Circle Theorem Examples

Related Topics:
More Lessons for Geometry

Math Worksheets

In this lesson, we will learn

• a Circle Theorem called the Thales' Theorem or Triangle inscribed in semicircle or Angle inscribed in semicircle or “90 degrees in Semicircle” Theorem.
• how to use the Thales' Theorem to find missing angles.
• how to prove the Thales' Theorem.

Thales' theorem

The Thales' theorem states

Every angle subtended at the circumference by the diameter of a circle is a right angle (90˚).

or

The diameter of a circle always subtends a right angle to any point on the circle.

or

The angle inscribed in a semicircle is 90˚.

POQ is the diameter. ∠PAQ = ∠PBQ = ∠PCQ = 90˚.

Using the Theorem

Example:

O is the centre of the circle. Find the value of x

Solution:

∠ABC = 90˚ ( angle in a semicircle = 90˚)

63˚ + 90˚ + x = 180˚ ( sum of angles in a triangle )

x = 27˚

Inscribed Right Triangles (Right Triangles Inside of Circles)
This video introduces you to Thales' Theorem that if the longest side of a triangle inscribed within a circle is the same length as the diameter of a circle, then that triangle is a right triangle, as well as the converse: if a right triangle is inscribed within a circle, the length of its hypotenuse is the diameter of the circle.
We can use the Thales' Theorem to find missing angles.

Proving the Theorem

Proof of the Thales' Theorem

Proof showing that a triangle inscribed in a circle having a diameter as one side is a right triangle. This proof uses the bow theorem.