secants

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secants

by ritula » Fri Sep 05, 2008 1:21 am
TSI and TPK are two secants drawn to the circle where T is a point outside the circle. What is the length of PK?

(1) TS = PK
(2) SI = 5 cms.
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by mayur00 » Fri Sep 05, 2008 2:12 pm
For secants from a common point:
TK*TP=TS*TI

Since, TK=TP + PK

also, TI=TS + SI

Therefore, TP ( TP + PK) = TS ( TS + SI)

1. TS = PK

Insufficient since we still have 3 unknowns.

2. SI=5

Insufficient, 3 unknowns


I tried simplifying the equation but couldn't get a solution even after combining statements 1 and 2. I end up with one equation with two unknowns.

Therefore, unless I am missing something answer should be E.