Multiple choice

Two parallel chords of a circle of diameter 20 cm lying on the opposite sides of the center are of lengths 12 cm and 16 cm. The distance between the chords is -

  1. 12

  2. 14

  3. 16

  4. 20
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B Correct answer
Explanation

For a chord of length L in a circle of radius r, perpendicular distance from center = sqrt(r² - (L/2)²). With radius 10 cm: for 12 cm chord, distance = sqrt(100-36)=8 cm; for 16 cm chord, distance = sqrt(100-64)=6 cm. Since chords are on opposite sides of center, total distance = 8+6=14 cm.

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