Math Problem Statement

Chords PQ and RS of a circle intersect at a point T at right angles to each other. If the segments PT, TQ and TS are of length 2, 6 and 3 units respectively then the diameter of the circle is

(a) 8

(b) 13

(c) sqrt(65)

(d) sqrt(47)

Solution

Given that chords PQPQ and RSRS of a circle intersect at point TT at right angles to each other, and the segments PT=2PT = 2 units, TQ=6TQ = 6 units, and TS=3TS = 3 units respectively, we need to determine the diameter of the circle from the given options.

Steps to Solve:

  1. Use the Power of a Point Theorem: The power of a point theorem states that if two chords intersect at a point, the product of the lengths of the segments of one chord equals the product of the lengths of the segments of the other chord: PT×TQ=RT×TSPT \times TQ = RT \times TS Substituting the given lengths: 2×6=RT×32 \times 6 = RT \times 3 12=3×RT12 = 3 \times RT RT=123=4 unitsRT = \frac{12}{3} = 4 \text{ units}

  2. Calculate the Lengths of the Chords:

    • PQ=PT+TQ=2+6=8PQ = PT + TQ = 2 + 6 = 8 units.
    • RS=RT+TS=4+3=7RS = RT + TS = 4 + 3 = 7 units.
  3. Find the Length of the Diameter: Since the chords PQPQ and RSRS intersect at right angles, we can use the fact that the sum of the squares of the distances from TT to the ends of the chords equals the square of the diameter: Diameter2=PT2+TQ2+RT2+TS2\text{Diameter}^2 = PT^2 + TQ^2 + RT^2 + TS^2

    Substituting the values: Diameter2=22+62+42+32\text{Diameter}^2 = 2^2 + 6^2 + 4^2 + 3^2 Diameter2=4+36+16+9\text{Diameter}^2 = 4 + 36 + 16 + 9 Diameter2=65\text{Diameter}^2 = 65 Diameter=65 units\text{Diameter} = \sqrt{65} \text{ units}

Answer:

The correct diameter of the circle is 65\boxed{\sqrt{65}} units, corresponding to option (c).


Do you have any further questions, or would you like more details on any part of this solution?

Related Questions:

  1. What is the significance of right-angle intersection in a circle's chords?
  2. How does the power of a point theorem apply in different geometric configurations?
  3. What is the relationship between the diameter and the chord lengths in a circle?
  4. How can we find the radius if only the length of one chord is given?
  5. What would be the approach if the chords did not intersect at right angles?

Tip: When solving geometry problems, always check if special theorems (like the Power of a Point) can simplify your calculations.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Circle Geometry
Power of a Point Theorem

Formulas

-

Theorems

Power of a Point Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

High School