Question
If tangents PA and PB from a point P to a circle with centre O are inclined to each other at angle of 80°, then ∠ POA is equal to
(A) 50° (B) 60°
(C) 70° (D) 80°.
Solution
In ΔPOA and ΔPOB
PA = PB
(Tangents from external point P)
OA = OB (Radii of a circle)
and OP = OP (common)
∴ ΔPOA ≅ ΔPOB
(by SSS congruency)
⇒ ∠OPA = ∠OPB
⇒ ∠OPA = ∠OPB = 40°
Since, the tangent at any point of a circle is perpendicular to the radius through the point of contact.
∴ ∠OAP = 90°
Now, in ΔOAP,
∠OAP + ∠OPA + ∠POA = 180°
⇒ 90° + 40° + ∠POA = 180°
⇒ 130 + ∠POA = 180°
⇒ ∠POA = 50°
So, right option is (A).
