How do you find the equation of a line at a given point that is tangent to a circle?

This question may start by giving you an equation, which you need to write in the form of the standard equation of a circle (usually by completing the square). This allows you to see the centre of the circle. As you now have two coordinates you can work out the gradient of the line between the centre of the circle and the given point on the circumference. As this line is perpendicular to the tangent on the circle, the gradient is the negative reciprocal. Now you know the gradient of the tangent and a point it crosses through, you can find the equation of the line by substituting these values into the standard equation of a line y=mx+c

TW
Answered by Tom W. Maths tutor

5082 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Given that dy/dx=6-8x+x^4 and that x=1 when y=4. Find an expression for y in terms of x.


(The question is too long so it's marked at the top of the answer space, sorry for any inconveniences)


How do we use the Chain-rule when differentiating?


Express 6cos(2x) + sin(x) in terms of sin(x), hence solve the equation 6cos(2x) + sin(x) = 0 for 0<x<360


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning