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y = √(r^2 - x^2)

Definition

This equation represents part of a circle with radius r centered at the origin (0, 0). It gives the y-coordinate of a point on the circle's circumference based on its x-coordinate.

Analogy

Imagine you are standing at the center of a circular swimming pool. The equation represents your distance from the edge of the pool as you move along its perimeter. As you walk around, your distance from the edge changes depending on how far away you are horizontally (x-coordinate), but it always stays within r units (radius) from the center.

Related terms

Circle: A set of points in a plane that are equidistant from a fixed point called the center.

Radius: The distance between the center of a circle and any point on its circumference.

Coordinate Plane: A two-dimensional plane formed by two perpendicular number lines called axes, usually labeled x-axis and y-axis.



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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.