Circle Geometry
Circle Geometry
Circle Geometry
Term Explanation
Euclidean Geometry based on the postulates of Euclid. Euclidean geometry
Geometry deals with space and shape using a system of logical deductions.
theorem A statement that has been proved based on previously established
statements.
converse A statement formed by interchanging what is given in
a theorem and what is to be proved.
rider A problem of more than usual difficulty added to another on an
examination paper.
radius A straight line from the centre to the circumference of a circle or
sphere
It is half of the circle's diameter.
diameter A straight line going through the centre of a circle connecting two
points on the circumference.
chord A line segment connecting two points on a curve.
when the chord passes through the centre of a circle it is called the
diameter.
circumference The distance around the edge of a circle (or any curved shape).
It is a type of perimeter.
segment The area bound by a chord and an arc.
tangent A line that intersects with a circle at only one point (the point of
tangency).
Point of tangency The point of intersection between a circle and its tangent line.
exterior angle The angle between any side of a shape, and a line extended from
the next side.
subtend The angle made by a line or arc.
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hypotenuse The longest side in a right-angled triangle. It is opposite the right
angle.
complementary Angles that add up to 90 .
angles
supplementary Angles that add up to 180 .
angles
vertically opposite Non-adjacent opposite angles formed by intersecting lines.
angles
intersecting lines Lines that cross each other.
corresponding Angles that sit in the same position on each of the parallel lines in
angles the position where the transversal crosses each line.
alternate angles Angles that lie on different parallel lines and on opposite sides of
the transversal.
co-interior angles Angles that lie on different parallel lines and on the same side of
the transversal.
polygon A closed 2D shape in which all the sides are made up of line
segments. A polygon is given a name depending on the number of
sides it has. A circle is not a polygon as although it is a closed 2D
shape it is not made up of line segments.
quadrilateral A 4-sided closed shape (polygon)
cyclic quadrilateral A quadrilateral whose vertices all lie on a single circle. This circle is
called the circumcircle or circumscribed circle, and the vertices are
said to be concyclic.
diagonal A straight line joining 2 opposite vertices (corners) of a straight
sided shape. It goes from one corner to another but is not an edge
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Revision of Grade 8 – 10 Geometry
It is essential that you are completely familiar with (and understand) the theorems from
previous years.
Triangles
sum of the opposite interior angles
In an isosceles triangle, the angles subtended by
the two equal sides are equal
If two parallel lines are cut by a transversal:
the alternate angles are equal
Parallel lines
the corresponding angles are equal
the co-interior angles add up to 180
The theorem of Pythagoras states that in any right-angled triangle, the
SIDES square on the hypotenuse is equal to the sum of the squares on the other
two sides
Congruent – For two shapes to be congruent, they must have equal sides and equal angles.
(≡)
Similar – For two shapes to be similar, they must have corresponding sides in proportion and
their corresponding angles must be equal. (///)
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An important skill when dealing with similar triangles is to be able to write up the proportion
statements from the statement regarding the triangles being similar.
Congruent triangles are exactly the same size. This means that all 6 possible
measurements (3 sides and 3 angles) are exactly the same.
However, we don’t need to find all 6 of those measurements equal to prove congruency. In
fact, we need only three; because if we find a particular set of three equal measurements,
the other three will fall into place and the triangles will be congruent.
(If 3 sides of one triangle are equal in length to 3 sides of another triangle then the two
triangles are congruent)
∆𝐴𝐵𝐶 ≡ ∆𝐷𝐸𝐹
Order is important. When written in the above format, the following conclusions can be
drawn:
𝐴=𝐷 𝐴𝐵 = 𝐷𝐸
𝐵=𝐸 𝐵𝐶 = 𝐸𝐹
𝐶=𝐹 𝐴𝐶 = 𝐷𝐹
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SAS – side, angle, side
(If two sides and the included angle are equal in length or size to two sides and the included
angle of another triangle then the two triangles are congruent)
∆𝐴𝐵𝐶 ≡ ∆𝐷𝐸𝐹
(If two angles and a side in one triangle are equal in length or size to two angles and the
corresponding side in another triangle then the two triangles are congruent)
∆𝐴𝐵𝐶 ≡ ∆𝐷𝐸𝐹
(If one side and the hypotenuse in a right-angled triangle are the same length as a side and
the hypotenuse in another right-angled triangle then the two triangles are congruent)
∆𝐴𝐵𝐶 ≡ ∆𝐷𝐸𝐹
Two of these conditions need further explanation as they have extra conditions that need
considering before concluding that two triangles may be congruent.
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SAS: If two triangles have two sides of equal length and one angle of the same size they
may be congruent. However, the following needs to be checked as well: Is the angle
included? This means, is the angle that is marked equal lying between the two sides marked
equal?
AAS: If two triangles have two angles equal in size and one side the same length they may
be congruent. However, the following needs to be checked as well: Is the side corresponding
in each triangle? This means, are the sides that are marked equal sitting in the same place
in each of the triangles. The side should be opposite the same angle in each of the triangles.
Note: KM could have also been marked equal to SU as they are both opposite the angle with
no marking.
Note: If you are asked to prove two triangles congruent, the correct order (in other words
with the paired sides and angles that are equal) is always given.
For example, if the question asks to prove that ∆𝐴𝐷𝐸 ≡ ∆𝑃𝑄𝑅, then there is already
evidence as to where to start looking for what sides or angles might be equal.
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HOWEVER, this is not to say you can use this in your proof. It should merely be used as a
guide as to where to look for equal sides or angles if you are stuck.
There are some reasons that are used very often in congruency, so it is worth having a
summary of these.
Midpoint theorem
The full theorem: The line which joins the midpoints of two sides of a triangle is parallel to
the third side of the triangle and equals half its length.
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Quadrilaterals
The diagram on the next page shows how each shape relates to another. For example, the
rhombus is inside the parallelogram which is inside the quadrilateral – therefore, the
rhombus is a quadrilateral and more specifically it is also a parallelogram but then has at
least one extra feature (4 equal sides) that make it a rhombus. The diagram shows how the
quadrilateral is a very general shape whereas the square is a more specific shape. This can
also be seen in the summary of properties below.
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Property Parallelogram Rectangle Rhombus Square
Opposite sides parallel
Opposite angles equal
Opposite sides equal
Diagonals bisect each other
Diagonals are equal
Diagonals are perpendicular
Diagonals bisect opposite
angles
All sides equal
All angles right angles
1. Parallelogram
both pairs of opposite sides parallel or
both pairs of opposite sides equal or
one pair of opposite sides equal and parallel or
diagonals bisect each other or
opposite angles equal
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2. Rectangle
It must be a parallelogram with:
equal diagonals or
one right angle
3. Rhombus
It must be a parallelogram with:
4 equal sides or
diagonals bisect at right angles
4. Square
It must be a
rhombus with one right angle or
rectangle with 2 adjacent sides equal
For this year’s work the different parts of a circle are important. A reminder of these:
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Circle geometry
The best way to learn and understand the circle theorems is to draw and measure and see
for yourself why some angles or sides may be equal to each other or have another
relationship.
There is an investigation at the end of these notes if you would like to try that.
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Examples of questions where this theorem is used:
Example 1
In the diagram, O is the centre of the circle. The diameter DE is perpendicular to the chord
PQ at C. 𝐷𝐸 = 20cm and 𝐶𝐸 = 2cm.
Notes
Always read through the information carefully and check it with the diagram.
This check should cover 2 things:
1. Does the information make sense when the diagram is considered?
2. Is all the information displayed on the diagram? – if not transfer it.
In this case, what needs to be transferred onto the diagram? (𝐷𝐸 = 20cm and 𝐶𝐸 = 2cm)
(a) DE is a diameter; therefore, OD and OE are radii and must be 10cm each.
As CE is given this also means that OC is simple to work out.
(b) You know the length of the radius.
Where else is there a radius on the diagram? (OQ and OP).
If you joined OQ and OP what do you notice? (a right-angled triangle)
What would you find if you worked in one of those right-angled triangles? (PC or CQ)
How would that help? (perpendicular from centre bisects chord therefore the other one
equals the same)
Solution:
a) 𝐶𝐸 = 2cm
𝑂𝐸 = 10cm
(O is midpoint of DE)
𝑂𝐶 = 𝑂𝐸 − 𝐶𝐸
∴ 𝑂𝐶 = 8cm
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Example 2
In the figure below, AB and CD are chords of the circle with centre O.
𝑂𝐸⏊𝐴𝐵. 𝐶𝐹 = 𝐹𝐷. 𝑂𝐸 = 4cm
𝑂𝐹 = 3cm and 𝐶𝐷 = 8cm.
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The following diagram shows how these two theorems can be used to show that a line
passes through the centre of a circle (and is therefore the diameter).
If a line (JK) passes through any chord (ML) and is the perpendicular bisector of that chord
(crosses at a right angle and cuts the chord in half) then that line passes through the centre
of the circle.
Before the next theorem is looked at, it is important to discuss the word ‘subtends’.
It is an important concept used regularly in most of the circle theorems.
Form a triangle ABC from these line segments. The first one has been done for you.
Using ∆PQR:
PQ subtends angle 𝑅
PR subtends angle 𝑄
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An angle can also be subtended from an arc (there is no need to ‘see’ the chord)
In the following diagram note the angle at the centre (2𝑥) and the angle at the
circumference (𝑥).
The angle at the circumference does not always have to be above the angle at the centre
and therefore forming the ‘arrowhead’ formation.
In this diagram, note that the angle at the centre is still subtended from the same arc as the
angle at the circumference.
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There is a third version of this theorem:
Again, note that the angle at the centre is still subtended from the same arc as the angle at
the circumference.
However, when the angle at the circumference is subtended in the opposite direction (the
other segment) to the angle at the centre, then the reflex angle at the centre is the angle of
interest.
In other words, 𝐷𝑂𝐴 = 2 × 𝐷𝐶 𝐴
Look carefully at one more diagram that also represents this theorem but sometimes
confuses learners.
Note again that the angle at the centre (𝐵𝑂𝐴) is subtended from arc AB and the angle at the
circumference (𝐵𝐶 𝐴) is also subtended from arc AB. Therefore, 𝐵𝑂𝐴 = 2 × 𝐵𝐶 𝐴
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The next theorem is a special case of the angle at centre theorem.
Consider the following diagram:
The angle at the centre subtended from the diameter AB forms an angle of 180 . Therefore,
the angle at the circumference is 90 .
There is a converse of this theorem. If the angle at the circumference is 90 , then the chord
it is subtended from must be a diameter.
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Examples where any previous theorem is used:
Example 1
In the diagram below, PT is a diameter of the circle with centre O. M and S are points on
the circle on either side of PT. MP, MT, MS and OS are drawn.
𝑀 = 37
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Example 2
O is the centre of the circle TNSPR.
𝑃𝑂𝑆 = 60 and 𝑃𝑆 = 𝑁𝑇.
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Theorems linked to chords and segments
Note that all three angles subtended from chord AB to the circumference are equal.
No matter how many angles are subtended from the same arc they will always be equal in
size. However, those angles must always be subtended into the same segment.
There is a connection between this theorem and one covered previously (angle at centre
equals 2 times angle at circumference).
The following diagram demonstrates:
Consider:
what is known about 𝐴𝑂𝐵 and 𝐴𝐷 𝐵? (𝐴𝑂𝐵 is double the size of 𝐴𝐷 𝐵)
what is known about 𝐴𝑂𝐵 and 𝐴𝐶 𝐵? (𝐴𝑂𝐵 is double the size of 𝐴𝐶 𝐵)
what does this tell us about 𝐴𝐷 𝐵 and 𝐴𝐶 𝐵? (they must be equal)
what arc subtends these two angles? (AB)
what conclusion can be drawn? (angles subtended from the same arc (chord) are equal)
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The converse of this theorem will make more sense after learning about cyclic quadrilaterals.
Nevertheless, the converse will be shown now.
If one line subtends two equal angles in the same direction, then the points made by that line
and the vertices of the angles will all lie on the circumference of a circle.
The following diagram demonstrates:
Note that both angles are subtended from the same line (CD) and on the same side of it.
These angles are marked equal. Therefore, the points A, B, C and D are points on a circle.
The correct term for this is, the points are concyclic.
The following four diagrams represent corollaries of the theorem, angles in the same
segment are equal. A corollary is a theorem that follows on from another theorem.
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Diagram Explanation
If two chords are the same length, then
the angles subtended by them to the
centre will be equal in size.
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Summary:
Equal chords subtend equal angles at the Equal chords, equal angles
circumference of a circle.
Equal chords subtend equal angles at the centre of a Equal chords, equal angles
circle.
Equal chords in equal circles subtend equal angles at Equal circles, equal chords,
the circumference of the circles. equal angles
Equal chords in equal circles subtend equal angles at Equal circles, equal chords,
the centre of the circles. equal angles
These theorems are not used as often as the others but are still worthwhile knowing.
The diagram from the example on page 19:
This question had a second part to it asking
for the size of 𝑆𝑇𝑁.
Can you see what the solution is?
(30 )
It is the same size as 𝑃𝑅 𝑆 because equal
chords subtend equal angles at the
circumference of a circle.
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Examples with more theorems included
Example 1
In the diagram, O is the centre of the circle. Diameter LR subtends 𝐿𝐾 𝑅 at the
circumference of the circle. N is another point on the circumference and chords LN and KN
are drawn. 𝐿 = 58
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Example 2
In the figure below, 𝐷𝐶 𝑂 = 25 and O is the centre of the circle. A, B, C, D and E are points
on the circumference.
Advice:
Always fill in angles as you find them within the solution. The more angles that are filled in
on the diagram, the easier the later questions will seem.
Solution:
a) 𝐷 = 25 <’s opp equal sides (radii)
b) 𝑂 = 50 Ext < of ∆
c) 𝐴 = 25 <’s in same segment
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Once this theorem has been learned, it is a common error to confuse it with the theorem
regarding the angle at the centre. Learners begin to see the bowtie shape and assume
angles in the same segment.
The following diagrams shows the difference:
Note that both angles are subtended at the Note that one angle is subtended at the
circumference centre and one angle is subtended at the
circumference
A cyclic quadrilateral is a quadrilateral where all four points lie on the circumference of a
circle.
The two theorems dealing with cyclic quadrilaterals are
(1) linked to the interior angles and
(2) linked to an exterior angle
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The following diagram shows this:
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Summary of the three ways to prove that a quadrilateral is a cyclic quadrilateral:
How to prove that a quadrilateral is a cyclic quadrilateral:
Exterior angle equals opposite interior angle
One pair of opposite angles are supplementary
Line segment subtends two equal angles
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Notes
Is there any information in the question that needs transferring onto the diagram or
anything you can fill in that you already know? (𝑁𝐴 = 𝑁𝐶 and equal radii (MK and MA)
could be marked as such)
Start looking for angles you can calculate the sizes of using the theorems you have
learned. Remember that if you fill them in onto the diagram you must remember that you
haven’t been given the information and therefore need to give reasons how you know the
measure of the angles.
You also need to look out for cyclic quads now – can you see any in this diagram? (𝐴𝐵𝐾𝑇
and 𝐴𝐶𝐾𝑇). It may be a good idea to shade these 2 cyclic quads – preferably in a slightly
different way.
Always fill in angles as you find them within the solution.
(b) Advice: ask yourself what needs to be true for two sides of a triangle to be equal in
length (the opposite angles must be equal) – this is usually the key to proving that two
sides are equal.
Note: sometimes congruency needs to be used.
(c) Look back at the summary and note what the three possible options are. As you read
each one ask yourself if that one looks possible or not.
It is advisable to highlight the outer edge of the quadrilateral in question, so it stands out
more and have all known angles filled in.
Solution:
a) (i) 𝐾𝑀𝐴 = 76 < at centre = 2 ×< at circumference
(ii) 𝑇 = 38 ext < cyclic quad
(iii) 𝐶 = 38 <’s in same segment
There was a 2nd option here – ext < of cyclic
quad – you could use either
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Example 2
D, E, F, G and H are points on the circumference of a circle. 𝐺 = 𝑥 + 20 and 𝐻 = 2𝑥 +
10 . 𝐷𝐸//𝐹𝐺.
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Theorems with tangents
Notes
No matter where the tangent is, it will always
be perpendicular to a radius that it meets at
the circumference.
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Theorem Acceptable abbreviated form
A tangent to a circle is perpendicular to the radius rad⏊tan
at the point of contact.
Two tangents drawn to a circle from the same point tans from common point
outside the circle are equal in length
The angle between the tangent to a circle and a tan chord theorem
chord drawn from the point of contact is equal to
the angle in the alternate segment.
Only the first and last of these three theorems have a converse.
If a line is perpendicular to the radius at the point where it meets the circumference then the
line is a tangent.
The converse of the tan-chord theorem is a little more complicated. Essentially, if the angle
formed by a chord and a line drawn at its endpoint is equal to an angle subtended by the
chord in the opposite segment, then the line must be a tangent to the circle.
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A common question in many assessments involves proving that a line is a tangent to three
points (forming a triangle).
To prove a line is a tangent to 3 points, note the following diagram:
This would be what you will see as part of the diagram in which you are asked to prove that
the line is a tangent to an unseen circle. In other words, the three points forming the triangle
are all points on a circumfetrence.
In an assessment, shade the triangle mentioned then decide which angles should be equal.
This will put your focus on what needs to be proved. You would only need to find one pair.
Important: Remember that you cannot use the tan-chord theorem. You would need to find
other reasons why those angles are equal.
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Examples with tangent theorems included
Example 1
In the diagram, the vertices A, B and C of ∆ABC are concyclic. EB and EC are tangents to
the circle at B and C respectively. T is a point on AB such that 𝑇𝐸//𝐴𝐶. BC cuts TE in F.
a) Prove that 𝐵 = 𝑇
b) Prove that 𝑇𝐵𝐸𝐶 is a cyclic quadrilateral.
c) Prove that ET bisects 𝐵𝑇𝐶
d) If it is given that TB is a tangent to the circle through B, F and E, prove that 𝑇𝐵 =
𝑇𝐶.
e) Hence, prove that T is the centre of the circle through A, B and C.
NSC NOV 2015
Notes
Is there any information in the question that needs transferring onto the diagram or
anything you can fill in that you already know? (alternate angles equal; corresponding
angles equal; tan-chord; equal tangents)
Be aware of what has been given and what has not. Many learners make the error of
thinking 𝐶 = 90 because it ‘looks like’ AB is a diameter.
(a) You should have already marked 𝐵 = 𝐴 (tan chord) which leads to the
corresponding angles on the parallel lines.
(b) Shade the quad. What the three ways are to do this? As you think of each one,
consider which method seems the most likely to be used.
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(c) What does ‘bisects’ mean? What angles do we need to prove equal to answer this
question (𝑇 = 𝑇 ). Remember that you have proved that TBEC s a cyclic quad so
this may be useful.
(d) What angles need to be equal for TB to equal TC? (𝐵 & 𝐶 ).
Don’t forget about the cyclic quad that has been proved.
(e) Note the word ‘hence. It means ‘use what you have just proved’.
In other words, the fact that 𝐵𝑇 = 𝑇𝐶 should be useful to answer this question.
Solution:
a) 𝐵 = 𝐴 tan-chord theorem
𝑇 =𝐴 𝑇𝐸//𝐴𝐶; corres <’s
∴𝐵 =𝑇
b) 𝐵𝐸 = 𝐶𝐸 tans from common pt
and 𝐵 = 𝑇
∴𝑇 =𝐶
converse <’s same segment
∴ 𝑇𝐵𝐸𝐶 is a cyclic quad
c) 𝐵 = 𝑇 proved above
𝐵 =𝑇 <’s in same segment
∴𝑇 =𝑇
∴ ET bisects 𝐵𝑇𝐶
d) 𝐵 = 𝐸 tan chord theorem
𝐶 =𝐸 <’s in same segment
∴𝐵 =𝐶
∴ 𝑇𝐵 = 𝑇𝐶 sides opp equal <’s
e) In ∆𝑇𝐴𝐶:
𝐴=𝑇 𝑇𝐸//𝐴𝐶; corres <’s
𝑇 =𝑇 Proved above
𝑇 =𝐶 𝑇𝐸//𝐴𝐶; alt <’s
∴𝐴=𝐶
∴ 𝑇𝐴 = 𝑇𝐶 sides opp equal <’s
But 𝑇𝐶 = 𝑇𝐵
∴ 𝑇𝐴 = 𝑇𝐶 = 𝑇𝐵
∴ T is the centre of the circle
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Example 2
In the diagram, PQ is a tangent to the circle QST at Q such that QT is a chord of the circle
and TS produced meets the tangent at P. R is a point on QT such that PQRS is a cyclic
quadrilateral in another circle. PR, QS and RS are joined.
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(c) Advice: shade the triangle given and highlight the line. Check that the diagram looks
similar to the one on page 33 where this was discussed. Note that the line doesn’t cross
over both sides in this case which makes it easier – there is only one possible pair of
angles to focus on. Ask yourself which angles those are (𝑅 = 𝑇)
Solution:
a) (i) tan-chord theorem
(ii) <’s in same segment
b) Let 𝑄 = 𝑇 = 𝑎
and 𝑄 = 𝑃 = 𝑏
∴ 𝑃𝑄 𝑅 = 𝑎 + 𝑏
𝑅 =𝑎+𝑏 Ext < of ∆𝑃𝑅𝑇
∴ 𝑃𝑄 𝑅 = 𝑅
∴ 𝑃𝑄 = 𝑃𝑅
∴ ∆𝑃𝑄𝑅 is isosceles
c) 𝑅 = 𝑄 = 𝑎
𝑇=𝑎
∴𝑅 =𝑇
∴ PR is a tangent to the circle RST at
point R
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Fully worked examples using all theorems
Example 1
a) In the diagram below, O is the centre of the circle and point T lies on chord RS.
Prove the theorem which states that if 𝑂𝑇⏊𝑅𝑇𝑆 then 𝑅𝑇 = 𝑇𝑆.
b) In the diagram, O is the centre of circle ABD. F is a point on chord AB such that
𝐷𝑂𝐹⏊𝐴𝐵.
𝐴𝐵 = 𝐹𝐷 = 8 𝑐𝑚 and 𝑂𝐹 = 𝑥 cm.
Notes
(a) If you know your theory this question should present no problems. However, even
if you don’t manage to prove a theorem asked, you should still attempt the second
part of the question which will be directly related to the theorem needing to be
proved.
(b) Read the question carefully and fill in any possible information onto the diagram.
What do you know about AB if a line is drawn from the centre that is perpendicular
to the chord? (𝐴𝐹 = 𝐹𝐵). As the length of 𝐴𝐵 was given, this means 𝐴𝐹 and 𝐹𝐵 are
also known.
If this doesn’t help: Do you know 𝑂𝐷 which is the radius and is therefore equal to
𝑂𝐵?
You may not know 𝑂𝐷 directly but it can be given an expression because the
length of 𝐹𝐷 was given and 𝑂𝐹 is ‘known’. If an equation can be made with only
one unknown, then it can be solved.
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Solution:
a)
GIVEN: Circle with centre O and chord RS. 𝑂𝑇⏊𝑅𝑆.
RTP: 𝑅𝑇 = 𝑇𝑆
PROOF:
Statement Reason
Join OR and OS
In ∆𝑅𝑂𝑇 and ∆𝑆𝑂𝑇
𝑂𝑅 = 𝑂𝑆 Radii
𝑂𝑇 = 𝑂𝑇 Common
𝑇 = 𝑇 = 90 Given
∴ ∆𝑅𝑂𝑇 ≡ ∆𝑆𝑂𝑇 RHS
∴ 𝑅𝑇 = 𝑇𝑆
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Example 2
M is the centre of the circle SVQR having equal chords SV and QR. RP and QP are
tangents to the circle at R and Q respectively such that 𝑅𝑃𝑄 = 70 .
Notes
Read the question carefully and fill in any possible information onto the diagram.
(Centre given therefore equal radii; equal tangents from common point; 𝑀 = 𝑀 because
of equal angles from equal chords; a radius meeting a tangent therefore there are right
angles)
(a) Note that the equal tangents form an isosceles triangle.
(b) 𝑄 will be known if 𝑅 is known and 𝑀𝑄⏊𝑄𝑃
(c) If 𝑄 is known, 𝑅 is known (isosceles) and therefore 𝑀 can be calculated (<’s of
triangle). This leads directly to 𝑀 .
Solution:
a) 𝑃𝑄 = 𝑃𝑅 tans from common pt
∴𝑅 =𝑄 <’s opp equal sides
𝑅 + 𝑄 + 70 = 180 <’s of ∆
∴ 𝑅 = 55
b) 𝑄 = 55 proved above
𝑄 + 𝑄 = 90 tan⏊rad
∴ 𝑄 = 35
c) 𝑅 = 35 <’s opp equal sides
𝑀 + 35 + 35 = 180 <’s of ∆
∴ 𝑀 = 110
∴ 𝑀 = 110 equal chords; equal <’s
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Example 3
In the diagram below, O is the centre of the circle. CDE is a tangent to the circle at D. DB
bisects 𝐴𝐵𝐶. Let 𝐵 = 𝑥.
Notes
Read the question carefully and fill in any possible information onto the diagram.
What do you know because a tangent is given? What does ‘bisects’ mean? What do you
know if the centre has been given?
(label 𝐵 ; mark radius ⏊tangent; mark equal radii; mark 𝐵 = 𝐵 (𝑥))
(a) What would be true if the lines were parallel? This should give a clue of what
angles need to be proved equal. Equal angles: 𝐵 and 𝐷 OR 𝑂 and 𝐵 + 𝐵
Supplementary angles: 𝐵 ; 𝐵 ; 𝑂 OR 𝐷 ; 𝐷 ; 𝐶
As each of these are looked at, consider the merits and possibility of each one.
(b) Remember that by now the lines will have been proved parallel. How does this
help? (tan⏊rad; co-int <’s)
Solution:
a) 𝐷 = 𝑥 <’s opp equal sides
𝐵 =𝑥 Given
∴𝐵 =𝐷
∴ 𝐵𝐶//𝑂𝐷 alt <’s equal
b) 𝑂𝐷 𝐶 = 90 tan⏊rad
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Example 4
In the diagram below two circles touch each other externally at point P. QPR is a common
tangent to both circles at P. EDRC is a tangent to circle PBFC at C.
𝑅𝐶 𝐴 = 𝑦 and 𝐷𝐴𝐶 = 𝑥. 𝐴𝐷//𝐵𝐶.
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The second piece of information is also a tangent. Focus only on that and think through
the three theorems and mark any equal angles.
The third piece of information is about parallel lines. Think about the three theorems you
know dealing with parallel lines and mark any information as such.
Use the 𝑥 and 𝑦 labels where possible.
Remember to consider other theorems (any circle theorems that don’t require the centre
may be useful as well as Grade 8 theorems).
(a) If you have taken time marking all equal angles that you know you should have found
all 4.
(b) This may be a little difficult to see. Remembering your Grade 8 theorems is always
useful and worth going through in your mind asking yourself if there is any connection.
You need to notice that 𝑃 is in fact the exterior angle to ∆𝑃𝐸.
(c) Focus your attention on what you know about cyclic quadrilaterals – both theorems will
be useful. Advice: shade the cyclic quadrilateral so it stands out. This may also help you to
notice exterior angles.
Since a numerical value is required (and none were given), this implies that an equation
will be needed in order to solve for the variables 𝑥 + 𝑦.
Solution:
a) 𝐶 =𝑥 𝐴𝐷//𝐵𝐶; alt <’s equal
𝑃 =𝑥 tan chord theorem
𝑃 =𝑥 vert opp <’s equal
b) 𝑃 = 𝐸 + 𝐶 ext < of ∆
∴𝑃 =𝑥+𝑦
c) 𝑃 = 𝑥 + 𝑦 ext < cyclic quad
𝑃 + 𝑃 + 𝑃 + 𝑃 = 180 <’s on str line
∴ 𝑥 + 𝑦 + 𝑥 + 𝑦 + 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 180
∴ 3𝑥 + 3𝑦 = 180
∴ 3(𝑥 + 𝑦) = 180
∴ 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 60
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There should be 21 theorems in total including the converses and corollaries.
The proofs of some theorems are required for examination purposes. Ensure you know
which of the following you need to know depending on whether you are writing a DBE or an
IEB exam.
Some are asked more often than others. Hints for those are given after the proofs below.
You need to know your proofs well and if you remember the hint words, it should help you on
the day of the examination.
Proof for: The perpendicular drawn from the centre of a circle to a chord bisects the chord
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Proof for: The perpendicular bisector of a chord passes through the centre of the circle.
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Proof for: The angle subtended by an arc at the centre of a circle is double the size of the
angle subtended by the same arc at the circle.
Start with this basic representation of the theorem:
GIVEN: Circle with centre O and A, B and C are all points on the circumference.
RTP: 𝐵𝑂 𝐶 = 2 × 𝐵𝐴𝐶
PROOF: Join AO and produce to D. Let 𝐵𝐴𝑂 = 𝑥 and 𝐶𝐴𝑂 = 𝑦
Statement Reason
𝐴𝐵𝐷 = 𝑥 and 𝐴𝐶 𝐷 = 𝑦 Radii (𝐴𝑂 = 𝐵𝑂 and 𝐴𝑂 = 𝑂𝐶)
𝐵𝑂 𝐷 = 2𝑥 Ext < of ∆𝐴𝐵𝑂
𝐶𝑂𝐷 = 2𝑦 Ext < of ∆𝐴𝐶𝑂
∴ 𝐵𝑂𝐷 + 𝐶𝑂𝐷 = 2𝑥 + 2𝑦
∴ 𝐵𝑂𝐶 = 2(𝑥 + 𝑦)
∴ 𝐵𝑂𝐶 = 2 × 𝐵𝐴𝐶
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Proof for: Angles subtended by a chord of the circle, on the same side of a chord, are equal
GIVEN: Circle with centre O and A, B, C and D all points on the circumference.
RTP: 𝐶 = 𝐷
PROOF: Join OA and OB
Statement Reason
𝐴𝑂𝐵 = 2𝐶 < at centre = 2 × < at circumference
𝐴𝑂𝐵 = 2𝐷 < at centre = 2 × < at circumference
∴ 2𝐵 = 2𝐷
∴𝐵=𝐷
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Proof for: The opposite angles of a cyclic quadrilateral are supplementary
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Proof for: Two tangents drawn to a circle from the same point outside the circle are equal in
length.
Statement Reason
In ∆𝑂𝑇𝑃 and ∆𝑂𝑆𝑃
𝑂𝑇 = 𝑂𝑆 radii
𝑂𝑃 = 𝑂𝑃 common
𝑂𝑇𝑃 = 𝑂𝑆𝑃 = 90 tan⏊rad
∴ ∆𝑂𝑇𝑃 ≡ ∆𝑂𝑆𝑃 RHS
∴ 𝑃𝑇 = 𝑃𝑆
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Proof for: The angle between the tangent to a circle and a chord drawn from the point of
contact is equal to the angle in the alternate segment.
Statement Reason
𝐵 + 𝐵 = 90 tan⏊rad
𝐸 + 𝐸 = 90 < in semi-circle
∴ 𝐵 +𝐵 = 𝐸 +𝐸
but 𝐵 =𝐸 <’s in same segment
∴𝐵 =𝐸
∴ 𝐶𝐵𝐷 = 𝐵𝐸 𝐷
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Further reading, listening or viewing activities related to this topic are available on the
following web links:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5WB1911rBz4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r95396R1jj4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUus6-9E9sQ&t=59s
http://www.vocfm.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/GEOMETRY_GRADE-11_12.pdf
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Summary of main theorems used:
The perpendicular line from the centre of a The line from the centre to the midpoint of a
chord bisects the chord chord is perpendicular to the chord
The angle at the centre of a circle is twice the angle at the circumference of a circle
The angle in a semi-circle is always a right Angles subtended by a chord (or arc) in the
angle same segment are equal
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Opposite angles of a cyclic quadrilateral are The exterior angle of a cyclic quadrilateral
supplementary is equal to the opposite interior angle
𝑎 + 𝑐 = 180 𝑏 + 𝑑 = 180
A tangent is perpendicular to the radius The angle between a tangent and a chord
is equal to the angle subtended by the
chord in the opposite segment
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Tips to consider when you’re stuck…
sides equal: look for the two angles that should be equal. If this doesn’t seem possible,
use congruency if the angles are in 2 different triangles.
that a quad is a cyclic quad: look for
(i) ext < = to opp int <
(ii) opp <’s = 180
(iii) line subtends equal <’s
2 lines parallel: look for
(i) alt <’s equal
(ii) corres <’s equal
(iii) co-int <’s = 180
that a line is a tangent to an ‘invisible’ circle:
(i) look for the tan-chord theorem ‘diagram’ and prove the appropriate angles equal
Parallel lines: you WILL use either The centre of a circle: Look for:
(i) alt <’s (i) < in semi-circle
(ii) corres <’s (ii) < at centre = 2x < at circ
(iii) co-int <’s (iii) radius / chord (perp)
A cyclic quad: Look for: Tangent: Look for:
(i) ext < = int opp < (i) tan/chord
(ii) opp <’s = 180 (ii) tan ⏊ rad (or diameter)
(iii) <’s in same segment
2 tangents from same point:
Mark them equal and look for equal angles from isosceles triangle formed.
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Investigation to gain a better understanding of the theorems and why they work
There are two parts to this investigation. Part A requires you to recall the parts of a circle that will be
used in Part B. Part B will lead you, step by step, to discovering the new theorems that you are
required to know in Grade 11.
PART A
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An important word to understand:
Form a triangle ABC from each of these line segments. The first one has been done for you.
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PART B
Follow the steps with each diagram of a circle. You will need a ruler, a protractor and a pencil/pen.
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ii. Mark off two points on the
circumference. Label them A and
B
Mark the centre, O
Join A to O and B to O (you have
formed an ‘angle at the centre’)
Mark a point C on the
circumference (preferably in the
major arc formed by A and B)
Join A to C and B to C ( you have
formed an ‘angle at the
circumference’)
It is important to note that the angle
formed at the centre is subtended from
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Can you use the results to complete the
following statement?
Note that this theorem is directly linked to the previous one. In this case, the angle at the centre is a
straight line and therefore measures 180 . Since this angle should be twice the size as the angle at
the circumference, the angle at the circumference should therefore measure 90 .
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iv. Mark two points on the
circumference. Label them A and
B
Mark another two points on the
circumfernce. Label them C and
D
Join A to C and B to C (note that
you have subtended an angle
from arc AB)
Join A to D and B to D (note that
you have subtended another
angle from arc AB)
Measure the two angles
𝐶 = ________ 𝐷 = ________
Measure the angles at 𝐴 and 𝐵
(note that these two angles are
both subtended from arc CD)
𝐴 = ________ 𝐵 = ________
Use the circle below to repeat the process before coming to a conclusion. Make the chord longer or
shorter than before
________________________________
________________________________
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v. Mark off four points on the
circumference. Label them A, B,
C and D
Join the points to form a
quadrilateral ABCD
Measure each of the four angles
𝐴 = _______ 𝐵 = _______
𝐶 = _______ 𝐷 = _______
Draw another quadrilateral
(PQRS) and repeat the steps
Your new quadrilateral can overlap the
other one
𝑃 = _______ 𝑄 = _______
𝑅 = _______ 𝑆 = _______
Note: All four points that make each of the quadrilaterals you have drawn are on the circumference
of a circle. This makes the quadrilateral a CYCLIC quadrilateral.
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Remember to always label (and join the sides) in alpahbetical order.
Use the circle below to repeat the process before coming to a conclusion.
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vii. Mark a point on the
circumference and label it P
Mark the centre, O and join to P
(radius)
Draw in a tangent at P
Measure the angles formed at P
Draw in another radius, OM
Draw in a tangent at M
Measure the angles formed at M
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This can be a difficult theorem to understand. Repeat the process in the circle below:
The angle between a ____________________ to a circle and a chord drawn from the point of
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ix.
Mark two points on the circumference, B and C (it would be easier if they were on the
bottom part of the circle in this diagram)
Draw in two tangents, one at B and one at C meeting at a shared point outside the circle,
A
Measure the length of AB and the length of AC
If two tangents are drawn from the same _____________ outside a circle, then they will
be ______________ in length.
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