Equation of a Circle

Equation of a Circle

The equation of a circle is given by the formula:

(x a)² + (y − b)² = R²

where (a , b) is the centre of the circle and R is the radius of the circle.

This equation can also be expanded and expressed in this form:

x² + y² + 2fx + 2gy + c = 0

where (f, g) is the centre of the circle

and √(f ² + g² c) is the radius of the circle.

Explore!

Use the applet below to explore the relationship between the coordinates of the centre & the radius of the circle with the equation of a circle.

Move the centre O and point A (on the circle) to manipulate the circle.

Test yourself!

By completing the square or otherwise, can you find the centre and radius of the circle equation given below.

Next: Lets see how the equation of a circle changes under simple transformations.