Grade 9 ↓
Circles
In this lesson, we will dive deep into the world of circles. Circles are one of the most fascinating and ubiquitous shapes in mathematics and the world around us. Understanding circles helps us understand things like wheels, coins, and even the concept of cycles. Let's begin our exploration.
What is a circle?
A circle is a set of points that are equidistant from one point. This central point is called the center of the circle. The distance from the center to any point on the circle is called the radius. The word "radius" comes from the Latin word meaning "ray" because it radiates out from the center point.
In the figure above, we have a simple circle. The red line represents the radius, which is the distance from the center (point) to the point on the circle.
Basic terms and parts of a circle
Center
The midpoint of a circle. Every point on a circle is the same distance from the center.
Radius
The straight line from the center to any point on the circle. It is constant for any given circle.
Diameter
The diameter is a straight line that passes from one side of a circle to the other through the center. The diameter is twice the length of the radius.
diameter = 2 × radius
The blue line in the diagram represents the diameter. You can see that it passes through the center, where the two radii meet to form the diameter.
Circumference
The circumference is the total distance around the circle. It is like the perimeter in polygons.
Circumference = 2 × π × radius
This formula involves the mathematical constant π (pi), which is approximately 3.14159.
Some properties of circles
- In a circle all radii are equal.
- In a circle all diameters are equal.
- The diameter is the longest chord of a circle. A chord is any line segment whose both ends are on the circle.
Chord and arc
Wire
A chord is a line segment whose both ends are on the circle. A diameter is a special type of chord that passes through the center of a circle.
Arch
An arc is a part of the circumference. It can be any part of the edge of the circle.
We define the arc as follows:
- A minor arc is smaller than a semicircle.
- A major arc is larger than a semicircle.
Tangent line
A tangent is a line that touches a circle at exactly one point. This point is known as the point of tangency. The tangent is always perpendicular to the radius at the point of contact.
Sectors and sections
Area
The sector of a circle is like a "piece of pie". It is the area bounded by two radii and the arc between them.
Section
A segment is the area inside a circle that is bounded by a chord and the arc (or intercept) it creates. It's like the smaller area you would get if you "cut off" a piece of the circle using a chord.
Equation of a circle
The general equation of a circle on the Cartesian plane with radius r
and center (h, k)
is:
(x – h)² + (y – k)² = r²
If the center is at the origin (0, 0), the equation simplifies to:
x² + y² = r²
Let us solve a simple equation problem for better understanding: Suppose a circle has center (3, 4) and radius 5. Write the equation for this circle.
Solution: Using the formula (x - h)² + (y - k)² = r²
, we substitute h = 3
, k = 4
, and r = 5
:
(x - 3)² + (y - 4)² = 25
Area and perimeter with circles
Area of a circle
The area of a circle is the space within its circumference. It can be calculated using the formula:
Area = π × radius²
Let the radius of the circle be 7 cm. The area will be:
Area = π × 7² = π × 49 ≈ 153.94 cm²
Conversion between diameter and radius
As we know from the definitions:
diameter = 2 × radius
On the contrary,
Radius = diameter / 2
Solving problems involving circles
Let's consider some problem-solving scenarios using our knowledge of circles:
Example 1
The radius of a bicycle wheel is 14 inches. Find its circumference.
Solution:
Perimeter = 2 × π × 14 = 28π ≈ 87.96 inches
Example 2
The diameter of a circular park is 200 m. Find the area of the park.
Solution:
First, convert the diameter to a radius:
Radius = diameter / 2 = 200 / 2 = 100 meters
Then calculate the area:
Area = π × 100² = 10000π ≈ 31415.93 square meter
Circles in real life
Circles are not just mathematical concepts; they are everywhere in real life. For example, they are used in designing wheels, clocks, coins, plates, and even buildings. Recognizing the properties of circles is helpful in both the aesthetic and functional aspects of design.
Exercise: Observe your surroundings
The next time you go out, try to identify circular objects around you using their properties. Consider the radius, diameter, circumference, and area of a circle to gain a deeper understanding of their utility and beauty.
This comprehensive guide will give you a strong foundation in understanding circles, their properties, and applications. By building on these basics, you can model and solve many geometric problems involving circles.