Q. 3.

A tangent PQ at a point P of a circle of radius 5 cm meets a line through the centre O at a point
Q so that OQ = 12 cm. Length of PQ is:
(A) 12 cm (B) 13 cm

(C) 8.5 cm (D) 119 cm

Sol. Since PQ = OQ 2 − OP 2

= 12 2 − 5 2

= 144 − 25

= 119
∴ The option (D) is correct.
Q. 4. Draw a circle and two lines parallel to a given line such that one is a tangent and the other a secant
to the circle.
Sol. We have the required figure.
Here, l is the given line and a circle with centre O is drawn.

The line PT is drawn which is parallel to l and tangent to the circle.

Also, AB is drawn parallel to line l and is a secant to the circle.

z Number of Tangents from a Point on a Circle

I. There is no tangent to a circle passing through a point lying inside the circle.
II. There is one and only one tangent to a circle passing through a point lying on the circle.
III. There are exactly two tangents to a circle through a point lying outside the circle.
Theorem 2
The lengths of tangents drawn from an external point to a circle are equal.
[NCERT Exemplar, (CBSE 2010, 2011, 2014, CBSE Foreign 2014)]
Given: We have a circle with centre O and a point P lying outside the circle. Two tangents PQ and
PR on the circle from P.
To Prove: PR = PQ
Construction: Join OP, OQ and OR
Proof: ä OQ is a radius and PQ is a tangent.
∴ ∠PQO = 90°
Similarly, ∠PRO = 90°
Now, in right Δ OQP and right Δ ORP, we have:
OP = OP [Common]
R

P O

Q
OQ = OR [Radii of the same circle]
∠PQO = ∠PRO [As Proved above]
⇒ Δ OQP ≅ Δ ORP [R.H.S.]
∴ Their corresponding parts are equal.
⇒ PQ = PR

NCERT TEXTBOOK QUESTIONS SOLVED

EXERCISE 10.2
Q. 1. Choose the correct option:
From a point Q, the length of the tangent to a circle is 24 cm and the distance of Q from the centre
is 25 cm. The radius of the circle is
T
(A) 7 cm (B) 12 cm
m
(C) 15 cm (D) 24.5 cm 24 c
Sol. ä QT is a tangent to the circle at T and OT is
radius Q 25 cm O
Also, OQ = 25 cm and QT = 24 cm
∴ Using Pythagoras theorem, we get
OQ2 = QT2 + OT2
⇒ OT2 = OQ2 − QT2
= 252 − 242 = (25 − 24) (25 + 24)
= 1 × 49 = 49 = 72
⇒ OT = 7
Thus, the required radius is 7 cm.
∴ The correct option is (A).
Q. 2. Choose the correct option:
T
In figure, if TP and TQ are the two tangents to a circle with centre P
O so that ∠POQ = 110°, then ∠PTQ is equal to
(A) 60° (B) 70° 110°
(C) 80° (D) 90° Q
O
Sol. ä TQ and TP are tangents to a circle with centre O.
such that ∠ POQ = 110°
∴ OP ⊥ PT and OQ ⊥ QT
 ⇒ ∠OPT = 90° and ∠OQT = 90°
Now, in the quadrilateral TPOQ, we get
∴ ∠PTQ + 90° + 110° + 90° = 360°
⇒ ∠PTQ + 290° = 360°
⇒ ∠PTQ = 360° − 290° = 70°
Thus, the correct option is (B).
Q. 3. Choose the correct option:
If tangents PA and PB from a point P to a circle with centre O are inclined to each other at angle
of 80°, then ∠POA is equal to
(A) 50° (B) 60° (C) 70° (D) 80°
Sol. Since, O is the centre of the circle and two tangents from P to the circle are PA and PB.
∴ OA ⊥ AP and OB ⊥ BP
⇒ ∠OAP = ∠OBP = 90° A
Now, in quadrilateral PAOB, we have:
∠APB + ∠PAO + ∠AOB + ∠PBO = 360°
⇒ 80° + 90° + ∠AOB + 90° = 360° P
⇒ 260° + ∠AOB = 360° O
⇒ ∠AOB = 360° − 260°
⇒ ∠AOB = 100°.
In rt Δ OAP and rt Δ OBP, we have B
OP = OP [Common]
∠OAP = ∠OBP [Each = 90°]
OA = OB [Radii of the same circle]
∴ Δ OAP ≅ Δ OBP
∴ Their corresponding parts are equal
⇒ ∠POA = ∠POB
1 1
∴ ∠POA = ∠AOB = × 100° = 50° .
2 2
Thus, the option (A) is correct.

Q. 4. Prove that the tangents drawn at the ends of a diameter of a circle are parallel.
[CBSE 2012, CBSE Foreign 2014]
Sol. In the figure, we have:
PQ is diameter of the given circle and O is its centre.
Let tangents AB and CD be drawn at the end points of the diameter PQ.
Since the tangent at a point to a circle is perpendicular to the radius through the point.
∴ PQ ⊥ AB ⇒ ∠APQ = 90°
C Q D

A P B
 And PQ ⊥ CD ⇒ ∠PQD = 90°
⇒ ∠APQ = ∠PQD
But they form a pair of alternate angles.
∴ AB y CD.

Q. 5. Prove that the perpendicular at the point of contact to the tangent to a circle passes through the centre.
Sol. In the figure, the centre of the circle is O and tangent AB touches the circle at P.
If possible, let PQ be perpendicular to AB such that it is not passing through O.
Join OP.
Since tangent at a point to a circle is perpendicular to the radius through that point,
∴ AB ⊥ OP i.e. ∠OPB = 90° ...(1)
But by construction,
AB ⊥ PQ ⇒ ∠QPB = 90° ...(2)
From (1) and (2),
∠QPB = ∠OPB
which is possible only when O and Q coincide.
Thus, the perpendicular at the point of contact
to the tangent passes through the centre.

Q. 6. The length of a tangent from a point A at distance 5 cm from the centre of the circle is 4 cm. Find
the radius of the circle.
Sol. ä The tangent to a circle is perpendicular to the radius through the point of contact.
∴ ∠OTA = 90°
T
Now, in the right Δ OTA, we have:
OP2 = OT2 + PT2 4 cm

⇒ 5 2 = OT2 + 42 A
⇒ OT2 = 52 − 42 5 cm
O
⇒ 2
OT = (5 − 4) (5 + 4)
⇒ OT2 = 1 × 9 = 9 = 32
⇒ OT = 3
Thus, the radius of the circle is 3 cm.
Q. 7. Two concentric circles are of radii 5 cm and 3 cm. Find the length of the chord of the larger circle
which touches the smaller circle.
Sol. In the figure, O is the common centre, of the given
concentric circles.
AB is a chord of the bigger circle such that it is a
tangent to the smaller circle at P.
O
Since OP is the radius of the smaller circle through 5 cm 3 cm
P, the point of contact, A B
P
∴ OP ⊥ AB
⇒ ∠APB = 90°
Also, a radius perpendicular to a chord bisects the chord.

152 Mathematics–X
 1
∴ OP bisects AB ⇒ AP = AB
2
Now, in right Δ APO,
OA2 = AP2 − OP2
⇒ 52 = AP2 − 32
⇒ AP2 = 52 − 32
⇒ AP2 = (5 − 3) (5 + 3) = 2 × 8
⇒ AP2 = 16 = (4)2
⇒ AP = 4 cm
1
⇒ AB = 4 ⇒ AB = 2 × 4 = 8 cm
2
Hence, the required length of the chord AB is 8 cm.
Q. 8. A quadrilateral ABCD is drawn to circumscribe a circle (see figure). Prove that:
AB + CD = AD + BC [CBSE (Foreign) 2014, CBSE 2012] (AI CBSE 2008 C)
Sol. Since the sides of quadrilateral ABCD, i.e., AB, BC, CD and DA
touch the circle at P, Q, R and S respectively, and the lengths of
two tangents to a circle from an external point are equal.
∴ AP = AS
BP = BQ
DR = DS
CR = CQ
Adding them, we get
(AP + BP) + (CR + RD) = (BQ + QC) + (DS + SA)
⇒ AB + CD = BC + DA
which was to be proved.

Q. 9. In the figure, XY and X′Y′ are two parallel tangents to a circle with centre O and another tangent
AB with point of contact C intersecting XY at A and X′Y′ at B. Prove that ∠AOB = 90°.
X P Y
A

O
C

X¢ Y¢
Q B
[CBSE 2012]
Sol. ä The tangents drawn to a circle from an external point are equal.
∴ AP = AC
In Δ PAO and Δ AOC, we have:
AO = AO [Common]
OP = OC [Radii of the same circle]
AP = AC
 ⇒ Δ PAO ≅ Δ AOC [SSS Congruency]
∴ ∠PAO = ∠CAO
∠PAC = 2 ∠CAO ...(1)
Similarly ∠CBQ = 2 ∠CBO ...(2)
Again, we know that sum of internal angles on the same side of a transversal is 180°.
∴ ∠PAC + ∠CBQ = 180°
⇒ 2 ∠CAO + 2 ∠CBO = 180° [From (1) and (2)]
180°
⇒ ∠CAO + ∠CBO = = 90° ...(3)
2
Also ∠CAO + ∠CBO + ∠AOB = 180° [Sum of angles of a triangle]
⇒ 90° + ∠AOB = 180°
⇒ ∠AOB = 180° − 90°
⇒ ∠AOB = 90°.
Q. 10. Prove that the angle between the two tangents drawn from an external point to a circle is
supplementary to the angle subtended by the line-segment joining the points of contact at the
centre.
Sol. Here, let PA and PB be two tangents drawn from an external point P to a circle
with centre O.
A

P B

Now, in right Δ OAP and right Δ OBP, we have

PA = PB [Tangents to circle from an external point P]
OA = OB [Radii of the same circle]
OP = OP [Common]
∴ By SSS congruency,
Δ OAP ≅ Δ OBP
∴ Their corresponding parts are equal.
∴ ∠OAA = ∠OPB
And ∠AOP = ∠BOP
⇒ ∠APB = 2 ∠OPA and ∠AOB = 2 ∠AOP
But ∠AOP = 90° − ∠OPA
⇒ 2 ∠AOP = 180° − 2 ∠OPA
⇒ ∠AOB = 180° − ∠APB
⇒ ∠AOB + ∠APB = 180°.
Q. 11. Prove that the parallelogram circumscribing a circle is a rhombus. (CBSE 2012, CBSE Delhi 2014)
Sol. We have ABCD, a parallelogram which circumscribes a
circle (i.e., its sides touch the circle) with centre O.
Since tangents to a circle from an external point are equal in length,
∴ AP = AS
BP = BQ D

CR = CQ
DR = DS
S
Adding, we get
R
(AP + BP) + (CR + DR) = (AS + DS) + (BQ + CQ) A O
⇒ AB + CD = AD + BC C
P
But AB = CD [opposite sides of ABCD]
Q
and BC = AD
∴ AB + CD = AD + BC ⇒ 2 AB = 2 BC
⇒ AB = BC
Similarly AB = DA and DA = CD B
Thus, AB = BC = CD = AD
Hence ABCD is a rhombus.
A
Q. 12. A triangle ABC is drawn to circumscribe a circle of radius 4 cm
such that the segments BD and DC into which BC is divided
by the point of contact D are of lengths 8 cm and 6 cm
respectively (see figure). Find the sides AB and AC. E
F
[CBSE 2012] O
Sol. Here Δ ABC subscribe the circle with centre O.
Also, radius = 4 cm C B
ä The sides BC, CA and AB touch the circle at D, E and 6 cm D 8 cm
F respectively.
∴ BF = BD = 8 cm
CE = CD = 6 cm A
AF = AE = x cm (say) x cm
x cm
⇒ The sides of the triangle are:
14 cm, (x + 6) cm and (x + 8) cm
Perimeter of Δ ABC
O 8 cm
= [14 + (x + 6) + (x + 8)] cm 6 cm

= [14 + 6 + 8 + 2x] cm
B
= 28 + 2x cm C
6 cm D 8 cm
⇒ Semi perimeter of Δ ABC
1
S= [28 + 2x] cm = (14 + x) cm
2
∴ S − AB = (14 + x) − (8 + x) = 6
S − BC = (14 + x) − (14) = x
S − AC = (14 + x) − (16 + x) = 8
∴ Area of Δ ABC = b gb gb
S S − AB S − BC S − AC g = b14 + xga6faxfa8f cm 2
 = b14 + xg 48x cm2 ...(1)
1
Now, ar (Δ OBC) = × BC × OD
2
1
= × 14 × 4 [ä OD = Radius]
2
= 28 cm2
1 1
ar (Δ OCA) = CA × OE = × (x + 6) × 4
2 2
1
= × 4 (x + 6) = (2x + 12) cm2
2
1 1
ar (Δ OAB) = × AB × OF = × (x + 8) × 4
2 2
= (2x + 16) cm2
∴ ar (Δ ABC) = ar (Δ OBC) + ar (Δ OCA) + ar (Δ OAB)
= 28 cm2 + (2x + 12) cm2 + (2x + 16) cm2
= (28 + 12 + 16) + 4x cm2
= (56 + 4x) cm2 ...(2)
From (1) and (2), we have:
56 + 4x = b14 + xg 48x
4 [14 + x] = 4 b14 + x g × 3 x

⇒ 14 + x = b14 + xg 3x
Squaring both sides
(14 + x)2 = (14 + x) 3x
⇒ 196 + x2 + 28x = 42x + 3x2
⇒ 2x2 + 14x − 196 = 0 ⇒ x2 + 7x − 98 = 0
⇒ (x − 7) (x + 14) = 0
⇒ Either x − 7 = 0 ⇒ x = 7
or x + 14 = 0 ⇒ x = (−14)
But x = (− 14) is not required
∴ x = 7 cm
Thus, AB = 8 + 7 = 15 cm
BC = 8 + 6 = 14 cm
CA = 6 + 7 = 13 cm.

Q. 13. Prove that opposite sides of a quadrilateral circumscribing a circle subtend supplementary angles
at the centre of the circle. [CBSE 2012]
Sol. We have a circle with centre O.
A quadrilateral ABCD is such that the sides AB, BC, CD and DA touch the circle at P, Q,
R and S respectively.
Let us join OP, OQ, OR and OS. We know that two tangents drawn from an external point
to a circle subtend equal angles at the centre.
 ∴ ∠1 = ∠2
∠3 = ∠4
∠5 = ∠6 and ∠7 = ∠8 D

Also, the sum of all the angles around a point is 360°.

∴ ∠1 + ∠2 + ∠3 + ∠4 + ∠5 + ∠6 + ∠7 + ∠8 = 360°
∴ 2 [∠1 + ∠8 + ∠5 + ∠4] = 360°
⇒ (∠1 + ∠8 + ∠5 + ∠4) = 180° (1)
And 2 [∠2 + ∠3 + ∠6 + ∠7] = 360°
S
⇒ (∠2 + ∠3) + (∠6 + ∠7) = 180° (2)
Since, ∠2 + ∠3 = ∠AOB 8
O
∠6 + ∠7 = ∠COD 1 7
R
A
∠1 + ∠8 = ∠AOD 2 6
5
∠4 + ∠5 = ∠BOC 3 4

∴ From (1) and (2), we have: P C

∠AOD + ∠BOC = 180° and B
Q

∠AOB + ∠COD = 180°

MORE QUESTIONS SOLVED

I. VERY SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS
Q. 1. In the adjoining figure, PA and PB are tangents from P to a circle with centre C. If ∠APB = 40°
then find ∠ACB.
Sol. Since a tangent to a circle is perpendicular
to the radius through the point of contact,
∴ ∠1 = 90° and ∠2 = 90°
Now, in quadrilateral APBC, we have: A
∠1 + ∠ACB + ∠2 + ∠P = 360° 1
⇒ 90° + ∠ACB + 90° + 40° = 360°
C
⇒ ∠ACB + 220° = 360° 40° P

⇒ ∠ACB = 360° − 220° 2

= 140°. B

Q. 2. In the given figure, PA and PB are tangents from P to a circle with centre O. If ∠AOB = 130°,
then find ∠APB.
Sol. Since a tangent to a circle is
perpendicular to the radius through A
the point of contact, 1
∴ ∠1 = ∠2 = 90°
O 130°
Now, in quadrilateral AOBP, we have: P

∠1 + ∠AOB + ∠2 + ∠APB = 360°

2
⇒ 90° + 130° + 90° + ∠APB = 360° B
 ⇒ 310° + ∠APB = 360°
⇒ ∠APB = 360 − 310 = 50°
Thus, ∠APB = 50°.
Q. 3. In the given figure, PT is a tangent to a circle whose centre is O. If PT = 12 cm and PO = 13
cm then find the radius of the circle.
T
Sol. Since a tangent to a circle is perpendicular
to the radius through the point of contact, r
12 cm
∴ ∠OTP = 90° O
In rt Δ OTP, using Pythagoras theorem, we get 13 c
m
OP2 = OT2 + PT2 P
⇒ 2
13 = OT + 122 2

⇒ OT2 = 132 − 122 = (13 − 12) (13 + 12) = 1 × 25 = 25

∴ OT2 = 5 2
⇒ OT = 5
Thus, radius (r) = 5 cm.
Q. 4. In the given figure, PT is a tangent to the circle and O is its centre. Find OP.
T

8 cm 15
cm

O
P

Sol. Since, a tangent to a circle is perpendicular to the radius through the point of contact.
∴ ∠OTP = 90°
In right Δ OTP, using Pythagoras theorem, we get
OP2 = OT2 + PT2
= 82 + 152 = 64 + 225 = 289 = 172
⇒ OP = 17 2 = 17 cm.
Q. 5. If O is the centre of the circle, then find the length of the tangent AB in the given figure.
A

6 cm

O B
10 cm

Sol. ä A tangent to a circle is perpendicular to the radius through the point of contact.
∴ ∠OAB = 90°
Now, in right Δ OAB, we have
OB2 = OA2 + AB2
⇒ 10 2 = 62 + AB2
⇒ AB2 = 102 − 62 = (10 − 6) (10 + 6) = 4 × 16 = 64 = 82
⇒ AB = 82 = 8 .
Q. 6. In the figure, PA is a tangent from an external point P to a circle with centre O. If ∠POB = 115°
then find ∠APO. (AI CBSE 2009 C)
A

P O

B
Sol. Here, PA is a tangent and OA is radius. Also, a radius through the point of contact is
perpendicular to the tangent.
∴ OA = PA
⇒ ∠PAO = 90°
In ΔOAP, ∠POB is an external angle,
∴ ∠APO + ∠PAO = ∠POB
⇒ ∠APO + 90° = 115°
⇒ ∠APO = 115° − 90° = 25°

Q. 7. In the following figure, PA and PB are tangents drawn from a point P to the circle with centre
O. If ∠APB = 60°, then what is ∠AOB? (CBSE 2009 C)
A
P

Sol. The radius of the circle through the point of contact is perpendicular to the tangent.
∴ OA ⊥ AP and OB ⊥ BP
⇒ ∠PAO = ∠PBO = 90°
Now, in quadrilateral OAPB,
∠OAP + ∠APB + ∠PBO + ∠AOB = 360°
90° + 60° + 90° + ∠AOB = 360°
⇒ ∠AOB + 240° = 360°
⇒ ∠AOB = 360° – 240° = 120°

Q. 8. In the figure, CP and CQ are tangents to a circle with centre O. ARB is another tangent touching
the circle at R. If QC = 11 cm, BC = 7 cm then find, the length of BR. (CBSE 2009)
P
A

O R C

B
Q
 Sol. ä Tangents drawn from an external point are equal,
∴ BQ = BR ...(1)
And CQ = CP
Since, BC + BQ = QC
⇒ 7 + BR = 11 [ä BQ = BR]
BR = 11 − 7 = 4 cm.
Q. 9. In the figure, ΔABC is circumscribing a circle. Find the length of BC. (AI CBSE 2009)
A

4 cm
11
Q cm
R
3 cm

B P C
Sol. Since tangents drawn from an external point to the circle are equal,
∴ AR = AQ = 4 cm ...(1)
BR = BP = 3 cm ...(2)
PC = QC ...(3)
∴ QC = AC − AQ
= 11 − 4 = 7 cm [From (1)]
BC = BP + PC [From (3)]
= 3 + QC
= (3 + 7) cm = 10 cm
Q. 10. In the figure, if ∠ATO = 40°, find ∠AOB. [AI CBSE 2008]
A

O
T

B
Sol. Since the tangent is perpendicular to the radius through the point of contact,
∴ ∠1 = ∠4 = 90°
Also, OA = OB [Radii of the same circle]
OT = OT [Common]
∴ ΔOAT ≅ ΔOBT [RHS congruency]
⇒ ∠3 = ∠2

A
4

O 3
40
2 5
T

1
B
 Now, in ΔOAT,
∠3 + ∠4 + ∠5 = 180°
⇒ ∠3 + 90° + 40° = 180°
⇒ ∠3 = 180° − 90° − 40° = 50°
⇒ ∠AOB = 50° + 50° = 100°.

Q. 11. From a point P, the length of the tangent to a circle is 15 cm and distance of P from the centre
of the circle is 17 cm, then what is the radius of the circle? [CBSE 2008 C]

A
15 c
m
r
P
O 17 cm

Sol. Since radius is perpendicular to the tangent through the point of contact,
∴ OA ⊥ AP
⇒ ∠OAP = 90°
In rt ΔOAP, we have:
OA2 + AP2 = OP2
⇒ r2 + (15)2 = (17)2
r2 = 172 − 152 = (17 − 15) (17 + 15) = 2 × 32 = 64
⇒ r = 64 = 8
Thus, radius = 8 cm.
Q. 12. The two tangents from an external point P to a circle with centre O are PA and PB. If
∠APB = 70°, then what is the value of ∠AOB? (AI CBSE 2008 C)
Sol. Since tangent is perpendicular to the radius through the point of contact.
∴ ∠1 = ∠2 = 90°
In quadrilateral OABP,
∠AOB + ∠1 + ∠2 + ∠APB = 360°
∠AOB + 90° + 90° + 70° = 360°

A
1

O 70° P

2
B

⇒ ∠AOB + 250° = 360°

⇒ ∠AOB = 360° − 250° = 110°
II. SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS
Q. 1. Prove that the tangents drawn at the ends of a chord of a circle make equal angles with the chord.
[NCERT Exemplar]
M
Sol.

1
L C
O
2

N
Let NM be a chord of a circle with centre C.
Let the tangents at M and N meet at O.
Q OM is a tangent at M
\ ∠OMC = 90° ...(1)
Similarly ∠ONC = 90° ...(2)
Since, CM = CN [Radii of the same circle]
\ In D CMN, ∠1 = ∠2
From (1) and (2), we have
–OMC – –1 = –ONC – –2
fi ∠OML = ∠ONL
Thus, tangents make equal angles with the chord.
Q. 2. Two concentric circles have a common centre O. The chord AB to
the bigger circle touches the smaller circle at P. If OP = 3 cm and
AB = 8 cm then find the radius of the bigger circle.
Sol. ä AB touches the smaller circle at P.
O
∴ OP ⊥ AB ⇒ ∠OPA = 90°
Now, AB is a chord of the bigger circle.
Since, the perpendicular from the centre to a chord, bisects A B
P
the chord,
∴ P is the mid-point of AB
8
⇒ AP = = 4 cm
2
In right Δ APO, we have
AO2 = OP2 + AP2
⇒ AO2 = 32 + 42
⇒ AO2 = 9 + 16 = 25 = 52

⇒ AO = 5 2 = 5 cm Q
Thus, the radius of the bigger circle is 5 cm.
Q. 3. In the given figure, O is the centre of the circle and
PQ is a tangent to it. If its circumference is 12π
O
cm, then find the length of the tangent.
Sol. ä Circumference of the circle = 12π cm
10
∴ 2π r = 12π cm
[ä r is the radius of the circle] P
 12 π
⇒ r = = 6 cm
2π
⇒ Radius of the circle = 6 cm = OQ
Since a tangent to circle is perpendicular to the radius through the point of contact,
∴ ∠OQP = 90°
Now, in rt Δ OQP, we have:
OQ2 + QP2 = OP2
⇒ 62 + QP2 = 10 2
⇒ QP2 = 102 − 62 = (10 − 6) (10 + 6) = 4 × 16 = 64 = 82
⇒ QP = 82 = 8
Thus, the length of the tangent is 8 cm.
Q. 4. Given two concentric circles of radii 10 cm and 6 cm. Find the
length of the chord of the larger circle which touches the other A
circle.
Sol. The chord AB touches the inner circle at P.
∴ AB is tangent to the inner circle. 6m
O P
⇒ OP ⊥ AB
[ä O is the centre and OP is radius
through the point of contact P] 10 m

∴ ∠OPB = 90°.
Now, in right Δ OPB, we have: B

OP2 + PB2 = OB2

⇒ 62 + PB2 = 10 2
⇒ PB2 = 102 − 62 = (10 − 6) × (10 + 6)
⇒ PB2 = 4 × 16
⇒ PB2 = 64 = 82
⇒ PB = 8 2 = 8 cm
ä The radius perpendicular to a chord bisects the chord.
∴ P is the mid-point of AB
∴ AB = 2 × PB = 2 × 8 = 16 cm.
Q. 5. Two tangents TP and TQ are drawn to a circle with centre O from an external point T. Prove that
∠PTQ = 2 ∠OPQ. (CBSE Sample Paper 2011)
P

O T

Q
Sol. ä Tangent to a circle is perpendicular to the radius through the point of contact.
In quadrilateral. OPTQ,
∠OPT + ∠OQT + ∠POQ + ∠PTQ = 360°
or 90° + 90° + ∠POQ + ∠PTQ = 360°
⇒ ∠POQ + ∠PTQ = 360° − 90° − 90° = 180° ...(1)
In Δ OPQ, ∠1 + ∠2 + ∠POQ = 180° ...(2)
 Since OP = OQ [Radii of the same circle]
⇒ ∠1 = ∠2 [Angles opposite to equal sides]
∴ ∠OPT = 90° = ∠OQT
∴ From (2), we have
∠1 + ∠1 + ∠POQ = 180°
⇒ 2 ∠1 + ∠POQ = 180° ...(3)
From (1) and (3), we have
2 ∠1 + ∠POQ = ∠POQ + ∠PTQ
⇒ 2 ∠1 = ∠PTQ
⇒ 2 ∠OPQ = ∠PTQ.
Q. 6. In the figure, the incircle of Δ ABC touches the sides BC, CA and AB at D, E and F respectively.
If AB = AC, prove that BD = CD.
Sol. Since the lengths of tangents drawn from an external point to a circle are equal,
∴ We have AF = AE
A
BF = BD
CD = CE
Adding them, we get F E

(AF + BF) + CD = (AE + CE) + BD

⇒ AB + CD = AC + BD
But AB = AC B D C (Given)
∴ CD = BD.
Q. 7. A circle is touching the side BC of a D ABC at P and touching AB and AC produced at Q and
R. Prove that:
1
AQ = (Perimeter of D ABC) [NCERT Exemplar CBSE 2011, 2012]
2
Sol. Since, the two tangents drawn to a circle from an
external point are equal. A

\ AQ = AR ...(1)
Similarly,
BQ = BP ...(2) P
B C
and CR = CP ...(3) Q R
Now, Perimeter of D ABC O

= AB + BC + AC
= AB + (BP + PC) + AC
= AB + (BQ + CR) + AC [From (2) and (3)]
= (AB + BQ) + (CR + AC)
= AQ + AR
= AQ + AQ [From (1)]
= 2AQ
1
fi AQ = (Perimeter D ABC)
2
Q. 8. In two concentric circles, a chord of the larger circle touches the smaller circle. If the length of this
chord is 8 cm and the diameter of the smaller circle is 6 cm, then find the diameter of the larger
circle. (CBSE 2009 C)
Sol. Let the common centre be O. Let AB be the chord of
the larger circle.
C
∴ AB = 8 cm
And CD is the diameter of the smaller circle i.e.,
CD = 6 cm O
1
⇒ OD = (6) = 3 cm
2 A
D
B
Join OA. D is the point of contact. 8 cm
∴ OD ⊥ AB
⇒ D is the mid point of AB
⇒ AD = 4 cm
Now, in right ΔADO, we have:
AO2 = AD2 + OD2
= 42 + 32 = 16 + 9 = 25 = 52
⇒ AO = 5 cm
⇒ 2AO = 2(5 cm) = 10 cm
∴ The diameter of the bigger circle is 10 cm.
Q. 9. In the following figure, PA and PB are two tangents drawn to a circle with centre O, from an
external point P such that PA = 5 cm and ∠APB = 60°. Find the length of chord AB.
(CBSE 2009 C)
A
5 cm

P 60° O

B
Sol. Since the tangents to a circle from an external point are equal,
∴ PA = PB = 5 cm
In ΔPAB, we have
∠PAB = ∠PBA [ä PA = PB]
∴ ∠PAB + ∠PBA + ∠APB = 180°
⇒ ∠PAB + ∠PAB + 60° = 180°
⇒ 2 ∠PAB + 60° = 180°
⇒ 2 ∠PAB = 180° − 60° = 120°
⇒ ∠PAB = 60°
⇒ Each angle of ΔPAB is 60°.
⇒ ΔPAB is an equilateral triangle.
∴ PA = PB = AB = 5 cm
Thus, AB = 5 cm
Q. 10. In the following figure, AB is a chord of length 9.6 cm of a circle with centre O and radius 6 cm.

The tangents at A and B intersect at P. Find the length PA. (AI CBSE 2009 C)
Sol.
A
x
6 cm

cm cm
4.8 4.8
y R O
P
6 cm

Join OB.
Let PA = x cm and PR = y cm
Since, OP is perpendicular bisector of AB
9.6
∴ AR = BR = = 4.8 cm
2
Now, in rt ΔOAR, we have:
OA2 = OR2 + AR2 [By Pythagoras theorem]
⇒ OR2 = OA2 − AR2
= 62 − (4.8)2 = (6 − 4.8) × (6 + 4.8) = 1.2 × 10.8
⇒ = 12.96
OR = 3.6 cm.
Again, in right ΔOAP,
OP2 = AP2 + OA2
OP2 = (AR2 + PR2) + OA2 [ä AP2 = AR2 + PR2]
⇒ (y + 3.6)2 = (4.8)2 + y2 + 62
⇒ y2 + 12.96 + 7.2 y = 23.04 + y2 + 36
⇒ 7.2 y = 46.08
46.08
⇒ y = = 6.4
7.2
⇒ PR = 6.4 cm
Now, AP2 = AP2 + PR2
= (4.8)2 + (6.4)2 = 23.04 + 40.96 = 64
⇒ AP = 64 = 8 cm
Q. 11. Two tangents PA and PB are drawn to a circle with centre O from an external point P. Prove that
∠APB = 2∠OAB (CBSE 2009)
A
P

Sol. We have PA and PB, the tangents to the circle and O is the centre of the circle.
∴ PA = PB
⇒ ∠2 = ∠4 ...(1)

A
2
1
O
P 3
4
B

Since the tangent is perpendicular to the radius through the point of contact,
∴ ∠OAP = 90°
⇒ ∠1 + ∠2 = 90° ...(2)
⇒ ∠2 = 90° − ∠1
Now, in ΔABP, we have:
∴ ∠2 + ∠3 + ∠4 = 180°
⇒ ∠2 + ∠3 + ∠2 = 180° [From (1)]
⇒ ∠2 + ∠3 = 180°
⇒ 2 (90° − ∠1) + ∠3 = 180° [From (2)]
⇒ 180° − 2 ∠1 + ∠3 = 180°
⇒ 2 ∠1 = ∠3 ⇒ ∠3 = 2∠1
⇒ ∠APB = 2∠OAB

Q. 12. ABC is an isosceles triangle, in which AB = AC, circumscribed about a circle. Show that BC is
bisected at the point of contact. [CBSE 2012]
Sol. We know that the tangents to a circle from an external point are equal.
A
∴ AD = AF
Similarly,
BD = BE
and CE = CF D F

Since AB = AC [Given]
⇒ AB − AD = AC − AD
⇒ AB − AD = AC − AF [ä AD = AF]
B E C
 ⇒ BD = CF ...(1)
But BF = BD and CF = CE
∴ From (1), we have:
BE = CE
Q. 13. If a, b, c are the sides of a right triangle where c is hypotenuse, prove that the radius r of the circle
a+b – c
which touches the sides of the triangle is given by r = [(NCERT Exemplar)
2
(CBSE 2012)]
Sol. Here, a, b and c are the sides of rt D ABC A
Such that BC = a, CA = b and AB = c
Let the circle touches the sides BC, CA, AB at
D, E and F respectively.
= AE = AF and BD = BF c
F b
Also, CE = CD = r
r
\ AF = b – r O r
E
BF = a – r r

Now, AB = c fi (AF + BF) = (b – r) + (a – r) B

D
a C
fi c = b + a – 2r
fi 2r = a + b – c
a+b – c
fi r=
2
Q. 14. In a right ΔABC, right angled at B, BC = 5 cm and AB = 12 cm. The circle is touching the sides
of Δ ABC. Find the radius of the circle. [CBSE 2014]
Sol. Let the circle with centre O and radius ‘r’ touches AB, BC and AC at P, Q, R, respectively.
Now,
AR = AP
ä AP = AB – BP = (12 – r) cm
∴ AR = (12– r)cm
Similarly, CR = (5 – r)cm
Now, using Pythagoras theorem in rt Δ ABC, we have
AC2 = AB2 + BC2
⇒ AC2 = 122 + 52
⇒ AC = 13 cm
But AC = AR + CR
= (12 – r) + (5 – r)
⇒ (12 – r) + (5 – r) = 13 cm
⇒ 17 – 2r = 13 cm
⇒ 2 r = 17 – 13 = 4 cm
4
⇒ r= = 2 cm
2
Thus, the radius of the circle is 2 cm.
Q. 15. Prove that the parallelogram circumscribing a circle is a rhombus.
[CBSE 2012] (CBSE Sample Paper 2011)
Sol. Since ABCD is a ygm
∴ AB = CD
and AD = BC
ä Tangents from an external point to a circle are equal, R
D C
∴ AP = AS
BP = BQ
RC = QC S Q
DR = DS
⇒ (AP + PB) + (RC + DR) = (AS + DS) + (BQ + QC)
A B
⇒ AB + CD = AD + BC P

⇒ 2 AB = 2 AD ⇒ AB = AD
⇒ AB = AD = CD = BC
i.e., ABCD is a rhombus.
Q. 16. In the following figure, OP is equal to diameter of the circle. Prove that ABP is an equilateral
triangle. (AI CBSE 2008)
A

O P

B A
Sol. Since the tangent is perpendicular to
5
the radius through the point of
contact, C 2
∴ ∠OAP = 90° O 1 P
3
Let us join AB and AC. 4
In right ΔOAP, OP is the hypotenuse
and C is the mid point of OP. B
[ä OP is a diameter of the circle (given)]
∴ CA = CP = CO = Radius of the circle.
∴ ΔOAC is an equilateral triangle.
Since all angles in an equilateral triangle are 60°,
∴ ∠1 = 60°
Now, in ΔOAP, we have
∠1 + ∠OAP + ∠2 = 180°
⇒ 60° + 90° + ∠2 = 180°
 ⇒ ∠2 = 180° − 90° − 60° = 30°
Since PA and PB make equal angles with OP,
∴ ∠2 = ∠3 ⇒ ∠3 = 30°
∴ ∠APB = ∠2 + ∠3 = 30° + 30° = 60°
Again, PA = PB.
⇒ In ΔABP, ∠4 = ∠5 [Angles opposite to equal sides are equal]
Now, in ΔABP,
∠4 + ∠5 + ∠APB = 180°
⇒∠4 + ∠4 + ∠APB = 180°
⇒ 2∠4 + ∠60° = 180°
⇒ 2∠4 = 180° − 60° = 120°
120
⇒ ∠4 = = 60°
2
Since, ∠4 = 60°
∠5 = 60° ä ΔABP is an equilateral Δ.
∠APB = 60°
Q. 17. Prove that the angle between the two tangents to a circle drawn from an external point is
supplementary to the angle subtended by the line segment joining the points of contact at the centre.
(CBSE 2008 C)
Or
Two tangents PA and PB are drawn from an external point P to a circle with centre O. Prove that
AOBP is a cyclic quadrilateral. (CBSE Sample Paper 2011)
Sol.

We have tangents PA and PB to the circle from the external point P. Since a tangent to
a circle is perpendicular to the radius through the point of contact,
∴ ∠2 = 90° and ∠4 = 90°
Now, in quadrilateral OAPB,
∠1 + ∠2 + ∠3 + ∠4 = 360°
⇒ ∠1 + 90° + ∠3 + 90° = 360°
⇒ ∠1 + ∠3 = 360° − 90° − 90° = 180°
i.e., ∠1 and ∠3 are supplementary angles.
⇒ ∠AOB and ∠APB are supplementary
⇒ AOBP is a cyclic quadrilateral.
Q. 18. Out of two concentric circles, the radius of the outer circle is 5 cm and the chord AC of length
8 cm is a tangent to the inner circle. Find the radius of the inner circle.
[NCERT Exemplar, CBSE (Foreign) 2014]
 O
m
5c
A C
L

Sol. Let the given chord AC of the larger circle touch the smaller circle at L.
Q AC is a tangent at L to the smaller circle with centre O
\ OL ^ AC
Also AC is a chord of the bigger circle
1
\ AL = AC
2
[Q A perpendicular from centre to a chord of the circle, divides the
chord into two equal parts.]
But AC = 8 cm
1
\ AL = (8 cm) = 4 cm.
2
Now, in rt. DOAL,
OL2 = OA2 – AL2
or OL2 = 52 – 42
= (5 + 4) (5 – 4)
= 9×1=9
fi OL = 9 = 3 cm
Thus, the radius of the inner circle is 3 cm.

TEST YOUR SKILLS

1. In the following figure, two circles touch each other externally at C. Prove that the common
tangent at C bisects the other two common tangents.
P
E
Q

C
A B

F M
L
2. In the figure, if AB = AC, prove that BE = CE. [CBSE 2006]
A

D F

B E C
3. A point P is 13 cm from the centre of the circle. The length of the tangent drawn from P
to the circle is 12 cm. Find the radius of the circle.
4. A circle is touching the side BC of Δ ABC at P and touching AB and AC produced at Q
and R respectively.
1
Prove that: AQ = (Perimeter of ΔABC)
2
5. The incircle of Δ ABC touches the sides BC, CA and AB at D, E and F respectively.
Show that: [CBSE 2012]
AF + BD + CD = AE + BF + CE
1
= (Perimeter of ΔABC)
2
A

F
E

B C
D
6. Show that the tangents drawn at the end points of a diameter of a circle are parallel.
7. In the figure PQ is a chord of a circle and PT is the tangent at P such that
∠QPT = 60°, Find ∠PRQ. [NCERT Exemplar]

Hint: Q

∠OPQ = ∠OQP = 30° fi ∠POQ = 120° O

1
Also, ∠PRQ = reflex ∠POQ R
2
T
P

8. In the figure, PQL and PRM are tangents to the circle with centre O at the points Q and
R, respectively and S is a point on the circle such that ∠SQL = 50° and ∠SRM = 60°. Find
the measure of ∠QSR. [NCERT Exemplar]

L
Q
50°

S P
O

60°
R
M

Hint:
∠OQS = 90° – 50° = 40° = ∠OQQ
∠ORS = 90° – 60° = 30° = ∠OSR
fi ∠QSR = ∠OSQ + ∠OSR = 40° + 30°
 9. PQ is a chord of length 8 cm of a circle of radius 5 cm. The tangents at P and Q intersect
at a point T. Find the length of TP.
P
T
5 cm
8
cm O

Q
A D
10. In the following figure, l and m are two parallel l
tangents to a circle with centre F. DE is the
tangent segment between the two parallel
tangents touching the circle at C. Show that ∠DFE F C
= 90°.

m
R E
11. In the figure, two circles with centres A and B and radii 5 cm and 3 cm touching each
other internally. If the perpendicular bisector of segment AB, meets the bigger circle at P
and Q, find the length of PQ.

12. Two tangents making an angle of 120° with each other, are drawn to a circle of radius
6 cm. Show that the length of each tangent is 2 3 cm.
13. In the figure BOA is a diameter of a circle and the tangent at a point P meets BA extended
at T. If ∠PBO = 30°, then find ∠PTA.
P

30°
B T
O A

Hint:
Q ∠BPA = 90°
\ ∠PAB = 60° = ∠OPA
Since, OP ^ PT fi ∠APT = 30° and ∠PTA = 60° – 30°.

14. In the given figure, ABC is a right D right angled at B such that BC = 6 cm and
AB = 8 cm. Find the radius of the circle.
 A

B
R C
15. If from an external point B of a circle with centre O, two tangents BC and BD are drawn
such that ∠DBC = 120 °, prove that BC + BD = BO i.e., BO = 2 BC
[NCERT Exemplar, CBSE 2014]

1
O B
2
C

Hint:
∠DOC = 180° – 120 = 60° [Q ∠1 = ∠2 = 90°]
rt D OBD @ DOBC
fi ∠BOC = ∠BOD = 30°
BD 1
In rt D OBD, = sin 30° =
OB 2
1
\ BD = OB
2
1
Similarly, BC = OB
2
16. In the figure, XP and XQ are two tangents to the circle with centre O, drawn from an
external point X. ARB is another tangent touching the circle at R. Prove that XA + AR
= XB + BR. [AI. CBSE (Foreign) 2014
Hint: P
A
AP = AR and BQ = BR
XP = XA + AP ⇒ XA + AR [Q AP = AR O R x
XQ = XB + BQ ⇒ XB + BR [Q BQ = BR
B
⇒ XP = XQ gives XA + AR = XB + BR Q

17. Prove that the line segment joining the points of contact of two parallel tangents of a circle,
passes through its centre. [CBSE (Delhi) 2014]
Hint:
Let PAQ and RBS be two parallel tangents to circle with centre O.
Join OA, OB and draw OCyPQ
 PAyCO
⇒ ∠PAO + ∠COA = 180° [co-interior angles]
⇒ 90° + ∠COA = 180° ⇒ ∠COA = 90°
Similarly, ∠COB = 90°
∠COA + ∠COB = 90° + 90° = 180°. Hence, AOB is a st. line passing through O (centre
of the circle).
P A Q

O
C

R B S

18. In the figure, AB is a chord of length 16cm, of a circle of radius 10cm. The tangents at
A and B intersect at a point P. Find the length of PA. [AI. CBSE. 2010, 2014]

Hint:
AB = 16 cm ⇒ AL = BL = 8 cm
In ΔOLB, OB2 = LB2 + OL2 [By Pythagoras Theorem]

⇒ 102 = 82 + OL2 ⇒ OL = 100 − 64 = 36 = 6

Let PL = x and PB = y, So that OP = (x + 6)cm
In ΔPLB and ΔOBP, we have:
PB2 = PL2 + BL2 and OP2 = OB2 + PB2 A
32
Substituting x and y and simplifying, we get x = cm O L
3 P

1600
y2 = x2 + 64 ⇒ y2 = ⇒ y = 40 3 B
9
40
Thus, PA = cm.
3

ANSWERS
Test Your Skills
3. 5 cm 7. 120° 8. 70° 13. 30° 14. 2 cm

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