CHaPtER

19 Circles

Chapter Highlights
Circle, Standard Equation of a Circle, General Equation of a Circle, Conditions for an equation to represent a
circle, Equation of a Circle in some Special cases, equation of a circle in diameter form, Intercepts made by a
circle on the axes, Parametric Equations of a Circle, Position of a Point with respect to a circle, Intersection of
a Line and a Circle, Length of intercept made by a circle on a line, The least and Greatest Distance of a Point
from a Circle, Contact of Two Circles, Tangent to a Circle at a Given Point, Equation of the Tangent in Slope
Form, Condition of Tangency, Tangents From a Point Outside the Circle, Length of the Tangent From a Point to
a Circle, Normal to the circle at a given Point, Pair of Tangents, Common Tangent S to two circles, Power of a
Point with respect to a circle, Director Circle, Equation of Chord of Contact, Equation of chord if its Mid Point
is known, Common chord of Two Circles, Diameter of a circle, Angle of intersection of two circles, Orthogonal
Intersection of two Circles, Family of Circles, Image of the Circle by the Line Mirror.

CirClE CoNditioNs for aN EquatioN to

rEprEsENt a CirClE
A circle is the locus of a point which moves in a plane such
that its distance from a fixed point always remains constant. A general equation of second degree
The fixed point is called the centre and the constant dis-
tance is called the radius of the circle. ax2 + 2hxy + by2 + 2gx + 2 fy + c = 0
in x, y represents a circle if
1. coefficient of x2 = coefficient of y2, i.e., a = b,
staNdard EquatioN of a CirClE 2. coefficient of xy is zero, i.e., h = 0.
The equation of a circle with the centre at (h, k) and
radius a, is to find the Centre and radius of a Circle
whose Equation is given
(x - h)2 + (y - k)2 = a2

If the centre of the circle is at the origin and radius is a, short-Cut mEthod
then the equation of circle is x2 + y2 = a2.  Make the coefficients of x2 and y2 equal to 1 and right
hand side equal to zero.
The coordinates of centre will be (h, k), where
gENEral EquatioN of a CirClE


1
The general equation of a circle is of the form h = − (coefficient of x )
2
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2 fy + c = 0, (1) and 1
k = − (coefficient of y )
2
where g, f and c are constants.
The coordinates of its centre are (-g, -f ) and radius is  Radius = h2 + k 2 − constant term
g + f − c.
2 2

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 19.2  Chapter 19

Nature of the Circle

1. If g2 + f  2 - c > 0, then the general eqn. (1) represents real
circle with centre (-g, -f ).
2. If g2 + f  2 - c = 0, then the general eqn. (1) represents
a circle whose centre is (-g, -f ) and radius is zero i.e.,
the circle coincides with the centre represented by a point
(-g, -f ). It is, therefore called a point circle.
3. If g2 + f 2 - c < 0, the radius of the circle is imaginary but
the centre is real. Such a circle is called a virtual circle or
imaginary circle as it is not possible to draw such a circle.
Fig. 19.3
5. If the circle touches x-axis at origin then its equation is x2
Equation of a Circle in some Special + (y ± k)2 = k2 ⇒ x2 + y2 ± 2ky = 0. (Two cases)
cases
1. If the centre of the circle is (h, k) and it passes through
origin then its equation is (x - h)2 + (y - k)2 = h2 + k2
⇒  x2 + y2 - 2hx - 2ky = 0

Fig. 19.4
6. If the circle touches y-axis at origin, the equation of circle
is (x ± h)2 + y2 = h2 ⇒ x2 + y2 ⇒ 2xh = 0. (Two cases)

Fig. 19.1
2. If the circle touches x-axis then its equation is
(x ± h)2 + (y ± k)2 = k2. (Four cases)
3. If the circle touches y-axis then its equation is (x ± h)2 +
(y ± k)2 = h2. (Four cases)

Fig. 19.5
7. If the circle passes through origin and cuts intercepts a
and b on the axes, the equation of circle is x2 + y2 - ax - by
= 0 and centre is C(a/2, b/2). (Four cases)

Fig. 19.2
4. If the circle touches both the axes then its equation is (x
± r)2 + (y ± r)2 = r2. (Four cases)
Fig. 19.6

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 Circles  19.3

Solved Examples
1. The tangent to the circle x2 + y2 = 9, which is parallel
to y-axis and does not lie in third quadrant, touches the
circle at the point
(A) (−3, 0) (B)  (3, 0)
(C) (0, 3) (D)  (0, −3)
Solution: (B)
Any line parallel to y-axis is x = k. | 12a + 5a − 60 | | 17a − 60 |
∴ =a or = a.
If it touches the circle x2 + y2 = 9, then ^ distance 12 + 5
2 2 13
from the centre (0, 0) of the circle to the line x = k,
or 17a − 60 = ±13a or a = 15, 2
must be equal to radius 3.
It is clear from the figure that a ≠ 15.
|0−k |
i.e., = 3 ⇒ k = ±3 \ a=2
1
\ k=3 \ The equation of the incircle is
(∵ line does not lie in the IIIrd quadrant) (x − 2)2 + (y − 2)2 = 22
\ The equation of the tangent line is x = 3. or x2 + y2 − 4x − 4y + 4 = 0
This meets the circle when 9 + y2 = 9  ⇒  y = 0. 4. The area of an equilateral triangle inscribed in the
\ Point of contact is (3, 0). ­circle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 is
2. The equation of circle with origin as centre and pass- 3 3 2 3 3 2
(A) ( g + f 2 − c) (B)  ( g + f 2 − c)
ing through the vertices of an equilateral triangle 2 4
whose median is of length 3a is 3 3 2
(C) ( g + f 2 + c) (D)  none of these
(A) x2 + y2 = 9a2 (B)  x2 + y2 = 16a2 4
(C) x + y = 4a (D) 
2 2 2
x2 + y2 = a2 Solution: (B)
Solution: (C) Given Circle is
The centroid of an equilateral triangle is the centre x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 (1)
of its circum centre and the radius of the circle is the
­distance of any vertex from the centroid i.e., radius of Let C be its centre and PQR be an equilateral tri-
the circle angle inscribed in the circle, then C ≡ (−g, −f ) and
= distance of centroid from any vertex radius of the circle CQ = g 2 + f 2 − c .
2 2
= =( Median ) (3a) = 2a
3 3
Hence, equation of circle whose centre is (0, 0)
and radius 2a is
(x − 0)2 + ( y − 0)2 = (2a)2 or x2 + y2 = 4a2
3 The equation of the circle inscribed in the triangle,
formed by the coordinate axes and the line 12x + 5y =
60, is given by
(A) x2 + y2 + 4x + 4y + 4 = 0
(B) x2 + y2 − 4x − 4y + 4 = 0
3
(C) x2 + y2 − 4x − 4y − 4 = 0 From ∆QLC , QL = CQ sin 60° = g2 + f 2 − c
(D) none of these 2

Solution: (B)
\ QR = 2QL = 3 ⋅ g 2 + f 2 − c
Let the radius of the circle be a. 3 3
Now, area of ∆PQR = ⋅ QR 2 = ⋅ 3( g 2 + f 2 − c)
Then the centre is C ≡ (a, a). 4 4
Also, the distance of C (a, a) from the line 12x + 3 3 2
= ( g + f 2 − c)
5y = 60 is a. 4

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 19.4  Chapter 19

5. A point moves so that the sum of the squares of its \ Circumradius = 2 ⋅ 3 = 6.

distances from the four sides of a square is constant. \ The equation of the circumcircle is
The locus of the point is
(x + 2)2 + ( y − 3)2 = (6)2
(A) a circle (B)  an ellipse
or x2 + y2 + 4x − 6y − 23 = 0
(C) a hyperbola (D)  none of these
Solution: (A) 7. The DPQR is inscribed in the circle x2 + y2 = 25. If Q
Take the centre of the square as origin and axes p­ arallel and R have coordinates (3, 4) and (− 4, 3) respectively,
to its sides. then ∠QPR is equal to
Let side of square be 2a. (A) p /2 (B)  p /3
(C) p /4 (D)  p /6
Solution: (C)
4 −3
Let m1 = slope of OQ = and m2 = slope of OR = .
3 4

As m1m2 = −1, ∠QOR = p .

2
π
Thus, ∠QPR =
4

The equations of sides are

AD : x = a, BC : x = −a
AB : y = a, CD : y = −a
Let P (x, y) be any point on locus.
Distances of P from the sides of square are
x − a, x + a, y − a and y + a
By the given condition,
(x − a)2 + (x + a)2 + ( y − a)2 + ( y + a)2 = constant (∵ angle subtended at the centre of a circle is dou-
= 4c2 (say) ble the angle subtended in the alternate segment).
\ 2x2 + 2y2 = 4c2 − 4a2
or x2 + y2 = 2(c2 − a2), which is a circle. EQUATION OF A CIRCLE IN DIAMETER FORM
6. If the equation of the incircle of an equilateral triangle The equation of the circle drawn on the line segment join-
is x2 + y2 + 4x − 6y + 4 = 0, then the equation of the ing two given points A(x1, y1) and B(x2, y2) as diameter is
circumcircle of the triangle is
(A) x2 + y2 + 4x + 6y − 23 = 0
(B) x2 + y2 + 4x − 6y − 23 = 0
(C) x2 + y2 − 4x − 6y − 23 = 0
(D) none of these
Solution: (B)
Given equation of the incircle is Fig. 19.7
x2 + y2 + 4x − 6y + 4 = 0
(x - x1) (x - x2) + (y - y1) (y - y2) = 0.
Its incentre is (−2, 3) and inradius = 4 + 9 − 4 = 3.
Since in an equilateral triangle, the incentre and  x + x y + y2 
Its Centre =  1 2 , 1 and
the circumcentre coincide,  2 2 
\ Circumcentre ≡ (−2, 3) 2 2
Also, in an equilateral triangle, circumradius = 2  x − x   y − y2 
Radius =  1 2  +  1 
(inradius)  2   2 

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 Circles  19.5

Solved Example Solved Examples

8. Extremities of a diagonal of a rectangle are (0, 0) and 9. A variable circle passes through the point P(1, 2) and
(4, 3). The equations of the tangents to the circumcircle touches the x-axis. The locus of the other end of the
of the rectangle which are parallel to this diagonal are diameter through P is
(A) 16x + 8y ± 25 = 0 (B)  6x − 8y ± 25 = 0 (A) (x − 1)2 = 8y (B) (x + 1)2 = 8y
(C) 8x + 6y ± 25 = 0 (D)  none of these (C) ( y − 1) = 8x
2
(D)  none of these
Solution: (B) Solution: (A)
Extremities of the diagonal OA of the rectangle are O The equation of any circle touching x-axis is of the form
(0, 0) and A(4, 3). Then OA is the diameter of the cir-
cumcircle, so equation of the circumcircle is (x − h)2 + ( y − k)2 = k2
x (x − 4) + y ( y − 3) = 0 i.e., x2 + y2 − 4x − 3y = 0 Let the coordinates of the other end of the diame-
 3 5
2 2
ter through P be (a, b )
i.e., ( x − 2) 2 +  y −  =   (1)
 2 2
α +1 β +2
m = slope of OA = 3/4 (2) Then, = h and =k
\ Tangents parallel to the diagonal OA are 2 2
3 3 5 9 i.e., a = 2h − 1 and b = 2k − 2 (1)
y− = ( x − 2) ± 1+
2 4 2 16 Also, (h − 1)2 + (k − 2)2 = (radius)2 = k2
That is 6x − 8y ± 25 = 0
2 2 2
 α +1   β + 2   β +2
Intercepts made by a circle ⇒  − 1 +  − 2 =  
 2   2   2 
on the axes
⇒ (a − 1)2 + (b − 2)2 = (b + 2)2
1. The length of the intercept made by the circle
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fc + c = 0 on ⇒ (a − 1)2 = 8b

x-axis = AB = 2 g 2 − c \  Locus of (a, b ) is (x − 1)2 = 8y

y-axis = CD = 2 f − c
2
10. A square is inscribed in the circle x2 + y2 − 2x + 4y + 3
2. Intercepts are always positive. = 0. Its sides are parallel to the coordinate axes. Then
3. If the circle touches x-axis then | AB | = 0 Thus, c = g2 one vertex of the square is
4. If the circle touches y-axis, then | CD | = 0 Thus, c = f 2
5. If the circle touches both the axes, then | AB | = 0 = | CD | (A) (1 + 2 , −2) (B) 
(1 − 2 , −2)
Thus, c = g2 = f 2
(C) (1, −2 + 2 ) (D)  none of these
Solution: (D)
The centre of the given circle is (1, −2). Since the sides
of the square inscribed in the circle are parallel to the
coordinate axes, so the x-coordinate of any vertex can-
not be equal to 1 and its y-coordinate cannot be equal
to −2. Hence none of the points given in (A), (B) and
(C) can be the vertex of the square.
Fig. 19.8

Trick(s) for Problem Solving

 The circle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 cuts the x-axis in Parametric Equations of a Circle
real and distinct points, touches or does not meet in real
(a) The parametric equations of a circle x2 + y2 = a2 are x =
points according as g2 > 0 = or < c.
a cosθ, y = a sinθ, 0 ≤ θ < 2π. θ is called parameter and
 Similarly, the circle x + y + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 cuts the
2 2
the point P(a cosθ, a sinθ ) is called the point ‘θ ’ on the
y-axis in real and distinct points, touches or does not meet
circle x2 + y2 = a2. Thus, the coordinates of any point on
in real points according as f2 >, = or < c.
the circle x2 + y2 = a2 may be taken as (a cosθ, a sin θ ).

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 19.6  Chapter 19

Trick(s) for Problem Solving

Let S be a circle and P(x1, y1) and Q(x2, y2) be two points in
the plane of S, then they lie

 on the same side of S iff S1 and S2 have same sign and

 on the opposite sides of S iff S1 and S2 have opposite
signs

Solved Examples
Fig. 19.9
11. If (a, b ) is a point on the chord PQ of the circle x2 + y2
(b) The parametric equations of a circle (x − h)2 + ( y − k)2 = a2 = 19, where the coordinates of P and Q are (3, - 4) and
are x = h + a cosθ, y = k + a sinθ, 0 ≤ θ < 2π. is called the (4, 3) respectively, then
point ‘θ’ on this circle. Thus the coordinates of any point (A) a ∈ [3, 4], b ∈ [- 4, 3]
on this circle may be taken as (h + a cosθ, k + a sinθ). (B) a ∈ [-4, 3], b ∈ [3, 4]
(C) a ∈ [3, 3], b ∈ [-4, 4]
(D) none of these
Solution: (A)
Clearly, the point (α, β ) is either an internal point or
one of the end points of the line segment joining P(3,
-4) and Q (4, 3).
∴ 3 ≤ α ≤ 4 and - 4 ≤ β ≤ 3
12. If the point (2, k) lies outside the circles
Fig. 19.10 x2 + y2 + x - 2y - 14 = 0 and x2 + y2 = 13, then
(A) k∈ (-3, -2) ∪ (3, 4)
(c) The parametric coordinates of any point on the circle x2 + (B) k∈ (-3, 4)
y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 are (C) k∈ (-∞, -3) ∪ (4, ∞)
x = − g + ( g 2 + f 2 − c) cos θ and (D) k∈ (-∞, -2) ∪ (3, ∞)
Solution: (C)
y = − f + ( g 2 + f 2 − c) sin θ (0 ≤ θ < 2π ) Since the point (2, k) lies outside the circle
x2 + y2 + x - 2y - 14 = 0
∴ 4 + k2 + 2 - 2k - 14 > 0  or  k2 - 2k - 8 > 0
Position of a Point with respect or (k + 2) (k - 4) > 0
to a circle or  k∈ (-∞, -2) ∪ (4, ∞)(1)
Let S ≡ x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2 f y + c = 0, be a circle and P(x1, y1) Also, the point (2, k) lies outside the circle
be a point in the plane of S, then S1 ≡ x12 + y12 + 2 gx1 + 2 fy1 x2 + y2 = 13.
+ c. The point P(x1, y1) lies outside, on or inside the circle
∴ 4 + k2 - 13 > 0 or k2 - 9 > 0
S according as S1 > , = or < 0, respectively.
or (k - 3) (k + 3) > 0
or k∈ (- ∞, - 3) ∪ (3, ∞)(2)
The common solution of (1) and (2) is given by,
k∈ (-∞, -3) ∪ (4, ∞)
13. If the point (k + 1, k) lies inside the region bounded by
the curve and y-axis, then k belongs to the interval

x = 25 − y .
2

(A) (-1, 3) (B)  (-4, 3)

Fig. 19.11 (C) (-∞, -4) ∪ (3, ∞) (D)  none of these

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 Circles  19.7

Solution: (A)  From given three points taking any two as extremities of
Since the point (k + 1, k) lies inside the region bounded diameter of a circle S = 0 and equation of straight line
passing through these two points is L = 0. then required
by x = 25 − y 2 and y-axis,
equation of circle is S + λL = 0, where λ is a parame-
∴ (k + 1)2 + k2 - 25 < 0 ter, which can be found out by putting third point in the
and k+1>0 equation.
 If the two lines a x + b y + c = 0 and a x + b y + c =
1 1 1 2 2 2
0 meet the coordinate axes in four distinct points, then
those points are concyclic if a1a2 = b1b2.
Also, the equation of the circle passing through those
concyclic points is (a1x + b1y + c1) (a2x + b2y + c2)
- (a1b2 + a2b1) xy = 0.
 The equation of the circumcircle of the triangle formed by

the line ax + by + c = 0 with the coordinate axes is ab (x2

+ y2) + c (bx + ay) = 0.

⇒ 2k2 + 2k - 24 < 0 and k > -1

⇒  k2 + k - 12 < 0 and k > -1
⇒ (k + 4) (k - 3) < 0 and k > -1 Solved Examples
⇒  -4 < k < 3 and k > -1
⇒  -1 < k < 3 14. If a circle passes through the points of intersection of
the coordinate axes with the lines lx - y + 1 = 0 and
x - 2y + 3 = 0, then the value of λ is
Circle through Three Points
(A) 2 (B)  1
We can find a unique circle through three non-collinear (C) -1 (D)  -2
points. To find the unique equation of circle, we can follow Solution: (A)
the following method.
Let the lines cuts the x-axis at A and B, then
Step I: Assume the general equation of the circle as
1
S : x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 OA = − and OB = −3 ⋅
λ
Step II: The coordinates of three points P(x1, y1), Q(x2, y2)
and R(x3, y3) (if they lie on the circle) will satisfy Also, if the lines cut the y-axis at C and D, then
the equation of the circle and thus we shall get 3
three simultaneous equations in g, f and c such that OC = 1 and OB =
2
S2 : x12 + y12 + 2 gx1 + 2 fy1 + c = 0 Now if the circle passes through A, B, C and D then
S2 : x + y + 2 gx2 + 2 fy2 + c = 0
2
2
2
2  1 3
OA × OB = OC × OD ⇒  −  ( −3) = 1×
S3 : x + y + 2 gx3 + 2 fy3 + c = 0
2
3
2
3  λ 2
Step III: Solve the above three simultaneous equations in ⇒  λ = 2
three variables to obtain the values of g, f and c.
15. If the lines a1x + b1 y + c1 = 0 and a2x + b2y + c2 = 0 cut
Step IV: Substitute the values of g, f and c obtained from
the coordinate axes in concyclic points, then
step III in the equation assumed in step I to get the
desired equation of the circle. (A) a1a2 = b1b2
(B) a1b1 = a2b2
Trick(s) for Problem Solving (C) a1b2 = a2b1
The equation of the circle through three non-collinear

(D) none of these
points A(x1, y1), B(x2, y2) and C(x3, y3) is Solution: (A)
The line a1x + b1y + c1 = 0 cuts the coordinate axes at
x2 + y2 x y 1
A(-c1/a1, 0) and B (0, -c1/b1) and the line a2x + b2y +
x12 + y12 x1 y1 1 c2 = 0 cuts the axes at C (-c2/a2, 0) and D (0, -c2/b2).
=0
x22 + y22 x2 y2 1 So, AC and BD are chords along x-axis and y-axis
x32 + y32 x3 y3 1 respectively, intersecting at origin O.

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 19.8  Chapter 19

Since A, B, C, D are concyclic, therefore 2. l intersects S in one and only point iff d = a, i.e., the line l
OA.OC = OB.OD touches the circle if perpendicular distance from the cen-
tre to the line l must be equal to radius of the circle.
 −c1   − c2   − c1   − c2  3. l does not intersect S iff d > a.
⇒  a  ⋅  a  =  b  ⋅  b 
1 2 1 2

or a1a2 = b1b2 Length of intercept made by a circle

on a line
16. Two distinct chords drawn from the point (p, q) on the
circle x2 + y2 = px + q y, where pq ≠ 0, are bisected by If a line l meets a circle S, with centre C and radius a, in
the x-axis. Then two distinct points and if d is the perpendicular distance
(A) | p | = | q | (B)  p2 = 8q2 of centre C from the line l, then the length of the intercept
(C) p < 8q (D) 
2 2
p2 > 8q2 made by the circle on the line = | AB | = 2 a 2 − d 2 .
Solution: (D)
Given circle is x2 + y2 = px + qy.
 p q
Since the centre of the circle is,  ,  , so (p, q) and
 2 2
(0, 0) are the end points of a diameter. As the two chords
are bisected by x-axis, the chords will cut the circle at
the points (x1, -q) and (x2, -q), where x1, x2 are real. Fig. 19.13

Trick(s) for Problem Solving

 Note: If the points of intersection of a line l and a circle S
are known, then the distance between these points is the
required length of intercept and there is no need of using
the above formula.
 The length of the intercept cut off from the line y = mx + c
a2(1 + m2 ) − c 2
by the circle x2 + y2 = a2 is 2 .
1 + m2
 If a2(1 + m2) - c2 > 0, line will meet the circle at two real
The equation of the line joining these points is y = -q. and different points.
Solving y = -q and x2 + y2 = px + qy, we get  If c = a (1 + m ), line will touch the circle.
2 2 2

x2 - px + 2q2 = 0  If a (1 + m ) - c < 0, line will meet the circle at two

2 2 2

imaginary points.
The roots of this equation are x1 and x2. Since the
roots are real and distinct, ∴ discriminent > 0
i.e., p2 - 8q2 > 0  or  p2 > 8q2 Solved Examples
17. If a chord of the circle x2 + y2 = 32 makes equal inter-
Intersection of a Line and a Circle cepts of length l on the coordinate axes, then
(A) | l | < 8 (B)  | l | < 16
(C) | l | > 8 (D)  none of these
Solution: (A)
Since the chord makes equal intercepts of length l on
the coordinate axes, so its equation can be written in
the form x ± y = ±l.
Since the chord intersects the given circle at two
Fig. 19.12 distinct points, therefore, the length of the ⊥ from the
Let S be a circle with centre C and radius a. Let l be any centre (0, 0) of the given circle to the chord must be
line in the plane of the circle and d be the perpendicular less than the radius
distance from C to the line l, then ±l
i.e., < 32 ⇒ l 2 < 64 ⇒ | l |< 8
1. l intersects S in two distinct points iff d < a. 2

Chapter 19.indd 8 5/4/2016 11:12:46 AM

 Circles  19.9

18. The equation of the circle whose centre is (3, -1) and
which cuts off an intercept of length 6 from the line
2x - 5y + 18 = 0, is
(A) x2 + y2 - 6x + 2y + 28 = 0
(B) x2 + y2 + 6x + 2y - 28 = 0
(C) x2 + y2 - 6x - 2y + 28 = 0
(D) x2 + y2 - 6x + 2y - 28 = 0

Solution: (D)
Let C be the centre of the circle, then C ≡ (3, -1). ∴  Equation of such circles is
Equation of line AB is 2x - 5y + 18 = 0 and AB = 6 2
 9
 x − 2  + ( y − k)
2
∴  AL = 3
 
2
9  25
=  − 2  + ( k − 0) 2 = + k2
 2  4
or  x2 + y2 - 9x - 2ky + 14 = 0
20. The line y = mx + c intersects the circle x2 + y2 = r2 at
the two real distinct points if
(A) −r 1 + m 2 < c < r 1 + m 2
(B) −c 1 − m < r < c 1 + m
2 2

(C) −r 1 − m 2 < c < r 1 + m 2

(D) none of these
Solution: (A)
Given line is y = mx + c(1)
CL = length of the ⊥ from C on AB
and the given circle is x2 + y2 = r2 (2)
Solving (1) and (2), we get
| 2 × 3 − 5( −1) + 18 |
= = 29 (1 + m2)x2 + 2mcx + c2 - r2 = 0 (3)
( 2) 2 + ( −5) 2
For two real distinct points of intersection, both
the roots of (3) must be real and distinct.
∴  radius of the circle AC = AL2 + CL2 ∴ 4m2c2 - 4(1 + m2) (c2 - r2) > 0
⇒  c2 < r2 (1 + m2)
= 32 + 19 = 38
⇒  − r 1 + m 2 < c < r 1 + m 2
Thus, equation of the required circle is
(x - 3)2 + (y + 1)2 = 38 The least and Greatest Distance of a
or x + y - 6x + 2y - 28 = 0
2 2 Point from a Circle
Let S = 0 be a circle and A(x1, y1) be a point. If the diameter
19. Circles are drawn through the point (2, 0) to cut inter-
of the circle through A is passing through the circle at P and
cept of length 5 units on the x-axis. If their centres lie
Q, then AP = |AC - r| = least distance; AQ = AC + r = greatest
in the first quadrant, then their equation is
distance where ‘r’ is the radius and C is the centre of the circle.
(A) x2 + y2 - 9x + 2ky + 14 = 0
(B) 3x2 + 3y2 + 27x - 2ky + 42 = 0
(C) x2 + y2 - 9x - 2ky + 14 = 0
(D) x2 + y2 - 2kx - 9y + 14 = 0
Solution: (C)
It is clear from the figure that the coordinates of centre
9 
of such circles are  , k  .
2  Fig. 19.14

Chapter 19.indd 9 5/4/2016 11:12:47 AM

 19.10  Chapter 19

Contact of Two Circles 5. One circle is contained in the other if AB < |r1 - r2|.

The two circles having centres at A(x1, y1) and B(x2, y2) and
radii r1 and r2 respectively will
1. Intersect in two real distinct points if and only if | r1 - r2 |
< AB < r1 + r2

Fig. 19.19

Solved Examples
Fig. 19.15 21. The number of common tangents to the circles x2 + y2
= 4 and x2 + y2 - 8x + 12 = 0 is
2. Touch each other externally AB = r1 + r2 and their point of
(A) 1 (B)  2
contact C is given by,
(C) 3 (D)  4
Solution: (C)
The equations of the circles are
x2 + y 2 = 4 (1)
and x + y - 8x + 12 = 0
2 2
(2)
Centre of (1) is C1 ≡ (0, 0) and radius r1 = 2
Fig. 19.16 Centre of (2) is C2 ≡ (4, 0) and radius r2 = 2
d = distance between centres = C1C2 = 4.
rx +r x ry +r y  Since C1C2 = r1 + r2,  ∴  the two circles touch each
C ≡ 1 2 2 1, 1 2 2 1
 r1 + r2 r1 + r2  other externally. Hence 3 common tangents can be
drawn to the two circles.
3. Touch each other internally if AB = | r1 - r2  |, and their
point of contact C is given by, 22. The equation of a circle of radius 2 touching the cir-
cles x2 + y2 - 4 | x | = 0 is
(A) x 2 + y 2 + 2 3 y + 2 = 0
(B) x 2 + y 2 + 4 3 y + 8 = 0
(C) x 2 + y 2 − 4 3 y + 8 = 0
(D) none of these
Solution: (B, C)
The given circles are
Fig. 19.17 x2 + y2 - 4x = 0, x > 0
i.e., (x - 2)2 + y2 = 22, x > 0
rx −r x r y −r y 
C ≡ 1 2 2 1, 1 2 2 1 and x2 + y2 + 4x = 0, x < 0
 r1 − r2 r1 − r2 
i.e., (x + 2)2 + y2 = 22, x < 0
4. One circle lies outside the other if AB > r1 + r2. Clearly, from the figure, the centres of the required cir-
cles are at (0, 12 ) and (0, 12 ).
∴  Equations of the required circles are

( x − 0) 2 + ( y ∓ 12 ) 2 = 22

i.e., x 2 + y 2 + 2 12 y + 8 = 0
Fig. 19.18 and x 2 + y 2 − 2 12 y + 8 = 0

Chapter 19.indd 10 5/4/2016 11:12:48 AM

 Circles  19.11

Equation of the Tangent in Slope Form

The equation of a tangent of slope m to the circle x2 + y2 =
a2 is y = mx ± a 1 + m 2 .
The coordinates of the point of contact are
 am a 
 ± ,∓ 
 1+ m 1 + m2
2


Condition of Tangency
The straight line y = mx + c will be a tangent to the circle

x2 + y2 = a2 if c = ± a 1 + m 2
23. The coordinates of the point at which the circles x2 +
y2 - 4x - 2y - 4 = 0 and x2 + y2 - 12x - 8y -36 = 0 touch
Trick(s) for Problem Solving
each other, are
A line will touch a circle if and only if the length of the
(A) (3, -2) (B) 

(-2, 3)
perpendicular from the centre of the circle to the line is
(C) (3, 2) (D)  none of these equal to the radius of the circle.
Solution: (D)  The condition that the line lx + my + n = 0 touches the

Given circles are circle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 is

x2 + y2 - 4x - 2y - 4 = 0 (1) (lg + mf - n)2 = (l2 + m2)(g2 + f  2 - c)
and x + y2 - 12x - 8y - 36 = 0
2
(2)  Equation of tangent to the circle x2 + y 2 + 2gx
Centre of circle (1) is C1 ≡ (2, 1) + 2fy + c = 0 in terms of slope is y = mx + mg - f
± ( g2 + f 2 − c ) (1 + m2 ).
and radius = r1 = 4 + 1 + 4 = 3
 If the line lx + my + n = 0 is a tangent to the circle
Centre of circle (2) is C2 ≡ (6, 4) (x - h)2 + (y - k)2 = a2, then (hl + km + n)2 = a2(l2 + m2).
and radius = r2 = 36 + 16 + 36 = 88
Also, d = distance between C1 and C2
= C1C2 = 16 + 9 = 5 Tangents From a Point Outside the

Since d ≠ r1 ± r2 Circle
∴  the two circles do not touch each other.
Working Rule
 Let the point be (x , y ).
1 1
Tangent to a Circle at a Given Point Write the equation of a straight line passing through the
point (x1, y1) and having slope m i.e.,
1. Equation of the tangent to the circle x2 + y2 = a2 at the
point (x1, y1) on it is xx1 + yy1 = a2. ( y - y1) = m (x - x1)(1)
2. Equation of the tangent to the circle  Find the length of the perpendicular from the centre of
the circle to the line (1) and equate it to the radius of the
x + y + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0
2 2
circle. Call this equation as (2).

at the point (x1, y1) on it is  Obtain the value of m from the Eq. (2).

 Substitute this value of m in Eq. (1) to obtain the required

xx1 + yy1 + g (x + x1) + f (y + y1) + c = 0
equation of tangent.
3. Equation of the tangent to the circle x2 + y2 = a2 at the
point (a cosθ, a sinθ) on it is
x cosθ + y sinθ = a Solved Examples

(Parametric form of equation of tangent)
24. The equation of the circle which has a tangent 2x - y
Notation: The equation of the tangent at the point - 1 = 0 at (3, 5) on it and with the centre on x + y = 5,
(x1, y1) on the circle S = 0 is T = 0. is

Chapter 19.indd 11 5/4/2016 11:12:49 AM

 19.12 Chapter 19

(A) x2 + y2 + 6x - 16y + 28 = 0
| T | = PT = x12 + y12 + 2 gx, + 2 fy1 + c = S1
(B) x2 + y2 - 6x + 16y - 28 = 0
(C) x2 + y2 + 6x + 6y - 28 = 0
(D) x2 + y2 - 6x - 6y - 28 = 0 triCk(s) for problEm solviNg
Solution: (A)  While calculating the length of tangent using the above
Clearly, the centre of the circle lies on the line through formula, it must be noted that the coefficients of x2 and y2
must be unity.
the point (3, 5) and ^ to the tangent 2x - y - 1 = 0.
The equation of such line is  If the point lies inside the circle, then S1 < 0 and |T | is
imaginary therefore we cannot have any tangent from a
−1
( y − 5) = ( x − 3) i.e., x + 2 y = 13 (1) point inside the circle.
2  If the point lies on the circle, then S1 = 0 and hence |T |
Also, it is given that centre lies on the line = 0. So, if the point lies on the circle, then we have only
x+y=5 (2) one tangent having zero length.
Solving (1) and (2), we obtain the coordinates of the  If the point lies outside the circle, then S1 > 0 and |T | is
finite.
centre of the circle as C ≡ (-3, 8).
Also, radius of the circle = 36 + 9 = 45.
\ Equation of the circle is CAUTION
( x + 3) + ( y − 8) = ( 45 )
2 2 2
No tangent can be drawn to a circle from a point lying within
That is, x2 + y2 + 6x - 16y + 28 = 0 the circle.

25. The tangent to the circle x2 + y2 = 5 at the point (1, -2)

also touches the circle x2 + y2 - 8x + 6y + 20 = 0. Then
its point of contact is solvEd ExamplE
(A) (3, -1) (b) (-3, 0)
(C) (-1, -1) (d) (-2, 1) 26. If the distances from the origin of the centres of the
three circles x2 + y2 + 2aix = a2(i = 1, 2, 3) are in G.P.,
Solution: (A) then the lengths of the tangents drawn to them from
Equation of tangent to the circle any point on the circles x2 + y2 = a2 are in
x2 + y2 = 5 at (1, - 2) is x - 2y - 5 = 0 (1) (A) A.P. (B) G.P.
Let this line touches the circle (C) H.P. (D) none of these
x2 + y2 - 8x + 6y + 20 = 0 at (x1, y1) Solution: (B)
\ Equation of tangent at (x1, y1) is The centres of the three given circles are (-a1, 0),
xx1 + yy1 - 4(x + x1) + 3( y + y1) + 20 = 0 (-a2, 0) and (-a3, 0).
The distances of the three points from the origin are
or x(x1 - 4) + y( y1 + 3) - 4x1 + 3y1 + 20 = 0 (2)
a1, a2 and a3.
Now (1) and (2) represent the same line Given: a1, a2 and a3 are in G.P.
x − 4 y1 + 3 −4 x1 + 3 y1 + 20 i.e., α 22 = α1α 3 (1)
∴ 1 = =
1 −2 −5 Now, coordinates of any point on the circle x + y = a2
2 2

⇒ -2x1 + 8 = y1 + 3 or 2x1 + y1 - 5 = 0 are (a cosθ, a sinθ).

Only the point (3, -1) satisfies it. Hence, the point of \ The lengths of the tangents drawn from the point
contact is (3, -1). (a cosθ, a sinθ) to the three given circles are
2α1a cos θ , 2α 2 a cos θ and 2α 3 a cos θ
lENgth of thE taNgENt from a poiNt
which, in view of (1), are in G.P.
to a CirClE
The length of the tangent that can be drawn from the point Normal to thE CirClE at a givEN poiNt
P(x1, y1) to the circle S = 0 is S1 , where the coefficients
of x2 and y2 in the equation of the circle are unity. Thus, the The normal of a circle at any point is a striaght line per-
length of the tangent from the point P(x1, y1) to circle x2 + pendicular to the tangent at the point and always passes
y2 + 2gx + 2f y + c = 0 is given by through the centre of the circle.

Chapter 19.indd 12 5/4/2016 11:12:51 AM

 Circles  19.13

1. Equation of normal: Common TangentS to two circles

•  The equation of normal to the circle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy
+ c = 0 at any point (x1, y1) is y - y1 Direct Common Tangents
The direct common tangents to the two circles meet at a
y1 + f x − x1 y − y1
= ( x − x1 ) or = . point (say P) which lies on the line joining the centres C1
x1 + g x1 + g y1 + f and C2 of the two circles and divide C1C2 externally in the
ratio of their radii say (r1 and r2)
•  The equation of normal to the circle x2 + y2 = a2 at any

x y
point (x1, y1) is xy1 - x1y = 0 or = .
x1 y1

Fig. 19.22

Fig. 19.20 Short-Cut Method

 Find the coordinates of centres C1, C2 and radii r1, r2 of
2. Parametric form:  Since parametric coordinates of any two given circles.
point on the circle x2 + y2 = a2 is (a cosθ, a sinθ).
 Find the coordinates of the point P dividing C C in the
∴  equation of normal at (a cosθ, a sinθ) is 1 2
ratio r1 : r2 externally. Let P ≡ (h, k).
x y
= = or y = x tanθ or y = mx,  Write the equation of any line through the point P(h, k), i.e.,
cos θ sin θ
( y - k) = m (x - h)(1)
where m = tanθ, which is slope form of normal.

 Find the two values of m, using the fact that the length of

perpendicular on line (1) from the centre C1 of one circle

is equal to its radius r1.
Pair of Tangents  Substituting these values of m in equation (1), the equa-

tions of two direct common tangents are obtained.

The equation of the pair of tangents drawn from the point
P(x1, y1) to the circle
Transverse Common Tangents
The transverse common tangents to the two circles inter-
sect at a point (say P) which lies on the line joining the cen-
tres C1 and C2 of the two circles and divide C1C2 internally
in the ratio of their radii r1 and r2.

Short-Cut Method
Fig. 19.21
 Find the coordinates of centres C1, C2 and radii r1, r2 of
S = 0 is SS1 = T2, where two given circles.
 Find the coordinates of the point P dividing C C , in the
S : x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c, 1 2
ratio r1 : r2 internally. Let P ≡ (h, k).
S1 = x12 + y12 + 2 gx1 + 2 f y1 + c  Write the equation of any line through the point P (h, k)

( y - k) = m (x - h)(1)
and T : xx1 + yy1 + g(x + x1) + f (y + y1) + c.
 Find the two values of m, using the fact that the length of
perpendicular on (1) from the centre C1 of one circle is
Trick(s) for Problem Solving equal to its radius r1.
The pair of tangents from (0, 0) to the circle x2 + y2 + 2gx +  Substituting these values of m in eqn. (1), the equations
2fy + c = 0 are at right angles if g2 + f  2 = 2c. of two transverse common tangents are obtained.

Chapter 19.indd 13 5/4/2016 11:12:51 AM

 19.14  Chapter 19

Trick(s) for Problem Solving

Two or More Circles
in a plane

Direct common 0 1 2 3 2
Tangents
Transverse 0 0 0 0 2
­common Tangents

Solution: (B)
Solved Examples Clearly, from the figure, the radius of the smallest cir-
cle touching the given circles is
26. If the two circles x2 + y2 = 4 and x2 + y2 - 24x - 10y +
a2 = 0, a ∈Ι, have exactly two common tangents, then
the number of possible values of a is
(A) 11 (B)  13
(C) 0 (D)  2
Solution: (B)
The equations of the circles are
x2 + y2 = 4 (1)
and x2 + y2 - 24x - 10y + a2 = 0 (2)
Centre of (1) is C1 ≡ (0, 0) and radius r1 = 2
Centre of (2) is C2 ≡ (12, 5) and radius r2 = 169 − a 2
d = distance between centres = C1C2 = 4 2 + 4 2 − 4 i.e., 4 2 − 4
= 144 + 25 = 13
28. Locus of the centre of a circle of radius 4 which
If the two circles have exactly two common tangents, touches the circle x2 + y2 - 4x + 2y - 4 = 0 externally is
then
(A) x2 + y2 - 4x + 2y - 44 = 0
169 - a2 > 0 and r1 + r2 > d (B) x2 + y2 + 4x + 2y - 44 = 0
⇒ ( a − 13) ( a + 13) < 0 and 2 + 169 − a 2 > 13 (C) x2 + y2 - 4x - 2y - 44 = 0
(D) none of these
⇒ -13 < a < 13 and 169 - a2 > 121
Solution: (A)
⇒ -13 < a < 13 and a2 - 48 < 0
Let the centre of the circle S1 be C1(x1, y1)
⇒ −13 < a < 13 and − 48 < a < 48 Its radius = r1 = 4.
⇒ − 48 < a < 48 Given circle is S2 ≡ x2 + y2 - 4x + 2y - 4 = 0
Since a is an integer, Its centre is C2(2, -1) and radius
∴  a = -6, -5, -4, ... , 4, 5, 6 = r2 = 4 + 1 + 4 = 3
∴  The number of possible values of a is 13.
Also, d = distance between the centres.
27. If the equations of four circles are (x ± 4)2 + ( y ± 4)2
= 42, then the radius of the smallest circle touching all = ( x1 − 2) 2 + ( y1 + 1) 2
the four circles is Since the two circles touch each other externally,
(A) 4( 2 + 1) (B)  4( 2 − 1) ∴ d = r1 + r2

(C) 2( 2 − 1) (D)  none of these ⇒ ( x1 − 2) 2 + ( y1 + 1) 2 = 4 + 3

Chapter 19.indd 14 5/4/2016 11:12:53 AM

 Circles  19.15

⇒ x12 + y12 − 4 x1 + 2 y1 + 5 = 49 Trick(s) for Problem Solving

∴ locus of (x1, y1) is  If the two lines a1x + b1x + c1 = 0 and a2x + b2x + c2 =
x2 + y2 - 4x + 2y - 44 = 0 0 meet the coordinate axes in four distinct points, then
these points are concyclic if a1a2 = b1b2.
29. The number of common tangents to the circles x2 + y2
= 4 and x2 + y2 - 6x - 8y - 24 = 0 is Also, the equation of the circle passing through these
concyclic points is (a1x + b1y + c1)(a2x + b2y + c2) - (a1b2
(A) 0 (B)  1 + a2b1)xy = 0.
(C) 3 (D)  4
 The equation of the circumcircle of the triangle formed by
Solution: (B) the line ax + by + c = 0 with the coordinate axes is ab(x2
Given circles are x2 + y2 - 4 = 0 (1) + y2) + c(bx + ay) = 0
and x2 + y2 - 6x - 8y - 24 = 0 (2)
Centre of circle (1) is C1 ≡ (0, 0) and radius r1 = 2 Director Circle
Centre of circle (2) is C2 ≡ (3, 4) and radius r2 = 7
Also d = distance between the centres = C1C2 = 5 The locus of the point of intersection of two perpendicular
Since d = r2 - r1, therefore the given circles touch tangents to a circle is called the Director circle.
internally, as such they can have just one common tan- Let the circle be x2 + y2 = a2, then equation of director
gent at the point of contact. circle is x 2 + y 2 = 2a 2 = ( 2a ) 2 .
Clearly, director circle is a concentric circle whose
30. The number of tangents to the circle
radius is 2 times the radius of the given circle.
x2 + y2 - 8x - 6y + 9 = 0
which pass through the point (3, -2) is
(A) 2 (B)  1
(C) 0 (D)  none of these
Solution: (A)
Let S ≡ x2 + y2 - 8x - 6y + 9 = 0.
Now S for (3, -2) = 9 + 4 - 24 + 12 + 9 > 0,
∴  the point (3, -2) lies outside the circle.
∴  Two tangents can be drawn to the circle from the
point (3, -2). Fig. 19.24

Remember
Power of a Point with respect
Director circle of circle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 is x2 + y2
to a circle + 2gx + 2fy + 2c - g2 - f  2 = 0.
If from a point P(x1, y1), inside or outside the circle a secant
be drawn intersecting the circle in two points A and B then
PA . PB = constant. The product PA . PB is called power of Solved Example
the point P(x1, y1) w.r.t. the circle
31. The coordinates of a point on the line y = 2 from which
S ≡ x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 the tangents drawn to the circle x2 + y2 = 25 are perpen-
dicular, are
(A) ( 46 , 2) (B)  ( − 46 , 2)
( − 37 , 2)
(C) ( 37 , 2) (D) 
Solution: (A, B)
Let the point on the given line be (x1, 2).
Since the tangents drawn from (x1, 2) to the given cir-
cle are at right angles, so the point (x1, 2) must also lie
on the director circle whose equation is
Fig. 19.23
x2 + y2 = 2.25  i.e., x2 + y2 = 50
That is for a number of secants
PA . PB = PA1 . PB1 = PA2 . PB2 = ... = PT 2 = S1 ∴ x 1 + 4 = 50  ⇒  x1 = ± 46
2

where S1 = x12 + y12 + 2 gx1 + 2 f y1 + c So, the points are ( 46 , 2) and ( − 46 , 2).

Chapter 19.indd 15 5/4/2016 11:12:54 AM

 19.16  Chapter 19

Equation of Chord of Contact Centre of circle is C (-2, 1).

Draw CM ⊥ PQ, then M is the mid point of PQ.
The chord joining the points of contact of the two tangents Equation of any line ⊥ to PQ is x + y + k = 0
to a conic drawn from a given point outside it, is called the If it passes through C(-2, 1) then
chord of contact of tangents -2 + 1 + k = 0  or  k = 1
∴  Equation of CM is x + y + 1 = 0. (2)
3 1
Solving (1) and (2), we obtain x = − and y = .
2 2
 −3 1 
∴  Coordinates of M are  ,  .
 2 2
Equation of chord if its Mid Point
is known

Fig. 19.25
The equation of the chord of the circle S ≡ x2 + y2 + 2gx +
1. Equation of chord of contact 2fy + c = 0 bisected at the point (x1, y1) is given by T = S1.
The equation of the chord of contact of tangents drawn from That is xx1 + yy1 + g(x + x1) + f (y + y1) + c
the point (x1 y1) to the circle x2 + y2 = a2 is xx1 + yy1 = a2. = x12 + y12 + 2 gx1 + 2 fy1 + c
2. The equation of chord of contact of tangent drawn from the
point (x1, y1) to the circle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy - c = 0 is T = 0.
⇒ xx1 + yy1 + g(x + x1) + f (y + y1) + c = 0 Solved Examples
Trick(s) for Problem Solving 33. The locus of the mid point of the chord of the circle x2
 It is clear from above that the equation to the chord of + y2 - 2x - 2y - 2 = 0 which makes an angle of 120º at
contact coincides with the equation of the tangent, if the the centre is
point (x1, y1) lies on the circle. (A) x2 + y2 - 2x - 2y + 1 = 0
 The length of chord of contact = 2 r − p , p being
2 2
(B) x2 + y2 + x + y - 1 = 0
length of perpendicular from centre to the chord. (C) x2 + y2 - 2x - 2y - 1 = 0
a( x12 + y12 − a2 )3/2 (D) none of these
 Area of ∆APQ is given by .
x12 + y12 Solution: (A)
Given equation of circle is
x2 + y2 - 2x - 2y - 2 = 0
Solved Example
Let mid point of chord AB be (h, k)
32. The coordinates of the middle point of the chord which Its centre is (1, 1) and radius = 1 + 1 + 2 = 2. = OB.
the circle x2 + y2 + 4x - 2y - 3 = 0 cuts off on the line y
= x + 2, are
 −3 1  3 1
(A)  ,  (B)  2,2
 2 2  
 −3 −1   3 −1 
(C)  ,  (D)  2, 2 
 2 2   
Solution: (A)
Equation of chord PQ is y = x + 2
In DOPB, ∠OBP = 30º.
∴ sin 30º = OP/2 or OP = 1
Since, OP = 1  ⇒ (h - 1)2 + (k - 1)2 = 1
or h2 + k2 - 2h - 2k + 1 = 0
∴  Locus of mid point of chord is
x2 + y2 - 2x - 2y + 1 = 0
34. The locus of the centres of circles passing through the
origin and cutting the circle x2 + y2 + 6x - 4y + 2 = 0
or x - y + 2 = 0 (1) orthogonally is

Chapter 19.indd 16 5/4/2016 11:12:55 AM

 Circles  19.17

(A) 2x - 3y + 1 = 0 (B)  2x + 3y +1 = 0
(C) 3x - 2y + 1 = 0 (D)  none of these
Solved Example
Solution: (C) 35. If the circle x2 + y2 + 6x + 8y + a = 0 bisects the circum-
Let the equation of one of the circles be ference of the circle x2 + y2 + 2x - 6y - b = 0, then a +
b is equal to
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2f y + c = 0
(A) 38 (B)  -38
Since it passes through origin,
(C) 42 (D)  none of these
∴  c = 0.
So, the equation becomes Solution: (B)

x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy = 0 Given circles are

Since it cuts the circle x2 + y2 + 6x - 4y + 2 = 0 S1: x2 + y2 + 6x + 8y + a = 0 (1)
orthogonally, and S2 : x + y + 2x - 6y - b = 0
2 2
(2)
∴ 2g(3) + 2f(-2) = 0 + 2 The equation of common chord of the two circles is
⇒ -6 (-g) + 4(-f ) = 2 S1 - S2 = 0 i.e., 4x + 14y + (a + b) = 0 (3)
Since the circle S1 bisects the circumference of circle
Thus, the locus of the centre (-g, -f ) is S2, therefore, (1) passes through the centre of circle S2,
-6x + 4y = 2 or 3x - 2y + 1 = 0 i.e., (-1, 3)
∴  4 (-1) + 14 (3) + a + b = 0  ⇒  a + b = - 38
Common chord of Two Circles
Diameter of a circle
The chord joining the points of intersection of two given
circles is called their common chord. The locus of the middle points of a system of parallel
1. Equation of common chord:  The equation of the chords of a circle is called a diameter of the circle.
common chord of two circles

Fig. 19.27
Fig. 19.26
The equation of the diameter bisecting parallel chords y =
S1 ≡ x2 + y2 + 2g1x + 2f1y + c1 = 0 (1)
mx + c (c is a parameter) of the circle x2 + y2 = a2 is x +
and S2 ≡ x2 + y2 + 2g2x + 2f2y + c2 = 0 (2) my = 0.
is 2x(g1 - g2) + 2y(f1 - f2) + c1 - c2 = 0
i.e., S1 - S 2 = 0 Remember
2. Length of the common chord The diameter corresponding to a system of parallel chords
of a circle always passes through the centre of the circle and
PQ = 2( PM ) = 2 C1 P 2 − C1 M 2 is perpendicular to the parallel chords.
where C1P = radius of the circle S1 = 0 and C1M = length

of the perpendicular from the centre C1 to the common Trick(s) for Problem Solving
chord PQ.
 The length of the tangent drawn from any point on the
circle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c1 = 0 to the circle
Trick(s) for Problem Solving
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 is c − c1
 The coefficients of x2 and y2 in both the equations
 If two tangents drawn from the origin to the circle
S1 = 0 and S2 = 0 must be unity.
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 are perpendicular to each
 If the circles S = 0 and S = 0 touch, then the common
1 2 other, then g2 + f 2 = 2c.
chord S1 - S2 = 0 becomes the tangent to both of the
 The angle between the tangents from (α, β) to the circle
circles and hence perpendicular from the centre of the
either circle to it should be equal to the corresponding  a 
x2 + y2 = a2 is 2 tan−1  .
radius.  α +β −a 
2 2 2
 

Chapter 19.indd 17 5/4/2016 11:12:55 AM

 19.18  Chapter 19

 If OA and OB are the tangents from the origin to the cir- (a) α/2 (b)  α
cle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 and C is the centre (c) 2α (d)  none of these
of the circle, then the area of the quadrilateral OACB is Solution: (C)
c( g2 + f 2 − c ).
Let the angle between the tangents be 2θ.
 The length of the common chord of the circles x + y
2 2
From the figure,
+ ax + by + c = 0 and x + y + bx + ay + c = 0 is
2 2

1
(a + b)2 − 4c .
2
 If O is the origin and OP, OQ are tangents to the circle x
2

+ y + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0, then the circumcentre of the

2

− g −f 
triangle OPQ is  , .
 2 2 
 The length of the chord intercepted by the circle x2 + y2 =
x y  r 2(a2 + b2 ) − a2b2 
r2 on the line + = 1 is 2  
a b  a2 + b2 

a sin α
sin θ = = sin α
Angle of intersection of two circles a
The angle between the two circles is the angle between ⇒ θ=α
their tangents at their point of intersection. Thus, the required angle
= 2θ = 2α

Orthogonal Intersection of two

Circles
Two circles are said to intersect orthogonally when they
intersect at right angles.
Fig. 19.28
The condition for the circles x2 + y2 + 2g1x + 2f1 y + c1 =
The angle of intersection θ of two circles 0 and x2 + y2 + 2g2x + 2f2y + c2 = 0 to intersect orthogonally
S ≡ x2 + y2 + 2g1x + 2f1 y + c1 = 0 is given by,
and S′ ≡ x2 + y2 + 2g2x + 2f2 y + c2 = 0 2g1g2 + 2 f1 f2 = c1 + c2
2 g1 g 2 + 2 f1 f 2 − c1 − c2
is given by cos θ = ±
2 g12 + f12 − c1 . g 22 + f 22 − c2
r12 + r22 − d 2
or cos θ = , where r1 and r2 are radii of the two
2r1r2
circles and d is the distance between their centres.
Trick(s) for Problem Solving
 cos θ ∈ (-∞, -1) ∪ (1, ∞) ⇒ Circles do not intersect
 cos θ ∈ (-1, 1) ⇒ Circles intersect each other
Fig. 19.29
 cos θ = 0 ⇒ Circles intersect each other orthogonally
 cos θ ∈ {-1, 1} ⇒ Circles touch each other internally or
externally. Solved Example

37. The locus of the centres of the circles which cut the
Solved Example
circles x2 + y2 + 4x - 6y + 9 = 0 and x2 + y2 - 4x + 6y +
36. From any point on the circle x2 + y2 = a2 tangents 4 = 0 orthogonally is
are drawn to the circle x2 + y2 = a2 sin2 α. The angle (A) 8x - 12y + 5 = 0 (B)  8x + 12y - 5 = 0
between them is (C) 12x - 8y + 5 = 0 (D)  none of these

Chapter 19.indd 18 5/4/2016 11:12:56 AM

 Circles  19.19

Solution: (A)
Let the equation of one of the circles be
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0
Since it cuts the given circles orthogonally,
∴ 2g (2) + 2f (-3) = c + 9
and 2g (-2) + 2f (3) = c + 4 Fig. 19.33
i.e., 4g - 6f = c + 9  and  -4g + 6f = c + 4
On subtracting, we get, 8g - 12f = 5 x y 1
i.e., -8 (-g) + 12 (-f ) = 5 ( x − x1 ) ( x − x2 ) + ( y − y1 ) ( y − y2 ) + λ x1 y1 1 = 0,
So the locus of (-g, -f ) is - 8x + 12y = 5. x2 y2 1

Family of Circles (where λ is a parameter)

1. The equation of the family of circles passing through the

point of intersection of two given circles S = 0 and S ′ = 0 Solved Examples
is given as S + lS′ = 0, (where λ is a parameter, λ ≠ -1)
38. The intercept on the line y = x by the circle x2 + y2 - 2x
= 0 is AB. Equation of the circle with AB as a diameter
is
(A) x2 + y2 + x + y = 0 (B)  x2 + y2 - x - y = 0
(C) x2 + y2 + x - y = 0 (D)  none of these
Solution: (B)
Fig. 19.30
Equation of any circle passing through the point of
2. The equation of the family of circles passing through the intersection of x2 + y2 - 2x = 0 and y = x is
point of intersection of circle S = 0 and a line L = 0 is
x2 + y2 - 2x + λ(y - x) = 0
given as
or x2 + y2 - (2 + λ) x + ly = 0
 2 + λ −λ 
Its centre is  , .
 2 2 
For AB to be the diameter of the required circle, the
centre must lie on AB, i.e.,

2 + λ −λ
= ⇒ λ = −1
Fig. 19.31 2 2
S + λL = 0, (where λ is a parameter) Thus, equation of required circle is
3. The equation of the family of circles touching the circle S x2 + y2 - x - y = 0
= 0 and the line L = 0 at their point of contact P is
39. The distance from the centre of the circle x2 + y2 = 2x
to straight line passing though the points of intersec-
tion of the two circles x2 + y2 + 5x - 8y + 1 = 0 and x2
+ y2 - 3x - 7y - 25 = 0 is
1
(A) (B)  2
3
(C) 3 (D)  1
Solution: (B)
Fig. 19.32
The equation of the straight line passing through the
S + λL = 0, (where λ is a parameter) points of intersection of given circles is
4. The equation of the family of circles passing through two
(x2 + y2 + 5x - 8y + 1) - (x2 + y2 - 3x + 7y - 25) = 0
given points P(x1, y1) and Q(x2, y2) can be written in the
form i.e., 8x - 15y + 26 = 0 (1)

Chapter 19.indd 19 5/4/2016 11:12:57 AM

 19.20  Chapter 19

Also, centre of the circle x2 + y2 - 2x = 0 is (1, 0). The radius of the image circle remains unchanged but
∴  Distance of the point (1, 0) from the straight line centre changes. Let the centre of image circle be (x1, y1).
(1) is Then,
Slope of C1C2 × Slope of the line L = -1(1)
8(1) − 15(0) + 26 34
= = =2 and mid point of C1 (- g, - f ) and C2 (x1, y1) lies on the
64 + 225 17 line
lx + my + n = 0
x −g y −f 
Image of the Circle by the Line i.e., l 1  + m 1  + n = 0 (2)
Mirror  2   2 
Solving eqns. (1) and (2), to get value of (x1, y1). Then
Let the circle be the required image circle is
S ≡ x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 (x - x1)2 + (y - y1)2 = r2
and the line be L ≡ lx + my + n = 0
where r = g2 + f 2 − c

Fig. 19.34

EXERCISES

Single Option Correct Type

1. An isosceles ∆ABC is inscribed in a circle x2 + y2 = a2 (A) 4 (B)  16

with the vertex A at (a, 0) and the base angles B and C (C) does not exist (D)  none of these
each equal to 75º then length of the base BC is
4. If the line (y - 2) = m(x + 1) intersects the circle x2 +
a y2 + 2x - 4y - 3 = 0 at two real distinct points, then the
(A) (B) 
a
2 number of possible values of m is
2a 3a (A) 2 (B)  1
(C) (D) 
3 2 (C) any real value of m (D)  none of these

2. Let an, n = 1, 2, 3, 4 represent four distinct positive 5. The number of points on the circle x2 + y2 - 4x - 10y +
real numbers other than unity such that each pair of the 13 = 0 which are at a distance 1 from the point (-3, 2)
logarithm of an and the reciprocal of logarithm denotes is
a point on a circle, whose centre lies on y-axis. The (A) 1 (B)  2
product of these four numbers is (C) 3 (D)  none of these
(A) 0 (B)  1
6. If the equations of four circles are (x ± 4)2 + ( y ± 4)2
(C) 2 (D)  13
= 42, then the radius of the smallest circle touching all
3. If the tangents PA and PB are drawn from the point the four circles is
P(-1, 2) to the circle x2 + y2 + x - 2y - 3 = 0 and C is (A) 4( 2 + 1) (B) 
4( 2 − 1)
the centre of the circle, then the area of the quadrilat-
eral PACB is (C) 2( 2 − 1) (D)  none of these

Chapter 19.indd 20 5/4/2016 11:12:58 AM

 Circles  19.21

7. The intercept on the line y = x by the circle x2 + y2 - 2x = 15. Let AB be a chord of the circle x2 + y2 = r2 subtending
0 is AB. Equation of the circle with AB as a diameter is a right angle at the centre. Then, the locus of the cen-
(A) x2 + y2 + x + y = 0 (B)  x2 + y2 - x - y = 0 troid of the DPAB as P moves on the circle is
(C) x2 + y2 + x - y = 0 (D)  none of these (A) a parabola
(B) a circle
8. The locus of the mid-point of the chord of the circle x2 (C) an ellipse
+ y2 - 2x - 2y - 2 = 0 which makes an angle of 120º at (D) a pair of straight lines
the centre is
(A) x2 + y2 - 2x - 2y + 1 = 0 16. The equation of the smallest circle passing through the
(B) x2 + y2 + x + y - 1 = 0 intersection of the line x + y = 1 and the circle x2 + y2 =
(C) x2 + y2 - 2x - 2y - 1 = 0 9 is
(D) none of these (A) x2 + y2 + x + y - 8 = 0
(B) x2 + y2 - x - y - 8 = 0
9. A square is inscribed in the circle x2 + y2 - 2x + 4y + 3 (C) x2 + y2 - x - y + 8 = 0
= 0. Its sides are parallel to the coordinate axes. Then, (D) none of these
one vertex of the square is
17. If the circle x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 bisects the cir-
(A) (1 + 2 , − 2) (1 − 2 , − 2)
(B)  cumference of the circles x2 + y2 + 2g′x + 2f′y + c′ = 0,
(C) (1, − 2 + 2 ) (D)  none of these then
(A) 2g′(g - g′) + 2f ′(f - f ′) = c - c′
10. If the lines a1x + b1 y + c1 = 0 and a2x + b2y + c2 = 0 cut (B) g′(g - g′) + f′(f - f ′) + c - c′ = 0
the coordinate axes in concyclic points, then (C) 2g(g - g′) + 2f(f - f ′) = c - c′
(A) a1a2 = b1b2 (B)  a1b1 = a2b2 (D) none of these
(C) a1b2 = a2b1 (D)  none of these
18. If (a, b) is a point on the circle whose centre is on the
11. The circle x2 + y2 = 4 cuts the line joining the points x-axis and which touches the line x + y = 0 at (2, -2),
BP then the greatest value of a is
A(1, 0) and B(3, 4) in two points P and Q. Let =α
BQ
PA (A) 4 + 2 2 (B)  2+2 2
and = β . Then, α and β are roots of the quadratic (C) 4 + 2 (D)  none of these
QA
equation 19. The equation (x + y - 6) (xy - 3x - y + 3) = 0 represents
(A) 3x2 + 2x - 21 = 0 (B)  3x2 + 2x + 21 = 0 the sides of a triangle then the equation of the circum-
(C) 2x + 3x - 21 = 0
2
(D)  none of these circle of the triangle is
12. If the equation of the incircle of an equilateral triangle (A) x2 + y2 - 5x - 9y + 20 = 0
is x2 + y2 + 4x - 6y + 4 = 0, then the equation of the (B) x2 + y2 - 4x - 8y + 18 = 0
circumcircle of the triangle is (C) x2 + y2 - 3x - 5y + 8 = 0
(D) x2 + y2 + 2x - 3y - 1 = 0
(A) x2 + y2 + 4x + 6y - 23 = 0
(B) x2 + y2 + 4x - 6y - 23 = 0 20. If a > 2b > 0 then the positive value of m for which
(C) x2 + y2 - 4x - 6y - 23 = 0 y = mx − b 1 + m 2 is a common tangent to x2 + y2 =
(D) none of these b2 and (x - a)2 + y2 = b2 is
13. Two distinct chords drawn from the point (p, q) on the 2b a 2 − 4b 2
(A) (B) 
circle x2 + y2 = px + qy, where pq ≠ 0, are bisected by 2b
a 2 − 4b 2
the x-axis. Then,
(A) | p | = | q | (B)  p2 = 8q2 2b b
(C) (D) 
(C) p < 8q (D) 
2 2
p2 > 8q2 a − 2b a − 2b
14. For the two circles x2 + y2 = 16 and x2 + y2 - 2y = 0, 21. If the locus of a point which moves so that the line
there is/are joining the points of contact of the tangents drawn
(A) one pair of common tangents from it to the circle x2 + y2 = b2 touches the circle x2 +
(B) two pairs of common tangents y2 = a2, is the circle x2 + y2 = c2, then a, b, c are in
(C) three common tangents (A) A. P. (B)  G. P.
(D) no common tangent (C) H. P. (D)  none of these

Chapter 19.indd 21 5/4/2016 11:12:59 AM

 19.22  Chapter 19

22. A variable circle passes through the fixed point A(p, q) (C) {(x, y): x2 = y} ∪ {(0, y): y < 0}
and touches x-axis. The locus of the other end of the (D) {(x, y): x2 = 4y} ∪ {(x, y): y < 0}
diameter through A is
29. Let PQ and RS be tangents at the extremeties of the
(A) (y - q)2 = 4px (B) (x - q)2 = 4py
diameter PR of a circle of radius r. If PS and RQ inter-
(C) (y - p) = 4qx
2
(D) (x - p)2 = 4qy
sect at a point X on the circumference of the circle, then
23. The point (1, 4) lies inside the circle x2 + y2 - 6x - 10y 2r equals
+ p = 0 which does not touch or intersect the coordi- PQ + RS
(A) PQ ⋅ RS (B) 
nate axes, then 2
(A) 0 < p < 29 (B)  25 < p < 29 2PQ ⋅ RS PQ 2 + RS 2
(C) 9 < p < 25 (D)  9 < p < 29 (C) (D) 
PQ + RS 2
24. A circle C1 of radius 2 touches both x-axis and
30. Circles are drawn through the point (-5, 0) to cut the
y-axis. Another circle C2 whose radius is greater than
x-axis on the positive side and making an intercept of
2 touches circle C1 and both the axes. Then, the radius
10 units on the x-axis. The equation of the locus of the
of circle C2 is
centre of these circles is
(A) 6 − 4 2 (B) 
6+4 2 (A) x + y = 0 (B)  x-y=0
(C) 6 − 4 3 (D) 
6+4 3 (C) x = 0 (D)  y=0
25. The equation to the sides AB, BC, CA of a ∆ABC are 31. The circle x2 + y2 - 4x - 8y + 16 = 0 rolls up the tangent
x + y = 1, 4x - y + 4 = 0 and 2x + 3y = 6. Circles are to it at ( 2 + 3, 3) by 2 units, assuming the x-axis as
drawn on AB, BC, CA as diameters. The point of con- horizontal, the equation of the circle in the new posi-
currence of the common chords is tion is
(A) centroid of the triangle (A) x 2 + y 2 − 6 x − 2( 4 + 3 ) y + 24 + 8 3 = 0
(B) orthocentre
(C) circumcentre (B) x 2 + y 2 + 6 x − 2( 4 + 3 ) y + 24 + 8 3 = 0
(D) incentre (C) x 2 + y 2 − 6 x + 2( 4 + 3 ) y + 24 + 8 3 = 0
26. The coordinates of the point on the circle x2 + y2 - 2x (D) none of these
- 4y - 11 = 0 farthest from the origin are 32. The equation of the circle, passing through the point
 8 4  (2, 8), touching the lines 4x - 3y - 24 = 0 and 4x + 3y
(A)  2 + , 1+  - 42 = 0 and having x coordinate of the centre of the
 5 5
circle numerically less then or equal to 8, is
 4 8  (A) x2 + y2 + 4x - 6y - 12 = 0
(B) 1 + , 2+ 
 5 5 (B) x2 + y2 - 4x + 6y - 12 = 0
 8 4  (C) x2 + y2 - 4x - 6y - 12 = 0
(C) 1 + , 2+  (D) none of these
 5 5
x y
(D) none of these 33. If the line + = 1 moves in such a way that
a b
27. If the line 3x + ay - 20 = 0 cuts the circle x2 + y2 = 25 1 1 1
at real, distinct or coincident points, then a belongs to + = , where c is a constant, then the locus
a2 b2 c2
the interval of the foot of the perpendicular from the origin on the
(A) [− 7 , 7 ] straight line describes the circle
(A) x2 + y2 = 4c2 (B)  x2 + y2 = 2c2
(B) ( − 7 , 7 )
(C) x2 + y2 = c2 (D)  none of these
(C) ( − ∞ − 7 ] ∪ [ 7 , ∞)
34. A circle touches both the x-axis and the line 4x - 3y +
(D) none of these
4 = 0. If its centre is in the third quadrant and lies on
28. The locus of centre of the circle which touches the cir- the line x - y - 1 = 0, then the equation of the circle is
cle x2 + (y - 1)2 = 1 externally and also touches x-axis (A) 9(x2 + y2) + 6x + 24y - 1 = 0
is (B) 9(x2 + y2) + 6x - 24y + 1 = 0
(A) {(x, y): x2 + (y - 1)2 = 4} ∪ {(x, y): y < 0} (C) 9(x2 + y2) + 6x + 24y + 1 = 0
(B) {(x, y): x2 = 4y} ∪ {(0, y): y < 0} (D) none of these

Chapter 19.indd 22 5/4/2016 11:13:01 AM

 Circles  19.23

35. The line Ax + By + C = 0 cuts the circle x2 + y2 + ax + (A) 1 (B)  -1

by + c = 0 in P and Q. The line A′x + B′y + C′ = 0 cuts 1 −1
(C) (D) 
the circle x2 + y2 + a′x + b′y + c′ = 0 in R and S. If P, Q, 2 2
R, S are concyclic points, then 41. Let C be any circle with centre (0, 2 ). Then, on the
a + a′ b + b′ c + c ′ circle C, there can be
(A) A B C =0 (A) at the most one rational point
(B) at the most two rational points
A′ B′ C′ (C) at the most three rational points
(D) none of these
a − a′ b − b′ c − c ′
(B) A B C =0 42. If the tangents PQ and PR are drawn to the circle x2 +
y2 = a2 from the point P(x1, y1), then the equation of the
A′ B′ C′
circumcircle of DPQR is
A(a + a′ ) B(b + b′ ) C (c + c′ ) (A) x2 + y2 - xx1 - yy1 = 0
(C) A B C =0 (B) x2 + y2 + xx1 + yy1 = 0
A′ B′ C′ (C) x2 + y2 - 2xx1 - 2yy1 = 0
(D) none of these
(D) none of these
43. A ray of light, incident at the point (-2, -1), gets
36. If q1, q2 be the inclinations of tangents drawn from the reflected from the tangent at (0, -1) to the circle x2 + y2
point P to the circle x2 + y2 = a2 and cotq1 + cotq2 = k, = 1. The reflected ray touches the circle. The equation
then the locus of P is of the line along which the incident ray moved is
(A) k(y2 + a2) = 2xy (B)  k(y2 - a2) = 2xy (A) 4x - 3y + 11 = 0 (B)  4x + 3y + 11 = 0
(C) k(y - a ) = xy
2 2
(D)  none of these (C) 3x + 4y + 11 = 0 (D)  none of these
37. A line meets the coordinate axes in A and B. A circle 44. The coordinates of a point P on the circle x2 + y2 - 4x
is circumscribed about the ∆AOB. If m, n are the dis- - 6y + 9 = 0 such that ∠POX is minimum, where O is
tances of the tangent to the circle at the origin from the the origin and OX is the x-axis, are
points A and B, respectively, the diameter of the circle  36 15   −36 15 
is (A)  ,  (B)   13 , 13 
 13 13   
(A) m(m + n) (B)  m+n
 14 12 
(C) n(m + n) (D)  none of these (C)  ,  (D)  none of these
 27 27 
38. If the chord of contact of tangents from a point on the 45. The locus of the centre of a circle which passes through
circle x2 + y2 = a2 to the circle x2 + y2 = b2 touches the the point (0, 0) and cuts off a length 2b from the line x
circle x2 + y2 = c2, then a, b, c are in = c, is
(A) A. P. (B)  G. P. (A) y2 + 2cx = b2 + c2 (B) x2 + cx = b2 + c2
(C) H. P. (D)  none of these (C) y2 + 2cy = b2 + c2 (D)  none of these
39. To which of the following circles, the line y - x + 3 = 46. If P, Q is a pair of conjugate points with respect to a
 3 3  circle S, then the circle on PQ as diameter
0 is normal at the point  3 + , ?
 2 2 (A) touches the circle S
π
2 2 (B) cuts the circle S at an angle
 3   3 
⋅

(A)  x − 3 − 4
 + y−  =9 (C) cuts the circle S orthogonally
 2  2
(D) none of these
2 2
 3   3  47. The common chord of the circle x2 + y2 + 8x + 4y - 5 =
(B)  x −  + y−  =9
 2  2 0 and a circle passing through the origin and touching
(C) x2 + (y - 3)2 = 9 the line y = x, passes through the fixed point
 5 −5 
(A)  ,  (B) 
(D) (x - 3)2 + y2 = 9 5 5
 12 , 12 
 12 12   
40. If a circle passes through the points where the lines
3kx - 2y - 1 = 0 and 4x -3y + 2 = 0 meet the coordinate  −5 5 
(C)  ,  (D)  none of these
axes then k =  12 12 

Chapter 19.indd 23 5/4/2016 11:13:02 AM

 19.24  Chapter 19

48. If the circles x2 + y2 = 1 and x2 + y2 - 4x - 6y + 12 = 0 55. If a circle passes through the points of intersection of
cut off equal intercepts on a line which passes through the coordinate axes with the lines lx - y + 1 = 0 and
the point (1, 1), then the slope of the line is x - 2y + 3 = 0, then the value of λ is
(A) 1 (B)  -1 (A) 2 (B)  1
3 3 (C) -1 (D)  -2
(C) (D)  −
2 2 56. A circle touches the line y = x at a point P such that
49. Consider a curve ax2 + 2hxy + by2 = 1 and a point P not OP = 4 2, where O is the origin. The circle contains
on the curve. A line drawn from the point P intersects the point (-10, 2) in its interior and the length of its
the curve at points Q and R. If the product PQ.PR is chord on the line x + y = 0 is 6 2. The equation of the
independent of the slope of the line, then the curve is circle is
(A) an ellipse (B)  a hyperbola (A) x2 + y2 + 18x - 2y + 32 = 0
(C) a circle (D)  none of these (B) x2 + y2 - 18x - 2y + 32 = 0
(C) x2 + y2 + 18x + 2y + 32 = 0
50. Let L1 be a straight line passing through the origin and (D) none of these
L2 be the straight line x + y = 1. If the interecpts made
by the circle x2 + y2 - x + 3y = 0 on L1 and L2 are equal, 57. If S ≡ x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2f y + c = 0 is a given circle, then
then which of the following equations can represent the locus of the foot of the perpendicular drawn from
L1? origin upon any chord of S which subtends a right
(A) x + y = 0 (B)  x-y=0 angle at the origin, is
(C) 7y + 2x = 0 (D)  x - 7y = 0 (A) 2(x2 + y2) + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0
(B) 2(x2 + y2) + 2gx + 2fy - c = 0
51. A triangle has two of its sides along the axes. If the (C) x2 + y2 + gx + fy + c = 0
third side touches the circle x2 + y2 - 2ax - 2ay + a2 = (D) none of these
0, then the equation of the locus of the circumcentre of
the triangle is 58. The equation of the circle, having the lines x2 + 2xy +
3x + 6y = 0 as its normals and having size just suffi-
(A) 2a(x + y) = 2xy + a2
cient to contain the circle x(x - 4) + y( y - 3) = 0, is
(B) 2a(x - y) = 2xy + a2
(C) 2a(x + y) = 2xy - a2 (A) x2 + y2 + 6x + 3y - 45 = 0
(D) none of these (B) x2 + y2 + 6x - 3y - 45 = 0
(C) x2 + y2 + 6x - 3y + 45 = 0
52. A point moves such that the sum of the squares of its (D) none of these
distances from the sides of a square of side unity is
equal to 9. The locus of the point is a circle such that 59. The equation of the system of coaxal circles that are
tangent at ( 2 , 4) to the locus of the point of intersec-
(A) centre of the circle coincides with that of square
tion of mutually ⊥ tangents to the circle x2 + y2 = 9, is
1 1
(B) centre of the circle is  ,  (A) ( x 2 + y 2 − 18) + λ ( 2 x + 4 y − 18) = 0
2 2
(C) radius of the circle is 2 (B) ( x 2 + y 2 − 18) + λ ( 4 x + 2 y − 18) = 0
(D) all the above are true
(C) ( x 2 + y 2 − 16) + λ ( 2 x + 4 y − 16) = 0
53. The range of values of a for which the line y + x = 0 bi­ (D) none of these
 1 + 2a 1 − 2a 
sects two chords drawn from a point  ,  60. The point on the straight line y = 2x + 11 which is
 2 2  nearest to the circle 16(x2 + y2) + 32x - 8y - 50 = 0 is
to the circle 2x2 + 2y2 - (1 + 2a) x −(1 − 2a) y = 0 is  9 
(A)  , 2  (B) 
9
(A) (-∞, -2) ∪ (2, ∞) (B)  (-2, 2)  − 2 , 2
2   
(C) (2, ∞) (D)  none of these
9 
(C)  , − 2  (D)  none of these
54. The locus of the centres of the circles which touch the  2 
two circles x2 + y2 = a2 and x2 + y2 = 4ax externally is 61. Extremities of a diagonal of a rectangle are (0, 0) and
(A) 12x2 - 4y2 - 24ax + 9a2 = 0 (4, 3). The equations of the tangents to the circumcircle
(B) 12x2 + 4y2 - 24ax + 9a2 = 0 of the rectangle which are parallel to this diagonal are
(C) 12x2 - 4y2 + 24ax + 9a2 = 0 (A) 16x + 8y ± 25 = 0 (B)  6x - 8y ± 25 = 0
(D) none of these (C) 8x + 6y ± 25 = 0 (D)  none of these

Chapter 19.indd 24 5/4/2016 11:13:04 AM

 Circles  19.25

62. The base AB of a triangle is fixed and its vertex C 68. The range of values of p such that the angle θ between
moves such that sin A = k sin B(k ≠ 1). If a is the length the pair of tangents drawn from the point (p, 0) to the
of the base AB, then the locus of C is a circle whose π 
circle x2 + y2 = 1 lies in  , π  is
radius is equal to 3 
ak ak (A) (-2, -1) ∪ (1, 2) (B)  (-3, -2) ∪ (2, 3)
(A) (B) 
(2 − k 2 ) (1 − k 2 ) (C) (0, 2) (D)  none of these

(C) 2ak (D)  none of these 69. A circle whose centre coincides with the origin having
1− k 2 radius ‘a’ cuts x-axis at A and B. If P and Q are two
63. The equation of the image of the circle x2 + y2 + 16x points on the circle whose parametric angles differ by
- 24y + 183 = 0 by the line mirror 4x + 7y + 13 = 0 is 2θ, then the locus of the intersection point of AP and
(A) x2 + y2 + 32x + 4y + 235 = 0 BQ is
(B) x2 + y2 - 32x + 4y + 235= 0 (A) x2 + y2 + 2ay tanθ = a2
(C) x2 + y2 + 32x + 4y - 235 = 0 (B) x2 + y2 - 2ay tanθ = a2
(D) none of these (C) x2 + y2 + 2ay cotθ = a2
(D) none of these
64. The locus of the centre of a circle touching the circle
x 2 + y 2 − 4 y − 2 x = 2 3 − 1 internally and tangents 70. If a chord AB subtends a right angle at the centre of a
on which from (1, 2) is making a 60º angle with each given circle, then the locus of the centroid of the trian-
other, is gle PAB as P moves on the circle is a/an
(A) (x - 1)2 + ( y - 2)2 = 3 (A) parabola (B)  ellipse
(C) hyperbola (D)  circle
(B) ( x − 2) 2 + ( y − 1) 2 = 1 + 2 3
(C) x2 + y2 = 1 71. If -3l2 - 6l -1 + 6m2 = 0 then the equation of the circle
(D) none of these for which lx + my + 1 = 0 is a tangent is
65. The equation of locus of the point of intersection of (A) (x + 3)2 + y2 = 6 (B)  (x - 3)2 + y2 = 6
tangents to the circle x2 + y2 = 1 at the points whose (C) x + (y - 3) = 6
2 2
(D)  x2 + (y + 3)2 = 6
parametric angles differ by 60º is 72. Let S1 and S2 be two circles with S2 lying inside S1.
(A) 3x2 + 3y2 = 1 (B)  x2 + y2 = 3 A circle S lying inside S1 touches S1 internally and S2
(C) 3x2 + 3y2 = 4 (D)  none of these externally. The locus of the centre of S is a/an
66. If a square is inscribed in the circle x2 + y2 - 2x + 4y + (A) parabola (B)  ellipse
3 = 0 and its sides are parallel to the coordinate axes, (C) hyperbola (D)  circle
then one vertex of the square is 73. S(x, y) = 0 represents a circle. The equation S(x, 2) =
(A) (1 + 2 , − 2) (B)  (1 − 2 , − 2) 0 gives two identical solutions x = 1 and the equation
(C) (1, −2 + 2 ) (D)  none of these S(1, y) = 0 gives two distinct solutions y = 0, 2. The
equation of the circle is
67. The equation of the chord of the circle x2 + y2 = a2 passing (A) x2 + y2 + 2x + 2y + 1 = 0
through the point (2, 3) and farthest from the centre is (B) x2 + y2 + 2x + 2y - 1 = 0
(A) 2x + 3y = 13 (B)  3x + 2y = 13 (C) x2 + y2 - 2x - 2y + 1 = 0
(C) 2x - 3y = 13 (D)  none of these (D) none of these

More than One Option Correct Type

74. The equation of a circle of radius 2 touching the cir- 75. The coordinates of a point on the line y = 2 from which
cles x2 + y2 - 4 | x | = 0 is the tangents drawn to the circle x2 + y2 = 25 are perpen-
(A) x 2 + y 2 + 2 3 y + 2 = 0 dicular, are

(B) x 2 + y 2 + 4 3 y + 8 = 0 ( − 46 , 2)
(A) ( 46 , 2) (B) 

(C) x 2 + y 2 − 4 3 y + 8 = 0 ( − 37 , 2)
(C) ( 37 , 2) (D) 
(D) none of these

Chapter 19.indd 25 5/4/2016 11:13:05 AM

 19.26  Chapter 19

76. Extremities of a diagonal of a rectangle are (0, 0) and 3

of maximum length and has a slope equal to , then
(4, 3). The equations of the tangents to the circumcircle 4
the coordinates of the centre of C2 are
of the rectangle which are parallel to this diagonal are
 9 12 
(A)  , −  (B) 
(A) 16x + 8y + 25 = 0 (B)  6x - 8y + 25 = 0 9 12
− 5, 5 
(C) 8x + 6y - 25 = 0 (D)  6x - 8y - 25 = 0 5 5  
77. The equation of the circle, touching the axis of x at the  9 12   9 12 
(C)  ,  (D)  − 5, − 5 
origin and the line 3y = 4x + 24, is 5 5   
(A) x2 + y2 + 24y = 0 (B)  x2 + y2 - 6y = 0 85. The circle x2 + y2 - 4x - 4y + 4 = 0 is inscribed in a tri-
(C) x + y - 24y = 0
2 2
(D)  x2 + y2 + 6y = 0 angle which have two of its sides along the coordinate
78. If the equation of the common tangent at the point (1, axes. If the locus of the circumcentre of the triangle is
-1) to the two circles, each of radius 13, is 12x + 5y - 7 x + y − xy + k x 2 + y 2 = 0, then k is equal to
= 0, then the centres of the two circles are (A) 1 (B)  -1
(A) (13, 4) (B)  (13, -4) (C) 2 (D)  none of these
(C) (-11, 6) (D)  (-11, -6)
86. From a point on the line 4x - 3y = 6, tangents are drawn
79. The coordinates of two points on the circle x2 + y2 - to the circle x2 + y2 - 6x - 4y + 4 = 0 which make an
12x - 16y + 75 = 0, one nearest to the origin and the 24
angle of tan-1 between them, the coordinates of
other farthest from it, are 7
such points are
(A) (3, 4) (B)  (3, 2)
(C) (9, 12) (D)  (9, -12) (A) (0, 2) (B)  (0, -2)
(C) (6, 6) (D)  (-6, 6)
80. The equation of a circle of equal radius, touching both
the circles x2 + y2 = a2 and (x - 2a)2 + y2 = a2 is given by 87. A tangent drawn from the point (4, 0) to the circle x2 +
y2 = 8 touches it at a point A in the first quadrant. The
(A) x 2 + y 2 − 2ax − 2 3ay + 3a 2 = 0
coordinates of another point B on the circle such that
(B) x 2 + y 2 − 2ax + 2 3ay + 3a 2 = 0 AB = 4, are
(C) x 2 + y 2 + 2ax − 2 3ay + 3a 2 = 0 (A) (2, -2) (B)  (-2, 2)
(D) none of these (C) (2, 2) (D)  (-2, -2)
81. With respect to the circle x2 + y2 + 6x - 8y - 10 = 0, 88. Two vertices of an equilateral triangle are (-1, 0) and
(A) The chord of contact of tangents from (2, 1) is 5x (1, 0). An equation of its circumcentre is
- 3y - 8 = 0 2
(A) x 2 + y 2 + y −1 = 0
(B) the pole of the line 5x - 3y - 8 = 0 is (2, 1) 3
(C) the polar of the point (2, 1) is 5x - 3y - 8 = 0 2
(D) all of these (B) x 2 + y 2 − y −1 = 0
3
82. For the circles S1 ≡ x2 + y2 - 4x - 6y - 12 = 0 and S2 ≡ 2
(C) x 2 + y 2 + y +1 = 0
x2 + y2 + 6x + 4y - 12 = 0 and the line L ≡ x + y = 0 3
(A) L is the common tangent of S1 and S2 (D) none of these
(B) L is the common chord of S1 and S2 89. If one of the circles x2 + y2 + 2ax + c = 0 and x2 + y2 +
(C) L is radical axis of S1 and S2 2bx + c = 0 lies within the other, then
(D) L is perpendicular to the line joining the centres of
(A) ab < 0 (B)  ab > 0
S1 and S2
(C) c < 0 (D)  c > 0
83. Two circles, each of radius 5 units, touch each other at 90. A tangent to the circle x2 + y2 = 1 through the point
(1, 2). If the equation of their common tangent is 4x + (0, 5) cuts the circle x2 + y2 = 4 at A and B. The tangents
3y = 10, then the equations of the circles are for the circle x2 + y2 = 4 at A and B meet at C. The coor-
(A) x2 + y2 + 10x + 10y + 25 = 0 dinates of C are
(B) x2 + y2 - 10x - 10y + 25 = 0 8 6 4  8 6 4
(C) x2 + y2 + 6x + 2y - 15 = 0 (A)  ,  (B) 
  − , 

(D) x2 + y2 - 6x - 2y + 15 = 0  5 5  5 5
84. If the circle C1 : x2 + y2 = 16 intersects another circle C2 8 6 4  8 6 4
(C)  , −  (D)   − ,− 
 5 
of radius 5 in such a manner that the common chord is  5 5  5

Chapter 19.indd 26 5/4/2016 11:13:07 AM

 Circles  19.27

91. The equation r = | cosθ | represents (C) two circles touching each other at the origin
1 (D) pair of straight lines
(A) two circles of radii each
2
1   1 
(B) two circles centered at  , 0  and − 2 , 0
2   

Passage Based Questions

Passage 1  −32 48   32 48 
Let a straight line be drawn from a point P to meet the circle (A)  ,   13 , 13 
(B) 
 13 13   
in Q and R. Let the tangents at Q and R meet at T. The locus
of T is called the polar of P with respect to the circle.  −32 −48 
(C)  ,  (D)  none of these
The given point P is called the pole of the polar line.  13 13 
95. The coordinates of the poles of the common chord of
the circles x2 + y2 = 12 and x2 + y2 - 5x + 2y - 2 = 0 with
respect to the circle x2 + y2 = 12 are
−12  12 
(A)  6, 
 −6, 5 
(B) 
 5   

(C)  6, 12  (D)  none of these

 5
Passage 2
Let P (x1, y1) be the given point lying outside the circle in A system of circles, every two of which have the same rad-
fig. (i) and inside the circle in fig. (ii). ical axis, is said to be coaxal.
Through P, draw a line to meet the circle in Q and R. The simplest equation of a coaxal system of circles is
Let the tangents to the circle at Q and R meet in T(h, k).
x2 + y2 + 2gx + c = 0
It is required to find the polar of P, i.e., the locus of T.
Equation of QR, the chord of contact of the tangents where g is different for different circles of the system and
drawn from T to the circle x2 + y2 = a2 c is the same for all the circles, the common radical axis
being the axis of y and the line of centres, the axis of x.
is xh + yk = a2 (1) The equation of a system of coaxal circles, having given
\ (1) passes through P(x1, y1), ∴  x1h + y1k = a . 2 the equation of radical axis and one circle of the system S =
∴  the locus of (h, k) is xx1 + yy1 = a2, which is the equa- 0 is S + lu = 0. The equation of a system of coaxal circles,
tion of polar of P. having given equations of two circles of the system.

92. If the polar of P with respect to the circle x2 + y2 = a2 S1 ≡ x2 + y2 + 2g1x + 2f1y + c1 = 0

touches the circle (x - f )2 + (y - g)2 = b2, then its locus S2 ≡ x2 + y2 + 2g2x + 2f2y + c2 = 0
is given by the equation is S1 + lS2 = 0
(A) ( f x + gy - a2)2 = a2 (x2 + y2) The members of the coaxal system of circles which are of
(B) ( f x + gy - a2)2 = b2 (x2 + y2) zero radius are called the limiting points of the system.
(C) ( f x - g y - a2)2 = a2 (x2 + y2) 96. If A, B, C be the centres and r1, r2 , r3 the radii of three
(D) none of these coaxal circles, then r12 ⋅ BC + r22 ⋅ CA + r23 ⋅ AB =
93. The pole of the line 3x + 4y = 45 with respect to the (A) BC.CA.AB (B)  -BC.CA.AB
circle x2 + y2 - 6x - 8y + 5 = 0 is (C) 2BC.CA.AB (D)  none of these
(A) (6, 8) (B)  (6, -8) 97. If, A, B, C be the centres of three coaxal circles and
(C) (-6, 8) (D)  (-6, -8) t1, t2 , t3 be the tangents to them from any point, then
94. The pole of the chord of the circle x2 + y2 = 16 which is BC ⋅ t12 + CA ⋅ t 22 + AB ⋅ t32
bisected at the point (-2, 3), with respect to the circle (A) 0 (B)  1
is (C) -1 (D)  none of these

Chapter 19.indd 27 5/4/2016 11:13:09 AM

 19.28  Chapter 19

98. The limiting points of the coaxal system determined 99. The equation of the circle which passes through the
by the circles x2 + y2 - 2x - 6y + 9 = 0 and x2 + y2 + 6x origin and belongs to the coaxal system whose limit-
- 2y + 1 = 0 are ing points are (1, 2) and (4, 3), is
 3 −14  (A) 2x2 + 2y2 - x - 7y = 0
(A) ( −1, 2),  , 
5 5  (B) 2x2 + 2y2 + x - 7y = 0
 3 14  (C) 2x2 + 2y2 + x + 7y = 0
(B) ( −1, 2),  ,  (D) none of these
5 5 
 −3 14 
(C) ( −1, 2),  , 
 5 5
(D) none of these

Match the Column Type

100. III. The number of common tangents to (C) 2

Column-I Column-I the circles x2 + y2 = 4 and x2 + y2 - 6x
I. If the circle x2 + y2 - 4x - (A) (-1, 3) - 8y - 24 = 0 is
6y + k = 0 does not touch IV. The number of tangents to the circle (D) 1
or intersect the axes x2 + y2 - 8x - 6y + 9 = 0 which pass
and the point (2, 2) lies through the point (3, -2) is
inside the circle,  then k 102.
belongs to
Column-I Column-I
II. If the line 3x + ay - 20 (B) (-∞, -3) ∪ (4, ∞)
= 0 cuts the circle x2 + y2 I. The tangent to the cir-  3 1
= 25 at real, distinct or cle x2 + y2 = 9, which is (A)   − , 
 2 2
coincident points, then a parallel to y-axis and
belongs to the interval does not lie in third
quadrant, touches the
III. If the point (2, k) lies (C) ( −∞, − 7 ] ∪ [ 7 , ∞)
circle at the point
outside the circles x2 + y2
+ x - 2y - 14 = 0 and x2 II. The coordinates of the (B)  (1, 1)
+ y2 = 13, then k belongs middle point of the
to the interval chord which the circle
x2 + y2 + 4x - 2y - 3 =
IV. If the point (k + 1, k) (D) (9, 12)
0 cuts off on the line y
lies inside the region
= x + 2, are
bounded by the curve

III. The circle passing (C)  (3, 0)
x = 25 − y 2 , then k
through three distinct
be­longs to the interval
points (1, t), (t, 1) and
101. (t, t) passes through
the point
Column-I Column-I
IV. The chords of contact 1 1
I. The number of common tangents to (A) 3 of the pair of tangents (D)   , 
the circles x2 + y2 - 6x - 2y + 9 = 0 2 4
drawn from each point
and x2 + y2 - 14x - 8y + 61 = 0 is on the line 2x + y = 4
II. The number of common tangents to (B) 4 to the circle x2 + y2 = 1
the circles x2 + y2 = 4 and x2 + y2 - 8x pass through the fixed
+ 12 = 0 is point

Chapter 19.indd 28 5/4/2016 11:13:10 AM

 Circles  19.29

Assertion-Reason Type

Instructions  In the following questions an Assertion (A) is Reason: If the point (x1, y1) lies inside the circle x2 + y2
given followed by a Reason (R). Mark your responses from + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 then x12 + y12 + 2 gx1 + 2 fy1 + c < 0.
the following options:
(A) Assertion (A) is True and Reason (R) is True; Reason 107. Assertion: The equation of the circle passing through
(R) is a correct explanation for Assertion (A) a
the point (2a, 0) and whose radical axis is x = with
(B) Assertion (A) is True, Reason (R) is True; Reason 2
(R) is not a correct explanation for Assertion (A) respect to the circle x2 + y2 = a2, will be x2 + y2 - 2ax = 0.
(C) Assertion (A) is True, Reason (R) is False
Reason: The equation of radical axis of two circles x2
(D) Assertion (A) is False, Reason (R) is True
+ y2 + 2g1x + 2f1y + c1 = 0 and x2 + y2 + 2g2x + 2f2y + c2
103. Assertion: The locus of the centres of circles passing = 0 is 2(g1 - g2) x + 2(f1 - f2)y + (c1 - c2) = 0.
through the origin and cutting the circle x2 + y2 + 6x -
4y + 2 = 0 orthogonally is 3x - 2y + 1 = 0. 108. Assertion: The chord of contact of tangents from a
point P to a circle passes through Q. If l1 and l2 are the
Reason: The two circles x2 + y2 + 2g1x + 2f1 y + c1 = 0 lengths of the tangents from P and Q to the circle, then
and x2 + y2 + 2g2 x + 2f2 y + c2 = 0 cut each other orthog-
PQ is equal to l12 + l22 .
onally if 2g1g2 + 2f1 f2 = c1 + c2.
104. Assertion: The tangent to the circle x2 + y2 = 5 at the Reason: The equation of chord of contact of tangents
point (1, -2) also touches the circle x2 + y2 - 8x + 6y + drawn from the point P(x1, y1) to the circle x2 + y2 = a2
20 = 0. Then its point of contact is (3, -1). is xx1 + yy1 = a2.
Reason: The equation of tangent to the circle x2 + y2 + 109. Assertion: If the point on a circle nearest to the point
2gx + 2fy + c = 0 at the point (x1, y1) is xx1 + yy1 + g(x P(2, 1) is at 4 unit distance and the farthest is (6, 5),
+ x1) + f(y + y1) + c = 0. then the equation of the circle is
105. Assertion: If the centroid of an equilateral triangle is
(2, 2) and its one vertex is (-3, 4), then the equation of ( x − 6)( x − 2 − 2 2 ) + ( y − 5)( y − 1 − 2 2 ) = 0.
its circumcircle is x2 + y2 - 4x - 4y - 21 = 0.
Reason: The equation of a circle having end points of the
Reason: Circumcentre coincides with the centroid of diameter as (x1, y1) and (x2, y2) is (x - x1) (x - x2) + (y - y1)
an equilateral triangle. (y - y2) = 0.
106. Assertion: If the point (2, 4) is interior to the circle x2
+ y2 - 6x - 10y + k = 0 and the circle does not cut the
axes at any point, then 25 < k < 32.

Previous Year's Questions

110. The greatest distance of the point P(10, 7) from the (A) 2 < r < 8 (B) 
r<2
circle x2 + y2 − 4x − 2y − 20 = 0 is [2002] (C) r = 2 (D)  r>2
(A) 10 unit (B)  15 unit 113. The lines 2x − 3y = 5 and 3x − 4y = 7 are diameters of
(C) 5 unit (D)  none of these a circle having area as 154 sq units. Then the equation
111. The equation of the tangent to the circle x2 + y2 + 4x − of the circle is [2003]
4y + 4 = 0 which make equal intercepts on the positive (A) x + y + 2x − 2y = 62
2 2

co-ordinate axes, is [2002] (B) x2 + y2 + 2x − 2y = 47

(A) x + y = 2 (B)  x+y= 2 2 (C) x2 + y2 − 2x + 2y = 47
(C) x + y = 4 (D)  x+y=8 (D) x2 + y2 − 2x + 2y = 62
112. If the two circles (x − 1)2 + (y − 3)2 = r2 and x2 + y2 114. If a circle passes through the point (a, b) and cuts the
− 8x + 2y + 8 = 0 intersect in two distinct points, then circle x2 + y2 = 4 orthogonally, then the locus of its
 [2003] centre is [2004]

Chapter 19.indd 29 5/4/2016 11:13:10 AM

 19.30  Chapter 19

(A) 2ax + 2by + (a2 + b2 + 4) = 0 122. Let C be the circle with centre (0, 0) and radius 3
(B) 2ax + 2by − (a2 + b2 + 4) = 0 units. The equation of the locus of the mid points of
(C) 2ax − 2by + (a2 + b2 + 4) = 0 2π
the chords of the circle C that subtend an angle of
(D) 2ax − 2by − (a2 + b2 + 4) = 0
⋅

3
115. A variable circle passes through the fixed point A (p, at its centre is [2006]
q) and touches x-axis. The locus of the other end of the 3
(A) x 2 + y 2 = (B)  x2 + y2 = 1
diameter through A is [2004] 2
(A) (x − p)2 = 4qy (B) (x − q)2 = 4py 27 9
(C) (y − p)2 = 4qx (D) (y − q)2 = 4px (C) x 2 + y 2 = (D)  x2 + y2 =
4 4
116. If the lines 2x + 3y + 1 = 0 and 3x − y − 4 = 0 lie along 123. Consider a family of circles which are passing through
diameters of a circle of circumference 10π, then the the point (−1, 1) and are tangent to x-axis. If (h, k) are
equation of the circle is [2004] the co-ordinates of the centre of the circles, then the
(A) x2 + y2 − 2x + 2y − 23 = 0 set of values of k is given by the interval [2007]
(B) x2 + y2 − 2x − 2y − 23 = 0 1 1
(A) 0 < k < (B)  k≥
(C) x2 + y2 + 2x + 2y − 23 = 0 2 2
(D) x2 + y2 + 2x − 2y − 23 = 0 1 1 1
(C) − ≤ k ≤ (D)  k≤ ⋅

117. The intercept on the line y = x by the circle x2 + y2 − 2x 2 2 2

= 0 is AB. Equation of the circle on AB as a diameter is 124. The point diametrically opposite to the point P(1, 0)
 [2004] on the circle x2 + y2 + 2x + 4y − 3 = 0 is [2008]
(A) x + y − x − y = 0
2 2
(B)  x + y − x + y = 0
2 2 (A) (3, −4) (B)  (−3, 4)
(C) x2 + y2 + x + y = 0 (D)  x2 + y2 + x − y = 0 (C) (−3, −4) (D)  (3, 4)

118. If the circles x2 + y2 + 2ax + cy + a = 0 and x2 + y2 − 3ax 125. If P and Q are the points of intersection of the circles
+ dy − 1 = 0 intersect in two distinct points P and Q x2 + y2 + 3x + 7y + 2p − 5 = 0 and x2 + y2 + 2x + 2y − p2
then the line 5x + by − a = 0 passes through P and Q = 0, then there is a circle passing through P, Q and (1,
for [2005] 1) for [2009]
(A) exactly one value of a (A) all values of p
(B) no value of a (B) all except one value of p
(C) infinitely many values of a (C) all except two values of p
(D) exactly two values of a (D) exactly one value of p
126. Three distinct points A, B and C are given in the
119. A circle touches the x-axis and also touches the circle
2-dimensional coordinate plane such that the ratio of
with centre at (0, 3) and radius 2. The locus of the cen-
the distance of anyone of them from the point (1, 0) to
tre of the circle is [2005]
1
(A) an ellipse (B)  a circle the distance from the point (−1, 0) is equal to Then
3
(C) a hyperbola (D)  a parabola
the circumcentre of the triangle ABC is at the point
120. If a circle passes through the point (a, b) and cuts the  [2009]
circle x2 + y2 = p2 orthogonally, then the equation of the 5 
locus of its centre is [2005] (A) (0, 0) (B)   4 , 0
 
(A) x2 + y2 − 3ax − 4by + (a2 + b2 − p2) = 0
5   5 
(B) 2ax + 2by − (a2 − β 2 + p2) = 0 (C)  , 0  (D)   3, 0
(C) x2 + y2 − 2ax − 3by − (a2 − β 2 − p2) = 0 2   
(D) 2ax + 2by − (a2 + b2 + p2) = 0 127. The circle x2 + y2 = 4x + 8y + 5 intersects the line 3x
− 4y = m at two distinct points then m satisfies [2010]
121. If the lines 3x − 4y − 7 = 0 and 2x − 3y − 5 = 0 are
two diameters of a circle of area 49π square units, the (A) −35 < m < 15 (B)  15 < m < 65
equation of the circle is [2006] (C) 35 < m < 85 (D)  −85 < m < −35
(A) x2 + y2 + 2x − 2y − 47 = 0 128. The two circles x2 + y2 = ax and x2 + y2 = c2 (c > 0)
(B) x2 + y2 + 2x − 2y − 62 = 0 touch each other if [2011]
(C) x2 + y2 − 2x + 2y − 62 = 0 (A) |a| = c (B)  a = 2c
(D) x2 + y2 − 2x + 2y − 47 = 0 (C) |a| = 2c (D)  2|a| = c

Chapter 19.indd 30 5/4/2016 11:13:12 AM

 Circles  19.31

129. The length of the diameter of the circle which touches

3 3
the x-axis at the point (l, 0) and passes through the
point (2, 3) is [2012] (A) 2 (B)  2
10 1 1
(A) (B)  3 (C) (D) 
3 2 4
5
132. The number of common tangents to the circles x2 + y2
6 5 − 4x − 6y − 12 = 0 and x2 + y2 + 6x + 18y + 26 = 0, is
(C) (D) 
5 3  [2015]
130. The circle passing through (1, −2) and touching the (A) 2 (B)  3
x-axis at (3, 0) also passes through the point [2013] (C) 4 (D)  1
(A) (2, −5) (B)  (5, −2) 133. If one of the diameters of the circle, given by the
(C) (−2, 5) (D)  (−5, 2) ­equation. x2 + y2 – 4x + 6y – 12 = 0, is a chord of a
circle S, whose centre is at (–3, 2), then the radius of S
131. Let C be the circle with centre at (l, 1) and with radius
is [2016]
1. If T is the circle centered at (0, y), passing through
origin and touching the circle C externally, then the (A) 10 (B)  5 2
radius of T is equal to [2014] (C) 5 3 (D)  5

Answer keys

Single Option Correct Type

1. (B) 2. (B) 3. (C) 4. (C) 5. (D) 6. (B) 7. (B) 8. (A) 9. (D) 10. (A)
11. (A) 12. (B) 13. (D) 14. (D) 15. (B) 16. (B) 17. (A) 18. (A) 19. (B) 20. (A)
21. (B) 22. (D) 23. (B) 24. (B) 25. (B) 26. (B) 27.  (C) 28.  (B) 29. (A) 30. (C)
31. (A) 32. (C) 33. (C) 34. (C) 35. (B) 36. (B) 37. (B) 38. (B) 39. (D) 40. (C)
41. (B) 42. (A) 43. (B) 44. (A) 45. (A) 46. (C) 47. (A) 48. (C) 49. (C) 50. (B)
51. (A) 52. (D) 53. (A) 54. (A) 55. (A) 56. (A) 57. (A) 58. (B) 59. (A) 60. (B)
61. (B) 62. (B) 63. (A) 64. (A) 65. (C) 66. (D) 67. (A) 68. (A) 69. (B) 70. (D)
71. (B) 72. (B) 73. (C)

More than One Option Correct Type

7 4.  (B, C) 75.  (A, B) 76.  (B, D) 77.  (A, B) 78.  (A, D) 79.  (A, C) 80.  (A, B)
81.  (B, C) 82.  (B, C, D) 83.  (B, C) 84.  (A, B) 85.  (A, B) 86.  (B, C) 87.  (A, B)
88.  (A, B) 89.  (B, D) 90.  (A, B) 91.  (A, B, C)

Passage Based Questions

92. (B) 93. (A) 94. (A) 95. (A) 96. (B) 97. (A) 98. (B) 99. (A)

Match the Column Type

100. I ↔ (D), II ↔ (C), III ↔ (B), IV ↔ (A) 101. I ↔ (B), II ↔ (A), III ↔ (D), IV ↔ (C)
1 02. I ↔ (C), II ↔ (A), III ↔ (B), IV ↔ (D)

Assertion-Reason Type
103.  (A) 104. (A) 105. 
(A) 106. 
(A) 107 
(A) 108. 
(A) 109. 
(A)

Previous Year's Questions

1 10. (B) 111. (B) 112. (A) 113. (C) 114. (B) 115. (A) 116. (A) 117. (A) 118. (B) 119. (D)
120. (D) 121. (D) 122. (D) 123. (B) 124. (C) 125. (A) 126. (B) 127. (A) 128. (A) 129. (A)
130. (B) 131. (D) 132. (B) 133. (C)

Chapter 19.indd 31 5/4/2016 11:13:12 AM

 19.32  Chapter 19

Hints and Solutions

Single Option Correct Type

1. ∠B = ∠C = 75º Since S](-1,2) = 1 + 4 - 2 - 8 - 3 < 0,
⇒ ∠BAC = 30º ∴ (-1, 2) is an interior point of the circle. Thus, m can have
⇒ ∠BOC = 60º any real value.
5. Given circle is x2 + y2 - 4x - 10y + 13 = 0
Its centre is C ≡ (2, 5) and radius = 4
Also, AC = ( 2 − 5) 2 + ( −3 − 2) 2

= 9 + 25 = 34 = 5.83.
∴ AB = AC - BC = 5.83 - 4 = 1.83 > 1.
∴ There is no point on the circle at a distance 1 from the
point (-3, 2).
6. Clearly, from the figure, the radius of the smallest circle
touching the given circles is

⇒ BOC is an equilateral triangle

⇒ BC = OB = the radius of the cirlce
⇒ BC = a.
2. Let (0, a) be the centre and r be the radius of the given circle,
then its equation is
(x - 0)2 + (y - a)2 = r2
= 4 2 + 4 2 − 4   i.e.,  4 2 − 4.
⇒ x2 + y2 - 2ay + a2 - r2 = 0 (1)
7. Equation of any circle passing through the point of intersec-
 1  tion of x2 + y2 - 2x = 0 and y = x is

Since the point  log an ,  ; n = 1, 2, 3, 4 lie on the above
x2 + y2 - 2x + λ(y - x) = 0
 log an 
1 2a
or, x2 + y2 - (2 + λ) x + ly = 0.
circle, therefore (log an ) 2 + − + a 2 − r 2 = 0, n
 2 + λ −λ 
2
= 1, 2, 3, 4 (log a ) log a
n n

Its centre is  , .
 2 2 
⇒ loga1, loga2, loga3, loga4 are the roots of the equation
For AB to be the diameter of the required circle, the centre
must lie on AB, i.e.,
λ4 + (a2 - r2)l2 - 2aλ + 1 = 0.
2 + λ −λ
∴  Sum of the roots = 0 = ⇒ λ = −1.
2 2
⇒ loga1 + loga2 + loga3 + loga4 = 0

Thus, equation of required circle is
⇒ log(a1a2a3a4) = 0  or  a1a2a3a4 = 1.
x2 + y2 - x - y = 0.
3. The given circle is S : x2 + y2 + x - 2y - 3 = 0.
8. Given equation of circle is
Since S]P  (-1, 2) = 1 + 4 - 1 - 4 - 3 = -3 < 0, the point
P(-1, 2) lies inside the circle. Consequently, the tangents x2 + y2 - 2x - 2y - 2 = 0.
from the point P(-1, 2) to the circle do not exist. Thus, the
Let mid-point of chord AB be (h, k)
quadrilateral PACB cannot be formed. Its centre is (1, 1) and radius =
1 + 1 + 2 = 2 = OB
4. The given line passes through the point (-1, 2). In DOPB, ∠OBP = 30º.

Given circle is S ≡ x2 + y2 + 2x - 4y - 3 = 0. ∴ sin 30º = OP/2 or OP = 1.

Chapter 19.indd 32 5/4/2016 11:13:13 AM

 Circles  19.33

12. Given equation of the incircle is

x2 + y2 + 4x - 6y + 4 = 0.
Its incentre is (-2, 3) and inradius = 4 + 9 − 4 = 3.


Since in an equilateral triangle, the incentre and the cir-
cumcentre coincide,
∴ Circumcentre ≡ (-2, 3).

Also, in an equilateral triangle, circumradius = 2 (inradius)

∴ Circumradius = 2 ⋅ 3 = 6.

Since, OP = 1  ⇒ (h - 1)2 + (k - 1)2 = 1 ∴ The equation of the circumcircle is

or, h2 + k2 - 2h - 2k + 1 = 0
(x + 2)2 + ( y - 3)2 = (6)2

∴  Locus of mid point of chord is

or, x2 + y2 + 4x - 6y - 23 = 0.
x2 + y2 - 2x - 2y + 1 = 0.
9. The centre of the given circle is (1, -2). Since the sides of the
square inscribed in the circle are parallel to the coordinate Trick(s) for Problem Solving
axes, so the x-coordinate of any vertex cannot be equal to 1 In an equilateral triangle
and its y-coordinate cannot be equal to -2. Hence, none of  the incentre and the circumcentre coincide
the points given in (a), (b) and (c) can be the vertex of the  circum radius = 2 (in radius)
square.
10. The line a1x + b1y + c1 = 0 cuts the coordinate axes at A(-c1/
a1, 0) and B(0, - c1/b1) and the line a2x + b2y + c2 = 0 cuts the 13. Given circle is x2 + y2 = px + qy.
axes at C(-c2/a2, 0) and D(0, -c2/b2).  p q

Since the centre of the circle is  ,  , so (p, q) and (0,
So, AC and BD are chords along x-axis and y-axis, respec-  2 2
tively, intersecting at origin O. 0) are the end points of a diameter. As the two chords are
Since A, B, C, D are concyclic, therefore bisected by x-axis, the chords will cut the circle at the points
(x1, -q) and (x2, -q), where x1 , x2 are real.
OA.OC = OB.OD
 −c1   −c2   −c1   −c2 
⇒
 .  = .  
 a1   a2   b1   b2 
or, a1a2 = b1b2.
11. The equation of the line joining A(1, 0) and B(3, 4) is y = 2x
 8 6
-2. This cuts the circle x2 + y2 = 4 at Q(0, -2) and P  ,  .
 5 5

The equation of the line joining these points is y = -q.

Solving y = -q and x2 + y2 = px + qy, we get
x2 - px + 2q2 = 0.
The roots of this equation are x1 and x2. Since the roots are
real and distinct, ∴  discriminent > 0
i.e., p2 - 8q2 > 0  or  p2 > 8q2.
7 3 14. Given circles are
We have, BQ = 3 5, QA = 5, BP =
and PA =
5 5
S1: x2 + y2 - 16 = 0 (1)
BP 7 / 5 7 BQ 3 5
and, S2: x + y - 2y = 0
2 2
(2)
∴ α =
= = and β = = = −3
PA 3/ 5 3 QA − 5 Centre of S1 is C1: (0, 0) and radius r1 = 4

∴ α, β are roots of the equation x - x(α + β) + aβ = 0
2 Centre of S2 is C2: (0, 1) and radius r2 = 1

7  7 ∴
C1C2 = 0 + 1 = 1

i.e., x 2 − x  − 3  + ( −3) = 0
3  3 Since | C1C2 | < | r1 - r2 |,  ∴  S2 is completely within S1 and

or, 3x2 + 2x - 21 = 0.
hence there are no common tangents to the two circles.

Chapter 19.indd 33 5/4/2016 11:13:15 AM

 19.34  Chapter 19

15. Let the centroid ≡ (α, β). Then, 18. Since the slope of the given line is -1,
∴ ∠COP = 45º
∴ =OP 2= 2 CP

∴
OC = ( 2 2 ) 2 + ( 2 2 ) 2 = 4

r + r cosθ r + r sin θ
α= ,β =
3 3
The point on the circle with the greatest x-coordinate is A.
2 2
 r  r r2 ∴  a = OA = OC + CA = 4 + 2 2.

or, α − 3  +  β − 3  = 9
    19. We have, x + y = 6
 r  r
2
 r
2 2 and, xy - y - 3x + 3 = 0
∴  The locus is  x −  +  y −  =   , which is a
⇒  y(x - 1) - 3(x - 1) = 0
 3   3   3
circle.
⇒ (x - 1)(y - 3) = 0
Equations of the sides of the triangle are
16. The equation of a circle passing through the intersection of
the given line and the circle is x + y = 6 (1)
y = 3 (2)
(x2 + y2 - 9) + k(x + y - 1) = 0
x = 1 (3)
 k k
Its centre is  − , −  .

 2 2
 k k
The circle is the smallest if the centre  − , −  lies on the

chord x + y = 1  2 2

k k
∴  − − = 1 ⇒ k = −1

2 2
Thus, the equation of the smallest circle is
(x2 + y2 - 9) - 1(x + y - 1) = 0
i.e., x2 + y2 - x - y - 8 = 0
17. The given circles are
S1: x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 (1)
and, S2: x + y + 2g′x + 2f′y + c′ = 0
2 2
(2) Shaded triangle is right angled at (1, 3). ∴  the circumcircle
is the circle on (3, 3) and (1, 5) as ends of a diameter and its
The equation of common chord of (1) and (2) is
equation is (x - 3)(x - 1) + (y - 3) (y - 5) = 0, i.e., x2 + y2 - 4x
S1 - S2 = 0 - 8y + 18 = 0.
i.e., 2(g - g′)x + 2(f - f ′ )y + (c - c′) = 0 (3) 20. Clearly, the line y = mx − b 1 + m 2 will pass from the point
Since (1) bisects the circumference of (2), therefore com- (a/2, 0) (mid-point of the centres of the circles)
mon chord will be the diameter of circle (2)
2b
∴ Centre (-g′, - f ′) of circle (2) lies on (3). ⇒ m=
a 2 – 4b 2
∴ -2(g - g′)g′ - 2(f - f ′)f ′ + c - c′ = 0
or, 2g′(g - g′ ) + 2f ′(f - f  ′ ) = c - c′.

Trick(s) for Problem Solving

If a circle bisects the circumference of another circle, then
their common chord is the diameter of second circle

Chapter 19.indd 34 5/4/2016 11:13:16 AM

 Circles  19.35

21. Let P(h, k) be any point on the locus. Equation of the chord
25. Since ADB = ADC = 90°, circles on AB and AC as diame-
of contact of P with respect to the circle x2 + y2 = b2 is hx +
ters pass through D and therefore the altitude AD is the com-
ky = b2. If it touches the circle x2 + y2 = a2, then
mon chord. Similarly, the other two common chords are the
−b 2 other two altitudes and hence they concur at the ortho-centre.
= a ⇒ a 2 ( h2 + k 2 ) = b 4
h +k
2 2

So that the locus of P(h, k) is x2 + y2 = (b2/a)2
2
 b2 

∴ c 2 =   ⇒ ac = b 2
 a

⇒ a, b, c are in G. P.
22. Let the variable circle be 26. The equation of the given circle can be written as
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 (1) (x - 1)2 + (y - 2)2 = 16 = 42
∴ p2 + q2 + 2gp + 2fq + c = 0 (2)
So, the coordinates of any point P on the circle are
Circle (1) touches x-axis, (1 + 4 cosθ, 2 + 4 sinθ) whose distance from the origin is
∴ g2 - c = 0 ⇒ c = g2. From (2)
d = (1 + 4 cosθ ) 2 + ( 2 + 4 sin θ ) 2
p2 + q2 + 2gp + 2fq + g2 = 0 (3)
Let the other end of diameter through (p, q) be (h, k), then = 21 + 8 cosθ + 16 sin θ


h+ p k+q
= − g and =−f ⇒ d = 21 + 8(cosθ + 2 sin θ )

2 2
Put in (3)
2 = 21 + 8r cos(θ − α )
 h+ p  k +q h+ p

p2 + q2 + 2 p  −  + 2q  −  +  =0
 2   2   2  where r cos α = 1, r sin α = 2


⇒ h2 + p2 - 2hp - 4kq = 0
= 21 + 8 5 cos(θ − α )
∴  Locus of (h, k) is which is maximum when cos (θ - α) = 1,

x2 + p2 - 2xp - 4yq = 0  ⇒  (x - p)2 = 4qy i.e., θ = α = tan-1 2.

23. Since the circle does not touch or intersect the coordinates 2 1
axes, the absolute values of x and y coordinates of the centre ⇒ tanθ = 2 so sinθ =
= and cosθ =
5 5
are greater than the radius of the circle. Coordinates of the

and, the coordinates of the required point are
centre of the circle are (3, 5) and the radius is 9 + 25 − p
so that 3 > 9 + 25 − p
⇒ p > 25 (1)  4 8 
1 + , 2+ .
 5 5
5 > 9 + 25 − p ⇒ p > 9 (2)
and the point (1, 4) lies inside the circle 27. The length of the ⊥ from the centre (0, 0) of the given circle
⇒ 1 + 16 - 6 - 10 × 4 + p < 0  ⇒  p < 29 (3) to the line 3x + ay - 20 = 0 is
From (1), (2), (3) we get | 3(0) + a(0) − 20 | 20
= .
25 < p < 29. 9+a 2
9 + a2
24. First circle touches both axes and radius is 2 unit.
Radius of the given circle = 5

Hence, centre of circle is (2, 2).

Since the line cuts the circle at real, distinct or coincident
Let radius of other circle be a and this circle also touches points
both the axes.
20
Hence, centre of circle is (a, a). ∴ 
≤ 5   ⇒  a2 + 9 ≥ 16  ⇒  a2 - 7 ≥ 0
This circle touches first circle 9 + a2
Hence, ( a − 2) 2 + ( a − 2) 2 = a + 2 ⇒ ( a + 7 )( a − 7 ) ≥ 0

On squaring both the sides, we get
⇒ a ∈ ( − ∞, − 7 ] ∪ [ 7 , ∞)

a2 - 12a + 4 = 0
28. According to given condition
12 ± (12) 2 − 4 × 4 × 1 12 ± 128
⇒ a= = =6±4 2 ( h − 0) 2 + ( k − 1) 2 = 1+ | k |
2 2

But a > 2, therefore a = 6 − 4 2 is neglected.
⇒ h2 + (k - 1)2 = (1 + |k |)2

Hence, a = 6 + 4 2
⇒ h2 = 2k + 2|k |

Chapter 19.indd 35 5/4/2016 11:13:20 AM

 19.36  Chapter 19

Equation of tangent to the circle (1) at P( 2 + 3 , 3) is

( 2 + 3 ) x + 3 y − 2( x + 2 + 3 ) − 4( y + 3) + 16 = 0

or,  3 x − y − 2 3 = 0 (2)
If line (2) makes an angle θ with the positive direction of

x-axis, then tan θ = 3,   ∴  θ = 60º.

Hence locus is x2 = 2y + 2| y |

Clearly, for y > 0, x2 = 4y

and for y < 0, x2 = 0  ⇒  x = 0.

PQ PQ
29. tan θ = =
PR 2r
π  RS
Also, tan  − θ  =

2  2r
RS
i.e.,  cot θ =

Let A and B be the centres of the circles in old and new posi-
2r
tions, respectively, then
PQ ⋅ RS \
∴ tanq cot θ =
A ≡ (2, 4) and B ≡ (2 + 2 cos 60º, 4 + 2 sin 60º)(
AB = 2)
4r 2
Thus, B ≡ (3, 4 + 3 ).

⇒ 4r = PQ ⋅ RS
2

Radius of the circle = 22 + 4 2 − 16 = 2.

∴  Equation of the circle in the new position is

( x − 3) 2 + ( y − 4 − 3 ) 2 = 22

or, x 2 + y 2 − 6 x − 2( 4 + 3 ) y + 24 + 8 3 = 0
32. Let C (α, β) be the centre of the circle.
Since the circle passes through the point (2, 8),
∴  radius of the circle = (α − 2) 2 + ( β − 8) 2 .

Since the circle touches the lines 4x - 3y - 24 = 0

and, 4x - 3y - 42 = 0,

| 4α − 3β − 24 | | 4α + 3β − 42 |
= = (α − 2) + ( β − 8)
2 2
∴ 

5 5
⇒ 2r = ( PQ )( RS ).
(i) (ii) (iii)
30. Since the circles pass through (-5, 0) and makes an intercept
From (i) and (ii), we get
of 10 units on the positive side of the x-axis, it also passes 4α - 3β - 24 = ± (4α + 3β - 42)

through (5, 0).
6 β = 18 ⇒ β = 3 ( taking positive sign )
∴ if C(x, y) is the centre of such a circle, (x + 5)2 + y2 = 
(x - 5)2 + y2 ∴  
33
8α = 66 ⇒ α = 4 ( taking negative sign).
(   CA = CB = radius)
\
⇒  x = 0. 33
Given, | α | ≤ 8 or -8 ≤ α ≤ 8,  ∴  a ≠
. ⋅

4
Putting β = 3 in equations (i) and (iii) and equating, we get

(4α - 33)2 = 25 [(α - 2)2 + 25]

or, 16a2 - 264α + 1089 = 25a2 + 725 - 100α

or, 9a2 + 164α - 364 = 0

−164 ± (164) 2 + 36 × 364
∴  α =

18
31. Given circle is −164 ± 200 −182
= = 2, .
x2 + y2 - 4x - 8y + 16 = 0 (1) 18 9
Let P = ( 2 + 3 , 3). But -8 ≤ α ≤ 8,  ∴  α = 2.

Chapter 19.indd 36 5/4/2016 11:13:22 AM

 Circles  19.37

Now, (radius)2 = (α - 2)2 + (3 - 8)2 1 4 1

= (2 - 2)2 + (3 - 8)2 = 25. Thus, for the required circle=
g =, f ,c= .
3 3 9
Hence, the equation of the required circle is ∴  Equation of the required circle is

(x - 2)2 + (y - 3)2 = 25 2 8 1
x2 + y2 + x+ y+ =0
or, x + y - 4x - 6y - 12 = 0.
2 2
3 3 9
x y
33. The equation of the line is + = 1 (1) or, 9(x2 + y2) + 6x + 24y + 1 = 0.
a b
1 1 1 35. Equation of any circle through the points of intersection P
where, 2 + 2 = 2 (2)
a b c and Q of line
Here, a, b are parameters while c is a constant. Ax + By + C = 0 (1)
x y and circle x2 + y2 + ax + by + c = 0 (2)
Any line ⊥ r to (1) is
− + k = 0.
b a is x2 + y2 + ax + by + c + λ (Ax + By + C) = 0
If it passes through the origin then k = 0.
or, x2 + y2 + (a + λA) x + (b + λB) y + c + λC = 0 (3)
∴  Equation of the line through the origin and ^r to (1) is
Again, equation of any circle through the points of intersec-
x y tion R and S of line

− = 0 (3)
b a A′x + B′y + C′ = 0 (4)
The locus of the foot of the ^r from origin on (1), i.e., locus
and circle x2 + y2 + a′ x + b′ y + c′ = 0 (5)
of the point of intersection of (1) and (3) is obtained by elim- is x2 + y2 + a′ x + b′ y + c′ + µ(A′ x + B′ y + C′) = 0
inating the parameters a and b between them.
or, x2 + y2 + (a′ + µA′) x + (b′ + µB′) y + c′ + µC′ = 0 (6)

Squaring (1) and (3) and adding, we get
If circles (3) and (6) are same, then points P, Q, R, S will lie
 1 1 2  1 1  2 on the same circle, i.e., points P, Q, R, S will be concyclic.
 a2 + b2  x +  b2 + a2  y = 1

    Comparing the coefficients in (3) and (6), we get
1 2 1 2 1 1 a + λA b + λB c + λC

or, x + 2 y =1 (Using (2) = = = =
c2 c 1 1 a′ + µ A′ b′ + µ B′ b′ + µC ′
or x2 + y2 = c2, which is clearly a circle with centre at origin
(i) (ii)  (iii)  (iv)  (v)
and radius c. From (i) and (iii), we get a - a′ + λA - µA′ = 0
(7)
34. Let the equation of the required circle be From (i) and (iv), we get b - b′ + λB - µB′ = 0
(8)
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2f y + c = 0 (1) From (i) and (v), we get c - c′ + λC - µC′ = 0 
(9)
Its centre is C(-g, -f ) and radius is g + f − c .
2 2
Eliminating λ and -µ from equations (7), (8) and (9)
and
Since circle (1) touches the x-axis writing the result in determinant form, we get
∴  g2 - c = 0 or c = g2(2) a − a′ A A′
Again, since circle (1) touches the line b − b′ B B = 0
4x - 3y + 4 = 0 (3)
| − 4 g + 3 f + 4| c − c′ C C ′
∴  = g + f − c = f = |f |
2 2 2
a − a′ b − b′ c − c ′
5
 [from (2)]
or,  A B C = 0.
or, - 4g + 3f + 4 = ± 5f A′ B′ C′
∴ 4g + 2f = 4 or 2g + f = 2 (4) 36. Equation of the circle is
- 4g + 8f = - 4  or  g - 2f = 1 (5) x2 + y2 = a2(1)
Again, since centre C(-g,- f ) lies on the line Let P be the point (x1, y1).
x-y-1=0 Equation of any tangent to (1) is y = mx + a 1 + m 2

∴  -g + f = 1 (6)
If it passes through P(x1, y1), then
1 4 y1 = mx1 + a 1 + m 2
Solving (4) and (6), we get= g = , f .
3 3
 −1 −4  or, y1 − mx1 = a 1 + m 2 .

Thus, C =  ,  which lies in the third quadrant. Squaring + 2mx1 y1 + m2 = a2 (1 + m2)

 3 3
1 or, (x21 - a2) m2 - 2x1 y1m + (y21 - a2) = 0
(2)
Also, from (2), = c g= 2
.
9
This is a quadratic in m. If m1 and m2 are its roots, then these
Solving (5) and (6), we get f = -2, g = -3 are the slopes of the tangents from P.
∴  C ≡ (3, 2) which lies in the first quadrant. Since inclinations of tangents are given to be q1 and q2,

Chapter 19.indd 37 5/4/2016 11:13:24 AM

 19.38  Chapter 19

∴ let m1 = tan q1 and m2 = tan q2.

∴  the length of ⊥ from centre (0, 0) on (2) is = radius c.

1 1
Here, cotq1 + cotq2 = k i.e., 
+ =k b2
tan θ1 tan θ 2 ⇒
=c
1 1 x12 + y12
or,
+ = k  or m1 + m2 = km1m2.
m1 m2 b2
or,
=c [Using (1)]
2 x1 y1 y −a
2 2
a2
∴ 
=k⋅ 1
 or 2x1 y1 = k ( y12 - a2)
x12 − a 2 x − a2
2
1 or, b2 = ac. Hence, a, b, c are in G.P.

∴  Locus of P is k (y2 - a2) = 2xy.  3 3 
37. Let A ≡ (a, 0) and B ≡ (0, b). 39. The point  3 + ,  does not satisfy circles given in
 2 2
Since ∠AOB = 90º,  ∴  AB is the diameter. (a) and (c).
a b 1 2 ∴ (a) and (c) cannot be the correct choices. The centre of
∴  Centre of the circle is  ,  and radius = a + b2 .
2 2 2  3 3 
circle given in (b) is  , which does not lie on the
 2 2 
line y - x + 3 = 0.
∴  The circle given in (b) cannot be the correct choice. The
centre (3, 0) of circle given in (d) lie on the line
y - x + 3 = 0.
Thus, the line is normal at the given point on the circle given
in (d).
 1 
40. The line 3kx - 2y -1 = 0 meets x-axis and y-axis at A  , 0
 3k 
 1
and B  0, −  respectively and the line 4x - 3y + 2 = 0 cuts
 2
 1   2
x-axis and y-axis at C  − , 0 and D  0,  respectively.
∴  Equation of the circle is
 2   3
2 2
 a  b 1 2
 x −  +  y −  = ( a + b )
2

2 2 4
or,  x2 + y2 - ax - by = 0.


Equation of tangent to the circle at O(0, 0) is

ax + by = 0 (1)
a2
∴ m = length of ⊥ from A(a, 0) on (1) =

a + b2
2

b2
and, n = length of ⊥ from (0, b) on (1) =
.
a 2 + b2
∴ Diameter = a 2 + b 2 = m + n.
Since the four points are concyclic, therefore
38. Let (x1, y1) be any point on the circle x2 + y2 = a2.
OA  ⋅ OC = OB ⋅ OD

then, x12 + y12 = a 2 (1) 1 1 1 2 1
⇒ 
⋅ = ⋅ ⇒ | k |= .
Equation of chord of contact of tangents from (x1, y1) to 3| k | 2 2 3 2
the circle x2 + y2 = b2 is xx1 + yy1 = b2 (2)
According to the given geometrical position (see figure), k
must be positive,
1
∴  k = .
2
41. Let the equation of the circle be
x 2 + ( y − 2 )2 = a2
⇒  x 2 + y 2 − 2 2 y = c,

where, c = a2 - 2 → Rational number.

Let (x1, y1), (x2, y2), (x3, y3) be three distinct rational points on
the circle, then
  (2) touches the circle x2 + y2 = c2,
\
x12 + y12 − 2 2 y1 = c (1)

Chapter 19.indd 38 5/4/2016 11:13:27 AM

 Circles  19.39

x22 + y22 − 2 2 y2 = c (2) 4
∴  Slope of the incident ray = − .

3

x32 + y32 − 2 2 y3 = c (3)

Hence, equation of the incident ray is

Comparing the irrational parts of the equations, we get
−4

y1 = y2 = y3(4)
( y + 1) = ( x + 2) i.e., 3(y + 1) = -4(x + 2)
3

Comparing the rational parts of the equations, we get or, 4x + 3y + 11 = 0.

x12 + y12 = x22 + y22 = x32 + y32 44. Given circle is x2 + y2 - 4x - 6y + 9 = 0 (1)
  y1 = y2 = y3,
\
Its centre is C(2, 3) and radius is 2.
∴
x12 = x22 = x32 . Let OP and ON be the two tangents from 0 to circle (1), then
∴  The only possible values of x are ± x1, ± x2, ± x3. ∠POX will be minimum when OP is tangent to the circle at
P. Let ∠POX = θ, then ∠LCP = θ.
∴  There can be at the most two rational points on
the circle C. Now, CP = 2, OC = 22 + 32 = 13.

42. Given circle is x2 + y2 - a2 = 0 (1)
∴ OP = OC 2 − CP 2 = 13 − 4 = 3.

Since PQ and PR are tangents to the circle (1), therefore QR \
is chord of contact of point P(x1, y1) and hence equation of C ≡ (2, 3),   ∴  OL = 2.
QR is From the figure, OM = OL + LM = OL + HP

xx1 + yy1 - a2 = 0 (2)
Now, equation of any circle through the point of intersection
Q and R of circle (1) and line (2) is
x2 + y2 - a2 + k(xx1 + yy1 - a2) = 0 (3)
Circle (3) will be circumcircle of DPQR if it passes through
the point P(x1, y1).
i.e., if x12 + y12 − a 2 + k ( x12 + y12 − a 2 ) = 0   ⇒  k = -1.

Hence, from (3), equation of required circle is
x2 + y2 - a2 - (xx1 + yy1 - a2) = 0
or, x2 + y2 - xx1 - yy1 = 0. ∴ OP cosθ = 2 + 2 sinθ or 3 cosθ = 2 + 2 sinθ

43. The equation of the reflected ray is ( y + 1) = m(x + 2) or, 3 = 2 secθ + 2 tanθ or 3 - 2 tanθ = 2 secθ

or, mx - y + 2m - 1 = 0 (1) or, 9 + 4 tan2θ - 12 tanθ = 4 (1 + tan2θ)

5
or, 5 = 12 tanθ  ∴  tan θ =

12
12 5
∴ cosθ =
and sin θ = .
13 13
 36 15 
∴ P ≡ (OP cosθ, OP sinθ) i.e., P ≡  ,  .

Since it touches the circles x + y = 1.
2 2  13 13 
∴ length of ⊥ from (0, 0) on (1) = radius 1
45. Let the centre of the circle be C(x1, y1).
| m( 0 ) − 0 + 2 m − 1 | 2m − 1 As it passes through (0, 0), its radius = OC = x12 + y12 .

⇒
=1 ⇒ = ±1
1 + m2 1 + m2 Let AB be the line x = c meeting

4 the circle in A and B. Draw CM ⊥ AB.

⇒ (2m - 1)2 = (1 + m2)  ⇒ 3m2 - 4m = 0  ⇒  m = 0, .

3
Join CB.
∴  Equation of the reflected ray is

4
( y + 1) =
( x + 2)   or 4x - 3y + 5 = 0.
3
Let α be the angle between the reflected ray and the line


y = -1.
4
−0
3 4
Then, tan α =
=± .
4 3
1+ ⋅0
3

Chapter 19.indd 39 5/4/2016 11:13:29 AM

 19.40  Chapter 19

CB = radius = x12 + y12 .

CM = length of ⊥ from C on AB = x1 - c.

Now, AB = 2b (given).

∴ 2BM = 2b or  CB 2 − CM 2 = b

or, CB2 - CM2 = b2 or  x1 + y1 − ( x1 − c) = b

2 2 2 2


or, y12 + 2cx1 − c 2 = b 2 . | 0 − 0 − m + 1| |1 − m |
= = .
∴  Locus of (x1, y1) is y + 2cx = b + c .
2 2 2
m +1
2
m2 + 1
46. Let the coordinates of P and Q be (x1, y1) and (x2, y2),
So, the length of the intercept
respectively.
(1 − m) 2 2m

Let the given circle be = 2 12 − 2 =2 .
m + 1 m 2
+1

S ≡ x2 + y2 - a2 = 0 (1)
Polar of P w.r.t. (1) is xx1 + yy1 = a .
2 Also, the length of ⊥ from the centre (2, 3) of second circle

| 2m − 3 − m + 1 | | m − 2 |
  P, Q are conjugate points, to the line (1) = =
\
m2 + 1 m2 + 1
∴ polar of P passes through Q

⇒ x1x2 + y1 y2 = a2(2)


Equation of circle on PQ as diameter is
(x - x1) (x - x2) + (y - y1) ( y - y2) = 0

or, x2 + y2 - (x1 + x2) x - ( y1 + y2) y + (x1x2 + y1 y2) = 0
x2 + y2 - (x1 + x2) x - ( y1 + y2) y + a2 = 0 (3)
 [Using (2)]
Clearly, circles (1) and (3) cut each other orthogonally. ∴ the length of intercept in this case

47. Given circle is x2 + y2 + 8x + 4y - 5 = 0 (1)
( m − 2) 2 4m − 3

Let the equation of the second circle be = 2 1− 2 =2
m + 1 m2 + 1

x2 + y2 + 2g x + 2f y + c = 0.
Since it passes through origin,  ∴  c = 0.
2m 4m − 3

Given, 2 =2
m2 + 1 m2 + 1

So, the equation becomes

x2 + y2 + 2g x + 2f y + c = 0 (2) 2m 4m − 3 3
⇒
=   ⇒ 2m = 3  or  m = .
m2 + 1 m2 + 1 2

The equation of common chord of (1) and (2) is
49. Let the coordinates of point P be (x1, y1). Equation of any
2(g - 4) x + 2( f - 2) y + 5 = 0
(3)
line through P can be written as
Since the line y = x touches the circle (2)

x − x1 y − y1
∴ x2 + x2 + 2g x + 2f x = 0 has equal roots

= = r (1)
cosθ sin θ
i.e., f + g = 0.

⇒ x = x1 + r cosθ, y = y1 + r sinθ.

∴ From (3), the equation of common chord is


Coordinates of any point an (1) is of the form

2 (g - 4) x + 2 (- g - 2) y + 5 = 0
(x1 + r cosθ, y1 + r sinθ). This point will lie on

or, (-8x - 4y + 5) + g (2x - 2y) = 0,
ax2 + 2hxy + by2 = 1 if


which passes through the point of intersection of a (x1 + r cosθ)2 + 2h (x1 + r cosθ) ( y1 + r sinθ)

 5 5
+ b (y1 + r sinθ)2 - 1 = 0
8x + 4y - 5 = 0 and x = y, i.e., the point  ,  .

 12 12  ⇒ r (a cos θ + 2h cosθ sinθ + b sin2θ)
2 2

48. Let the equation of line be y = mx + c. Since it passes through

+ 2r [x1 (a cosθ + h sinθ) + y1 (h cosθ + b sinθ)]
(1, 1),

+ ax12 + 2hx1 y1 + by12 − 1 = 0 (2)
∴ 1 = m + c, i.e., c = 1 - m.
So, the line becomes y = mx + 1 - m Let PQ = r1 and PR = r2. Then r1, r2 are the roots of (2).

i.e., mx - y - m + 1 = 0 (1) ax12 + 2hx1 y1 + by12 − 1
∴
PQ ⋅ PR = r1r2 = .
Length of ⊥ from the centre (0, 0) of first circle to the line (1) a cos θ + 2h cosθ sin θ + b sin 2 θ
2

Chapter 19.indd 40 5/4/2016 11:13:30 AM

 Circles  19.41

We know rewrite the denominator. We have  1 1   a a 
2

D = a cos2θ + 2h cosθ sinθ + b sin2θ.

∴ From (1), a 2  2 + 2  = 
+ − 1
 4r 4δ   2γ 2δ 
1 ⇒ 2a(γ + δ ) – a2 = 2gδ
= [( a + b) + ( a − b)cos 2θ ] + h sin 2θ
2 So, the locus of (γ, δ) is 2a(x + y) = 2xy + a2.
a+b 1 52. Let the sides of the square be y = 0,
= + ( a − b)cos 2θ + h sin 2θ
2 2 y = 1, x = 0 and x = 1.
1 Let the moving point be (x, y).
Put ( a − b) = k  sinα, h = k cosα.

2 Then, y2 + (y - 1)2 + x2 + (x - 1)2 = 9 is the equation of the
2 locus.
 a − b a−b
⇒ k = 
+ h2 and tan  a = .
 2  2h
⇒ 2x2 + 2y2 - 2x - 2y - 7 = 0,
 1 1
which represents a circle having centre  ,  (which is
1 a−b
2
 2 2
∴
D = ( a + b) +   + h sin( 2θ + α )
2

2  2  also the centre of the square) and radius 2.

53. Equation of the given circle can be written as
ax12 + 2hx1 y1 + by 2 − 1
Thus, PQ ⋅ PR =
1
 1 + 2a   1 − 2a 
2
1 a−b x2 + y2 −   x−  y = 0.
( a + b) +   + h sin( 2θ + α )
2

2  2   2   2 
For this to be independent of θ, we must have

Since y + x = 0 bisects two chords of this circle, mid-points
2
of the chords must be of the form (α, -α).
 a − b Equation of the chord having (α, -α) as mid-point is

 + h = 0   ⇒  a = b and h = 0.
2

2 
 1 + 2a 
But this is the condition for the given curve to represent a T = S1 i.e., ax + ( −α ) y − 
 ( x + α )
circle.  4 
50. Let the equation of line L1 be y = mx. Intercpts made by L1  1 − 2a 
− (y +α)
and L2 on the circle will be equal if L1 and L2 are at the same  4 
distance from the centre of the circle. Centre of the given  

 1 −3   1 + 2a   1 − 2a 
circle is  ,  . Therefore, = α 2 + a2 −  α −   ( −α )
 2 

2 2     2 
1 3 m 3
− −1 +
2 2 2 2 4 m+3
= ⇒ =
1+1 1 + m2 2 1 + m2

⇒ 7m2 – 6m – 1 = 0

⇒ (7m + 1) (m – 1) = 0
−1

⇒ m = 1, .
7

Thus, two chords are y = x and 7y + x = 0.
x y
51. Let the third side be+ = 1.
α β
For the circle, centre ≡ (a, a) and radius = a.


Since the third side touches the circle, ⇒ 4 ax − 4 ay − (1 + 2a ) x − (1 − 2a ) y

a a = 8a 2 − (1 + 2a )a + (1 − 2a )a .
+ −1
α β  1 + 2a 1 − 2a 
∴ a=
(1)
1 1
This chord will pass through the point  , if
+  2 2 
α2 β2
Vertices of the triangle are (0, 0), (α, 0) and (0, β),
 1 + 2a   1 − 2a  (1 + 2a) (1 + 2a)
4α  − 4α  −
 2  
∴  if the circumcentre is (γ, δ) then
   2  2

α β (1 − 2a) (1 − 2a)
γ = and δ = . −
2 2 2

Chapter 19.indd 41 5/4/2016 11:13:33 AM

 19.42  Chapter 19

= 8α 2 − 2 2aα
1
⇒ 2α 1 + 2a − 1 + 2a  − 2 (1 + 2a) + (1 − 2a) 
2 2

= 8α 2 − 2 2aα

1
⇒ 4 2aα −  2(1) 2 + 2( 2a) 2  = 8α 2 − 2 2aα

2 

[ ∵ (a + b)2 + (a - b)2 = 2a2 + 2b2]

⇒ 8a 2 − 6 2a a + 1 + 2a 2 = 0.

2

This quadratic equation will have two distinct roots if α + β  2  (1)
r 2 = AC 2 = CL2 + LA2 =   + (3 2 )
(6 2a) 2 − 4(8)(1 + 2a 2 ) > 0.  2 

Since OP = 4 2,   ∴  OC = CP + PO
2 2 2
⇒ 72a2 - 32 (1 + 2a2) > 0 ⇒ 9a2 - 4 - 8a2 > 0
⇒ a2 - 4 > 0 ⇒ (a - 2) (a + 2) > 0
⇒ α 2 + β 2 = r 2 + ( 4 2 ) 2 (2)
⇒ a∈ (-∞, -2) ∪ (2, ∞).
2
54. Let x2 + y2 + 2g x + 2f y + c = 0 be the variable circle. α + β 
From (1), and (2), we get α 2 + β 2 = 
 + 18 + 32
Since it touches the given circles externally  2 

∴
( − g − 0) 2 + ( − f − 0) 2 = g 2 + f 2 − c + a  (1) (α + β )
2

⇒ (α + β ) − = 50 ⇒ (α - β)2 = 100
2 2

2

and, ( − g − 2a) 2 + ( − f − 0) 2 = g 2 + f 2 − c + 2a  (2)
⇒ α - β = ±10
(3)

Subtracting (1) from (2), we get
α −β (α − β ) 2

Also, CP = r ⇒ r = ⇒ r =
2
(4)
( g + 2a) 2 + f 2 = g 2 + f 2 + a. 2 2

Squaring both sides, we get From (3) and (4), we get r 2 = (5 2 ) 2
⇒ r = (5 2 ) 2 .

( g + 2a) 2 + f 2 = a 2 + g 2 + f 2 + 2a g 2 + f 2 Substituting r = 5 2 in (1), we get

2
α + β 
⇒ 4 ag + 4 a 2 = a 2 + 2a g 2 + f 2

(5 2 ) 2 =   + 18
 2 
⇒ (4g + 3a)2 = 4 (g2 + f 2) 2

or, (-4 (-g) + 3a)2 = 4 [(- g)2 + (- f  )2]. ⇒ 32 = (α + β ) ⇒ (α + β)2 = 64

2
∴ Locus of centre (-g, -f ) is (- 4x + 3a)2 = 4 (x2 + y2)
⇒ α + β = ± 8
(5)
or, 12x2 - 4y2 - 24ax + 9a2 = 0.

Form (3) and (5), we get
55. Let the lines cuts the x-axis at A and B, then

α = 9, β = -1 or α = -9, β = 1
1 or α = 1, β = -9 or α = -1, β = 9.


OA = − and OB = -3.
λ
Since Q(-10, 2) lies in the interior of the circle,

Also, if the lines cut the y-axis at C and D, then ∴ CQ must be less than 5 2.

3
Thus, centre of the circle must be (-9, 1).

OC = 1 and OB = . ∴ The equation of the required circle is

2

Now, if the circle passes through A, B, C and D then
( x + 9) 2 + ( y − 1) 2 = (5 2 ) 2
⇒ x2 + y2 + 18x - 2y + 32 = 0.

 1 3
OA × OB = OC × OD ⇒  −  ( −3) = 1 × ⇒ λ = 2.

 λ 2 57. Let P be the foot of ⊥ from origin O on any chord of the
circle S whose coordinates are (α, β). Then, the slope of OP
56. Let C(α, β) be the centre of the circle touching OP at P and
β α
is and thus the slope of chord is − and its equation
making intercept AB = 6 2 on the line x + y = 0 as shown α β
in the figure. If r is the radius of the circle then passing through (α, β) is

Chapter 19.indd 42 5/4/2016 11:13:36 AM

 Circles  19.43

α 9 225
y − β = − ( x − a)   ⇒  βy - β2 = - ax + a2 ⇒ x 2 + y 2 + 6 x − 3 y + 9 +
− =0
β 4 4
⇒ ax + βy = a2 + β 2 

(1) ⇒ x2 + y2 + 6x - 3y - 45 = 0.

Now, homogenizing the equation of the given circle 59. Centre of the circle x2 + y2 = 9 is (0, 0) and any tangent to the

x2 + y2 + 2g x + 2f y + c = 0 circle is

with the help of (1), we get x cosα + y sinα = 3 (1)
2 Its distance from centre (0, 0) is equal to radius 3.
αx + β y  αx + β y 
x 2 + y 2 ( 2 gx + 2 fy )  2 2 
+ c 2 2 
= 0. (2) Any tangent to x2 + y2 = 9 but ⊥ to (1) is obtained by replac-
α +β  α +β  ing α by (α - 90º) and its equation is
Now, equation (2) represents a pair of straight lines passing x cos(α - 90º) + y sin(α - 90º) = 3
through origin. These lines will be at right angle if sum of the or, x cos(90º - α) - y sin(90º - α) = 3
coefficients of x2 and y2 is zero.
or, x sinα - y cos α = 3 (2)
i.e., (a2 + b2)2 + (a2 + b2)2 + 2gα (a2 + b2)
Squaring and adding (1) and (2) we get x2 + y2 = 18 which is
+ 2β f (a2 + b2) + c (a2 + b2) a circle concentric with the given circle.
⇒ 2 (a2 + b2) + 2gα + 2f β + c = 0 (3) ∴ Locus is S ≡ x2 + y2 - 18 = 0 (3)
From equation (3), the locus of P(α, β) is
Equation of tangent to (3) at ( 2 , 4) is

2(x2 + y2) + 2gx + 2f y + c = 0
which is the required locus. p ≡ 2 x + 4 y − 18 = 0.
58. Given equation of line is
∴ System of coaxal circles is S + lP = 0.
x2 + 2xy + 3x + 6y = 0 (1)
60. Let P be the point on the line
⇒ x(x + 2y) + 3(x + 2y) = 0 ⇒ (x + 2y) (x + 3) = 0
2x - y + 11 = 0 (1)
So, equations of normals are x + 3 = 0 (2)
which is nearest to the circle
and, x + 2y = 0 (3)
3
Solving (2) and (3), we get x = -3, y = .

2

∴ Coordinates of centre of the circle are  −3,  .

3

 2
Given equation of circle is x(x - 4) + y(y - 3) = 0

⇒ x2 + y2 - 4x - 3y = 0.
(4)
1 25
2 x2 + y2 + 2x − y− = 0 (2)
 −3  5 2 8
Radius of the circle = ( −2) 2 +   = and coordinates

 2 2
 1
with centre C  −1,  .

 3  4
of centre are  2,  .
 2
Then, CP is ⊥ to the line (1) and CP > radius.


Since the required circle is just sufficient to contain the circle

[Note that if CP ≤ r, the line intersects or touches the cir-
(4), therefore the distance between the centres
cle and then the point of intersection or point of contact are
 3  3 required points]
−
 3,  and  2,  = the difference of their radius.
2  2 1
−2−
+ 11

Let the radius of the required circle be a. 4 35 67
Here, CP =
= > (radius).
2
5 4 5 4
 3 3 5 5

∴
( −3 − 2) 2 +  −  = a − ⇒ 5=a− Now, equation of CP [⊥ to line (1)] is
 2 2 2 2
1 1
5 15
x + 2y = λ, where −1 + = λ = λ or λ = − .
⇒ a = 5+ = . 2 2
2 2
∴ Equation of CP is 2x + 4y + 1 = 0
(3)

Therefore, equation of required circle is
Solving (1) and (3), we get y = 2, x = -9/2.

2 2

 3  15   –9 
( x + 3) 2  y −  =  
Hence, the required point is  , 2 .
 2  2  2 

Chapter 19.indd 43 5/4/2016 11:13:38 AM

 19.44  Chapter 19

61. Extremities of the diagonal OA of the rectangle are O(0, 0)

and A (4, 3). Then, OA is the diameter of the circumcircle, so
equation of the circumcircle is
x(x - 4) + y(  y - 3) = 0 i.e., x2 + y2 - 4x - 3y = 0
2 2

i.e., ( x − 2) 2 +  y −  =   (1)
3 5

 2   2

3
m = slope of OA =
(2)
4
∴ Tangents parallel to the diagonal OA are

y1 − 12 4
⇒
× − = −1 ⇒ 7x - 4y + 104 = 0 (3)
3 3 5 9 x1 + 8 7 1 1

y− = ( x − 2) ± 1+
2 4 2 16  x − 8 y1 + 12 
and mid point of C1C2 i.e.,  1
,  lie on (2)
i.e., 6x - 8y ± 25 = 0.  2 2 
62. Let the coordinates of C be (x1, y1) and the coordinates of A
and B be (0, 0) and (a, 0), respectively. i.e., 4  x1 − 8  + 7  y1 + 12  + 13 = 0

 2   2 
sin A BC
Given, k =
= or, 4x1+ 7y1 + 78 = 0 (4)
sin B AC
Solving (3) and (4), we get (x1, y1) ≡ (-16, -2).
∴ Equation of the imaged circle is
(x + 16)2 + (y + 2)2 = 52

or, x2 + y2 + 32x + 4y + 235 = 0.
64. Let r and R be radius of required and given circle, respec-
tively and let centre is (h, k), By given condition

⇒ BC2 = k2 AC2

⇒ (x1 - a)2 + y12 = k2 (x12 + y12)

⇒ (1 − k 2 ) x12 + (1 − k 2 ) y12 − 2ax1 + a 2 = 0

2ax1 a2
⇒ x12 + y12 −
x+ = 0, [ k ≠ 1]
\
1− k 2
1− k2

Hence, locus of C is ( h − 1) 2 + ( k − 2) 2 = R − r

2a a2 r
x2 + y2 − + = 0,
Now, = tan 30°
1− k 2
1− k2 AB
1
 a  r = AB tan 30° = ( R − r ) (AB = R - r)

which is a circle whose centre is  ,0
 1 − k 2  3

R  3 
a2 a2 ak ⇒
( h − 1) 2 + ( k − 2) 2 = R − = R

and radius = − = . 
(1 − k )
2 2
(1 − k 2 ) 1 − k 2 1+ 3  1+ 3 

63. The given circle and line are Now, R = 1 + 3

x2 + y2 + 16x - 24y + 183 = 0 (1)
⇒
( h − 1) 2 + ( k − 2) 2 = 3
and, 4x + 7y + 13 = 0 (2)
Centre and radius of circle (1) are C1(-8, 12) and 5 respec- ∴ Locus is (x - 1)2 + (y - 2)2 = 3
tively. Let the centre of the imaged circle be C2 (x1, y1). 65. The point of intersection of the tangents at the points P(q1)
Then, slope of C1C2 × slope of given line and Q(q2) on the circle x2 + y2 = 1 is given by

Chapter 19.indd 44 5/4/2016 11:13:40 AM

 Circles  19.45

θ +θ  θ +θ  ∴1<a<2
cos  1 2  cos  1 2  There can be symmetrical points on the negative x-axis too.
x=  2 =  2 
Hence, we have a ∈ (-2, -1) ∪ (1, 2).
 θ1 − θ 2   60° 
cos   cos   69. Let P ≡ (a cos α, a sin α) and Q ≡ (a cos β, a sin β), where
 2   2 
β - α = 2θ
θ +θ  θ +θ  Also, A ≡ (a, 0) and B ≡ (-a, 0)
a sin  1 2  sin  1 2 
 2   2 
y = = If R(h, k) be the intersection point of AP and BQ, the slope of
 θ1 − θ 2   60°  AR = slope of AP
\
[ R is lies on AP]
cos   cos  
 2   2 
k sin α α  a − h
⇒ (x cos 30º)2 + (y cos 30º)2 = 1 ⇒
= ⇒ tan   = (1)
h − a cos α − 1 2 h
3 4
⇒ ( x 2 + y 2 )
= 1 ⇒ x2 + y2 = k sin β β  k
4 3 ⇒
= ⇒ tan   = (2)
⇒ 3x2 + 3y2 = 4
h + a cos β + 1  2  h+a
β α
66. Centre is (1, -2). Radius = 1 + 4 − 3 = 2 . Since the sides Since, β - α = 2θ, we have
− =θ
are parallel to coordinate axes, vertices do not lie on horizon- 2 2
tal and vertical lines through. (1, 2). ∴ the given points are β  α 
not vertices. tan   − tan  
2
   2  = tan θ
⇒

 β  α 
1 + tan   tan  
2 2
k a−h
−
⇒
h + a k = tan θ
 k  a − h 
1+   
 h + a  k 
⇒ h2 + k2 - 2ak tanθ = a2
67. Let (2, 3) be given point, M be the middle point of a chord
Hence, the locus of R is x2 + y2 -2ay tan q = a2.
of the circle x2 + y2 = a2 through P. Then, the distance of the 70. We choose the centre O of the circle as the origin and the
centre O of the circle from the chord is OM. and (OM)2 = lines OA, OB as the x-axis and the y-axis, respectively. If a
(OP)2 - (PM)2 which is maximum when PM is minimum, be a radius of the given circle, then
i.e., P coincides with M, the middle point of the chord.
A ≡ (a, 0) and B ≡ (0, a)
and a variable point on the circle
P ≡ (a cosθ, a sinθ)

Hence, the equation of the chord is T = S1.
i.e., 2x + 3y - a2 = (2)2 + (3)2 -a2 ⇒ 2x + 3y = 13.

π
68. We have <θ <π
3 If (h, k) be the coordinates of the centroid of triangle PAB,
then we have
3h = a (1 + cosθ)(1)
and, 3k = a (1 + sinθ)(2)
Eliminating θ from equations (1) and (2), we have
(3h - a)2 + (3k - a)2 = a2.
Putting (x, y) in place of (h, k) gives the equation of the
π θ π 1 θ  required locus as
< < ⇒ < sin   < 1
6 2 2 2 2 (3x - a)2 + (3y - a)2 = a2, which is a circle.
 θ  1
⇒ 1 < 1 < 1
∵ sin   = 
71. The given expression can be written as
2 a  2 a 6 (l2 + m2) = 9l2 + 6l + 1

Chapter 19.indd 45 5/4/2016 11:13:42 AM

 19.46  Chapter 19

3l + 1 Eliminating r from equations (1) and (2), we have

⇒
= 6
l +m 2 2 OP + AP = b + c
i.e., sum of distances of P from two fixed points O and A =
⇒ the perpendicular distance of the point (3, 0) from the line

constant. Hence, P lies on an ellipse having foci at O and A.
lx + my + 1 = 0 is 6. 73. We have,
Therefore, the given line is a tangent to the circle S(x, 2) = 0 gives two identical solutions x = 1
(x - 3)2 + y2 = 6. ⇒ line y = 2 is a tangent to the circle S(x, y) = 0 at the point
72. We choose centre of S1 as the origin and the line joining the (1, 2)
centres of S1, S2 as the x-axis. Let the centre of S2 be A(a, 0) and, S(1, y) = 0 gives two distinct solutions y = 0, 2
and b, c(b > c) be the radii of S1, S2, respectively. If P(h, k) be
⇒ line x = 1 cuts the circle S(x,y) = 0 at the points, (1, 0) and
the centre of the variable circle S and r be its radius then we
(1.2)
have
Clearly, from the fig., the points A(1, 2)
OP + r = b
and B(1, 0) are diametrically opposite points.
i.e.,
h2 + k 2 = b − r  (1) Thus, equation of the circle, is

and, AP = r + c
(x -1)2 + y(y -2) = 0

i.e.,
( h − a) + k = r + c (2)
2 2

i.e.,  x2 + y2 - 2x -2y + 1 = 0.

More than One Option Correct Type

74. The given circles are ( x − 0) 2 + ( y ± 12 ) 2 = 22
x2 + y2 - 4x = 0, x > 0
i.e., (x - 2)2 + y2 = 22, x > 0.
i.e., x 2 + y 2 + 2 12 y + 8 = 0
and, x2 + y2 + 4x = 0, x < 0

and, x 2 + y 2 − 2 12 y + 8 = 0.
i.e., (x + 2)2 + y2 = 22, x < 0.
75. Let the point on the given line be (x1, 2).
Clearly, from the figure, the centres of the required circles
are at (0, 12 ) and (0, − 12 ). Since the tangents drawn from (x1, 2) to the given circle are
at right angles, so the point (x1, 2) must also lie on the direc-
∴ Equations of the required circles are
tor circle whose equation is
x2 + y2 = 2.25 i.e., x2 + y2 = 50.
∴ x21 + 4 = 50  ⇒ 
x1 = ± 46 .
So, the points are ( 46 , 2) and (- 46, 2).

76. Extremities of the diagonal OA of the rectangle are O(0, 0)
and A(4, 3). Then, OA is the diameter of the circumcircle, so
equation of the circumcircle is
x(x - 4) + y( y - 3) = 0 i.e., x2 + y2 - 4x - 3y = 0
2 2
 3  5
i.e., ( x − 2) 2 +  y −  =   (1)

 2  2
m = slope of OA = 3/4 (2)
∴ Tangents parallel to the diagonal OA are

Chapter 19.indd 46 5/4/2016 11:13:43 AM

 Circles  19.47

3 3 5 9
y− = ( x − 2) ± 1+
2 4 2 16

i.e., 6x - 8y ± 25 = 0.
77. Let the equation of the circle be
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2f y + c = 0 (1)
Equation of tangent to (1) at origin (0, 0) is
x ⋅ 0 + y ⋅ 0 + g(x + 0) + f ( y + 0) + c = 0
or, gx + f y + c = 0.
But it is given to be axis of x, i.e., y = 0
∴ g = 0, c = 0.

Also, OC = 36 + 64 = 10.
∴ Equation (1) becomes x2 + y2 + 2fy = 0 (2)
∴ OA = OC - AC = 5.

If it touches the line 3y = 4x + 24 i.e., 4x - 3y + 24 = 0,

Now, the point on the circle nearest to the origin is A
then the length of ⊥ from centre (0, - f ) on the line is numer-
and farthest from it is B.
ically = radius f.
OA : AC = 5 : 5 = 1 : 1
\
4( 0 ) − 3 ( − f ) + 2 4
∴
=±f ⇒ A is the mid-point of OC.
16 + 9  0 + 6 0 + 8
∴ the coordinates of A are  ,  i.e., (3, 4).
⇒ 3f + 24 = ± 5f ⇒ f = 12, -3.
 2 2 
Putting these values of f in (2), the equations of circles are Let the coordinate of B be (h, k).
x2 + y2 + 24y = 0 and x2 + y2 - 6y = 0. Since C is the mid point of AB
78. Let A, B, be the centres of the two circles. Slope of the com- 3+ h 4+k
12 ∴ = 6, = 8   ⇒  h = 9, k = 12.
mon tangent = − 2 2
5 ∴ The coordinates of B are (9, 12).
∴ Slope of AB is
80. Given circles are x2 + y2 = a2 (1)
1 5 and, (x - 2a)2 + y2 = a2 (2)
tan θ = = . Let A and B be the centres and r1 and r2 the radii of the two
−12 / 5 12
circles (1) and (2), respectively, then
A ≡ (0, 0), B ≡ (2a, 0), r1 = a, r2 = a
Let the equation of equal circle touching
circles (1) and (2) be
(x - α)2 + ( y - β)2 = a2(3)
Its centre C is (α, β) and radius r3 = a.

Since (3) touches (1),
∴ AC = r1 + r3 = 2a

[Here AC ≠ | r1 - r3 | as r1 - r3 = a - a = 0]
The point (1, -1) lies on the line AB and the points A and B

or, AC2 = 4a2 or a2 + b2 = 4a (4)
are at a distance 13 from the point (1, -1).

Again, since circle (3) touches circle (2)
∴ Coordinates of A and B are

5 ∴ BC = r2 + r3 or BC2 = (r2 + r3)2


(1 ± 13 cosθ, - 1 ± 13 sinθ), where tanθ = .
12 ∴ (2a - α)2 + b2 = (a + a)2 or a2 + b2 - 4aα = 0

 12 5 or, 4a2 - 4aα = 0
[from (4)]
i.e., 1 ± 13 ⋅ , −1 ± 13 ⋅   or (1 ± 12, -1 ± 5)

 13 13  ∴ α = a and from (4), β = ± 3a.

i.e., (13, 4) and (-11, -6).

Thus, required circles are
79. The equation of the circle is
( x − a) 2 + ( y ∓ 3a) 2 = a 2 .
x2 + y2 - 12x - 16y + 75 = 0. or, x 2 + y 2 − 2ax ∓ 2 3ay + 3a 2 = 0.

Join its centre C with O. 81. Given circle is S ≡ x2 + y2 + 6x - 8y - 9 = 0
Let OC meets the circle in A and B. Since S](2, 1) = 4 + 1 + 12 - 8 - 10 = -1 < 0,
Centre of the circle is C ≡ (6, 8) and radius so the point (2, 1) lies inside the given circle.
AC = 36 + 64 − 75 = 5. ∴ Chord of contact of tangents from (2, 1) does not exist.
Also, polar of (2, 1) w.r.t. the circle is

Chapter 19.indd 47 5/4/2016 11:13:45 AM

 19.48  Chapter 19

2x + y + 3 (x + 2) - 4( y + 1) - 10 = 0
i.e., 5x - 3y - 8 = 0.
82. Centre of S1 is C1 ≡ (2, 3) and radius of S1 is r1 = 5. Centre of
S2 is C2 ≡ (-3, -2) and radius of S2 is r2 = 5.

Also, d = distance between centres

= C1C2 = 25 + 25 50
∴ | r1 - r2 | = 0  and  r1 + r2 = 10. Let O2 (α, β) be the centre of the circle C2 of radius 5 and O1

Since | r1 - r2  | < C1C2 < r1 + r2, therefore circles S1 and S2 (0, 0) be the centre of the circle C1 of radius 4.
intersect.
Then, O1B = 4 and O2B = 5.
Equation of the common chord of S1 and S2 is ∴ O1O2 = 25 − 16 = 3 = α 2 + β 2 (1)

S1 - S2 = 0  i.e., x + y = 0, 3

Since slope of O1B is and O1B is ⊥ to O2O1,
which is also the equation of the radical axis and hence it is 4
⊥ to the line joining the centres C1 and C2 of the two circles.
∴ − α = 3 ⇒ α = −3β (2)

83. Let (α, β) be the centre of on of the circles. Then, centre β 4 4
must lie on the line ⊥ to the common tangent 4x + 3y = 10
From (1) and (2), we get 9 = β 2 + 9β
2
and passing through the point (1, 2). Thus, the equation of
the radius is 16
3x - 4y + k = 0 (1) 25 2 144 12
⇒
β = 9 ⇒ β2 = ⇒ β =±
Since it passes through (1, 2), therefore 3 - 8 + k = 0 16 25 5
i.e., k = 5 12 −3 12 −9
When β =
;α = × =
Substituting k = 5 in (1), the equation of the line joining cen- 5 4 5 5
tres is 12 −3 12 −9
When β = ; α = × =

3x - 4y + 5 = 0
(2) 5 4 5 5
As centre lies on (2), we have 3α - 4β + 5 = 0

Thus, the coordinates of the centre of circle C2 are
3α + 5  9 −12   −9 12 

β= (3)  5 , 5  or  5 , 5  .
4    

Since the radius of circle is 5, therefore 85. Let OAB be the triangle in which the given circle of radius 2
with centre C(2, 2) is inscribed and let the equation of AB be
(α - 1)2 + (β - 2)2 = 25
(4)
Substituting the value of β from (3) in (4), we get

2
 3α + 5 
(α − 1) 2 +  − 2  = 25
 4 
2
(3α − 3)
⇒ (α − 1) 2 +
= 25
16
9
⇒ (α − 1) + (α − 1) 2 = 25
2

16
 9
⇒ (α − 1) 2 1 +  = 25 ⇒ (α − 1) 2 = 16

 16 
⇒ (α - 1)2 = ± 4 ⇒ α = 5  or  α = -3(5)
x y
+ = 1 (1)
From (3) and (5), we have α = 5, β = 5
a b

or, α = -3, β = -1. ∴ OA = a, OB = b

Thus, the cerntres of the circles are (5, 5) and (-3, -1).
⇒ the centre of the circumscribed circle of DOAB is


Therefore, the equations of the required circles are a b
 2 , 2 .
(x - 5)2 + (y - 5)2 = 52 and (x + 3)2 + (y + 1)2 = 52.  
⇒ x2 + y2 - 10x - 10y + 25 = 0 a b
Let α =
and β = (2)
and, x2 + y2 + 6x + 2y - 15 = 0. 2 2
84. When two circles intersect, the common chord of maximum Now, the length of the ⊥ from C(2, 2) on (1) must be equal

length will be the diameter of the smaller circle. to the radius 2.

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 Circles  19.49

2 2
+ −1
∴ ±2 =
a b (3)
1 1
+
a2 b2

Eliminating a and b from (2) and (3), we get
1 1
+ −1
α β α + β − αβ
∴ ±2 =
⇒ ±1 =
1 1 α2 + β2
+
4α 2 4 β 2
Equation of tangent at A(h, k) is hx + ky = 8.
⇒ α + β − αβ ± α + β = 0 (4)
2 2
It passes through P(4, 0), ∴ 4h = 8 or h = 2.
∴ Locus of (α, β) is x + y − xy ± x 2 + y 2 = 0.
Since, A(h, k) lies on the circle, we get
∴ k = ± 1.
h2 + k2 = 8  or  4 + k2 = 8 or k = 2 (∴  k > 0)
86. The given circle is x2 + y2 - 6x - 4y + 4 = 0. ∴ A ≡ (2, 2).
Let the coordinates of point B on circle (1), be (a, b) such
that AB = 4.
∴ a2 + b2 = 8 (2)
and, AB2 = (a - 2)2 + (b - 2)2 = 16 (3)
Solving (2) and (3), we get a = 2, b = -2
or, a = -2, b = 2
Hence, the coordinates of B are (2, -2) or (-2, 2).
88. Since two of the vertices A(-1, 0) and B(1, 0) lie on x-axis,
the third vertex C will lie on y-axis. Let the coordinates of C
be (0, α).
Then, CA2 = AB2 = BC2 = 4

Its centre is (3, 2) and radius = 3. ⇒ 1 + a2 = 4 ⇒ a2 = 3 ⇒ α = ± 3   ⇒  OC = ± 3.
The given line is 4x - 3y = 6
(1), Since triangle is equilateral, circumcentre of the triangle

which passes through the centre of the circle, so tangents  1 
from any point on this line are equally inclined to this line. coincides with its centroid, i.e., with  0, ±  and cir-
2  3
Let (h, k) be a point on it. cumradius is .
24 π 2 tan θ 24 3
Given, tan 2θ = , 0 < θ <
⇒ =
7 2 1 − tan 2 θ 7
⇒ 12 tan2θ + 7 tan θ - 12 = 0

3 4
⇒ tan θ =
or tan θ = −
4 3
3
∴ tan θ =  ( tanθ > 0)
(2)
4
3 3
∴
= sin θ = .
( h − 3) 2 + ( k − 2) 2 5
or, (h - 3)2 + (k - 2)2 = 25
16
Hence possible equations of the circumcircle are
⇒ ( h − 3) 2 + ( h − 3) 2 = 25
9 2 2
 1   2 
[ the point (h, k) lies on the line (1), ∴ 4h - 3k = 6]
\ x2 +  y ±  =  
 3 3
25
⇒ ( h − 3) 2 = 25 or (h - 3)2 = 9. 2
9 or, x 2 + y 2 ±
y − 1 = 0.
or, h - 3 = ± 3. ∴ h = 0, 6. 3
∴ (h, k) ≡ (0, -2), (6, 6). Trick(s) for Problem Solving
87. Equation of given circle is x2 + y2 = 8 (1)
 For an equilateral triangle, the circumcentre of the triangle
Let A(h, k) be the point of contact, in the first quadrant, of coincides with its centroid.
tangent from P(4, 0) to the circle (1).

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 19.50  Chapter 19

16 384
89. Centres of given circles are (-a, 0) and (-b, 0). Radical axis ⇒ α 2 = 16 −
= ∴α = ±8 6
is 2x(a - b) = 0 i.e., x = 0. Since one of the circles lies within 25 25 5
the other. ∴ their points of intersection are imaginary, ∴ the  8 6 4   −8 6 4 
∴ Point C is 
 5 5   5 5 
, , ,
radical axis does not intersect them. Thus, both the circles lie
   
on the same side of radical axis i.e., x = 0. Hence, a and b are
91. Multiplying by r, the given equation becomes r2 = | r cos θ |
of the same sign. ∴ ab > 0.
(1)
Also, since the origin lies on the radical axis x = 0, therefore
In Cartesian form equation (1) can be written as
(0, 0) lies outside the two circles, ∴ c > 0. Hence ab > 0, c
> 0. x2 + y2 = | x |
⇒ x2 + y2 = +x if x > 0
90. If C ≡ (α, β) then chord of contact of the tangents from it to
the circle x2 + y2 = 4 is ax + by = 4 which passes through the and x2 + y2 = -x if x < 0
1
point (0, 5) Equation (2) represents a circle of radius and centered at
2
∴ 5β = 4 i.e., β = 4/5 1  1
 , 0 . Equation (3) represents a circle of radius and
Also, ax + by = 4 is tangent to the circle x2 + y2 = 1 2 2
 1 
2 centered at  − , 0 . Hence, the given equation represents
4 4  2 
∴
= 1 ⇒ 16 = α 2 +  
α +β
2 2
5 two circles touching each other at the origin.

Passage Based Questions

92. Let P be the point (x1, y1). ∴ x1 = 6.

Polar of P w.r.t. the circle x2 + y2 = a2 is 4
From (5), y1 =
× 6 = 8.
xx1 + yy1 = a2 (1) 3
Hence, the required pole is (6, 8).
(1) touches the circle (x - f )2 + ( y - g)2 = b2
\
94. Equation of the circle is x2 + y2 = 16 (1)
∴ length of ⊥ from centre ( f, g) on (1) = radius b
Equation of the chord having (-2, 3) as its mid point is
fx + gy1 − a 2
⇒ ± 1 =b T = S1
x12 + y12
i.e., x (-2) + y(3) - 16 = (-2)2 + (3)2 - 16
or, ( fx1 + gy1 - a2)2 = b2 (x12 + y12).
or, - 2x + 3y = 4 + 9 or 2x - 3y + 13 = 0 (2)
∴ Locus of P(x1, y1) is ( fx + gy - a2)2 = b2(x2 + y2).
Let (x1, y1) be the pole of (2) w.r.t. (1)
93. The equation of the line is 3x + 4y - 45 = 0 (1)
Polar of (x1, y1) w.r.t. the circle (1) is xx1 + yy1 = 16 (3)
and that of the circle is x2 + y2 - 6x - 8y + 5 = 0 (2)
Since (2) and (3) both represent the polar of (x1, y1)
Let (x1, y1) be the pole of (1) w.r.t. (2).
x1 y1 16 32 48
The equation of polar of (x1, y1) w.r.t. (2) is ∴ = =− or x1 = − , y1 = .
2 −3 13 13 13
xx1 + yy1 - 3 (x + x1) - 4( y + y1) + 5 = 0
 32 48 
or, (x1 - 3)x + ( y1 - 4)y - 3x1 - 4 y1 + 5 = 0 (3)
Hence, pole of (2) is  – ,  .
 13 13 
As (1) and (3) both represent the same line i.e., polar of (x1,
y1) w.r.t. (2) 95. Equations of the circles are
∴ Comparing coefficients S1: x2 + y2 - 12 = 0 (1)
and, S2: x + y - 5x + 2y - 2 = 0
2 2
(2)
x1 − 3 y1 − 4 −3 x1 − 4 y1 + 5

= = (4) Common chord of (1) and (2) is
3 4 −45

(a)     (b)         (c) 5x - 2y - 10 = 0 (3)

From (a) and (b), we have (S1 - S2 = 0)

4x1 - 12 = 3y1 - 12 Let (x1, y1) be its pole w.r.t. (1)
4 Polar of (x1, y1) w.r.t. (1) is xx1 + yy1 = 12(4)
or, 4x1 = 3y, or  y1 = x1 (5)

3 As (3) and (4) both represent the polar of (x1, y1) w.r.t.
From (b) and (c), we have - 45y1 + 180 = -12x1 - 16y1 + 20
(1), ∴ comparing coefficients
or, 12x1 - 29y1 + 160 = 0
x1 y1 −12 12
= = ⇒ x1 = 6, y1 = − .
4  5 −2 −10 5
or, 12 x1 − 29  x1  + 160 = 0 
[Using (5)]
3   −12 

Hence, pole of (3) w.r.t. (1) is  6, .
or, 36x1 - 116x1 + 480 = 0 or 80x1 = 480
 5 

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 Circles  19.51

96. Let the three coaxial circles be Their radical axis is 8x + 4y - 8 = 0 or 2x + y - 2 = 0 (3)
x2 + y2 + 2grx + λ = 0 (r = 1, 2, 3). The equation of any circle coaxal with the given circles is
Coordinates of A, B, C, the centres, are x2 + y2 - 2x - 6y + 9 + λ(2x + y - 2) = 0
(-g1, 0), (-g2, 0), (-g3, 0). or, x2 + y2 +(2λ - 2) x + (λ - 6) y + (9 - 2λ) = 0 (4)
Also, r1 = g12 − λ , r2 = g 22 − λ , r3 = g32 − λ .
 λ
The centre of this circle is [(1 - λ),  3 −  ](5)

 2
Now, BC . CA . AB = (g2 - g3) . (g3 - g1) . (g1 - g2).

λ 2
Also, r12 ⋅ BC + r22 ⋅ CA + r32 ⋅ AB
Its radius = (1 − λ ) + (3 − ) − (9 − 2λ )

2

2
= ( g12 − λ )( g 2 − g3 ) + ( g 22 − λ )( g3 − g1 ) + ( g32 − λ ) ⋅ ( g1 − g 2 ) 5λ 2
= g12 (g2 - g3) + g22 (g3 - g1) + (g1 - g2) = − 3λ + 1.
4
- λ(g2 - g3 + g3 - g1 + g1 - g2)

For limiting points, its radius = 0
= -(g1 - g2) (g2 - g3) (g3 - g1)
5λ 2
[ Sa2 (b - c) = - (a - b) (b - c) (c - a)]
\

i.e., − 3λ + 1 = 0 or 5l2 - 12λ + 4 = 0
4
= -BC . CA . AB.

or, 5l2 - 10λ - 2λ + 4 = 0 or (λ - 2) (5λ - 2) = 0
97. Let the equations of the three coaxal circles be
2
x2 + y2 + 2gr x + λ = 0 [r = 1, 2, 3]. ∴
λ = 2, .
5
Coordinates of A, B, C, the centres, are (-g1, 0), (-g2, 0) and

Substituting these values in (5), the limiting points are
(-g3, 0), respectively.
∴ BC = g2 - g3; CA = g3 - g1; AB = g1 - g2.  3 14 
(-1, 2) and  ,  .
Let (x′, y′  ) be any point from which tangents to the three 5 5 
circles have been drawn. Then, 99. Since the limiting points are point circles belonging to the
t12 = x′2 + y′2 + 2 g1 x′ + λ coaxal system,
∴ their equations are (x - 1)2 + (y - 2)2 = 0
t 22 = x′2 + y′2 + 2 g 2 x′ + λ
and, (x - 4)2 + ( y - 3)2 = 0
t32 = x′2 + y′2 + 2 g3 x′ + λ i.e., x2 + y2 - 2x - 4y + 5 = 0 (1)
∴  BC ⋅ t12 + CA ⋅ t 22 AB ⋅ t 23 and, x2 + y2 - 8x - 6y + 25 = 0 (2)
= (g2 - g3) (x′ 2 + y′2 + 2g1x′ + λ) Equation of any circle coaxal with the circles (1) and (2) is
+ (g3 - g1) (x′ 2 + y′ 2 + 2g2x′ + λ) x2 + y2 - 2x - 4y + 5 + λ (x2 + y2 - 8x - 6y + 25) = 0(3)
+ (g1 - g2) (x′2 + y′2 + 2g3x′ + λ) (3) will pass through the origin, if
= (x′2 + y′2 + λ) (g2 - g3 + g3 - g1 + g1 - g2) 1
5 + 25λ = 0  i.e., λ = −
+ 2x′ [g1 (g2 - g3) + g2 (g3 - g1) + g3 (g1 - g2)] 5
= 0. ∴ (3) becomes, x2 + y2 - 2x - 4y
98. The equations of two circles are 1
x2 + y2 - 2x - 6y + 9 = 0 (1)

+5 − ( x 2 + y 2 − 8 x − 6 y + 25) = 0
5
and, x2 + y2 + 6x - 2y + 1 = 0 (2) or, 2x2 + 2y2 - x - 7y = 0, which is the required equation.

Match the Column Type

100. The centre of the given circle is (2, 3) and the radius II. The length of the ⊥ from the centre (0, 0) of the given
= 4 + 9 − k , i.e., 13 − k . circle to the line 3x + ay - 20 = 0 is
Since the given circle does not touch or intersect the coordi- | 3(0) + a(0) − 20 | 20
= =
nate axes and the point (2, 2) lies inside the circle 9 + a2 9 + a2
∴ x-coordinate of centre > radius i.e., 2 > 13 − k , ,

Radius of the given circle = 5.
y-coordinate of centre > radius i.e., 3 > 13 − k
Since the line cuts the circle at real, distinct or coincident
and, 4 + 4 - 8 - 12 + k < 0 points,
20
⇒ 4 > 13 - k, 9 > 13 - k and -12 + k < 0 ∴
≤ 5   ⇒ a2 + 9 ≥ 16 ⇒ a2 - 7 ≥ 0
⇒ k > 9, k > 4 and k < 12 9 + a2
⇒ 9 < k < 12 ⇒ (a − 7 ) (a − 7 ) ≥ 0

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 19.52  Chapter 19

III. Given circles are x2 + y2 - 4 = 0 (1)

⇒ α ∈ ( −∞, − 7 ] ∪ [ 7,∞).
and, x2 + y2 - 6x - 8y - 24 = 0 (2)
III. Since the point (2, k) lies outside the circle
Centre of circle (1) is C1 ≡ (0, 0) and radius r1 = 2
x2 + y2 + x - 2y - 14 = 0
Centre of circle (2) is C2 ≡ (3, 4) and radius r2 = 7
∴ 4 + k + 2 - 2k - 14 > 0 or k2 - 2k - 8 > 0
2
Also, d = distance between the centres = C1C2 = 5
or, (k + 2) (k - 4) > 0
Since d = r2 - r1, therefore the given circles touch internally,
or, k∈ (-∞, -2) ∪ (4, ∞) (1)
as such they can have just one common tangent at the point
Also, the point (2, k) lies outside the circle of contact.
x2 + y2 = 13. IV. Let S ≡ x2 + y2 - 8x - 6y + 9 = 0.
∴ 4 + k2 - 13 > 0 or k2 - 9 > 0 Now, S for (3, -2) = 9 + 4 - 24 + 12 + 9 > 0,
or, (k - 3) (k + 3) > 0 ∴ the point (3, -2) lies outside the circle.
or, k∈ (-∞, -3) ∪ (3, ∞) (2) ∴ Two tangents can be drawn to the circle from the point
The common solution of (1) and (2) is given by (3, -2).
k∈ (-∞, - 3) ∪ (4, ∞). 102. I.  Any line parallel to y-axis is x = k.
IV. Since the point (k + 1, k) lies inside the region bounded If it touches the circle x2 + y2 = 9, then ⊥ distance from the
by x = 25 − y 2 and y-axis, centre (0, 0) of the circle to the line x = k, must be equal to
radius 3.
|0−k |
i.e., = 3 ⇒ k = ±3
1
∴ k = 3. ( line does not lie in the IIIrd quadrant)
\

∴ The equation of the tangent line is x = 3.
This meets the circle when 9 + y2 = 9 ⇒ y = 0.
∴ Point of contact is (3, 0).
II. Equation of chord PQ is
y=x+2

∴ (k + 1)2 + k2 - 25 < 0
and, k + 1 > 0
⇒ 2k2 + 2k - 24 < 0 and k > -1
⇒ k2 + k - 12 < 0 and k > -1
⇒ (k + 4) (k - 3) < 0 and k > -1
⇒ -4 < k < 3 and k > -1
⇒ -1 < k < 3.
101 I.  The equations of the circles are or, x - y + 2 = 0 (1)
x2 + y2 - 6x - 2y + 9 = 0 (1) Centre of circle is C (-2, 1).
and, x2 + y2 - 14x - 8y + 61 = 0 (2) Draw CM ⊥ PQ, then M is the mid point of PQ.
Centre of (1) is C1 ≡ (3, 1) and radius r1 = 1 Equation of any line ⊥ to PQ is x + y + k = 0
Centre of (2) is C2 ≡ (7, 4) and radius r2 = 2 If it passes through C(-2, 1) then
d = distance between centres = C1C2 = 16 + 9 = 5. -2 + 1 + k = 0 or k = 1.
So, r1 + r2 < d, ∴ the two circles do not cut each other and ∴  Equation of CM is x + y + 1 = 0. (2)
hence the number of common tangents is 4. 3 1
Solving (1) and (2), we obtain x = − and y = .
II. The equations of the circles are 2 2
x2 + y2 = 4 (1)  −3 1 
∴ Coordinates of M are  ,  .
and, x2 + y2 - 8x + 12 = 0 (2)  2 2
Centre of (1) is C1 ≡ (0, 0) and radius r1 = 2 III. Let the equation of the circle passing through the given
Centre of (2) is C2 ≡ (4, 0) and radius r2 = 2 ponits be
d = distance between centres = C1C2 = 4. x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 (1)
Since C1C2 = r1 + r2, ∴ the two circles touch each other then, 1 + t2 + 2g + 2ft + c = 0 (2)
externally. Hence, 3 common tangents can be drawn to the 1 + t2 + 2gt + 2f + c = 0 (3)
two circles. and, t + t2 + 2gt + 2ft + c = 0
2
(4)

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 Circles  19.53

Solving (2), (3) and (4) we get IV. The chord of contact of tangents from (α, β) is
g = f = -(t + 1)/2 and c = 2t. ax + by = 1 (1)
and the equation (i) becomes  1 1
Clearly, (1) passes through  ,  .
x2 + y2 - (t + 1)x - (t + 1)y + 2t = 0  2 4
which is satisfied by (1, 1) for all values of t.

Assertion-Reason Type
103. Let the equation of one of the circles be
Also, its radical axis with x2 + y2 = a2 is
x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0.
2gx + 2fy + c + a2 = 0
a
Since it passes through origin, ∴ c = 0. But the radical axis is x = , so we get

2
So, the equation becomes x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2f y = 0. 2g c + a
= and f = 0
Since it cuts the circle x2 + y2 + 6x - 4y + 2 = 0 orthogonally, 1 −a / 2
∴ 2g(3) + 2f (-2) = 0 + 2  ⇒  -6 (-g) + 4(-f ) = 2. or, ag + c + a = 0 (2)
Thus, the locus of the centre (- g, -f ) is From (1) and (2), we get g and c.
-6x + 4y = 2 or 3x - 2y + 1 = 0. Hence, equation is x2 + y2 - 2ax = 0
104. Equation of tangent to the circle 108. Let P ≡ (x1, y1) and Q ≡ (x2, y2)
x2 + y2 = 5 at (1, -2) is x - 2y - 5 = 0 (1) Let the equation of given circle be x2 + y2 = a2
Let this line touches the circle The equation of chord of contact of tangents drawn from the
x2 + y2 - 8x + 6y + 20 = 0 at (x1, y1) point P(x1, y1) to the given circle is
∴ Equation of tangent at (x1, y1) is xx1 + yy1 = a2
xx1 + yy1 -4(x + x1) + 3( y + y1) + 20 = 0 Since it passes through Q(x2, y2)
or, x(x1 - 4) + y( y1 + 3) - 4x1 + 3y1 + 20 = 0 (2) ∴ x1x2 + y1 y2 = a2 (1)
Now, (1) and (2) represent the same line
Now, l1 = x12 + y12 − a 2 , l2 = x22 + y22 − a 2

x1 − 4 y1 + 3 −4 x1 + 3 y1 + 20
∴ = = and,  PQ = ( x2 − x1 ) 2 + ( y2 − y1 ) 2

1 −2 −5
⇒ -2x1 + 8 = y1 + 3 or 2x1 + y1 - 5 = 0. = ( x12 + y12 ) + ( x22 + y22 ) − 2( x1 x2 + y1 y2 )
Only the point (3, -1) satisfies it. Hence, the point of contact
= ( x12 + y12 ) + ( x22 + y22 ) − 2a 2  [Using (1)]
is (3, -1).
105. Since the circumcentre coincides with the centroid of an = (x + y − a ) + (x + y − a ) = l + l .
2
1
2
1
2 2
2
2
2
2
1
2 2
2
equilateral triangle,
109. Let A (h, k) be the nearest point lying on the circle.
∴  Circumcentre is (2, 2).
B (6, 5)
Radius = ( 2 + 3) 2 + ( 2 − 4) 2 = 29
∴  The equation of the circumcircle is
(x - 2)2 + (y - 2)2 = 29  ⇒ x2 + y2 - 4x - 4y - 21 = 0. A (h, k)
106. Since the point (2, 4) is interior to the given circle,
PA : PB = 1 : ( 2 – 1)
∴ 22 + 42 - 6 × 2 - 10 × 4 + k < 0 P (2, 1)
⇒ k - 32 < 0  ⇒ k < 32 (1) We have PB = (6 − 2) 2 + (5 − 1) 2 = 4 2 and PA = 4

Solving y = 0, x2 + y2 - 6x - 10y + k = 0
(given)
We get x2 - 6x + k = 0, Therefore, AB = PB − PA = 4( 2 − 1)

which must have imaginary roots
AB 2 −1
∴ Discriminant = 36 - 4k < 0 ⇒ k > 9 (2)
Thus, =
AP 1
Again, solving x = 0, x2 + y2 - 6x - 10y + k = 0,
6 + 2( 2 − 1) 2 2 + 4
we get y2 - 10y + k = 0 Hence, h =
= = 2 + 2 2 and
1 + ( 2 − 1) 2
which must have imaginary roots
∴ Discriminant = 100 - 4k < 0 ⇒ k > 25 (3) 5 + ( 2 − 1) 2+4
k= =
= 1+ 2 2
From (1), (2) and (3), we get 25 < k < 32. 1 + ( 2 − 1) 2

The required circle has AB as its diameter.
107. Let equation of circle be x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0
Since it passes through (2a, 0), so
Hence, its equation is
4a2 + 4ag + c = 0 (1) ( x − 6)( x − 2 − 2 2 ) + ( y − 5)( y − 1 − 2 2 ) = 0

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 19.54  Chapter 19

Previous Year's Questions

110. Equation of circle is ⇒ 5ax + (c − d)y + a + 1 = 0

x2 + y2 - 4x - 2y - 20 = 0. Given that 5x + by − a = 0 passes through P and Q

whose centre is C(2, 1) and radius is 5 units. a c − d a +1
⇒ = =
Since S1 = 102 + 72 - 4 × 10 - 2 × 7 - 20 > 0 1 b −a
So P lies outside the circle. ⇒ a + 1 = −a2
Now, PC = ( 2 − 10) + (1 − 7)
2 2
⇒ a2 + a + 1 = 0
No real value of a.

= 82 + 6 2 = 10 2 = 10
119. Equation of circle with centre (0, 3) and radius 2 is x2 + (y
∴  Greatest distance between circle and the point P = 10 + − 3)2 = 4.
5 = 15 unit. Let locus of the variable circle be (α, β)
111. Equation of circle is x2 + y2 + 4x - 4y + 4 = 0 with center at ∵   It touches x-axis.
(-2, 2). and radias 2. The equation of tangent is x + y = 2 2. ∴  Its equation is (x − α)2 + (y − β)2 = b2
112. (x - 1)2 + (y - 3)2 = r2 Circles touch externally
(x - 4)2 + (y + 1)2 - 16 - 1 + 8 = 0
∴ α 2 + ( β − 3) 2 = 2 + β
(x - 4)2 + (y + 2)2 = 9.
Distance between their centers = 5
∴  Locus is x 2 = 10  y −  which is a parabola.
1

If the circle with center at (1, 3) touches the second circle 2

then the radius of the first circle = 2.
But it is given that they touch at two distinct points so r > 2
as long as r < 8.
Again when r = 8, they intersect at only one point and for r >
8, no intersection point can be found.
113. Intersection of diameters is the point (1, -1)
Also,  πs2 = 154
⇒ s2 = 49
∴  Equation becomes (x - 1)2 + (y + 1)2 = 49
114. Let the equation of the circle be x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0
then c = 4 and it passes through (a, b)  ⇒  a2 + b2 + 2ga +
2fb + 4 = 0. 120. Let the centre be (α, β)
Hence locus of the centre is 2ax + 2by - (a2 + b2 + 4) = 0. ∵   It cuts the circle x2 + y2 = p2 orthogonally
115. Let the other end of diameter is (h, k) then equation of circle We write 2(−α) × 0 + 2 (−β) × 0 = c1 − p2
will be (x - h) (x - p) + (y - k)(y - q) = 0 Put y = 0 (since the ⇒  c1 = p2
circle touches the x-axis) Let equation of circle be x2 + y2 − 2αx − 2βy + p2 = 0
⇒  x2 - (h + p)x + (hp + kq) = 0  ⇒  (h + p)2 = 4(hp + kq) It passes through (a, b) therefore a2 + b2 − 2αa − 2βb + p2 = 0
(D = 0)
∴  The locus is 2ax + 2by − (a2 + b2 + p2) = 0.
⇒ (x - p)2 = 4qy.
121. The point of intersection of 3x − 4y − 7 = 0 and 2x − 3y − 5
116. The intersection of the given lines is the centre of the circle = 0 is (1, −1), which is the centre of the circle and radius of
i.e., (1, -1) the circle = 7.
And circumference = 10π  ⇒ radius r = 5 ∴  Equation is (x − 1)2 + (y + 1)2 = 49 ⇒ x2 + y2 − 2x + 2y
⇒  Equation of circle is x2 + y2 - 2x + 2y - 23 = 0. − 47 = 0.
117. Points of intersection of line y = x with x2 + y2 - 2x = 0 are (0, 122. The locus (h, k) is given by
0) and (1, 1).
Hence equation of circle having end points of diameter (0, 0) π h2 + k 2 9
cos = ⇒ h2 + k 2 =
and (1, 1) is x2 + y2 - x - y = 0. 3 3 4
118. Let S1 : x2 + y2 + 2ax + cy + a = 0
123. According to question
S2 : x2 + y2 − 3ax + dy − 1 = 0
The equation of circle is (x − h)2 + (y − k)2 = k2
Equation of radical axis of S1 and S2 is S1 − S2= 0
Since, it passes through point (−1, 1) we have

Chapter 19.indd 54 5/4/2016 11:13:57 AM

 Circles  19.55

(−1 −h)2 + (1 − k)2 = k2 ⇒ |10 + m|< 25

⇒  h2 + 2h − 2k + 2 = 0 ⇒ −25 < m + 10 < 25
Now, D ≥ 0 ⇒ −35 < m < 15.
⇒  2k − 1 ≥ 0 a 
128. c1 =  , 0  ; c2 = (0, 0)
1 2 
⇒ k ≥
2 a
= r1 = ; r2 c
124. Centre (−1, −2) 2
Let (α, β) be the required point, then a a
c1c2 = r1 − r2 ⇒ =c− ⇒ c=a
2 2
α +1 β +0 129. Let (h, k) be centre.
= −1 and = −2
2 2 (h − 1)2 + (k − 0)2 = k2  ⇒  h = 1
125. Let the given circles be 5
(h − 1)2 + (k − 3)2 = k2  ⇒  k =
S: x2 + y2 + 3x + 7y + 2p − 5 = 0 3
10
∴  diameter is 2k =
S′: x2 + y2 + 2x + 2y − p2 = 0 3
Now the equation of the required circle is S + λS ′ = 0 130. Assume that the equation of circle be
− ( 7 + 2 p) (x − 3)2 + y2 + λy = 0
As it passes through (1, 1), the value of λ = The circle passes through (1, −2)
(6 − p 2 )
If 7 + 2p = 0, it becomes the first circle ⇒  4 + 4 − 2λ = 0  ⇒  λ = 4
∴  it is true for all values of p (x − 3)2 + y2 + 4y = 0  ⇒  Clearly (5, −2) satisfies.
126. Given points P(1, 0) and Q(−1, 0). 131. According to the figure
Let A = (x, y), then (1 + y)2 = (1 − y)2 + 1 (y > 0)
1
AP BP CP 1 ⇒ y=
= = = (1) 4
AQ BQ CQ 3
132. c1(2, 3);
⇒  3AP = AQ  ⇒ 9AP2 = AQ2  ⇒  9(x − 1)2 + 9y2 = (x + 1)2
+ y2 r = 4 + 9 + 12 = 5
1
⇒  9x2 − 18x + 9 + 9y2 = x2 + 2x + 1 + y2  ⇒ 8x2 − 20x + 8y2 And c2 (-3, -9);
+8=0 r = 9 + 81 − 26 = 8
2
5
⇒ x 2 + y 2 − x + 1 = 0 (2) ∴  Distance c1c2 = 25 + 144 = 13
2
∴  c1c2 = r1 + r2 touching externally.
∴  A lies on the circle ⇒  3 common tangents.
Similarly B, C are also lies on the same circle 133.
∴  Circum centre of ABC = Centre of Circle (1) =  , 0 
5

4  (2, −3) 5
1 27. Circle x2 + y2 − 4x − 8y − 5 = 0
Centre = (2, 4), Radius = 4 + 16 + 5 = 5 5√ 2 5√ 3
If circle is intersecting line 3x − 4y = m at two distinct points.
(−3, 2)
⇒  length of perpendicular from centre < radius
| 6 − 16 − m |
⇒ <5 S
5

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