Circles

Nature of Chapter:
1. You should know all the formulae, you covered in straight lines,
before starting this chapter.
2. You will learn some standard approaches and notations in this

chapter without which you cannot proceed to Conics.
3. There are very few formulae in this chapter. Its majorly about basic
geometry of circle and some solving techniques.
Weightage of Circles (Last 5 years)
2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 Average
JEE Main 2.5 % 3.5 % 3.7 % 1.8 % 4.0 % 3.10 %
Jee Advanced 12 % 6% 13 % 3% 7% 8.20 %

Circles
● Standard Equations of a Circle
● Intercepts made by a Circle
● Some Standard Notations
● Position of a Point with respect to a Circle
● Position of a Line with respect to a Circle and Equations of Tangents
● Common Tangents of Circles
● Family of Circles
● Chords of a Circle
● Orthogonality of Two Circles
● Radical Axis and Radical Centre
Circles
Critical Topics in the Chapter
● Standard equations of circles
● Standard Notations
● Equation of tangents
● Common Tangents
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Standard equations of a circle
Central form of the Equation of a Circle
Here, centre is (x1, y1) and radius is ‘r’.

Here, centre is (x1, y1) and radius is ‘r’.
NOTE
Circle with centre at (0, 0) and radius r is x 2 + y 2 = r 2

For example,
(4, 7)
(a)
(1, 3)
(b) 4
(2, 2)
For example,
(4, 7)
centre is (1, 3) and =5
(a) So, the circle’s equation is
(1, 3) (x − 1)2 + (y − 3)2 = 25,
that is x2 + y2 − 2x − 6y − 15 = 0
centre is (2, 2) and circumference = 4𝜋

(b) ⇒ 2𝜋r = 4𝜋 ⇒ r = 2
(2, 2) 4 So, circle’s equation is (x − 2)2 + (y − 2)2 = 4,
that is x2 + y2 − 4x − 4y + 4 = 0
Remark
The diameter or the normal of a circle passes

through its centre.
Q The lines 4x −y = 7 and 2x − 5y = 8 are diameters of a
circle of area 154 sq. units. The equation of this circle
is _____. (take π = 22/7)
Q The lines 4x −y = 7 and 2x − 5y = 8 are diameters of a
circle of area 154 sq. units. The equation of this circle
is _____. (take π = 22/7)
Solution:
Q A circle has radius 3 units and its centre lies on the
line y = x - 1. Find the equation of the circle if it
passes through (7, 3).
Q A circle has radius 3 units and its centre lies on the
line y = x - 1. Find the equation of the circle if it
passes through (7, 3).
Solution:
C (t, t - 1)
P(7, 3)
y=x-1
Q Find the equation of circle which passes through the points
(1, -2), (4, -3) and whose centre lies on the line x + y = 2.
Remark
Perpendicular of any chord of the circle,

passes through center of circle.
Solution:
Solution:
General form of the Equation of a circle
Recall
A general two degree equation in two variables is represented as


x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0
NOTE
Condition for a general second degree equation in two variables

to represent a circle is a = b and h = 0.
If a = b ≠ 1, then we divide the equation by a constant to make

both coefficients equal to 1.

x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0
where, Centre is (-g , -f) and
For example: Centre Radius
x2 + y2 - 4x + 4y - 28 = 0

x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0
where, Centre is (-g , -f) and
For example: Centre Radius
x2 + y2 - 4x + 4y - 28 = 0 (2, -2) 6
(-3/4, -1) 1
Equation of the circle concentric with the circle
Q
x2 + y2 - 6x + 12y + 15 = 0 and of double its area is
A x2 + y2 - 3x + 12y -15 = 0
B x2 + y2 - 3x + 12y -30 = 0
C x2 + y2 - 6x + 12y - 15 = 0
D x2 + y2 - 6x + 12y -20 = 0
Q
A x2 + y2 - 3x + 12y -15 = 0
B x2 + y2 - 3x + 12y -30 = 0
C x2 + y2 - 6x + 12y - 15 = 0
D x2 + y2 - 6x + 12y -20 = 0
Q
Solution:
and centre is (3, -6)

Q Find the equation of the circle which passes through
the points (5, -8), (2, -9) and (2, 1).
Q Find the equation of the circle which passes through
the points (5, -8), (2, -9) and (2, 1).
Solution:
Let the equation of required circle be
Since, it passes through (5, -8), (2, -9) and (2, 1).
On substituting the coordinates of three points in equation (i), we get
On solving (iii), (iv) and (v), we get

f = 4, g = -2 and c = - 5
Therefore, equation of the required circle is x2 + y2 - 4x + 8y - 5 = 0
Single correct question JEE Advanced 2021, P1
Q Consider a triangle Δ whose two sides lie on the x-axis

and the line x + y + 1 = 0. If the orthocenter of Δ is (1, 1),
then the equation of the circle passing through the
vertices of the triangle Δ is
A x2 + y2 - 3x + y = 0
B x2 + y2 + x + 3y = 0
C x2 + y2 + 2y - 1 = 0
D x2 + y2 + x + y = 0
Single correct question JEE Advanced 2021, P1
Q Consider a triangle Δ whose two sides lie on the x-axis

and the line x + y + 1 = 0. If the orthocenter of Δ is (1, 1),
then the equation of the circle passing through the
vertices of the triangle Δ is
A x2 + y2 - 3x + y = 0
B x2 + y2 + x + 3y = 0
C x2 + y2 + 2y - 1 = 0
D x2 + y2 + x + y = 0
Solution:
x+y+1=0
B(1, -2)
H(1, 1)
y=0
A(-1, 0) C(0, 0)
Some Special Circles
Now let us see some special cases.

These are generally used to give information indirectly, in the questions.
1. Circle touching X - axis 2. Circle touching Y - axis
Y
(0, b)
X
(a, 0)
3. Circle touching X - axis at origin 4. Circle touching Y - axis at origin
Y Y
X O X
O
5. Circle touching both the axes
Y Y
O X
O X
Y Y
X
O
X
O
JEE Main 2013
Q The circle passing through (1, −2) and touching the X - axis
at the point (3, 0) also passes through the point _____.
A (5, 2)
B (-5, 2)
C (5, -2)
D (-5, -2)
JEE Main 2013
A (5, 2)
B (-5, 2)
C (5, -2)
D (-5, -2)
JEE Main 2013
Solution:
ABCD is a square of unit area. A circle is touching two
Q
sides of ABCD and passes through one of its vertices.
Find radius of the circle.
ABCD is a square of unit area. A circle is touching two
Q
sides of ABCD and passes through one of its vertices.
Find radius of the circle.
Solution:
Y
C (1, 1)
D (0, 1)
a
(a, a)
X
A (0, 0) B (1, 0)
Consider circles C1 & C2 touching both the axes
Q
and passing through (4, 4), then the product of
radii of these circles is
Q
Ans : 32
Q
Solution:
Since circle touches both the axes and passes
through (4, 4), it lies in the first quadrant, so its
equation is
Diametric form of the Equation of a Circle

The circle whose diameter endpoints are A(x1, y1) and B(x2, y2) has equation
(x − x1) (x − x2) + (y − y1) (y − y2) = 0

Diametric form of the Equation of a Circle

The circle whose diameter endpoints are A(x1, y1) and B(x2, y2) has equation
(x − x1) (x − x2) + (y − y1) (y − y2) = 0
NOTE
Basically it’s the sum of two quadratics, one in x, whose

roots are the abscissae and one in y, whose roots are the
ordinates of the diametric endpoints.
AIEEE 2011
Q Find the equation of the circle which passes

through (1, 0) and (0, 1) and has its radius as
small as possible.
AIEEE 2011
Q Find the equation of the circle which passes

through (1, 0) and (0, 1) and has its radius as
small as possible.
Solution:
The radius will be minimum, if the given

points are the end-points of a diameter.
Then, equation of circle is
(x - 1) (x - 0) + (y - 0) (y - 1) = 0
⇒ x2 + y2 - x - y = 0
Parametric form of the Equation of a Circle

Y
r
θ X
O

Y
(a) x2 + y2 = r2
⇒ x = r cos θ, y = r sin θ P(θ)
r
θ X
O
In particular, a general point on x2 + y2 = 1

is of the form (cosθ, sinθ) for some θ.

(b) (x − x1)2 + (y − y1)2 = r2
⇒ x = x1 + r cosθ, y = y1 + r sin θ
Q The parametric equations of the circle
x2 + y2 + mx + my = 0 are
C x = 0, y = 0
D None of these
x2 + y2 + mx + my = 0 are
C x = 0, y = 0
D None of these
x2 + y2 + mx + my = 0 are
Solution:
So, radius = and centre = ,

Q If A(cos ⍺, sin ⍺), B(cos β, sin β), C(cos γ, sin γ) are
the vertices of a ΔABC, then find the coordinates
of its orthocentre.
of its orthocentre.
Solution:
of its orthocentre.
Solution:
Intercepts made by a circle
y = mx + c
A
AB is the intercept made by circle on the line y = mx + c.
y = mx + c
A
AB is the intercept made by circle on the line y = mx + c.
NOTE
Whenever a circle makes an

intercept on line, always refer to
following figure. r
Q Find the equation of circle having centre at (3, − 1)
and cutting an intercept of length 6 units on the
line 2x − 5y + 18 = 0.
A (x − 3)2 + (y + 1)2 = 31
B (x − 3)2 + (y + 1)2 = 29
C (x − 3)2 + (y + 1)2 = 38
D None of these
line 2x − 5y + 18 = 0.
A (x − 3)2 + (y + 1)2 = 31
B (x − 3)2 + (y + 1)2 = 29
C (x − 3)2 + (y + 1)2 = 38
D None of these
line 2x − 5y + 18 = 0.
Solution:
M B
Multiple choice question JEE Advanced 2013
Circle(s) touching x-axis at a distance 3 from the

Q
origin and having an intercept of length on
y-axis (are)
A x2 + y2 - 6x + 8y + 9 = 0
B x2 + y2 - 6x + 7y + 9 = 0
C x2 + y2 - 6x - 8y + 9 = 0
D x2 + y2 - 6x - 7y + 9 = 0

Q
y-axis (are)
A x2 + y2 - 6x + 8y + 9 = 0
B x2 + y2 - 6x + 7y + 9 = 0
C x2 + y2 - 6x - 8y + 9 = 0
D x2 + y2 - 6x - 7y + 9 = 0

Q
y-axis (are)
Solution:
(3, 𝞪)
(3, 0)
Remark
1. Intercept made by x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 on the X - axis
A B X
Remark
1. Intercept made by x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 on the X - axis
A B X
(a) g2 − c > 0 ⇒ Circle cuts the X - axis at two distinct points

(b) g2 − c = 0 ⇒ Circle touches the X - axis
(c) g2 − c < 0 ⇒ Circle does not meet the X - axis
Remark
2. Intercept made by x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 on the Y - axis

Y
B
A
Remark
2. Intercept made by x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 on the Y - axis

Y
B
(a) f 2 − c > 0 ⇒ Circle cuts the Y - axis at two distinct points

(b) f 2 − c = 0 ⇒ Circle touches the Y - axis
(c) f 2 − c < 0 ⇒ Circle does not meet the Y - axis
Find equation of locus of centre of circle which
Q
touches Y - axis and having intercept on X-axis
of length 2l.
A x2 + y2 = l 2
B x2 - y2 = l 2
C x2 + y2 = 4l 2
D x2 - y2 = 4l 2
Q
of length 2l.
A x2 + y2 = l 2
B x2 - y2 = l 2
C x2 + y2 = 4l 2
D x2 - y2 = 4l 2
Q
of length 2l.
Solution:
Y
B (h, k)
X
O D l A
2l
Q 2 rods whose lengths are 2a, 2b slide along axes
(one on each) in such a way that their extremities
are always concyclic. Find the equation of locus of
centre of circle.
Solution:
Y
D
r
2b F O (h, k)
r
C
X
A B
E
2a
Alternate Solution
Y
D
r
2b F O (h, k)
r
C
X
A B
E
2a
Some standard Notations
Here, we will be learning some standards notations for general second

degree equations in x and y.
These notations will be very helpful in upcoming formulae.
Primarily there are are three notations S, S1 and T.
Let’s see what do they denote.

Notations:
Any second degree equation in two variables, that is,

ax2 + 2hxy + by2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 will be represented as S = 0.
As of now, that we are doing circles, so we have
S ≡ x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c
1. S ≡ x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c
2. Consider a point (x1, y1). Value of S at (x1, y1) is represented by S1
i.e., S1 = x12 + y12 + 2gx1 + 2fy1 + c
3. Consider a point (x1, y1).

If in S we replace
then we get T,
Write S1 and T for the following:
Q
(a) S ≡ x2 + 2y2 − 3x + 4y + 3 at the point (1, 2)
(b) S ≡ x2 + 2xy +3y at the point (1, 3)
Q
Q
Solution:
Q
Q
Solution:
Position of a point w.r.t. a Circle
Position of a point w.r.t. a circle
Method 1
Find distance of point P from centre of circle O.
OP < r ⇒ P lies inside the circle
OP = r ⇒ P lies on the circle
OP > r ⇒ P lies outside the circle
Method 1
Find distance of point P from centre of circle O.
OP < r ⇒ P lies inside the circle
OP = r ⇒ P lies on the circle
OP > r ⇒ P lies outside the circle
Method 2
S1 < 0 ⇒ P lies inside the circle
S1 = 0 ⇒ P lies on the circle
S1 > 0 ⇒ P lies outside the circle
Remark
Greatest and least distance of a point from a circle.
|OP - r| = least distance of point P from the circle

|OP + r| = greatest distance of point P from the circle
Q Find the shortest and the longest distance from the
point (2, -7) to the circle x2 + y2 - 14x - 10y - 151 = 0 .
Q Find the shortest and the longest distance from the
point (2, -7) to the circle x2 + y2 - 14x - 10y - 151 = 0 .
Solution:
Position of a Line w.r.t. a Circle
and Equation of Tangents
Position of a Line w.r.t. a circle
For a given line and a circle, either

(a)line cuts the circle, or
(b)line touches the circle, or
(c) line does not meet the circle
In the section we will be studying their conditions.

No doubt, major focus will be (b), that is tangency condition.
Method 1
Find distance d of centre of circle from given line
d < r ⇒ line cuts the circle d = r ⇒ line is tangent to circle
d > r ⇒ line does not meet circle

Method 2
Solve line with circle to get a quadratic equation.
D > 0 ⇒ line cuts the circle
D = 0 ⇒ line is tangent to circle
D < 0 ⇒ line does not meet circle

Result
1. Equations of tangents to x2 + y2 = r2, having slope m are
E.g. Tangents to x2 + y2 = 4, having slope 3 are ___________.

Result
2. Equations of tangents to (x − x1)2 + (y − y1)2 = r2, having slope m are
E.g. Tangents to the circle (x − 1)2 + (y − 5)2 = 4, having slope 3 are__________.

(a) Find 𝜆 such that y = 2x + 𝜆 is tangent to x2 + y2 = 5.
Q
(b) Find 𝜆 so that 3x − 4y = 𝜆 is tangent to x2 + y2 − 4x − 8y − 5 = 0.
Q (a) Find 𝜆 such that y = 2x + 𝜆 is tangent to x2 + y2 = 5.
Q (a) Find 𝜆 such that y = 2x + 𝜆 is tangent to x2 + y2 = 5.
Solution: Alternate Solution

Q (b) Find 𝜆 so that 3x − 4y = 𝜆 is tangent to x2 + y2 − 4x − 8y − 5 = 0.
Q (b) Find 𝜆 so that 3x − 4y = 𝜆 is tangent to x2 + y2 − 4x − 8y − 5 = 0.
Solution:
Q If the line lx + my + n = 0 is tangent to the circle
x2 + y2 = a2, then find the condition.
Q If the line lx + my + n = 0 is tangent to the circle
x2 + y2 = a2, then find the condition.
Solution:
Q The value of A for which the set
{(x, y) : x2 + y2 - 6x + 4y ≤ 12} ∩ {(x, y) : 4x + 3y ≤ λ}
contains only one point is
A 31
B -31
C 19
D -19
{(x, y) : x2 + y2 - 6x + 4y ≤ 12} ∩ {(x, y) : 4x + 3y ≤ λ}
A 31
B -31
C 19
D -19
{(x, y) : x2 + y2 - 6x + 4y ≤ 12} ∩ {(x, y) : 4x + 3y ≤ λ}
Solution:
Q Find equations of tangents to x2 + y2 = 16 drawn from (1, 4).
Q Find equations of tangents to x2 + y2 = 16 drawn from (1, 4).
Solution:
(1, 4)
The locus of the point of intersection of the
Q
perpendicular tangents to the circle x2 + y2 = a2 is ___.
A x2 + y2 = 2a2
B x2 + y2 = 3a2
C x2 + y2 = 5a2
D None of these
Q
A x2 + y2 = 2a2
B x2 + y2 = 3a2
C x2 + y2 = 5a2
D None of these
Q
Solution:
A
O P (h, k)
NOTE
Locus of point of intersection of perpendicular tangents to a circle is

called the Director circle.
In case of circle, the director circle is the concentric circle with radius
equal to √2 times the radius of the given circle.
NOTE

E.g. Director circle of (x − 1)2 + (y − 2)2 = 3 is ___________.

NOTE

E.g. Director circle of (x − 1)2 + (y − 2)2 = 3 is (x − 1)2 + (y − 2)2 = 6.

The tangents to x2 + y2 = a2 having inclinations
Q
α and β intersect at P. If cot α + cot β = 0, then
the locus of P is
A x+y=0
B x-y=0
C xy = 0
D None of these
Q
the locus of P is
A x+y=0
B x-y=0
C xy = 0
D None of these
Q
the locus of P is
Solution:
x2 + y2 = a2
So far, we have studied

(1) condition for tangency
(2) slope form of tangent
We do have other forms of equations of tangents as well.
Various Equation of Tangents
Slope form Tangent at a Point on a Circle Parametric form
slope = m (x1, y1) P(θ)
x2 + y2 =
x2 + y2 = r2 r2
Various Equation of Tangents
Slope form Tangent at a Point on a Circle Parametric form
slope = m (x1, y1) P(θ)
x2 + y2 =
x2 + y2 = r2 r2
T=0
x cosθ + y sinθ = r
Q Tangent to circle x2 + y2 = 5 at (1, -2) also touches the
circle x2 + y2 - 8x + 6y + 20 = 0. Find the coordinates of
the corresponding point of contact
Q Tangent to circle x2 + y2 = 5 at (1, -2) also touches the
circle x2 + y2 - 8x + 6y + 20 = 0. Find the coordinates of
the corresponding point of contact
Solution:
Equation of tangent to x2 + y2 = 5 at (1, -2) is x - 2y - 5 = 0
Putting x = 2y + 5 in second circle, we get
(2y + 5)2 + y2 - 8(2y + 5) + 6y + 20 = 0
⇒ 5y2 + 10y + 5 = 0
⇒ y = -1
⇒ x = -2 + 5 = 3
Thus, point of contact is (3, -1).
Multiple correct question JEE Advanced 2016, P1
Let RS be the diameter of the circle x2 + y2 = 1, where S ≡ (1, 0). Let

Q
P be a variable point (other than R and S) on the circle and
tangents to the circle at S and P meet at the point Q. The normal
to the circle at P intersects a line drawn through Q parallel to RS
at point E. Then the locus of E passes through the point (s)
D
Multiple correct question JEE Advanced 2016, P1
Let RS be the diameter of the circle x2 + y2 = 1, where S ≡ (1, 0). Let

Q
P be a variable point (other than R and S) on the circle and
tangents to the circle at S and P meet at the point Q. The normal
to the circle at P intersects a line drawn through Q parallel to RS
at point E. Then the locus of E passes through the point (s)
D
Solution:
P(𝜃)
Q
E(h, k)
S(1, 0)
Remark
For a given circle S = 0,
(1) Length of tangent from point P

T
(2) S1 is also called power of point P(x1, y1) with respect to S = 0.

Observations
If a pair of tangents is drawn from a point P to a circle as shown in

the figure, then A
R L
P
O
R L
B
(1) angle between the pair of tangents is given by
(2) Length of AB =
(3) Area triangle PAB =
(4) circumcircle of Δ PAB has OP as diameter.

A
R L
O P
R L
B
JEE Main 2020
Let the tangents drawn from the origin to the circle,
Q
x2 + y2 – 8x – 4y + 16 = 0 touch it at the point A and
B. Then (AB)2 is equal to:
D
JEE Main 2020
Q
D
JEE Main 2020
Q
Solution:
Common Tangents of circles
In this topic, we will try to observe the number of common tangents of two circles,
depending upon their positions.
We will also learn how to find lengths and equations of the common tangents.
Try to observe how we can comment upon the positions of two circles
depending on their radii and the distance between their centres.
r1 r2 r1 r2
(1) C1 (2) C1 (3) C1
C2 C2 C2
(4) C2 (5) C2
C1 C1
Try to observe how we can comment upon the positions of two circles
depending on their radii and the distance between their centres.
r1 r2 r1 r2
(1) C1 (2) C1 (3) C1
C2 C2 C2
(4) C2 (5) C2
C1 C1
Number of Common Tangents
TCT
DCT
(1) |C1C2| > r1 + r2 ⇒
(2) |C1C2| = r1 + r2
⇒
(3) |r1 - r2| < |C1C2| < r1 + r2 ⇒
(4) |C1C2| = |r1 - r2| ⇒
(5) |C1C2| < |r1 + r2| ⇒

Number of Common Tangents
TCT
DCT
(1) |C1C2| > r1 + r2 ⇒ 4 common tangents
(2) |C1C2| = r1 + r2 3 common tangents

⇒
(3) |r1 - r2| < |C1C2| < r1 + r2 ⇒ 2 common tangents
(4) |C1C2| = |r1 - r2| ⇒ 1 common tangent
(5) |C1C2| < |r1 + r2| ⇒ 0 common tangents

JEE Main 15th April 2023
Q The number of common tangents, to the circles

x2 + y2 - 18x - 15y + 131 = 0 and x2 + y2 - 6x - 6y - 7 = 0, is
A 4
B 2
C 3
D 1

x2 + y2 - 18x - 15y + 131 = 0 and x2 + y2 - 6x - 6y - 7 = 0, is
A 4
B 2
C 3
D 1

x2 + y2 - 18x - 15y + 131 = 0 and x2 + y2 - 6x - 6y - 7 = 0, is
Solution:
If the circles x2 + y2 - 10x + 16y + 89 - r2 = 0 and
Q
x2 + y2 + 6x - 14y + 42 = 0 have common points, then
the number of possible integral values of r is equal to
A 13
B 14
C 15
D 18
Q
A 13
B 14
C 15
D 18
Q
Solution:
JEE Main 2014
Q Let C be the circle centred at (1, 1) and having

radius 1. If T is the circle centred at (0, y) passing
through the origin and touching the circle C
externally, then the radius of T is equal to ____.
D
JEE Main 2014
Q Let C be the circle centred at (1, 1) and having

radius 1. If T is the circle centred at (0, y) passing
through the origin and touching the circle C
externally, then the radius of T is equal to ____.
D
Solution:
Remark
r2
r1
C1 P (external)
C2
r1 C2
C1 (internal)
P r2
If area of triangle formed by common tangents
Q
to the circles x2 + y2 - 6x = 0 and x2 + y2 + 2x = 0
is then value of λ is_____.
Q
Ans: 3.00
Q
Solution:
Lengths of Common Tangents

(1) Direct Common Tangent
T1
T2
C1 C2
(2) Transverse Common Tangent

T1
C2
C1
T2
Lengths of Common Tangents

(1) Direct Common Tangent
T1
T2
r1 − r2 l
C1 C2
(2) Transverse Common Tangent

T1
C2
C1
l
T2
r1 + r2
Family of Circles
Family of circles
Just like family of lines, we have family of circles too, such as circles
passing through intersection of two circles, a circle and a line etc.
Family of circles
(1) S + L = 0
S=0 L=0
E.g. Any circle passing through x2 + y2 − 2x −3 = 0 and x − 2y + 1 = 0

is of the form ____________.
Find equation of circle passing through points of
Q
intersection of the line x + y − 1 = 0 and the circle x2 + y2 = 9
and which also passes through the point (3, 4).
Find equation of circle passing through points of
Q
intersection of the line x + y − 1 = 0 and the circle x2 + y2 = 9
and which also passes through the point (3, 4).
Solution:
Family of circles
(2) S + λS’ = 0, λ ≠ -1
S=0
S’ = 0
Family of circles
(2) S + λS’ = 0, λ ≠ -1
S=0
S’ = 0
NOTE
S - S’ = 0 gives the equation of the common chord of S = 0 and S’ = 0.

JEE Main 2020
Q The circle passing through the intersection of the circles,

x2 + y2 - 6x = 0 and x2 + y2 - 4y = 0, having its centre on the
line, 2x - 3y + 12 = 0, also passes through the point
A (-3, 6)
B (-1, 3)
C (-3, 1)
D (1, -3)
JEE Main 2020
Q The circle passing through the intersection of the circles,

x2 + y2 - 6x = 0 and x2 + y2 - 4y = 0, having its centre on the
line, 2x - 3y + 12 = 0, also passes through the point
A (-3, 6)
B (-1, 3)
C (-3, 1)
D (1, -3)
Solution:
Q If the circle x2 + y2 + 4x + 22y + c = 0 bisects the circumference
of the circle x2 + y2 − 2x + 18y − d = 0, then find c + d.
Q If the circle x2 + y2 + 4x + 22y + c = 0 bisects the circumference
of the circle x2 + y2 − 2x + 18y − d = 0, then find c + d.
Solution:
Family of circles
(3) Family of circles passing through two given points A(x1, y1) and B(x2, y2)
A (x1, y1) B (x2, y2)
E.g. Any circle through (1, 1) and (2, 2) is of the form

Family of circles
(3) Family of circles passing through two given points A(x1, y1) and B(x2, y2)
Consider
Then, S + 𝜆L = 0 gives family of circles

passing through A(x1, y1) and B(x2, y2)
E.g. Any circle through (1, 1) and (2, 2) is of the form

(x − 1) (x − 2) + (y − 1) (y − 2) + 𝜆(y − x) = 0.
Family of circles
(4) Family of circles tangent to a given line at a given point
L=0
A (x1, y1)
Family of circles
L=0
A (x1, y1)
Say that the given line and the point are respectively L = 0 and A (x1, y1).
Consider, a circle through A (x1, y1), S : (x − x1)2 + (y − y1)2
Then S + 𝜆L = 0 gives a family of circles touching the line L = 0 at point A (x1, y1).
E.g. Any circle touching x + y + 1 = 0 at (1, − 2) is of the form ___

Family of circles
L=0
A (x1, y1)
Say that the given line and the point are respectively L = 0 and A (x1, y1).
Consider, a circle through A (x1, y1), S : (x − x1)2 + (y − y1)2
Then S + 𝜆L = 0 gives a family of circles touching the line L = 0 at point A (x1, y1).
E.g. Any circle touching x + y + 1 = 0 at (1, − 2) is of the form

(x − 1)2 + (y + 2)2 + 𝜆(x + y + 1) = 0.
Q If the radius of the circle passing through the origin and touching
the line x + y = 2 at (1, 1) is r units, then the value of is
Ans: 3
Solution:
JEE Main 2019
If a circle C passing through the point (4, 0) touches the
Q
circle x2 + y2 + 4x - 6y = 12 externally at the point (1, -1),
then the radius of C is
A 5
D 4
JEE Main 2019
If a circle C passing through the point (4, 0) touches the
Q
circle x2 + y2 + 4x - 6y = 12 externally at the point (1, -1),
then the radius of C is
A 5
D 4
Solution:
B(4, 0)
A
(-2, 3)
Chords of Circles
Chords of circles
Here, we will be studying

(1) Chord of contact
(2) Chord with given midpoint
Chords of circles
(1) Equation of CoC (chord of contact) with respect to P(x1, y1)
Its equation is given by T = 0

P (x1, y1)
S=0
(2) Equation of chord with given midpoint P(x1, y1)
Its equation given by T = S1

P (x1, y1)
S=0
Q If the straight line x - 2y + 1 = 0 intersects the circle
x2 + y2 = 25 in points P and Q, then find the
coordinates of the point of intersection of tangents
drawn at P and Q to the circle x2 + y2 = 25.
Solution:
x - 2y + 1 = 0
P R
Q
Tangents are drawn to the circle x2 + y2 = 16 at the points
Q
where it intersects the circle x2 + y2 - 6x - 8y - 8 = 0, then
the point of intersection of these tangents is
A (4, 16/3)
B (12, 16)
C (3, 4)
D (16, 12)
Q
A (4, 16/3)
B (12, 16)
C (3, 4)
D (16, 12)
Q
Solution:
C2
C1 P(x1 , y1)
B
Q Tangents are drawn to a unit circle with centre
at origin from every point on the line 2x + y = 4.
Find equation of locus of midpoint of CoCs.
Solution:
Orthogonality of two Circles
Orthogonality of two circles
Two circles are said to be orthogonal if the tangents of the two circles at
their point of intersection are perpendicular to each other.
Orthogonality of two circles
Condition for Orthogonality
r1 r2
C1
d C2
Two circles intersect each other orthogonally if

r12 + r22 = d2 or 2g1g2 + 2f1f2 = c1 + c2
IIT 2000
If x2 + y2 + 2x + 2ky + 6 = 0 and x2 + y2 + 2ky + k = 0
Q
intersect orthogonally then the possible values
of k are ___.
D
IIT 2000
Q
of k are ___.
D
IIT 2000
Q
of k are ___.
Solution:
The locus of centres of family of circle passing
Q
through the origin and cutting the circle
x2 + y2 + 4x - 6y - 13 = 0 orthogonally, is
A 4x + 6y + 13 = 0
B 4x - 6y + 13 = 0
C 4x + 6y - 13 = 0
D 4x - 6y - 13 = 0
Q
A 4x + 6y + 13 = 0
B 4x - 6y + 13 = 0
C 4x + 6y - 13 = 0
D 4x - 6y - 13 = 0
Q
Solution:
Let the family of circles passing through origin

be x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy = 0
They intersect circle x2 + y2 + 4x - 6y - 13 = 0
orthogonally.
So, 2g(2) - 2f(3) = -13
Hence, locus of (-g, -f) is
-4x + 6y + 13 = 0
⇒ 4x - 6y - 13 = 0
Radical Axis and Radical Centre
Radical axis and Radical centre
Radical axis
Radical axis of two circles S = 0 and S’ = 0 is the locus of point
whose powers with respect to the two given circles are equal.
Its equation is given by S - S’ = 0 .
S=0
S’ = 0
S - S’ = 0
Observations
(1) When two circles are intersecting, then the radical axis is
nothing but the common chord.
(2) When two circles are touching each other, the radical axis is
the common tangent at their point of contact.
(3) Radical axis is always perpendicular to the line joining the two
centres.
(It also bisects the line segment joining the two centres if the
circles are of equal radii)
Q Find the equation of the radical axis of the circles
2x2 + 2y2 + 3x + 6y − 5 = 0 and 3x2 + 3y2 −7x + 8y − 11 = 0.
2x2 + 2y2 + 3x + 6y − 5 = 0 and 3x2 + 3y2 −7x + 8y − 11 = 0.
Solution:
2x2 + 2y2 + 3x + 6y − 5 = 0 and 3x2 + 3y2 −7x + 8y − 11 = 0.
Solution:
NOTE
(1) Concentric circles do not have a radical axis.

NOTE
(1) Concentric circles do not have a radical axis.

(2) Radical axes of 3 circles taken in pairs are concurrent.
S=0
S − S’ = 0 S”− S = 0
Clearly, the lengths of the

O tangents from O to all the
S’ = 0 circles are equal.
S” = 0
S’ - S” = 0
Radical Centre
Point of intersection of radical axes of 3 circles taken in pairs
is called the radical centre of the circles.
Result
(1) A circle with centre at the radical centre of three circles

and radius equal to length of tangent (from radical
centre) is orthogonal to all three circles.
(2) The radical centre of three circles described on the side

of a triangle as diameters is the orthocentre of the
triangle.
The equation of the three circles are given : x2 + y2 = 1,
Q
x2 + y2 - 8x + 15 = 0 x2 + y2 + 10y + 24 = 0. Determine the
coordinates of the point P such that the tangents
drawn from it to the circles are equal in length.
Solution:
We know that the point from which lengths of tangents are equal in
length is radical centre of the given three circles.
Now radical axis of the first two circles is
(x2 + y2 - 1) - (x2 + y2 - 8x + 15) = 0,
i.e., x - 2 = 0, …(i)
And radical axis of the second and third circles is
(x2 + y2 - 8x + 15) - (x2 + y2 + 10y + 24) = 0,
i.e., 8x + 10y + 9 = 0 …(ii)
Solving Eqs. (i) and (ii), the coordinates of the radical centre,
i.e., of point P are

The centre of the circle, which cuts each of the three
Q
circles: x2 + y2 + 2x + 17y + 4 = 0, x2 + y2 + 7x + 6y + 11 = 0
and x2 + y2 - x + 22y + 3 = 0, orthogonally is
A (3, 2)
B (1, 2)
C (2, 3)
D (0, 2)
The centre of the circle, which cuts each of the three
Q
circles: x2 + y2 + 2x + 17y + 4 = 0, x2 + y2 + 7x + 6y + 11 = 0
and x2 + y2 - x + 22y + 3 = 0, orthogonally is
A (3, 2)
B (1, 2)
C (2, 3)
D (0, 2)
Solution:
Let general equation of a circle is

x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 …(i)
If the circle (i) cuts orthogonally each of the given three circles.
Then, condition is 2g1g2 + 2f1f2 = c1 + c2
Applying the condition one by one, we get
2g + 17f = c + 4 …(ii)
7g + 6f = c + 11 …(iii)
-g + 22f = c + 3 …(iv)
On solving Eqs. (ii), (iii) and (iv), we get
g = -3, f = -2
Therefore, the centre of the circle is (3, 2).
Alternate Solution
S1 : x2 + y2 + 2x + 17y + 4 = 0
S2 : x2 + y2 + 7x + 6y + 11 = 0
S3 : x2 + y2 - x + 22y + 3 = 0
Radical axis for S1 and S2
S2 - S1 = 0 ⇒ 5x - 11y + 7 = 0 …(1)
Radical axis for S2 and S3
S3 - S2 = 0 ⇒ x - 2y + 1 = 0 …(2)
From (1) and (2) radical centre of the given circle will be (3, 2)
Find the radical centre of 3 circles described on the
Q
sides 4x − 7y + 10 = 0, x + y − 5 = 0 and 7x + 4y − 15 = 0
of a triangle, as diameters.
A (1, 2)
B (2, 1)
C (1, -2)
D (2, -1)
Find the radical centre of 3 circles described on the
Q
sides 4x − 7y + 10 = 0, x + y − 5 = 0 and 7x + 4y − 15 = 0
of a triangle, as diameters.
A (1, 2)
B (2, 1)
C (1, -2)
D (2, -1)
Solution:
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Nature of Chapter:

2. You will learn some standard approaches and notations in this

JEE Main 2.5 % 3.5 % 3.7 % 1.8 % 4.0 % 3.10 %

Jee Advanced 12 % 6% 13 % 3% 7% 8.20 %

Central form of the Equation of a Circle

Here, centre is (x1, y1) and radius is ‘r’.

Central form of the Equation of a Circle

Here, centre is (x1, y1) and radius is ‘r’.

Circle with centre at (0, 0) and radius r is x 2 + y 2 = r 2

Central form of the Equation of a Circle

Central form of the Equation of a Circle

centre is (2, 2) and circumference = 4𝜋

The diameter or the normal of a circle passes

Perpendicular of any chord of the circle,

General form of the Equation of a circle

A general two degree equation in two variables is represented as

General form of the Equation of a circle

Condition for a general second degree equation in two variables

If a = b ≠ 1, then we divide the equation by a constant to make

General form of the Equation of a circle

where, Centre is (-g , -f) and

For example: Centre Radius

General form of the Equation of a circle

where, Centre is (-g , -f) and

For example: Centre Radius

and centre is (3, -6)

On substituting the coordinates of three points in equation (i), we get

On solving (iii), (iv) and (v), we get

Q Consider a triangle Δ whose two sides lie on the x-axis

Q Consider a triangle Δ whose two sides lie on the x-axis

Now let us see some special cases.

Diametric form of the Equation of a Circle

(x − x1) (x − x2) + (y − y1) (y − y2) = 0

Diametric form of the Equation of a Circle

(x − x1) (x − x2) + (y − y1) (y − y2) = 0

Basically it’s the sum of two quadratics, one in x, whose

Q Find the equation of the circle which passes

Q Find the equation of the circle which passes

The radius will be minimum, if the given

Parametric form of the Equation of a Circle

Parametric form of the Equation of a Circle

In particular, a general point on x2 + y2 = 1

Parametric form of the Equation of a Circle

So, radius = and centre = ,

Whenever a circle makes an

Circle(s) touching x-axis at a distance 3 from the

Circle(s) touching x-axis at a distance 3 from the

Circle(s) touching x-axis at a distance 3 from the

1. Intercept made by x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 on the X - axis

1. Intercept made by x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 on the X - axis

(a) g2 − c > 0 ⇒ Circle cuts the X - axis at two distinct points

2. Intercept made by x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 on the Y - axis

2. Intercept made by x2 + y2 + 2gx + 2fy + c = 0 on the Y - axis

(a) f 2 − c > 0 ⇒ Circle cuts the Y - axis at two distinct points

Here, we will be learning some standards notations for general second

These notations will be very helpful in upcoming formulae.

Primarily there are are three notations S, S1 and T.

Let’s see what do they denote.

Any second degree equation in two variables, that is,