Q15 of 35 Page 11

In two concentric circles, prove that all chords of the outer circle which touch the inner arc of equal length.

Let O be the centre of concentric circles with radius ‘r’ and ‘R’ (R>r) and AB be the chord which touches the inner circle at point D


We have to prove that AB has a fixed length



Consider ΔOAB


OA = OB …radius


Hence ΔOAB is an isosceles triangle


Radius OD is perpendicular to tangent AB at the point of contact D


Hence OD is the altitude, and we know that the altitude from the apex of the isosceles triangle is also the median


AD = BD …(a)


Now consider ΔODB


ODB = 90° …radius is perpendicular to tangent


Using Pythagoras


OD2 + BD2 = OB2


The radius are OB = R and OD = r


r2 + BD2 = R2


BD2 = R2 - r2


BD = √(R2 - r2) …(i)


From figure


AB = AD + BD


Using (a)


AB = BD + BD


AB = 2BD


Using (i)


AB = 2√(R2 - r2)


Here observe that AB only depends on R and r which are fixed radius of inner circle and outer circle.


And as the radius of both the circle will not change however one may draw the chord the radius will always be fixed.


And hence AB won’t change AB is fixed length


Hence proved


Hence, in two concentric circles, all chords of the outer circle which touch the inner circle are of equal length.


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