Equations of Circles

learning_notes

Last updated: 8/16/2025

Key Concepts:

  • Standard Form – The equation of a circle is ((x - h)^2 + (y - k)^2 = r^2), where ((h, k)) is the center and (r) is the radius.
  • Completing the Square is used to rewrite a general equation in standard form to find the center and radius of a circle.
  • Transformations of Circles – A circle is shifted up/down/left/right when the center coordinates in its equation is modified.

Skills Covered:

  • Identifying center and radius from an equation.
  • Rewriting equation of a circle in standard form using completing the square.
  • Modifying a circle's equation for translations.

Example Problem:

  • Find the equation of a circle centered at ((-3, 2)) that passes through ((1, 2)).
  • The equation of a circle is (x^2 - 2x + y^2 + 6y = 26). Find the radius of the circle.

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