Chapter 7: Problem 13
Sketch and describe each locus in the plane. Find the locus of points that are at a distance of 3 in. from a fixed point \(O .\)
Short Answer
Expert verified
The locus is a circle centered at point O with a radius of 3 inches.
Step by step solution
01
Identify the Nature of the Locus
The problem requires finding all points at a constant distance from a given fixed point (point O). Loci involving a fixed distance from a point typically describe a circle in a plane.
02
Understand the Components of a Circle
A circle is defined as the collection of all points in a plane that are equidistant from a central point. The central point is the fixed point O, and the radius of the circle is the distance, which is 3 inches here.
03
Establish the Definition of the Locus as a Circle
Using the definition of a circle, we know the center is point O, and each point on the locus is 3 inches away from O. Thus, the locus is a circle with point O as its center and a radius of 3 inches.
04
Illustrate the Locus
Sketch a circle on the plane with point O as its center. Use a compass or any other tool ensuring every point on this circle is exactly 3 inches away from point O.
05
Describe the Locus
The locus of points is a circle centered at the fixed point O with a radius of 3 inches. Every point on this circle maintains a distance of 3 inches from O.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
circle
In geometry, a circle plays a major role as a fundamental shape. When we think of a circle, imagine a perfect round shape in a plane where every point along its boundary is equidistant from a specific center point. This characteristic makes a circle distinct from other geometric shapes.
- **Center:** The central point inside the circle from which all outer points are equally distant.
- **Boundary:** The curved line that forms the perimeter of the circle. It's where the distance is measured consistently from the center.
radius
The radius of a circle is a key concept that defines the space it occupies. Think of the radius as the invisible stick that connects the circle's center to its perimeter. It's a straight line segment that represents consistent distance.Factors of the Radius:
- **Length:** Determines the size of the circle. A larger radius results in a larger circle.
- **Constancy:** Every point on the edge of the circle is the exact same distance from the center, which proves invaluable in geometry.
fixed point
A fixed point in geometry serves as a reference or starting point, around which specific calculations or constructions are made. In many cases, a fixed point is the anchor for defining various geometric figures, particularly circles.What is a Fixed Point?
- **Definition:** A location in a plane that stays constant and does not move.
- **Role in a Circle:** Acts as the center of the circle, from which all points on the circle's boundary are equidistant.