CIRCLES

(a revision of the task in the 2012-2013 TSM)

MATH SL Type 1

Aim: The aim of this task is to investigate the positions of points in intersecting circles. The following diagram shows circle C with center O and radius r , and another
1

point P . While P is shown outside C1 it need not always be outside the circle. There may be some limitations on the position of P which you may discover while doing this investigation.

of intersection of C and C2 .
1

Circle C2 is now drawn with center P and radius OP . Let A be one of the points

Circle C 3 is now drawn with center A and radius r . Let P ' be the point of intersection (other than O ) of circle C 3 and the line

(OP ) .

This task will investigate the length of

[OP '] as the position of P and the radius of

C1 vary.
Start by holding the radius constant at r = 1 . Vary the position of P , and hence the value of OP , and note the effect on OP ' . Write a conjecture on the relationship between OP ' and OP .

= 2 . Vary the radius of C1 and note the effect on OP ' . Write a conjecture on the relationship between OP ' and r .
Continue by holding the position of P constant at OP Now vary both the radius, r , and the position of P . Note the effect on OP ' . Write a conjecture on the relationship between OP ' , OP , and r . Discuss the scope and/or limitations associated with this conjectured relationship. Mathematics not only observes patterns and describes the relationships seen, but also seeks to explain the underlying reason for the relationship. Your conjecture was based upon observed patterns. Give a justification of why your conjecture is true. You may find it useful to add some line segments to the diagram.