The distance between the centres of two equal circles each of radius 4 cm is 17 cm. The length of a transverse tangent is:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
We know that,
(Length of transverse tangent)2 = [(distance between the centres)2 – (r1 + r2)2]
We have,
Radius of first circle = 4 cm
Radius of second circle = 4 cm
Distance between the centres of two circles = 17 cm
According to the formula = (PQ)2 = (17)2 – (4 + 4)2
= (PQ)2 = 289 – 64
= (PQ)2 = 225
= PQ = 15 cm