In figure,
A, D and S denote the positions of Ankur, David and Syed, respectively sitting at equal distance.

We know that,
If two minor arcs are equal in measure, then their corresponding chords are equal in measure.
∴ AD = DS = SA = 2x (let).
∴ ∆ ADS is an equilateral triangle.
From figure,
Radius = OA = OS = 20 m
Draw AB perpendicular to chord SD.
We know that,
Perpendicular from center bisects the chord.
∴ AB is the median.
∴ BS = BD = = x.
We know that,
Centre and Centroid are the same for an equilateral triangle, and it divides the median in the ratio 2 : 1.
∴ OA : OB = 2 : 1
= 10 m.
From figure,
AB = OA + OB = 20 + 10 = 30 m.
In right angle triangle ASB,
By pythagoras theorem,
⇒ AS2 = AB2 + BS2
⇒ (2x)2 = 302 + x2
⇒ 4x2 = 900 + x2
⇒ 4x2 - x2 = 900
⇒ 3x2 = 900
⇒ x2 =
⇒ x2 = 300
⇒ x =
⇒ 2x = .
Hence, the length of the string of each phone = m.
Circles — Interactive Study Guide
Circle Theorems Quick Reference
- Equal chords ⇔ equal central angles
- Perpendicular from centre bisects the chord
- Equal chords ⇔ equidistant from centre
- Central angle = 2 × inscribed angle (same arc)
- Angles in same segment are equal
- Angle in semicircle = 90°
- Opposite angles of cyclic quad = 180°
Problem-Solving Toolkit
Quick Self-Check
- Inscribed angle = 35°. Central angle for the same arc? (70°)
- Chord = 10 cm, distance from centre = 12 cm. Radius? (√(25+144) = √169 = 13 cm)
- ABCD is cyclic, ∠A = 95°. Find ∠C. (85°)