Question

answer the questions using the diagram.
identify the line tangent to the circle. choose
identify a chord. choose
which segment is perpendicular to the tangent line? choose
what is the proper name for the segment that is perpendicular to the tangent line? choose

Explanation:

1. Identify the line tangent to the circle.

A tangent to a circle is a line that touches the circle at exactly one point. In the diagram, line \( TR \) (or the line containing \( T \) and \( R \)) touches the circle at point \( T \) only. So the tangent line is \( TR \) (or the line through \( T \) and \( R \), maybe labeled as \( TR \) or the vertical line at \( T \)).

A chord of a circle is a line segment with both endpoints on the circle. In the diagram, segment \( ST \) has endpoints \( S \) and \( T \), both on the circle. So \( ST \) is a chord.

The radius to the point of tangency is perpendicular to the tangent line. The tangent line is at \( T \), and \( OT \) is the radius (since \( O \) is the center). So segment \( OT \) is perpendicular to the tangent line ( \( TR \) ).

Answer:

The line tangent to the circle is \( TR \) (or the line containing points \( T \) and \( R \)).

2. Identify a chord.