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Lecture Notes - Circle

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TEACHING NOTES

CIRCLE
BASIC GEOMETRY WITH CIRCLES

fig - (i)

Equal chords of a circle are equidistant from the centre

and vice-versa.

fig - (ii)

Angle subtended by an arc at the centre is double the

angle subtended at any point on the remaining part of
the circle.

fig - (iii)

(iv)

Angles in the same segment of a circle are equal.

fig - (iv)

(v)

The sum of the opposite angles of a cyclic quadrilateral

is 1800 and vice-versa.

fig - (v)

If a line touches a circle and from the point of contact

a chord is drawn, the angles which this chord makes
with the given line are equal respectively to the angles
formed in the corresponding alternate segments.

fig - (vi)

(iii)

If two chords of a circle intersect either inside or

outside the circle, the rectangle contained by the parts
one chord is equal in area to the rectangle contained
by the parts of the other.
AP PB = CP PD

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(ii)

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Equal chords subtends equal angles at the centre and

vice-versa.

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(i)

(viii) The greater of the two chords in a circle is nearer to

the centre than lesser.
(ix)

(x)

fig - (vii)

fig - (viii)

A chord drawn across the circular region divides it

into parts each of which is called a segment of the
circle.

fig - (ix)

The tangents at the extremities of a chord of a circle

are equal.

fig - (x)

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

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1.

LECTURE 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)
This can be written as

(x +

g)2

hence, Centre (g, f) i.e. (

+ (y +

f)2

= g 2 f 2 c

1
1
coefficient of x ; coefficient of y )
2
2

Radius

.in

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.

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(ii)

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(i)

Note:
Necessary and sufficient condition for general equation of degree 2
i.e. ax2 + 2hxy + by2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 to represent a circle is
(a) coefficient of x2 = coefficient of y2 (not necessarily unity) and
(b) coefficient of xy = 0
The general equation of circle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 contains 3 independent
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
etc. must be given to determine the unique equation of the circle.
Nature of circle :

x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2y + c = 0
where r = g 2 f 2 c

If g2 + f2 c > 0
Real circle with finite radius

If g2 + f2 c = 0
point circle

If g2 + f2 c < 0
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. ]

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(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]
DIAMETRICAL FORM OF CIRCLE :
Equation of circle with (x1, y1) and (x2, y2) as its diameter is
(x x1) (x x2) + (y y1) (y y2) = 0
which can be written as
x2 + y2 x (x1 + x2) y(y1 + y2) + x1x2 + y1y2 = 0
note that x1 , x2 are the roots of the equation
x2 x (x1 + x2) + x1x2 = 0
and y1 , y2 are the roots of the equation
y2 y (y1 + y2) + y1y2 = 0

....(1)

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Note that Equation (1) is also the equation of the circle with least radius passes
through (x1, y1) and (x2, y2).

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EXAMPLES :
Ex-1 The abscissa of 2 points 'A' and 'B' are the roots of the equation x2 + 2x a2 = 0 and
the ordinate are the roots of the equation y2 + 4y b2 = 0. Find the equation of circle
with AB as diameter.
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]
Ex-4 Line y = mx + c cuts the curve y2 = 4ax at A and B.
Find the equation of circle with AB as diameter.
3.

INTERCEPT (Made by the circle) :

"Intercept made by a circle on the coordinate axes", is the distance between the 2
points where the circle cuts the axis of x and axis of y.
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0
For x-intercept : put y = 0
x2 + 2gx + c = 0 ;
x1 + x2 = 2g ; x1 x2 = c

Page 4 of 32

| x1 x2 | = 2

g2 c
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(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.

|||ly For y-intercept : put x = 0
y2 + 2fx + c = 0
f2 c

| y1 y2 | = 2

If f2 c > 0

circle cuts the y-axis at 2 distinct points.

(ii)

If f2 = c

circle touches the y-axis

(iii)

If f2 < c

circle lies completely either on right or on left of y-axis.

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(i)

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EXAMPLES :
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
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

Also touches the y-axis

Now proceed.
]

2 g2 c = 6
f2 = c

....(3)

Ex-2 Find the equation of a circle which touches the

coordinate axes and whose radius = 2.
[Sol. 4 circles are possible
(x 2)2 + (y 2)2 = 22 Ans. ]

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g2 c = 9

....(2)

Ex-3 Find the equation of a circle passing through

origin cutting off intercept equals to unity on
the lines y2 x2 = 0.
[Sol. Circles described on Ab, BC, CD & DA as diameter.]

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

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x12 y12 2gx1 2fy1 c 0

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LECTURE 2
POSITION OF A POINT W.R.T. A CIRCLE :
Point 'P' lies outside / on / inside the circle according as
OP r
i.e. (x1 + g)2 + (y1 + f)2 r2

S1 0, where S1 = x12 y12 2gx1 2fy1 c

Note: Greatest and least distance of a point A (x1, y1) from a circle with centre 'C' and
radius 'r' is
| AC + r | and | AC r |

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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
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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

5.

PARAMETRIC EQUATION OF A CIRCLE :

x x1 y y1

= r (Distinguish it with the parametric equation of line, carefully)

cos
sin
x = x1 + r cos

and

y = y1 + r sin
x1 y1 fixed centre
r fixed radius and [0, 2) is a parameter.

coordinates of any point on the circle is x1 + 4 cos , y1 + r sin

if (x1, y1) (0, 0) x = r cos & y = r sin
which are the parametric coordinates for the circle x2 + y2 = r2

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Note: If is eliminated we get Cartesian form of a circle i.e. (x x 1)2 + (y y1)2 = r2.

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C.B.S.E.
(1) x2 + y2 6x + 4y 3 = 0. convert into parametric form
[Sol. x = 3 + 4 cos
y = 2 + 4 sin ]
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.
[Sol. A, B, C lies on a circle x2 + y2 = 1

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(2)

O (S cos1 ; sin1) Ans.

(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
]

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6.

(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)

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
If p > r
line is neither secant nor tangent ; passes outside the circle
If p = r line is tangent to the circle.
If p < r line is a secant.
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
]
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
Add 5l2 on both sides
9l2 + 6l + 1 = 5 (l2 + m2)

(3l + 1)2 = 5 (l2 + m2)

3l 1

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(2)

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= 5 ....(1)
l 2 m2
Equation (1) shows that the line lx + my + 1 touches a fixed circle whose centre is
(3, 0) and radius = 5 .
Method-II : Given 4l2 5m2 + 6l + 1 = 0
....(1)
and given line is lx + my + 1 = 0
....(2)
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

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7.

LECTURE 3
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.

(i)

Equation of the tangent drawn to the circle in various forms :

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)

(ii)

x a cos
Parametric form : y1 a sin
1

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:
For a unique value of m there will be 2 tangent which are parallel to each other.
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.

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(i)
(ii)

equation of tangent is x cos + y sin = a.

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(iii)

Equation of tangent drawn to any second degree centre at P (x1, y1) on it can be
obtained by replacing.
x2 x x1 ; y2 y y1 ; 2x x + x1 ; 2y y + y1 ; 2xy xy1 + yx1

(iv)

Point of Tangency :
for P : either solve tangent and normal to get P
or compare the equation of tangent at (x1, y1) with
the given tangent to get point of tangency.

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(iii)

EXAMPLES :
Ex-1 Find the equations of the tangents to the circle x2 + y2 2x 4y 4 = 0 which are
(i)
perpendicular and
(ii) parallel to the line 3x 4y 7 = 0.
[Ans. (i) 4x + 3y = 25, 4x + 3y + 5 = 0, (ii) 3x 4y + 20 = 0, 3x 4y = 10 ]
Ex-2 Find the equation of the tangent drawn to the circle x2 + y2 6x + 4y 3 = 0 from the
point (7, 4) lying outside the circle. Also find the point of contact.
[Sol.
y 4 = m (x 7)

mx y 7m + 4 = 0
use p = r

Page 9 of 32

3m 2 7 m 4
1 m2

=4

4m 6
1 m2

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=4

(2m 3) = 4(1 + m )
4m2 + 9 12m = 4 + 4m2

5
=m
12
If m is infinite then we cannot cancel 9m2.

m .

T:x=7
If m is finite

and

y4=

5
(x 7)
12

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

.in

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).
2
2
2
2 c touches the circle x + y = c and find its point of

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Ex-4 Prove that the line y = x +

contact.

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Ex-5 Tangent is drawn from the point P (4, 0) to the circle x2 + y2 = 8 touches it at the point
A in the 1st quadrant. Find the coordinates of another point B on the circle such that
AB = 4.
1
2 2
=
2
4
= 45

A (2, 2)
Let B (x1, y1)
Given AB = 4

(x1 2)2 + (y1 2)2 = 16

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[Sol. cos =

x12 y12 4 x1 4 y1 = 8

Also x12 y12 = 8

x1 + y1 = 0

Page 10 of 32

2 x12 = 8
x1 = 2
B (2, 2) or (2, 2)

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Note: Point of intersection of the tangent drawn to the circle x + y = a at the point
P () and Q () is

a sin
2
2
h=
;
k
=


cos
cos
2
2
a cos

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 sin
2
2
[Sol. h =
; k =

cos
cos
2
2

x2 + y2 = 4a2
]
a cos

h = 2a cos

& k = 2a sin
2
2

Ex-2 Equation of a straight line joining two points and on the x2 + y2 = a2 is

+ y sin
= a cos
2
2
2
[Proof: Equation of line joining and is x cos + y sin = p

and

(from figure)]

yS

p = a cos

ps

=
2
2

te

where = +

.in

x cos

Page 11 of 32

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Ex-3 Prove that the perpendicular from any point on the circle x2 + y2 = a2 on the line joining
the points of contact of 2 tangents is a mean proportional between the perpendiculars
from the point upon the 2 tangents.
[Sol. TPT p2 = p1p2
Equation of chord joining and
x cos

+ y sin
= a cos
2
2
2

p = a (cos cos

sin sin
cos
2
2
2

cos

p = a cos
2

sin
p = 2a 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 ( )}

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2
2
2 sin

= a2 2 sin
2
2

sin2
2
2
2
p = p1 p2 Hence proved.

p1 p2 = 4a2 sin2
clearly

....(2)
]

Length of Tangent & power of a point.

"Length of the tangent from an external point P(x1, y1) to a given circle:"
S = x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0
L2 + R2 = d2
L2 = d2 R2 = (x1 + g)2 + (y1 + f)2 (g2 + f2 c)
L2 = x12 y12 + 2gx1 + 2fy1 + c

L1 =

x12 y12 2gx1 2fy1 c =

S1

(i)

Note: All these formulae are applicable when coeff. of x2 & y2 is unity
Area of Quad PAOB
= 2 POA

(ii)

1
RL=RL
2
Find AB i.e length of chord of contact
R
L

2R L

yS

PAB =

ud

R 2 L2
Area of PAB ( formed by pair of Tangent & corresponding C.O.C.)

1
AB PD
2

St

(iii)

ps

where tan =

te

AB = 2 L sin

.in

=2

1
( 2 L sin) (L cos)
2
= L2 sin cos

(iv)

R 2 L2
Angle 2 between the pair of Tangents
tan 2 =

(v)

R L3

2 tan
1 tan 2

2R L2
L(L2 R 2 )

2RL

2 = tan1 2
L R2
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

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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
Note: Power of a point is + ve / 0 (zero) / ve according as point 'P' lies
outside / on / inside the circle.

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EXAMPLES :
Ex-1 Find the length of the Tangent from any point on the circle
S1 x2 + y2 + 2g1x + 2f1y + = 0 to the circle
S2 x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + = 0 is

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[Sol. P(x1y1) on S1 S2

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Ex-2 Find the value of 'p' for which the power of a point P(2, 5) is negative w.r.t a circle
x2 + y28x12y+p=0 and the circle neither touches nor intersects the coordinate axis.
[Sol. 4 + 25 16 60 + b < 0
p < 47
....(1)
also g2 < c & f2 < c
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
[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.

Page 13 of 32

Find its centre and radius.

Then t12 x12 y12 4 x1 5 y1 6

and

t 22 x12 y12 4

t12 4 t 22

but

t1 = 2t2

x12 y12 4 x1 5 y1 6 = 4( x12 y12 4)

i.e.

3x12 3y12 4 x1 5 y1 22 0
locus of (x1, y1) is the circle, 3x2 + 3y2 4x + 5y 22 = 0.

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Dividing throughout by 3, we get the equation as

x2 + y2

4
5
22
x+ y
=0
3
3
3

2 5
305
Its centre is , and radius =
]
3 6
6
(b) Find the locus of a point the tangents from which to the circles 4x2 + 4y2 9 = 0 and
9x2 + 9y2 16 = 0 are in the ratio 3 : 4.
[Ans. 7x2 + 7y2 = 20]
H.W. after Lecture -3 : Exercise - 18 (Loney) Except Q.No. 21

LECTURE 4
8.

DIRECTOR CIRCLE:
Director circle is a name given to a special locus. Locus of a point 'P' which moves in
such a way such that the pair of tangents drawn from 'P' to a given curve makes an
angle of 90.
OR
Locus of the point of intersection of two mutually perpendicular tangents drawn to a
given curve is called the director circle of the given curve.

m1m2 = 1

x2 + y2 = 2a2

= 1

Director circle of a circle is a concentric circle having radius equals to 2 times

if equation of circle is x2 + y2 +2gx + 2fy + c = 0 then its director circle is
(x + g)2 + (y + f)2 = 2R2

St

ud

h2 a2

te

k2 a2

ps

y = mx a 1 m 2
passes through (h, k)

(k mh)2 = a2 (1 + m2)

m2(h2 a2) 2mhk + k2 a2 = 0

yS

Method-I :

.in

(Director circle of a parabola is its own directrix)

g 2 f 2 c2
Method-II : OAPB is square

a2 + a2 = OP2

2a2 = h2 + k2

x2 + y2 = 2a2
R=

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.
Alternate : use

tan260

3=

(m1 m 2 ) 2
(1 m1m 2 ) 2

(m1 m2 )2 4m1m2

(1 m1m2 )2
m1 & m2 are the roots of thewww.StudySteps.in
equation (mh k)2 = a2 (1 + m2) ]
Page 14 ofwhere
32

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. ]
Chord of a circle with a given middle point M (x1, y1)
x1
y y1 = y (x x1)
1
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)

....(2)
R 2 q2
clearly p > q
l<L
2l < 2L
Hence proved.

te

L=

LAB = 2

yS

....(1)

R 2 p2 = 2 (g 2 f 2 c) {(a g)2 (b f )2}

ud

and

R 2 p2

ps

l=

.in

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

St

(a 2 b 2 2ag 2bf c)

LAB = 2
(since a, b lies inside the circle)
negative

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

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

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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
(x h)
k
ky k2 = h2 hx

hx + ky = h2 + k2
....(1)
Now homogenising S = 0 with the help of (1)
yk=

hx ky
hx ky
+ + 2 (gx + fy) 2
+
c
=0

2
2
h k2
h k
2
2
Coefficient of x + coefficient of y = 0
]
2

x2

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.
Equation of chord of contact AB :
Tangent at 'A'
x x' + y y' = a2
passes through (x1, y1) x1 x' + y1 y' = a2
....(1)
2
|||ly at 'B'
x x" + y y" = a
passes through (x1, y1) x1 x" + y1 y" = a2
....(2)
from (1) and (2) equation if chord of contact can be written by replacing x', x" by x
and y', y" by y.
hence,
x x1 + y y1 = a2
....(3)
(same as that of tangent)
Equation (3) is a linear relation in x and y

it represent a line.
Point 'A' and 'B' satisfy equation (3)

it represent the equation of chord of contact. For general equation of circle

chord of contact xx1 + yy1 + g(x x1) + f (y y1) + c = 0

(ii)

St

(i)

ud

yS

te

ps

.in

9.

y2

EXAMPLES :
Ex-1 Tangents are drawn to the circle x2 + y2 = 8 at the points where the line x + 2y = 4
intersect the circle. Find the coordinates of the point of intersection of the tangents.
[Sol. Equation of C.O.C. AB is
x x1 + y y1 = 8
....(1)
Also equation of AB is
x + 2y = 4
....(2)
(1) and (2) must be identical
x1
y
8

= 1 =

x1 = 2 ; y1= 4
]
4
1
2
Ex-2 Tangents are drawn to a unit circle with centre at origin from every point on the line
2x + y = 4, prove that
(i)
chord of contact passes through a fixed point
(ii) equation to the locus of the middle point of chord of contact.
Page 16 of 32

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[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
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)

(ii)

comparing (1) and (2)

x1 =

1
x1
y
= 1 = 2
h k2
h
k
k

; y1 =

.in

h2 k2
h2 k2
Also 2x1 + y1 = 4

2h + k = 4 (h2 + k2)

2x + y = 4 (x2 + y2)
]

Also

c2

ud

y2

b2

c=

x12 y12

St

touches the circle

x2

yS

te

ps

Ex-3 Chord of contact of the tangent drawn from a point on the circle x2 + y2 = a2 to the
circle x2 + y2 = b2 touches the circle x2 + y2 = c2. Prove that a, b, c are in G.P.
(a, b, c > 0)
[Sol. Equation of COC AB is
x x1 + y y1 = b2

x12 y12 = a2

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.
[Sol. We have, 0 =

Page 17 of 32

1 b 2k
3

k=

b
2

b
satisfy the given circle x2 + y2 ax by = 0
2
b
b2
2
x +
ax + b = 0
2
4

hence y =

x2 ax +

D>0

3b 2
= 0. For two distinct values of h,
4

a2 3b2 > 0

a2 > 3b2
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
x2

y2

xx1 yy1

a2

a2

x 2 2x y x y
y2
1
1

1
1
i.e. x2 1 2
+ y2 1 2 = 0
2
a
a
a
Since QCR = 90, coefficient of x2 + coefficient of y2 = 0

x12

y12

+ 1 1 2 = 0
a
a2
2
2
2
x1 y1 2a
i.e.

The locus of (x1, y1) is the concentric circle x2 + y2 = 2a2

Alternate : PQCR is a square
]
x12 y12 2a 2

PAIR OF TANGENTS :
Combined equation of the pair of tangents drawn from an external point 'P' to a given
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
triangles AQN and APM are similar
p1
l
AQ
QN
=

= p
L
AP
PM
2

ud

x12 y12 a 2

hx1 ky1 a 2
x12 y12 a 2

(x2 + y2 a2) ( x12 y12 a2) = (x x1 + y y1 a2)2

S
S1
= T2
]

St

h2 k2 a2

yS

te

ps

.in

10.

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

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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

(v)
(vi)

i.e. 2 f 2 c = 5
Line 3x + 4y 5 = 0 is tangent to the circle i.e. p = r
Centre lies on x-axis
i.e. f = 0
or centre lies on y-axis i.e. g = 0

ps

.in

(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
i.e. x2 (1 + ) + y2(1 + ) 4x ( ) + 6y (1 ) + 12 3 = 0

St

ud

yS

te

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
S + L = 0
Conversely the eqution S + L = 0 represents a family of circles passing through two
fixed points which the points of intersection of L = 0 and S = 0.
EXAMPLES :
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.
[Sol. Equation of family of circles is (x2 + y2 a2) + (x cos + y sin p) = 0
Now centre lies on the line x cos + y sin = p

cos2 sin2 = p
2
2
= 2p
]

i.e.

Ex-2 Show that the equation x2 + y2 2x 2y 8 = 0 represents for different values of ,

a system of circles passing through two fixed points A and B on the x-axis, and also
find the equation of that circle of the system the tangent to which at A and B meet on
the line x + 2y + 5 = 0.
[Sol. (x2 + y2 2x 8) 2y = 0
S + L = 0
Solving S = 0 & L = 0
put y = 0 x2 2x 8 = 0
(x 4) (x + 2) = 0
x = 2 or 4
A (4, 0)
B (2, 0)
Page 19 of 32

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Equation of AB :
C.O.C.
xx1 + yy1 1 (x+x1) (y + y1) 8 = 0

x(x1 1) + y (y y1) (x1 + y1+ 8) = 0

....(1)
Also equation of AB is x-axis i.e
0x + 1y + 0c = 0
....(2)
comparing (1) & (2)
0
0
1
=
=
x1 y1 8
x1 1 y1

x1 = 1 & y1+ 9 = 0
9
y1 =

18
18
+5=0

2
2
equation of circle is x + y 2x 6y 8 = 0
]

Also x1 + 2y1 + 5 = 0 1

=3

11
13
(x + 0) +
( y + 0) + 17 = 0
2
2
i.e. 11x 13y 34 = 0
Now equation of family of circle is
x2 + y2 11x + 13y +17 + (11x 13y 34) = 0
passes through (0, 0) ]

te

ps

x0 + y0

.in

Ex-3 Find the equation of a circle which passes through origin and through the point of
contact of the tangents drawn from the origin to the circle x2 + y2 11x + 13y + 17 = 0
[Sol. Equation of COC AB is

ud

yS

Type-3: Equation of the family of circles passes through two given points A (x1, y1) &
B(x2, y2) is:

St

x
(xx1) (xx2) + (yy1) (yy2) + x1
x2

y 1
y1 1 = 0
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

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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
(i)

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
....(1)
(a) represents a second degree curve & also A, B, C, D satisfy ....(1)
l1l3 + l2l4 = 0 is the equation of circle provided coefficient of
x2 = coefficient of y2 & coefficient of xy = 0

te

ps

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(ii)

Note:
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.

yS

LECTURE - 6

POLE & POLAR :

If through a point P in the plane of the circle , there be drawn any straight line to
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.

(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.

(iii)
(iv)

Page 21 of 32

St

ud

12.
(i)

Aa 2 Ba 2
Pole of a given line Ax + By + C = 0 w.r.t. any circle x2 + y2 = a2 is C , C .

If the polar of a point P pass through a point Q, then the polar of Q passes through P.
Explanation :

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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
required equation is xx1 + yy1 = a2
in case if circle is general then equation of polar becomes
x x1 + y y1 + g (x + x1) + f (y + y1) + c = 0 & (x1, y1) is the pole.
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 2l
a 2m
x1 =
and y1 =
(not to be remember)
n
n

te

ps

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a 2lx1 y1 a 2

n
m n

SOME DEFINITIONS :
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.

(ii)

Conjugate Lines: Two lines l1 and l2 are conjugate of each other if pole of one lies
on other and vice versa.

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13.
(i)

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

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(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 ]

.in

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
n
m
nh
nh
mh
mh

k=
and =
; k
=
or k2l nh = mkh
kl
kl
l
l

required locus is ly2 = nx + mxy

]

St

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yS

te

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Alternative Definition of polar :

Locus of the harmonic conjugate of a given point P (x1, y1) w.r.t. 2 given points in
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.
a cos a cos
x1 =
1
a sin a sin
y1 =
1
a cos a cos
h=
1
a sin a sin
k=
1
h x1 + k y1 =

a 2x 2 a 2

1
x x1 + y y1 = a2
2

= 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

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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.
POSITION OF THE CIRCLES (AND NUMBER OF COMMON TANGENTS) :
(1) If 2 circles are separated, then d > r1 + r2 and in this case there exists
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

If 2 circles intersect each other then | r2 r1 | < d < r1 + r2

and in this case there exist
2 common tangent both of them being D.C.T.

ps

(3)

yS

te

Note: Only d < r1 + r2 is not the sufficient condition in

this case because if one circle is contained in other
then also d < r1 + r2.

St

ud

EXAMPLES :
Ex-1 Find the range of 'r' so that the circles :
(x 1)2 + (y 3)2 = r2
and (x 4)2 + (y + 1)2 = 9
intersects at 2 distinct points ('r' being the radius of the circle.)
[Sol. Method-I : for circles to intersecting
r>53
and r < 8

range of 'r'
2<r<8
Method-II : d = 5

for circle to intersect

| r1 r2 | < d < r1 + r2

|r3|<5<r+3

r>2
....(1)
and | r 3 | < 5
5 < (r 3) < 5
2 < r < 8 ....(2)

2<r<8
]
(4)

If both the circles touches each other internally, then d = | r1 r2 |

and in this case there exist only one common tangent i.e. D.C.T. at
their point of contact.

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(5)

If one circle is contained in other then d < | r1 r2 | and in this case

there exist no common tangent.
LENGTH AND EQUATION OF COMMON TANGENTS :
To find analytically the length of common tangent (both external and internal common
tangent)
L2ext + (r1 r2)2 = d2

From figure :

d 2 (r1 r2 ) 2

Lext =

d2 = L2int + (r1 + r2)2

Lint =

d 2 (r1 r2 ) 2

St

|||ly

C1Q r1

C2Q r2

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yS

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How to find equation of D.C.T / T.C.T.

Statement :
(a) Direct Common Tangent (D.C.T.) meet at a point which divides the line joining the
centre of circles externally in the ratio of their radii.
(b) Transverse Common Tangent (T.C.T.) meets at a point which divides the line joining
the centres of circles internally in the ratio of their radii.
PC1 r1

Proof :
PC2 r2
(since for S2 = 0, C2P is the angle bisector
and also for S1 = 0, C1P is the angle
bisector.

C1, C2, P will lie in a same line

Note: C1 ; Q, C2, P constitute a harmonic range

i.e. C1Q, C1C2, C1P are in H.P.
EXAMPLES :
Ex-1 Equation of transverse common tangent is x = 0 and y = 0
from figure
Ex-2 If the figure is
one of the equation of D.C.T. is x = 0 and T.C.T. is y = 0
Ex-3 Prove that the common tangents to the circles x2 + y2 6x = 0 and x2 + y2 + 2x = 0
from an equilateral triangle.
[Sol. S1 : x2 + y2 6x = 0
C1 (3, 0) ; r1 = 3
2
2
S2 : x + y + 2x = 0
C2 ( 1, 0) ; r2 = 1
d=4

d = r1 + r2

circles touches externally.

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and

1
sin = PC
2
PC1 PC 2 2 cos ec
3
sin = PC
1
C1 C2 = 2 cosec
4 = 2 cosec
1
sin =

= 3

2 = 60
2
ABP is equilateral.

Ex-4 Find all the common tangent to the circles x2 + y2 = 1 and (x 1)2 + (y 3)2 = 4.
(note that circles are separated)
Ex-5 Find the equation of the circles to which the line 4x + 3y = 10 is
a common tangent at (1, 2) and radius of each of the circle is 5.
[Sol. Method-I : Family of circles touches the line at (1, 2) IS
(x 1)2 + (y 2)2 + (4x + 3y 10) = 0
now r = 5
Method-II : From (1, 2) use parametric to get the coordinates of C1 and C2. ]
RADICAL AXIS AND RADICAL CENTRE :
Radical axis of 2 circles is the locus of a point whose powers w.r.t. the two circles are
equal. The equation of radical axis of two circles S1 = 0 and S2= 0 is given by
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

2(g1 g2) x + 2 (f1 f2) + c1 c2 = 0

is the required equation of radical axis of S1 = 0 and S2 = 0

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(a)

Note that
If two circles intersect, then the radical axis is the common
chord of the two circles.

(b)

If two circles touch each other then the

radical axis is the common tangent of the
two circles at the common point of contact.

(c)

Radical axis is always perpendicular to the line

joining the centres of the two circles.

(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
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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 +
=0
2
[Sol. Equation of a circle with centre 'p' and radius 'd'
i.e. (x x1)2 + (y y1)2 = d2

a2

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
2
and x + y a = 0
....(2)

equation of AB is (1) (2)

2 x x1 2 y y1 + 2a2 d2 = 0
or

i.e.

x x1 + y y1

a2

d2
+
=0
2

Hence proved

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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
If S1 bisects the circumference of S2 then their common chord is the diameter of
S2 = 0.
equation of common chord
S1 S2 = 0
2 (g g') x + 2(f f')y + c c' = 0 ....(1)
(g, f') lies on equation (1)
2g' (g g') 2 f '(f f ' ) + c c' = 0

2g' (g g') + 2 f '(f f ' ) = c c'

hence proved.
]
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.
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[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]

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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]

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Ex-8 Given S = x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 and two point A

and B on it. Prove that the equation of the line AB is
(x1 + x2 + 2g)x + (y1 + y2 + 2f)y = x1x2 + y1 y2 c

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Ex-9 Find the equation of the circle which bisects the circumference of the circle
x2 + y2 + 2y 3 = 0 and touches the line x y = 0 at origin.

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RADICAL CENTRE :
Definition : The common point of intersection of the radical axis of 3 circles taken
2 at a time is called the Radical Centre of three circles. from this

Radical Axis of S1 & S2 : 2 (g1 g2)x + 2 (f1 f2) y + c1 c2 = 0

Radical Axis of S2 & S3 : 2 (g2 g3)x + 2 (f2 f3) y + c2 c3 = 0
Radical Axis of S3 & S1 : 2 (g3 g1)x + 2 (f3 f1)y + c3 c1 = 0

g1 g 2 f1 f 2 c1 c2
D = g 2 g3 f 2 f3 c2 c3 = 0 ; Use R1 R1 + R2 + R3
g3 g1 f3 f1 c3 c1

D=0

(solve any 2 radical axes to get radical centre which is a point from which tangent to the
Page 28 ofthree
32 circles are equal.)
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EXAMPLES :
Ex-1 Lines lx + my + n = 0 ; px + qy + r = 0 intersects the circle
x2 + y2 + 2g1x + 2f1y + c1 = 0 and x2 + y2 + 2g2x + 2f2y + c2 = 0 at 4 points A and B ;
C and D respectively. If these points are concyclic then prove that
2(g1 g 2 ) 2(f1 f 2 ) c1 c 2
l
m
n
=0
p
q
r

[Hint: The 3 radical axis are concurrent

lx + my + n = 0
px + qy + r = 0
and S1 S2 = 0
use condition of concurrency ]
Ex-2 Prove analytically that radical centre of 3 circles
described on the sides of a triangle as diameter is the
orthocenter of the triangle. (Remember this)
[Sol. (check slope of radical axes and BC) (m1m2 = 1)

Radical axes will act as an altitude.

]

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COAXIAL SYSTEM OF CIRCLES :

Definition : A system of circles, every 2 of which have the same radical axis, is called
Coaxial system of circles.

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EXAMPLES :
Ex-1 Find the equation of a circle coaxial with S1 : x2 + y2 + 4x + 2y + 1 = 0 and
S2 : 2x2 + 2y2 2x 4y 3 = 0 and the centre of the circle to be determined lies on
the radical axes of these 2 circle.
[Sol. S1 : x2 + y2 + 4x + 2y + 1 = 0

3
=0
2
equation of radical axis S1 S2 = 0
5
i.e. 5x + 4y + = 0
2
family of circles passes through S1 = 0 and L = 0
S1 + L = 0
....(1)
centre lies on L = 0, get .
S2 : x2 + y2 x 2y

Ex-2 Find the equation of the circle passes through (1, 1) belonging to the system of coaxial
circles which touches the locus of the point of intersection of 2 perpendiculars tangents
to the circle x2 + y2 = 4 at (2, 2).
Ex-3 From a point P tangents drawn to the cirlces x 2 + y 2 + x 3 = 0 ;
3x2 + 3y2 5x + 3y = 0 and 4x2 + 4y2 + 8x + 7y + 9 = 0 are of equal length. Find the
equation of the circle passes through P and which touches the line x + y = 5 at (6, 1)
[Ans. x2 + y2 7x + 7y + 12 = 0]

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ORTHOGONALITY OF TWO CIRCLES :

Definition : Two curves are said to be orthogonal if they intersect each other at 90
wherever they intersects.
Condition for orthogonality of 2 circles :
r12 r22 = (g1 g2)2 + (f2 f2)2

( g12 f12 c1 ) + ( g 22 f 22 c 2 ) = (g1 g2)2 + (f1 f2)2

2 g 1 g 2 + 2 f 1 f2 = c 1 + c 2

(condition for orthogonality)

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.

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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
....(1)
2 g g 2 + 2 f f2 = c + c2
....(2)
(1) (2)
2g (g1 g2) + 2f (f1 f2) = c1 c2
Replace
gh
and f k

2x (g1 g2) + 2y (f1 f2) = c2 c1

radical axis ]

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Note : If a line is orthogonal to a circle means the line is normal / diameter of the circle.

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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 (*)
It orthogonally cuts the circle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0

Using condition of orthogonality , we have 2gg + 2f f = c + c

c = 2gg + 2f f c
....(i)
Two curves are said to be orthogonal if the tangents to the curves, drawn at the point
of intersection of the curves intersect at a right angle.

Required circle with orthogonally cut the line x = g. Therefore the points of intersection
will be extremities of the diameter of the required circle and equation of the diameter is
x=g

x - coordinate of the centre = g = g

Similarly we can argue and conclude that y coordinate of the centre = f = f

Centre of required circle ( g, f)

From (i) we get c = 2g2 + 2f 2 c

equation of required circle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + 2g2 + 2f 2 c = 0 ]

Note : Here we observe that the two circles (one which is given and one which we obtain are
concentric circles). They will intersect only if they have the same radii or both of them
are point circle (having zero radius). So ! one may think! , if they do not intersect how
can they be orthogonal? The answer is they intersect in imaginary points.
(Refer " Coordinate geometry by S.L. loney, page 163 , 3rd paragraph).
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Ex-5 Prove that the 2 circles which passes through the 2 points (0, a) and (0, a) and touche
the straight line y = mx + d will cut orthogonally if d2 = a2 (2 + m2)
[Sol. Let the equation of circle be
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0
....(1)
g

; 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)
=

g2 c

1 m
(mg d)2 = (g2 c) (1 + m2)
m2g2 2mgd + d2 = g2 + m2g2 c m2c
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mg d

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g2 + 2mgd d2 c(1 + m2) = 0

....(3)

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Also c = a2

c = c 1 = c2 = a 2
using condition of orthogonality
2g1g2 = 2c = a2
g1g2 = a2
from equation (3) g1g2 = {d2 + c(1 + m2)}

d2 + c(1 + m2) = a2
c = a2

d2 a2(1 + m2) = a2

d2 = a2 (1 + m2) Hence proved.

]
Ex-6 The circles x2 + y2 + 2g1x + 2f1y + c1 = 0 and x2 + y2 + 2g2x + 2f2y + c2 = 0
intersect orthogonally at A and B. If C, D are the centres of these circles, show that the
equation of the circle passing through A, B, C, D is
2 (x2 + y2) + 2(g1 + g2) x + 2 (f1 + f2) y + c1 + c2 = 0.
[Sol. Since the circles intersect orthogonally hence the quad. ABCD is an cyclic quad.

required equation of the circle will be the circle on CD are diameter.

(x +g1) (x + g2) + (y + f1) (y + f2) = 0 ....(1)

Also condition of orthogonally gives
2 g 1 g 2 + 2 f 1 f2 = c 1 + c 2
....(2)

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x2 + y2 + (g1 + g2) x + (f1 + f2) y +

c1 c2
= 0]
2

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CIRCLE ORTHOGONAL TO 3 GIVEN CIRCLES :

Method-I: Let the equation of circle be x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c= 0
orthogonal to S1 = 0 ; S2 = 0 ; S3 = 0 get 3 relation in g, f, c.
Method-II : Circle orthogonal to 3 given circles is one such circle
whose centre is the radical centre of 3 given circles and
radiusequals to length of tangent drawn from radical centre
to any one of the circles.
[Solve any 2 radical axis to get radical centre and then compute r = LT]
Method-III : (It is a problem)

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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

....(1)

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Polar of the point 'P' w.r.t. the circle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 is

(a cos) x + (a sin) y + g (x + a cos ) + f (y + a sin ) + c = 0
(1) passes through ( a cos, a sin )
a2 + c = 0
Also 2g 0 + 2f 0 = c a2

c = a2
Hence proved.
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
x g2
x g3

y f1
y f2
y f3

g1x f1y c1
g 2 x f 2 y c2 = 0 ]
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.
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