Difference Between Radius and Chord of a Circle Explained

Learn the key differences between a radius and a chord in a circle, including definitions and examples.

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A radius of a circle is a line segment that extends from the center of the circle to any point on its circumference. A chord, on the other hand, is a line segment with both endpoints on the circle's circumference. Unlike the radius, the chord does not necessarily pass through the center. Simply put, the radius measures from the center to the edge, while a chord spans across any two points on the circle.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is a radius in a circle? A radius is a line segment that connects the center of a circle to any point on its circumference.
  2. What is a chord in a circle? A chord is a line segment that has both of its endpoints on the circumference of the circle, not necessarily passing through the center.
  3. How do a radius and a chord differ? The main difference is that a radius connects the center to the edge, while a chord connects two points on the circumference without passing through the center.
  4. Can a chord be equal to the radius? Yes, in a special case where a chord is the diameter of the circle, it can be equal to twice the radius.