JEE Mathematics · Medium

Circle: Chord of contact MCQ

Solve this quality-checked JEE multiple-choice question, then review the correct answer and explanation.

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Chord of contactMediumQuestion 320007

Question

From external point (x₁, y₁), the chord of contact to x² + y² = r² has equation:
  1. A
    xx₁ + yy₁ = r²
    Correct
  2. B
    x²+y²=r²
  3. C
    y−y₁ = m(x−x₁)
  4. D
    x/x₁+y/y₁=1

Correct answer

xx₁ + yy₁ = r²

Explanation

The chord of contact (the chord joining the two points of tangency) from external point (x₁,y₁) to circle x²+y²=r² has equation xx₁+yy₁=r² — same form as the tangent equation at a point on the circle.