar w.r.t. (1) is
hx + ky (y + k) = 0
i.e. hx + y (k ) k = 0 ....(2)
Also polar is lx + my + n = 0 ....(3)
h k k
on comparing = =
l m n
mh nh nh mh
k= and = ; k = or k2l nh = mkh
l kl kl l
required locus is ly2 = nx + mxy ]
Alternative Definition of polar :
.in
Locus of the harmonic conjugate of a given point P (x1, y1) w.r.t. 2 given points in
ps
which any line through P cuts a given circle x2 + y2 = a2 is polar of 'p' w.r.t. the given
circle i.e. x x1 + y y1 = a2.
te
a cos a cos
x1 =
yS
1
a sin a sin
y1 =
ud
1
a cos a cos
St
h=
1
a sin a sin
k=
1
a 2x 2 a 2
h x1 + k y1 = = a2
1
2
x x1 + y y1 = a2 Hence proved. ]
COMMON TANGENTS TO TWO CIRCLES
(1) Direct Common Tangent (DCT) (2) Transverse Common Tangent (TCT)
(External common tangent) (Internal common tangent)
How do we distinguished between D.C.T. and T.C.T.
Page 23 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
Direct Common Tangent (D.C.T) : Here the centres of both the circles lie on the
same side of the tangent line.
Transverse Common Tangent (T.C.T.) : Here the centres of both the circles lie on the
opposite side of the tangent line.
2 D.C.T.
4 common tangent
2 T.C.T.
(2) If 2 circles touche externally then d = r1 + r2 and in this case there exist
2 D.C.T.
3 common tangents
1 T.C.T.
(at their po int of contact)
.in
and in this case there exist
2 common tangent both of them being D.C.T.
ps
Note: Only d < r1 + r2 is not the sufficient condition in
te
EXAMPLES :
ud
Lext = d 2 (r1 r2 ) 2
Lint = d 2 (r1 r2 ) 2
Proof :
PC1 r1
.in
ps
PC2 r2
(since for S2 = 0, C2P is the angle bisector
te
C1Q r1
|||ly
C2Q r2
St
.in
equal. The equation of radical axis of two circles S1 = 0 and S2= 0 is given by
ps
S1 S2 = 0 i.e. 2 (g1 g2) x + 2 (f1 f2) y + c1 c2 = 0
h2 + k2 + 2g1h + 2f1k + c1 = h2 + k2 + 2g2h + 2f2k + c2
te
Note that
ud
(a) If two circles intersect, then the radical axis is the common
chord of the two circles.
St
(d) Radical axis need not always pass through the mid point of the line joining the centres
of the two circles.
(e) Radical axis bisects a common tangent between the two circles.
(f) Pairs of circle which do not have radical axis are concentric.
S1 = x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c1 = 0
S2 = x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c2 = 0
(g) If one circle is contained in another circle when radical axis passes outside to both the
Page 26 ofcircles.
32 www.StudySteps.in
EXAMPLES :
Ex-1 Show that the equation of a straight line meeting the circle x2 + y2 = a2 in 2 points at
equal distance 'd' from the point (x1, y1) on its circumference is :
d2
x x1 + y y1 + a2 =0
2
[Sol. Equation of a circle with centre 'p' and radius 'd'
i.e. (x x1)2 + (y y1)2 = d2
or x2 + y2 2xx1 2yy1 + x12 y12 = d2 ; also x12 y12 a 2
the required line is the radical axis between the circles
x2 + y2 2xx1 2yy1 + a2 d2 = 0 ....(1)
2 2
and x + y a = 0 2 ....(2)
equation of AB is (1) (2)
2 x x1 2 y y1 + 2a2 d2 = 0
d2
i.e. x x1 + y y1 a2 + =0 Hence proved ]
2
Ex-2 Prove that the circle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 will bisect the circumference of the
circle x2 + y2 + 2g'x + 2f'y + c' = 0 if 2g' (g g') + 2f' (f f') = c c'.
[Sol. S1 : x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0
S2 : x2 + y2 + 2g'x + 2f ' y + c' = 0
.in
If S1 bisects the circumference of S2 then their common chord is the diameter of
ps
S2 = 0.
equation of common chord
te
S1 S2 = 0
yS
Ex-3 Tangent are drawn to the circle x2 + y2 = 12 at the points where it is met by the circle
x2 + y2 5x + 3y 2 = 0. Find the point of intersection of the tangents.
[Sol. equation of AB :
(x2 + y2 5x + 3y 2) (x2 + y2 12) = 0
5x 3y 10 = 0 ....(1)
Also AB is chord of contact w.r.t the circle x2 + y2 = 12
i.e. x x1 + y y1 12 = 0 ....(2)
comparing (1) and (2)
x1 y1 12
5 3 10
18
x1 = 6 & y1 = Ans. ]
5
Ex-4 Consider a family of circles passing through two fixed points A (3, 7) and B (6, 5).
Show that the chords in which the circles x2 + y2 4x 6y 3 = 0 cuts the member of
the family are concurrent at a point. Also find the coordinates of this point.
Page 27 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
[Sol. Family of circles passes through two fixed point is
S + L = 0 ....(1)
where S = (x 3) (x 6) + (y 7) (y 5) = 0
x y 1
L= 3 7 1 =0
6 5 1
Equation of variable common chord is
S + L S' = 0
(S S') + L = 0
or L' + L = 0 which represents family of lines concurrent at L' = 0 and L = 0.
Ex-5 Prove that the circle x2 + y2 + 2ax + c2 = 0 and x2 + y2 + 2by + c2 = 0 touche each other
1 1 1
if 2 2 2
a b c
[Sol. Subtract to get common tangent and drop perpendicular from centre on any one circle
and equate it to its radius.]
Ex-6 Find the equation of a circle which bisects the circumferences of the circles x2 + y2 = 1,
x2 + y2 + 2x = 3 and x2 + y2 + 2y = 3. [Ans. x2 + y2 + 4x + 4y 1 = 0]
Ex-7 Find the locus of the centre of circles which bisect the circumference of the circles
x2 + y2 = 4 and x2 + y2 2x + 6y + 1 = 0. [Ans. 2x 6y 15 = 0]
Ex-9 Find the equation of the circle which bisects the circumference of the circle
yS
RADICAL CENTRE :
Definition : The common point of intersection of the radical axis of 3 circles taken
St
.in
Coaxial system of circles.
ps
te
or
yS
EXAMPLES :
ud
EXAMPLES :
Ex-1 If the circles, S1 : x2 + y2 + 2x + 2ky + 6 = 0 and S2 : x2 + y2 + 2kx + k = 0 intersects
orthogonally then find k.
Ex-2 Find the equation of a circle which passes through the point of intersection of S1 = 0
and S2 = 0 and cuts the circle S3 = 0 orthogonally.
Ex-3 Prove that locus of the centre of a variable circle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 which
cuts the 2 given circles x2 + y2 + 2g1x + 2f1y + c1=0 and x2 + y2 + 2g2x + 2f2y + c=0
orthogonally is the radical axis of 2 given circles.
[Sol. Let locus be (h, k)
Given : 2 g g 1 + 2 f f1 = c + c1
2 g g 2 + 2 f f2 = c + c2
....(1)
....(2) .in
ps
(1) (2) 2g (g1 g2) + 2f (f1 f2) = c1 c2
Replace gh and f k
te
Note : If a line is orthogonal to a circle means the line is normal / diameter of the circle.
ud
Ex-481/04 Find the equation of the circle which cuts the circle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0,
the lines x = g and y = f orthogonally.
[Sol. Consider the required circle having the equation x2 + y2 + 2g x + 2f y + c = 0 (*)
St
g ; f ; c
Equation (1) passes through (0, a) and (0, a)
a2 + 2af + c = 0
and a2 2af + c = 0
add 2a2 + 2c = 0
a2 = c
substitue f=0
f1 = f 2 = 0
Now equation (1) becomes
x2 + y2 + 2gx + c = 0 ....(2)
line y = mx + d touches (2)
mg d
= g2 c
1 m 2
.in
(mg d)2 = (g2 c) (1 + m2)
m2g2 2mgd + d2 = g2 + m2g2 c m2c
ps
g2 + 2mgd d2 c(1 + m2) = 0 ....(3)
te
Also c = a2 c = c 1 = c2 = a 2
yS
c = a2 d2 a2(1 + m2) = a2
d2 = a2 (1 + m2) Hence proved. ]
Page 31 of 32 www.StudySteps.in
CIRCLE ORTHOGONAL TO 3 GIVEN CIRCLES :
EXAMPLES :
Ex-1 If 2 circles are orthogonal then the polar of any point 'P' on the first circle w.r.t. the second
circle always passes through the other end of the diameter of first circle through 'P'
and
hence equation of the circle orthogonal to 3 given can be regarded as a locus of a point
'P' whose polar w.r.t. 3 circles are concurrent.
[Sol. Part-I
.in
ps
te
....(1)
(1) passes through ( a cos, a sin )
a2 + c = 0
ud
Also 2g 0 + 2f 0 = c a2
c = a2 Hence proved.
St
Part-II
S and S1 are orthogonal
S and S2 are orthogonal
S and S3 are orthogonal
Polar of P w.r.t. S1, S2 , S3 are concurrent at Q.
xh + yk + g1(x + h) + f1(y + k) + c1 = 0
|||ly xh + yk + g2(x + h) + f2(y + k) + c2 = 0
and xh + yk + g3(x + h) + f3(y + k) + c3 = 0
required equation of circle is
x g1 y f1 g1x f1y c1
x g2 y f2 g 2 x f 2 y c2 = 0 ]
x g3 y f3 g 3 x f 3 y c3
FINAL HOME WORK : Ex-19 + Ex-22 (leave Q.No. 9, 15, 18) + Ex-23 (leave Q.no. 6)
+ Ex24 (Do only 12, 13, 14, 15) of S.L. Loney.
Page 32 of 32 www.StudySteps.in