Circle Properties in the Coordinate Plane

learning_notes

Last updated: 8/16/2025

Key Concepts:

  • Distance between two Points: (d = \sqrt{(x_2 - x_1)^2 + (y_2 - y_1)^2}).
  • Midpoint Formula: (M = (\frac{x_1+x_2}{2}, \frac{y_1+y_2}{2})).
    • The center of a circle is the midpoint of two endpoints of a diameter.
  • Intersection with Axes: Whether a circle touches or crosses the x- or y-axis can be determined by the center’s coordinates and radius.

Skills Covered:

  • Calculating distances between two points.
  • Writing the circle's equation given two endpoints of a diameter.
  • Identifying the number of intersections of a circle with x- or y-axis.

Example Problem:

  • A circle has a diameter with two endpoints ((3, -2)) and ((-3, 6)). Write the equation of the circle.
  • A circle has the equation ((x - 4)^2 + (y + 2)^2 = 25). How many intersections does it have with the y-axis?

Features

  • Aris - 1on1 AI tutor
  • Skills Tree
  • Improvement analytics
  • Error-Hacking Vault
  • Special topics
logoAris Tutor

ArisTutor is powered by a group of standardized test prep experts from top-tier colleges who aspire to help more students get high-quality ACT, AP and SAT prep resources at a fraction of the cost of premium tutors.

SAT® and AP® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse, this product.
ACT® is a trademark registered by the ACT, Inc, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse, this product.