The

Sphere

1|Pa ge
Unit-4: The Sphere
Structure
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Objectives
4.3 Equation of a Sphere with centre at C( , , ) and radius r
4.4 Equation of a Sphere with centre at origin O( , , ) and radius r
4.5 General Equation of the Sphere
4.6 Equation of the Sphere with a given diameter
4.7 Plane Section of a Sphere
4.8 Great Circle
4.9 Intersection of two Sphere
4.10 Sphere Passing through a circle
4.11 Intersection of a Straight line and a Sphere
4.12 Tangent Planes
4.13 Condition of Tangency
4.14 Plane of contact
4.15 Pole and Polar planes
4.16 The equation of the polar plane of a point ( , , ) with respect to the sphere
+ + = is + + =
4.17 The equation of the polar plane of a point ( , , ) with respect to the sphere
+ + = is + + =
4.18 The pole of the polar plane + + = with respect to the sphere
+ + = is , ,
4.19 Orthogonal System of Spheres
4.20 Touching Spheres
4.21 The Length of the Tangent and Power of a Point
4.22 The Radical plane of two Spheres
4.23 The Radical Axis(Radical Line) of three Spheres
4.24 Coaxial System of Spheres
4.25 Limiting Points of a Co-axial system of spheres
4.26 Summary
4.27 Terminal Questions
4.28 Further readings

2|Pa ge
4.1 Introduction
Definition (Sphere) 4.1:
In solid geometry, a sphere is the locus of all points equidistant from a fixed point. Fixed point is
known as centre of the sphere and constant distance is known as the radius of the sphere.
Z
Z

X
O
Figure 4.1

C is the centre of the sphere and CP = r is the radius of the sphere.

Definition (Inside and Outside of a Sphere) 4.1:

A point is inside, outside, or on a sphere according as its distance from the center is less than,
greater than, or equal to the radius of the sphere.

Figure 4.2

C is the centre of the sphere and r is radius.

3|Pa ge
CP = r ⟹ P lies on the sphere
CQ < r ⟹ Q lies inside the sphere
CR > r ⟹ R lies outside the sphere

Definition (Circle) 4.1:

Every section of a sphere made by a plane is a circle.

Figure 4.3

Definition (A Great Circle) 4.2:

A great circle of a sphere is a section made by a plane which passes through the center of the
sphere.
Sphere

Plane

Centre of Circle and Sphere

Great Circle

Figure 4.4

Definition (A Small Circle) 4.3:

A small circle of a sphere is a section made by a plane which does not pass through the center of
the sphere.

4|Pa ge
4.2 Objectives
After reading this unit, you should be able to
Understand the definition of sphere
Understand that the point lies on the boundary, inside or outside the sphere.
Understand the circle, great circle and small circle.
Find the equation of a Sphere with centre at C(u, v, w) and radius r
Find the equation of a Sphere with centre at origin O(0,0,0) and radius r
Understand the general equation of the Sphere and determine its centre and radius
Find the equation of the Sphere with a given diameter
Find the equation of a circle and determine its centre and radius
Understand great circle and find the equation of a sphere for which the circle is a great
circle
Show that the intersection of two sphere is a circle
Find the equation of a sphere passing through a circle
Understand the three possibilities that the line does not intersect the sphere or intersect the
sphere at two point or it is tangent line
Find the equation of tangent planes
Find the condition of tangency
Find the equation of plane of contact
Find the pole and polar planes
Show that the equation of the polar plane of a point A(() , *) , +) ) with respect to the sphere
( , + * , + + , = -, is (() + **) + ++) = -,
Show that the equation of the polar plane of a point A(() , *) , +) ) with respect to the sphere
( , + * , + + , = -, is (() + **) + ++) = -,
Show that the pole of the polar plane .( + /* + 0+ = 1 with respect to the sphere
23 4 634 73 4
( , + * , + + , = - , is 5
, 5
, 5
Find the condition that the two spheres are orthogonal
Find the angle of intersection of two spheres
Show that the two spheres are touch internally or externally and find their point of contact
Find the length of a tangent and power of a point
Find the radical plane of two spheres
Find the radical axis(radical line) of three spheres
Find the Coaxial system of spheres
Find the limiting points of a co-axial system of spheres

5|Pa ge
4.3 Equation of a Sphere with centre at C( , , ) and radius r

Z
(8, 9, :)
Z

C( , , )

X
O
Figure 4.5

Let the centre of the sphere be the point C(u, v, w) and its radius be r.

Let P(x, y, z) be any point on the sphere

⟹ CP = r

⟹ >(( − @), + (* − A), + (+ − B), = r

⟹ (( − @), + (* − A), + (+ − B), = C ,

6|Pa ge
4.4 Equation of a Sphere with centre at origin and radius r

(8, 9, :)

O( , , )
X

Y Figure 4.6

Let P(x, y, z) be any point on the sphere.

OP = r
⟹ >(( − 0), + (* − 0), + (+ − 0), = r
⟹ >( , + * , + + , = r
⟹ ( , + * , + + , = C,

4.5 General Equation of the Sphere

( , + * , + + , + 2@( + 2A* + 2B+ + F = 0

,
⟹ (( + @), + (* + A), + (+ + B), = G√@, + A , + B , − FI
,
⟹ {( − (−@)}, + {* − (−A)}, + {+ − (−B)}, = G√@, + A , + B , − FI
Centre is (−@, −A, −B)

Radius = >@ , + A , + B , − F

7|Pa ge
 4.6 Equation of the Sphere with a given diameter

(8, 9, :)
Z T(8 , 9 , : )
^ °

(8 , 9 , : )

X
O
Figure 4.7

Y
Direction ratios of AP are x − x), y − y), z − z)
Direction ratios of BP are x − x , , y − y, , z − z,
AP ⊥ BP
⇒ (x − x))(x − x , ) + (y − y) )(y − y , ) + (z − z) )(z − z, ) = 0

Example 4.1: Find the equation of the sphere with centre at (1,2,3) and radius 5.
Solution: Equation of a Sphere with centre at (u, v, w) and radius r is given by
(( − @), + (* − A), + (+ − B), = C ,
The required equation of the sphere is
(( − 1), + (* − 2), + (+ − 3), = 25
⟹ ( , + * , + + , − 2x − 4y − 6z − 11 = 0
Example 4.2: Find the equation of the sphere with centre at (0,0,4) and radius 4.
Solution: Equation of a Sphere with centre at (u, v, w) and radius r is given by
(( − @), + (* − A), + (+ − B), = C ,
The required equation of the sphere is
(( − 0), + (* − 0), + (+ − 4), = 16
⟹ ( , + * , + + , − 8z = 0

8|Pa ge
Example 4.3: Find the equation of the sphere whose centre is (1,3,4) and which passes through the
point (−3,0,4).

Solution:Radius of the sphere = >(1 + 3), + (3 − 0), + (4 − 4), = 5

Centre of the sphere = (1,3,4)
The required equation of the sphere is
(( − 1), + (* − 3), + (+ − 4), = 25
⟹ ( , + * , + + , − 2x − 6y − 8z + 1 = 0

Example 4.4: Find the centre and radius of the sphere ( , + * , + + , − 2x − 6y − 8z + 1 = 0.

Solution: Equation of the given sphere is
( , + * , + + , − 2x − 6y − 8z + 1 = 0
⟹ (( − 1), + (* − 3), + (+ − 4), = (5),
⟹ Radius of the sphere = 5 and Centre of the sphere = (1,3,4)

Example 4.5: Find the equation of the sphere through the four points
(0,0,0), (-, 0,0), (0, d, 0), (0,0, e).
Solution: Let the equation of the sphere be
( , + * , + + , + 2@( + 2A* + 2B+ + F = 0 ……… (1)
As the sphere (1) passes through the point (0,0,0), (-, 0,0), (0, d, 0), (0,0, e)
⟹F=0
-, + 2@- + F = 0 ⟹ @ = − ,
3

d, + 2Ad + F = 0 ⟹ A = − ,
f

e , + 2Be + F = 0 ⟹ B = − ,
g

The required equation of sphere is

( , + * , + + , − -( − d* − e+ =0

Example 4.6: Find the equation of the sphere which passes through the points
(0,0,0), (-, 0,0), (0, d, 0) and whose centre lies on the plane ( + * + + = 0
Solution: Let the equation of the sphere be
( , + * , + + , + 2@( + 2A* + 2B+ + F = 0 ……… (1)

9|Pa ge
As the sphere (1) passes through the point (0,0,0), (-, 0,0) -0F (0, d, 0)
⟹F=0
-, + 2@- + F = 0 ⟹ @ = − ,
3

d, + 2Ad + F = 0 ⟹ A = − ,
f

As the centre of the sphere (−@, −A, −B) lies on the plane ( + * + + = 0
⟹ −@ − A − B = 0
⟹@ +A+B = 0

⟹ B = −@ − A = , + ,
3 f

The required equation of sphere is given by

( , + * , + + , − -( − d* + (- + d)+ = 0

Example 4.7: Find the equation of the sphere circumscribing the tetrahedron whose faces are

( = 0, * = 0, + = 0 and + f + g = 1.
m n o
3

Solution:
Z
Z

h( , , i)

l( , , ) (j, , )
X

T( , k, )
Figure 4.8

Equations of the given planes are

10 | P a g e
(=0 ……...( )
*=0 ……... ( )
+=0 ……...( p)

+f+g =1
m n o
3
……... ( q)

By solving ( ), ( ) and ( p ), we get the vertex O(0,0,0)

By solving ( ), ( p) and ( q ), we get the vertex A(a, 0,0)

By solving ( p ), ( ) and ( q ), we get the vertex B(0, b, 0)

By solving ( ), ( ) and ( q ), we get the vertex C(0,0, c)

Therefore the sphere circumscribing the tetrahedron OABC is the sphere passing through the four
points O(0,0,0), A(a, 0,0), B(0, b, 0) and C(0,0, c) is given by
( , + * , + + , − -( − d* − e+ =0

Example 4.8: Find the equation of the sphere on the join of (0, b, 0) and (0,0, c) as diameter.
Solution: The equation of the sphere on the join of (0, b, 0) and (0,0, c) as diameter is given by
(( − 0)(( − 0) + (* − d)(* − 0) + (+ − 0)(+ − e) = 0
⟹ ( , + * , − d* + + , − +e = 0
⟹ ( , + * , + + , − d* − +e = 0
Example 4.9: Find the equation of the sphere with centre at (0,0,0) and touch the plane
-( + d* + e+ + F = 0.
Solution:
Sphere

C(0,0,0)

Plane +t +u +v =

M
Figure 4.9

11 | P a g e
 -. 0 + d. 0 + e. 0 + F F
Radius of sphere = CM = =
√-, + d, + e , √-, + d, + e ,
The required equation of sphere is given by
F ,
(( − 0) + (* − 0) + (+ − 0) = y
, , ,
z
√- , + d , + e ,
F,
⟹( +* ++ = ,
, , ,
- + d, + e ,

Example 4.10: (i) Show that the point P(2,2,1) lies on the sphere ( , + * , + + , = 9.
(ii) Show that the point Q(5,2,2) lies inside the sphere ( , + * , + + , − 6( + 4* + 4+ − 32 = 0.
(iii) Show that the point R(3,3,4) lies outside the sphere ( , + * , + + , + 2( + 2* − 4+ − 19 = 0.
Solution: (i) Equation of the given sphere
(, + *, + +, = 9
Radius of the given sphere = 3 and Centre = O(0,0,0)

PO = >(2 − 0), + (2 − 0), + (1 − 0), = √9 = 3 = Radius of the sphere

Hence the point the point P(2,2,1) lies on the sphere.
(ii) Equation of the given sphere
( , + * , + + , − 6( + 4* + 4+ − 32 = 0
or
(( − 3), + (* + 2), + (+ + 2), = 49
Radius of the given sphere = 7 and Centre = O(3, −2, −2)
QO = >(5 − 3), + (2 + 2), + (2 + 2), = √36 = 6
QO = 6 < 7(Radius of the sphere)
Hence the point the point Q(5,2,2) lies inside the sphere.
(iii) Equation of the given sphere
( , + * , + + , + 2( + 2* − 4+ − 19 = 0
or
(( + 1), + (* + 1), + (+ − 2), = 25
Radius of the given sphere = 5 and Centre = O(−1, −1,2)

RO = >(3 + 1), + (3 + 1), + (4 − 2), = √36 = 6

RO = 6 > 5(Radius of the sphere)
Hence the point the point R(3,3,4) lies outside the sphere.

12 | P a g e
1. Find the equation of the sphere with centre at (0,0,0) and which passes through the
Check Your Progress

point(-, 0,0).

Ans. ( , + * , + + , = -,

2. Find the equation of the sphere with centre at (2, −3,4) and radius 5.

Ans. ( , + * , + + , − 4x + 6y − 8z + 4 = 0

3. Find the centre and radius of the sphere ( , + * , + + , − 4x + 6y + 2z + 5 = 0.

Ans. Radius = 3 and Centre = (2, −3, −1)

4. Find the equation of the sphere on the join of (2, −3,1) and (3, −1,2) as diameter.

Ans. ( , + * , + + , − 5x + 4y − 3z + 11 = 0

5. Find the equation of the sphere on the join of (a, 0,0) and (0, b, 0) as diameter.

Ans. ( , + * , + + , − ax − by = 0

6. Find the equation of the sphere with centre at (2,3,-4) and touch the plane

2x + 6y − 3z + 15 = 0.

Ans. ( , + * , + + , − 4x − 6y + 8z − 20 = 0

7. Find the equation of the sphere which passes through the points (4,1,0),(2,-3,4),(1,0,0) and

touch the plane 2x + 2y − z = 11.

Ans. ( , + * , + + , − 6x + 2y − 4z + 5 = 0

8. Find the equation of the sphere which passes through the points (1,-3,4),(1,-5,2),(1,-3,0) and

whose centre lies on the plane x + y + z = 0.

Ans. ( , + * , + + , − 2x + 6y − 4z + 10 = 0

13 | P a g e
 4.7 Plane Section of a Sphere
Every section of a sphere made by a plane is a circle.
S ≡ (( − @), + (* − A), + (+ − B), = C ,
P ≡ .( + /* + 0+ = 1

Sphere (( − @), + (* − A), + (+ − B), = C ,

Direction ratios of Normal of the plane
are , ,

O(u,v,w) Plane .( + /* + 0+ = 1
r

C(•, Ž, •) A

Circle

Figure 4.10

O(u,v,w) is the centre of the Sphere and OA = C is the radius of the Sphere
Let C(€, •, ‚) is the centre of the circle and CA is the radius of the circle.
C(€, •, ‚) must satisfied the equation of the plane .( + /* + 0+ = 1
i.e. .€ + /• + 0‚ = 1 ……. (1)
Direction ratios of OC are € − @, • − @, ‚ − B
Direction ratios of normal of the plane are l,m,n
OC is parallel to the normal of the plane

= = = Š(‹-*) ⟹ € = .Š + @, • = /Š + A , ‚ = 0Š + B
ƒ„… †„‡ ˆ„‰
2 6 7
Hence,

By putting the value of €, •, ‚ in equation (1)

.(.Š + @) + /(/Š + A) + 0(0Š + B) = 1 ⟹ Š =

5„2…„6‡„7‰
24 Œ6 4Œ74

By putting the value of Š = in € = .Š + @, • = /Š + A, ‚ = 0Š + B we get the

5„2…„6‡„7‰
24 Œ6 4 Œ74

coordinate of the centre of circle.

Now, OC = >(€ − @), + (• − @), + (‚ − B),
In Right Angle Triangle OCA,
CA = √C , − OC , is the radius of the circle.

14 | P a g e
 4.8 Great Circle

Sphere

Figure 4.11

4.9 Intersection of two Sphere

‘) ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 2@)( + 2A) * + 2B) + + F) = 0
‘, ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 2@, ( + 2A, * + 2B, + + F, = 0
The intersection of two spheres ‘) = 0 and ‘, = 0 is a circle given by
‘) = 0 (Sphere)
‘) − ‘, = 0(Plane)
or
‘, = 0 (Sphere)
‘) − ‘, = 0(Plane)

Sphere • = Sphere • =

C) C,

Figure 4.12

15 | P a g e
 4.10 Sphere Passing through a circle
S ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 2@( + 2A* + 2B+ + F = 0
(i) ’ “
P ≡ -( + d* + e+ + F = 0
…….(1)

Equation of a sphere through the circle (1) is given by

S + λP = 0
(ii) S) ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 2@) ( + 2A) * + 2B) + + F) = 0
S, ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 2@, ( + 2A, * + 2B, + + F, = 0
Equation of a sphere through S) = 0 and S, = 0 is given by
S) + λ S, = 0

Example 4.11: Find the radius of the circle (( + 1), + (* + 2), + (+ − 6), = 49,
3( + 5* + 4+ + 9 = 0.
Solution:
Sphere (( + 1), + (* + 2), + (+ − 6), = 49

O (-1, -2, 6) Plane 3( + 5* + 4+ + 9 = 0

7

C A

Circle

Figure 4.13

OC = Length of the perpendicular from O(−1, −2,6) to the plane 3x + 5y + 4z + 9 = 0

(3 × −1) + (5 × −2) + (4 × 6) + 9 20 4
= = = = 2√2
√3, +5, + 4, √50 √2
OA = Radius of the sphere = 7
Now, in Right Angle Triangle OCA

CA = ™7, − G2√2I = √49 − 8 = √41 is the radius of the circle.

,

16 | P a g e
Example 4.12: Find the centre and radius of the circle (( − 1), + (* − 2), + (+ − 3), = 25,
( + * + + = 2.
Solution:

Sphere (( − 1), + (* − 2), + (+ − 3), = 25

Direction ratios of Normal of the plane
are , ,

O(1,2,3) Plane + + =
5

C(•, Ž, •) A

Circle

Figure 4.14
Radius of the given sphere = OA = 5 and Centre = O(1,2,3)
Let C(€, •, ‚) is the centre of the circle and CA is the radius of the circle.
C(€, •, ‚) must satisfied the equation of the plane ( + * + + = 2
i.e. € + • + ‚ = 2 …….(1)
Direction ratios of OC are € − 1, • − 2, ‚ − 3
Direction ratios of normal of the plane are 1,1,1
OC is parallel to the normal of the plane

= = = Š(‹-*) ⟹ € = Š + 1, • = Š + 2, ‚ = Š + 3
ƒ„) †„, ˆ„š
) ) )
Hence,
By putting the value of €, •, ‚ in equation (1)

⟹ Š + 1 + Š + 2 + Š + 3 = 2 ⟹ Š = −š
›

By putting the value of Š = − š we get the coordinate of the centre of circle

›

4 1
€=− +1 ⟹€ =−
3 3
4 2
• =− +2⟹• =
3 3
4 5
• =− +3⟹‚ =
3 3

17 | P a g e
Now,

1 2 5 4√3
, , ,
œ
OC = y− − 1z + y − 2z + y − 3z =
3 3 3 3
Now, in Right Angle Triangle OCA
,
CA = ™5, − = ™25 − =™
› √š )• žŸ
š š š
is the radius of the circle.

Example 4.13: Find the equation of the sphere through the circle ( , + * , + + , = -, ,
( + * + + = 0 and the point (€, •, ‚).
Solution: The equation of the sphere through the circle ( , + * , + + , − - , = 0, ( + * + + = 0 is
given by
(( , + * , + + , − -, ) + Š(( + * + +) = 0 ……..(S)
As sphere (S) passes through the point (€, •, ‚)
⟹ (€ , + • , + ‚ , − -, ) + Š(€ + • + ‚) = 0

⟹Š=−
ƒ 4 Œ†4 Œˆ4 „34
ƒŒ†Œˆ

The required equation of the sphere is

(( , + * , + + , − -, ) − (( + * + +) = 0
(ƒ 4 Œ†4 Œˆ4 „3 4 )
(ƒŒ†Œˆ)

Example 4.14: Find the centre and radius of the circle ( , + * , + + , − 2* − 4+ − 11 = 0,

( + 2* + 2+ − 15 = 0.
Solution:
Sphere (( − 0), + (* − 1), + (+ − 2), = 16
Direction ratios of Normal of the plane
are , ,

+ + − =
O(0,1,2)
Plane
4

C(•, Ž, •) A

Circle

Figure 4.15

18 | P a g e
Radius of the given sphere = OA = 4 and Centre = O(0,1,2)
Let C(€, •, ‚) is the centre of the circle and CA is the radius of the circle.
C(€, •, ‚) must satisfied the equation of the plane ( + 2* + 2+ − 15 = 0
i.e. € + 2• + 2‚ = 15 …….(1)
Direction ratios of OC are € − 0, • − 1, ‚ − 2
Direction ratios of normal of the plane are 1,2,2
OC is parallel to the normal of the plane

Hence, ) = = = Š(‹-*) ⟹ € = Š, • = 2Š + 1, ‚ = 2Š + 2
ƒ †„) ˆ„,
, ,

By putting the value of €, •, ‚ in equation (1)

Š + 4Š + 2 + 4Š + 4 = 15 ⟹ Š = 1
By putting the value of Š = 1 we get the coordinate of the centre of circle
€ = 1, • = 3, ‚ = 4
Now,

OC = >(0 − 1), + (1 − 3), + (2 − 4), = 3

Now, in Right Angle Triangle OCA
CA = √4, − 3, = √7 is the radius of the circle.

Example 4.15: Find the equation of a sphere for which the circle ( , + * , + + , = 16, ( + * + + =
6 is a great circle.
Solution: The equation of the sphere through the circle
( , + * , + + , − 16 = 0, ( + * + + − 6 = 0 is given by
(( , + * , + + , − 16) + Š(( + * + + − 6) = 0
( , + * , + + , + Š( + Š* + Š+ − 16 − 6Š = 0 ……..(S)

The centre of the sphere (S) is (− , , − , , − ,)

¡ ¡ ¡

As the given circle is a great circle for the sphere (S), then the centre of the sphere (S) lies on the
plane ( + * + + = 6

⟹− − − =6
¡ ¡ ¡
, , ,

⟹ Š = −4

19 | P a g e
The required equation of the sphere is given by
(( , + * , + + , − 16) − 4(( + * + + − 6) = 0
⟹ ( , + * , + + , − 4( − 4* − 4+ + 8 = 0

Example 4.16: Show that the equation of the circle whose centre is (1,2,3) and which lies on the
sphere ( , + * , + + , = 16 is ( , + * , + + , = 16, ( + 2* + 3+ = 14.
Solution:
Sphere ( , + * , + + , = 16
Direction ratios of Normal of the plane
are , t, u

+t +u +v =
O(0,0,0)
Plane
4

C( , , p) A

Circle

Figure 4.16
Let the equation of the circle through the sphere ( , + * , + + , = 16 is
( , + * , + + , = 16, -( + d* + e+ + F = 0
Centre of circle (1,2,3) must satisfied the equation of the plane -( + d* + e+ + F = 0
⟹ -(( − 1) + d(* − 2) + e(+ − 3) = 0 …….(1)
Direction ratios of OC are 1,2,3
Direction ration of normal of the plane are a,b,c
OC is parallel to the normal of the plane

Hence, ) = , = š = Š(‹-*) ⟹ - = Š, d = 2Š, e = 3Š

3 f g

Putting the value of a,b,c in (1)

⟹ Š(( − 1) + 2Š(* − 2) + 3Š(+ − 3) = 0
⟹ ( + 2* + 3+ = 14
Hence the required equation of circle is
( , + * , + + , = 16, ( + 2* + 3+ = 14

20 | P a g e
Example 4.17: Find the equation to the plane in which the circle of intersection of the spheres
( , + * , + + , − 2( + 4* − 6+ + 12 = 0 and ( , + * , + + , + 6( − 7* − + − 12 = 0 lies. Find
also the equation of the sphere through this circle and the point (1,1,1).
Solution:
S) ≡ ( , + * , + + , − 2( + 4* − 6+ + 12 = 0 …... (1)
S, ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 6( − 7* − + − 12 = 0 …... (2)

Sphere • = Sphere • =

C) C,

Figure 4.17
Equation of the plane in which the circle of intersection of the spheres lies is given by
S) − S, = 0
⟹ (( , + * , + + , − 2( + 4* − 6+ + 12) − (( , + * , + + , + 6( − 7* − + − 12) = 0
⟹ −8( + 11* − 5+ + 24 = 0
⟹ 8( − 11* + 5+ − 24 = 0
Equation of the sphere through the circle of intersection of the spheres is given by
(( , + * , + + , − 2( + 4* − 6+ + 12) + Š(8( − 11* + 5+ − 24) = 0 …….(3)
As the sphere (3) passes through the point (1,1,1)
⟹ (1 + 1 + 1 − 2 + 4 − 6 + 12) + Š(8 − 11 + 5 − 24) = 0
⟹Š=
)
,

The required equation of the sphere is

1
(( , + * , + + , − 2( + 4* − 6+ + 12) + (8( − 11* + 5+ − 24) = 0
2
⟹ 2( , + 2* , + 2+ , − 4( + 8* − 12+ + 24 + 8( − 11* + 5+ − 24 = 0
⟹ 2( , + 2* , + 2+ , + 4( − 3* − 7+ = 0

21 | P a g e
 Check Your Progress
1. Find the centre and radius of the circle
(( − 2), + (* − 3), + (+ − 4), = 36, 2( + 6* + 3+ − 6 = 0.
• š )•
Ans. Centre of the circle = ,− , , Radius of the circle = 2√5
¢ ¢ ¢

2. Find the equation of the sphere which passes through the point (€, •, ‚) and the
circle ( , + * , + + , = -, , ( = 0.
Ans. (( , + * , + + , − -, )€ − (€ , + • , + ‚ , − -, )( = 0
3. Find the equation of the sphere which passes through the point (€, •, ‚) and the
circle ( , + * , + + , = -, , * = 0.
Ans. (( , + * , + + , − -, )• − (€ , + • , + ‚ , − -, )* = 0.
4. Find the equation of the sphere for which the circle
( , + * , + + , + 7* − 2+ + 2 = 0, 2( + 3* + 4+ = 8 is a great circle.
Ans. ( , + * , + + , − 2( + 4* − 6+ + 10 = 0
5. Find the equation to the plane in which the circle of intersection of the spheres
( , + * , + + , + 4( + 6* + 8+ + 10 = 0 and ( , + * , + + , + 2( + 4* + 6+ + 8 = 0 lies.
Ans. ( + * + + + 1 = 0
6. Prove that the circle (( − 2), + (* − 3), + (+ − 4), = 36, ( − 2* + 2+ = 4
is a great circle.
• š )•
7. Show that the equation of the circle whose centre is ¢
,−¢, ¢
and which lies on the sphere
( , + * , + + , − 4( − 6* − 8+ − 7 = 0 is
( , + * , + + , − 4( − 6* − 8+ − 7 = 0, 2( + 6* + 3+ − 6 = 0
8. Show that the equation to the circle whose centre is − 3 , 3 , 3 and which lies on the sphere
1 2 5

(( − 1), + (* − 2), + (+ − 3), = 25 is

(( − 1), + (* − 2), + (+ − 3), = 25, ( + * + + = 2.

22 | P a g e
 4.11 Intersection of a Straight line and a Sphere
S ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 2@( + 2A* + 2B+ + F = 0 …………..(S)

= 6 = 7 = C(‹-*)
m„ƒ n„† o„ˆ
2
…………..(L)
Any point on line (L) is given by (€ + .C, • + /C, ‚ + 0C)
If the line (L) intersect the sphere (•) the point (€ + .C, • + /C, ‚ + 0C) must satisfied its
equation for some value of C.
(€ + .C), + (• + /C), + (‚ + 0C), + 2@(€ + .C) + 2A(• + /C) + 2B(‚ + 0C) + F = 0
C , (. , + /, + 0, ) + 2C{.(€ + @) + /(• + A) + 0(‚ + B)} + € , + • , + ‚ , + 2@€ + 2A• +
2B‚ + F = 0
This is quadratic equation in r .There are three possibilities
Case (i) The two roots are real and distinct then the line intersect the sphere at two point.
Case (ii) If both the roots are real and coincident then the line is a tangent line.
Case (iii) If the roots are imaginary then the line does not intersect the sphere.

4.12 Tangent Planes

The equation of Tangent plane of the Sphere ( , + * , + + , + 2@( + 2A* + 2B+ + F = 0 at the
point £(() , *) , +) ) is given by (() + **) + ++) + @(( + () ) + A(* + *) ) + B(+ + +) ) + F = 0.

Sphere + + + ¤ + ¥ + ¦ +v=

C(-u,-v,-w)

£((), *) , +) )

Tangent Plane + + + ¤( + ) + ¥( + ) + ¦( + )+v=

Figure 4.18

23 | P a g e
4.13 Condition of Tangency

Sphere

C(-u,-v,-w)

Figure 4.19

S ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 2@( + 2A* + 2B+ + F = 0

P ≡ .( + /* + 0+ = 1
If the plane P is a tangent plane at the point M of the sphere S
Then,
Radius of the Sphere
= Length of the Perpendicular from §(−¤, −¥, −¦) to the Plane .( + /* + 0+ − 1 = 0
|.@ + /A + 0B − 1|
⟹ >@, + A , + B , − F =
√., + /, + 0,
⟹ (.@ + /A + 0B − 1), = (., + /, + 0, )(@, + A , + B , − F)

24 | P a g e
 Corollary 4.13.1: The condition that the plane .( + /* + 0+ = 1 touches the sphere
( , + * , + + , = -, is given by 1, = -, (. , + /, + 0, ).

Sphere

C(0,0,0)

M
Figure 4.20

S ≡ ( , + * , + + , = -,
P ≡ .( + /* + 0+ = 1
If the plane P is a tangent plane at the point M of the sphere S
Then,
Radius of the Sphere
= Length of the Perpendicular from C(0,0,0)to the Plane .( + /* + 0+ − 1 = 0
|−1|
⟹-=
√., + /, + 0,
⟹ 1 = -, (. , + /, + 0, )
,

25 | P a g e
Example 4.18: Show that the plane 2( − 2* + + + 12 = 0 touches the sphere
( , + * , + + , − 2( − 4* + 2+ − 3 = 0 and find the point of contact.
Solution:
Sphere ( , + * , + + , − 2( − 4* + 2+ − 3 = 0

C(1,2,-1)

3 Plane 2( − 2* + + + 12 = 0

M(•, Ž, •)
Figure 4.21
The equation of the given sphere is
( , + * , + + , − 2( − 4* + 2+ − 3 = 0
Centre of the sphere = C(1,2, −1)
Radius of the Sphere = >(1), + (2), + (−1), − (−3) = 3
Length of the Perpendicular from C(1,2, −1) to the Plane 2x − 2y + z + 12 = 0
|2 × 1 − 2 × 2 − 1 + 12| 9
= = = 3 = Radius of the sphere
>(2), + (−2), + (1), 3

⟹ Plane touch the sphere

Let M(α, β, γ) be the point of contact
Direction ratios of CM are α − 1, β − 2, γ + 1
Direction ratios of normal of the plane are 2,-2,1
CM parallel to the normal to the plane
α−1 β−2 γ+1
⟹ = = = Š(‹-*)
2 −2 1
⟹ α = 2Š + 1, β = −2Š + 2, γ = Š − 1
M(α, β, γ) must satisfied the equation of the plane 2x − 2y + z + 12 = 0
⟹ 2α − 2β + γ + 12 = 0
⟹ 2α − 2β + γ + 12 = 0 ………..(1)

26 | P a g e
Putting the value of α, β, γ in equation (1)
⟹ 2(2Š + 1) − 2(−2Š + 2) + (Š − 1) + 12 = 0
⟹ 4Š + 2 + 4Š − 4 + Š − 1 + 12 = 0
⟹ Š = −1
The required point of contact is M(-1,4,-2)

Example 4.19: Find the equation of the tangent plane of the sphere
( , + * , + + , − 2( − 4* + 2+ = 0 at origin O(0,0,0).
Solution: Since the equation of the tangent plane at (€, •, ‚) is given by
€( + •* + ‚+ − (( + €) − 2(* + •) + (+ + ‚) = 0

0( + 0* + 0+ − (( + 0) − 2(* + 0) + (+ + 0) = 0
Hence the equation of the tangent plane at O(0,0,0) is

⟹ −( − 2* + + = 0
⟹ ( + 2* − + = 0

Example 4.20: Find the equation of the tangent planes of the sphere
( , + * , + + , − 2( + 4* − 6+ + 13 = 0 which are parallel to the plane ( − * + + = 0.

Sphere ( , + * , + + , − 2( + 4* − 6+ + 13 = 0
Solution:

C(1,-2,3)

1 Plane ( − * + + + Š = 0

M
Figure 4.22
The equation of the given sphere is
( , + * , + + , − 2( + 4* − 6+ + 13 = 0
Centre of the sphere = C(1, −2,3)
Radius of the Sphere = 3>(1), + (−2), + (3), − (13) = 1

27 | P a g e
Any plane parallel to ( − * + + = 0 is given by
(−*+++Š = 0 ……. (1)
If plane (1) is the tangent plane of the given sphere then
Radius of the sphere
= Length of the Perpendicular from C(1, −2,3)to the Plane ( − * + + + Š = 0
1+2+3+Š 6+Š
⟹1=± =±
>(1), + (−1), + (1), √3

⟹ Š = −6 ± √3
The required tangent planes are
( − * + + − 6 ± √3 = 0

Example 4.21: Find the equation of the tangent planes of the sphere at point of intersection of the
sphere ( , + * , + + , = 49 and the line = = .
m n o
š › •

Solution: Equation of the given line is

= = = Š(say)
m n o
š , •
……..(1)

Any point on the line is given by (3Š, 2Š, 6Š)

If the line (1) intersect the sphere then the point (3Š, 2Š, 6Š) satisfied the equation of the sphere for
some value of Š.
⟹ 9Š, + 4Š, + 36Š, = 49
⟹ Š = ±1
The point of intersection are (3, 2,6) and (−3, −2, −6)
Equation of tangent plane at (3, 2,6) is given by
3( + 2* + 6+ = 49
Equation of tangent plane at (−3, −2, −6)is given by
−3( − 2* − 6+ = 49

28 | P a g e
 = = intersect the sphere ( , + * , + + , + 2( + 2* +
m„) n o
, ) ,
Example 4.22: Show that the line

+ = 0 at points (−1, −1, −2) and

1 1 2
,− ,−
3 3 3
.

Solution: Equation of the given line is

= = = Š(say)
m„) n o
, ) ,
……..(1)

Any point on the line is given by (2Š + 1, Š, 2Š)

If the line (1) intersects the sphere then the point (2Š + 1, Š, 2Š)satisfied the equation of the sphere
for some value of Š.
⟹ 4Š, + 4Š + 1 + Š, + 4Š, + 4Š + 2 + 2Š + 2Š = 0
⟹ 9Š, + 12Š + 3 = 0
⟹ 3Š, + 4Š + 1 = 0
⟹ Š = −1, − š
)

Hence the required point of intersection are (−1, −1, −2) and
1 1 2
3
,−3,−3 .

Example 4.23: Find the equation of the sphere whose centre at origin and which touch the line

= ) = ,.
m„) n o
,

Solution:
Sphere ( , + * , + + , = C ,

C(0,0,0)

=)=,
m„) n o
,
r Line

M
Figure 4.23
The equation of the sphere with centre at origin is given by
( , + * , + + , = C,
The equation of the given line

= ) = , = Š(say)
m„) n o
,
…….. (1)

29 | P a g e
Any point on the line (1) is given by (2Š + 1, Š, 2Š)
Let (2Š + 1, Š, 2Š) is the point of contact M then
Direction ratios of CM are 2Š + 1, Š, 2Š
CM is perpendicular to the given line
⟹ 2(2Š + 1) + 1( Š) + 2(2Š) = 0
⟹4Š+2+ Š+4Š =0
2
⟹ Š=−
9
Now the point of contact is M( Ÿ , − Ÿ , − Ÿ )
ž , ›

5 , 2 , 4 , √5
œ
Radius of the sphere = r = CM = y z + y− z + y− z =
9 9 9 3
The required equation of the sphere is
,
√5
(, + *, + +, = ª «
3
5
⟹ (, + *, + +, =
9

Example 4.24: Find the equations of the tangent planes to the sphere
( , + * , + + , + 6( − 2+ + 1 = 0 which passes through the line 48−3( = 2* + 30 = 3+.

Sphere ( , + * , + + , + 6( − 2+ + 1 = 0
Solution:

C(-3,0,1)

3 Plane 48−3( − 3+ = Š(2* + 30 − 3+)

Figure 4.24

30 | P a g e
Equation of the given line is
48−3( = 2* + 30 = 3+ …… (1)
Equation of the plane through the line (1) is given by
48−3( − 3+ = Š(2* + 30 − 3+)
⟹ −3( − 2Š* + (3Š − 3)+ − 30Š + 48 = 0 …… (P)
If the plane (P) is a tangent plane of the sphere S
Then,
Radius of the Sphere
= Length of the Perpendicular from h(−p, , ) to the Plane
9 + 3Š − 3 − 30Š + 48
3=
>(−3), + (−2Š), + (3Š − 3),
54 − 27Š
⟹3=
√18 + 13Š, − 18Š
18 − 9Š
⟹1=
√18 + 13Š, − 18Š
⟹ 13Š, − 18Š + 18 = (18 − 9Š),
⟹ 13Š, − 18Š + 18 = 324 + 81Š, − 324 Š
⟹ 306 + 68Š, − 306Š = 0
⟹ 2Š, − 9Š + 9 = 0
⟹ 2Š, − 9Š + 9 = 0
3
⟹ Š = 3,
2
The required equations of the tangent planes are
−9( − 6* + 6+ − 42 = 0
3( + 2* − 2+ + 14 = 0

31 | P a g e
Example 4.25: Find the equations of the tangent planes to the sphere
(( − 2), + (* − 1), + (+ − 1), = 1 which passes through the x-axis.

Sphere (( − 2), + (* − 1), + (+ − 1), = 1

Solution:

C(2,1,1)

1 Plane * + Š+ = 0 or + + Š* = 0

Figure 4.25
The equation of the given sphere is
S ≡ (( − 2), + (* − 3), + (+ − 4), = 1
Equation of x-axis is given by
y = 0 and z = 0 …… (1)
Equation of the plane through the line (1) is given by
* + Š+ = 0 …… (P)
If the plane (P) is a tangent plane of the sphere S
Then,
Radius of the Sphere
= Length of the Perpendicular from h( , , ) to the Plane
1+Š
1=
√1 + Š,
⟹ 1 + Š, = (1 + Š), ⟹ Š = 0
The required equations of the tangent plane is * = 0
In the similar way if we consider the plane through the line (1) in the form
+ + Š* = 0
Then the equation of the tangent plane is + = 0
Hence the required tangents planes through the x-axis are * = 0 and + = 0 .

32 | P a g e
Example 4.26: Find the equations of the tangent planes to the sphere
(( − 2), + (* − 3), + (+ − 4), = 1 which passes through the x-axis.

Sphere (( − 2), + (* − 1), + (+ − 3), = 1

Solution:

C(2,1,3)

1 Plane * + Š+ = 0

Figure 4.26

Equation of x-axis is given by

y = 0 and z = 0 …… (1)
Equation of the plane through the line (1) is given by
* + Š+ = 0 …… (P)
If the plane (P) is a tangent plane of the sphere S
Then,
Radius of the Sphere
= Length of the Perpendicular from h( , , p) to the Plane
1 + 3Š
1=
√1 + Š,
⟹ 1 + Š, = (1 + 3Š),
⟹ 1 + Š, = 1 + 9Š, + 6Š
⟹ Š(8Š + 6) = 0
3
⟹ Š = 0, −
4
The required equations of the tangent planes are
* = 0, 4* − 3+ = 0

33 | P a g e
 Check Your Progress
1. Show that the line ( = * = + intersect the sphere ( , + * , + + , = 9 at the point (√3, √3, √3)
and (−√3, −√3, −√3).

= = is the tangent line of the sphere ( , + * , + + , = 9 and

m„) n„, o„,
, ) „,
2. Show that the line
find the point of contact.
Ans. (1,2,2)
3. Find the equation of the tangent plane of the sphere ( , + * , + + , = 9 at (1, −2,2).
Ans. ( − 2* + 2+ = 9.
4. Show that the plane ( − 2* + 2+ = 9 touches the sphere ( , + * , + + , = 9 and find the point
of contact.
Ans. Point of Contact (1, −2,2).
5. Show that the plane ( = 0 touches the sphere (( − 2), + (* − 2), + (+ − 2), = 4 and find
the point of contact.
Ans. Point of Contact (0,2,2).
6. Show that the plane 2( + * + 2+ + 13 = 0 is a tangent plane of the sphere
( , + * , + + , + 2( + 4* + 6+ + 13 = 0 and find the point of contact.

Ans. − š , − š , −
ž ¢ ))
š

7. Find the equations of the tangent planes to the sphere

(( − 1), + (* − 2), + (+ − 3), = 4 which passes through the line ( = * − 7 = +.
Ans. (G√23 − 3I − * − G√23 − 4I+ + 7 = 0

(G√23 + 3I + * − G√23 + 4I+ − 7 = 0

34 | P a g e
 4.14 Plane of contact
The plane of contact is the locus of the point of contact of the tangent plane which passes through
a given point (not on the sphere)
To find the equation of the plane of contact of tangent plane through the point ¬(€, •, ‚) to the
sphere ‘ ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 2@( + 2A* + 2B+ + F = 0

Sphere + + + ¤ + ¥ + ¦ +v =

C(-u,-v,-w)

Q(€, •, ‚) £(() , *) , +))

Tangent Plane + + + ¤( + ) + ¥( + ) + ¦( + )+v=

Figure 4.27

Equation of tangent plane through the point £(() , *) , +)) of the sphere is given by
(() + **) + ++) + @(( + ()) + A(* + *) ) + B(+ + +)) + F = 0……(P)
If the plane (P) passes through the point Q(€, •, ‚) external to the sphere, then we have
€() + •*) + ‚+) + @(€ + () ) + A(• + *) ) + B(‚ + +) ) + F = 0
Hence the locus of P (() → (, *) → *, +) → +) is
€( + •* + ‚+ + @(€ + () + A(• + *) + B(‚ + +) + F = 0

35 | P a g e
 4.15 Pole and Polar planes

Figure 4.28
Consider a line through a fixed point A to intersect a given Sphere in the point P and Q. Take a
point R on this line in such way that AR is harmonic mean of AP and AQ

i.e. ®¯ + ®° = ®±
) ) ,

The locus of the point R is called the Polar Plane. The fixed point A is called the pole of the polar
plane.

4.16 The equation of the polar plane of a point ²( , , ) with respect to the sphere
+ + = is + + =
Let the equation of a line passes through the point ³((), *) , +) ) with direction cosines l,m,n is
= = =C
m„m´ n„n´ o„o´
2 6 7
given by ……..(1)

Any general point on the line is (() + .C, *) + /C, +) + 0C)

If the line intersect the sphere then the point (() + .C, *) + /C, +) + 0C) satisfied the equation of
sphere for some value of r
⟹ (() + .C), + (*) + /C), + (+) + 0C), = -,
⟹ C , + 2C((). + *) / + +) 0) + (), + *), ++), − -, = 0
It is a quadratic equation in r give two roots say C) and C,
⟹ C) + C, = −2((). + *) / + +) 0) and C) C, = (), + *), ++), − -,

36 | P a g e
Now let the two point on sphere are P(() + .C) , *) + /C) , +) + 0C) ) and
Q(() + .C, , *) + /C, , +) + 0C, )
Now, ³£ = C) and ³¬ = C,
Now, by definition of Polar Plane
1 1 2 1 1 2 C) + C, 2
+ = ⟹ + = ⟹ =
³£ ³¬ ³µ C) C, ³µ C) C, ³µ
−2(() . + *) / + +) 0) 2
⟹ =
() + *) ++) − -
, , , , ³µ
⟹ (), + *), ++), − -, +AR(() . + *) / + +) 0) = 0 …….(2)
Now, let the coordinate of the point R be (x,y,z)
Then, ³µ = C (By equation ( ) ( − () = .C, * − *) = /C, + − +) = 0C and . , + /, + 0, = 1)
Now, by equation (2)
(), + *), ++), − -, + C(() . + *) / + +) 0) = 0 …… (3)
By Equation (1)
( − ()
( = () + .C ⟹ . =
C
* − *)
* = *) + /C ⟹ / =
C
+ − +)
+ = +) + 0C ⟹ 0 =
C
Putting the value of l,m,n in equation (3)
( − () * − *) + − +)
(), + *), ++), − -, + C ·() + *) + +) ¸=0
C C C
⟹ (), + *), ++), − -, + {() (( − () ) + *) (* − *) ) + +) (+ − +))} = 0
⟹ (() + **) + ++) = -,

4.17 The pole of the polar plane + + = with respect to the sphere
+ + = is , ,
Let ³(() , *) , +) ) be the required pole. The equation of the polar plane of a point ³(() , *) , +)) with
respect to the sphere ( , + * , + + , = -, is (() + **) + ++) = -, .
As .( + /* + 0+ = 1 and (() + **) + ++) = - , represent same polar plane.
Therefore,
234 634 73 4
= n = o = 3 4 ⟹ () = , *) = , +) =
2 6 7 5
m´ ´ ´ 5 5 5

37 | P a g e
 = = + + =
„• „Ž „•
4.18 The polar line of with respect to the sphere is

given by • + Ž + • − = = + +

= = = C is given by .C + €, /C + •, 0C + ‚
m„ƒ n„† o„ˆ
2 6 7
Any point on the line

Polar plane of the point (.C + €, /C + •, 0C + ‚) with respect to the sphere ( , + * , + + , = - , is

((.C + €) + *(/C + •) + +(0C + ‚) = - ,
⟹ (€( + •* + ‚+ − -, ) + C(.( + /* + 0+) = 0
This plane for all values of C passes through the line
€( + •* + ‚+ − -, = 0 = .( + /* + 0+

4.19 Orthogonal System of Spheres

‘) ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 2@)( + 2A) * + 2B) + + F) = 0

Two Spheres are said to intersect orthogonally if their angle of intersection is right angle.

‘, ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 2@, ( + 2A, * + 2B, + + F, = 0

C) C,

h (−@) , −A) , −B) ) h (−@, , −A, , −B, )

Figure 4.29
If the Sphere ‘) and ‘, intersect orthogonally then ∠º) ³º, = 90°
Now, in right angle triangle ∆º) ³º,
(º) º, ), = (º) ³), + (º, ³),
⟹ (º) º, ), = (C)), + (C, ),
⟹ (@) − @, ), + (A) − A, ), + (B) − B, ),
= (@) + A), + B) , − F) ) + (@, + A, , + B, , − F, )
, ,

⟹ 2@) @, + 2A)A, + 2B) B, = F) + F,

38 | P a g e
4.20 Touching Spheres

r)

r) − r, r,
h h

Figure 4.30
Touch Internally if h h = −

r) r,
h h

Figure 4.31

Touch Externally if h h = +

39 | P a g e
 = =
m„) n„, o„š
, š ›
Example 4.27: Show that the polar line of with respect to the sphere

( , + * , + + , = 9 is given by ( + 2* + 3+ − 9 = 0, 2( + 3* + 4+ = 0.
Solution: Equation of the given line

= = =C
m„) n„, o„š
, š ›

Any point on the line is given by 2C + 1,3C + 2,4C + 3

Polar plane of the point (2C + 1,3C + 2,4C + 3) with respect to the sphere ( , + * , + + , = 9 is

((2C + 1) + *(3C + 2) + +(4C + 3) = 9

⟹ (( + 2* + 3+ − 9) + C(2( + 3* + 4+) = 0
This plane for all values of C passes through the line
( + 2* + 3+ − 9 = 0; 2( + 3* + 4+ = 0
This is the required equation of polar line of the given line.

Example 4.28: Show that the spheres ( , + * , + + , = 4; (( − 4), + (* − 2), + (+ − 4), = 16

touch externally and find point of contact.
Solution:

r) r,
h (0,0,0) h (4,2,4)

h(€, •, ‚)

Figure 4.32

S) ≡ ( , + * , + + , = 4
Equation of the first given sphere is

Radius of the sphere r) = 2

Centre of the sphere = C) (0,0,0)

40 | P a g e
Equation of the second given sphere is
(( − 4), + (* − 2), + (+ − 4), = 16
S, ≡ ( , + * , + + , − 8( − 4* − 8+ + 20 = 0
Radius of the sphere r, = 4
Centre of the sphere = C, (4,2,4)

C) C, = >(4 − 0), + (2 − 0), +(4 − 0), = 6

r) + r, = 2 + 4 = 6
C) C, = r) + r,
Hence the spheres touch externally.
Let C(€, •, ‚) be the point of contact.
Hence,
€−0 •−0 ‚−0
= = = Š(‹-*)
4−0 2−0 4−0
⟹ € = 4Š, • = 2Š, ‚ = 4Š
As º(€, •, ‚) be the common point for both sphere
⟹ €, + •, + ‚ , = 4 ……. (1)
€ , + • , + ‚ , − 8€ − 4• − 8‚ + 20 = 0 ……. (2)
By solving equation (1) and (2) we get
−8€ − 4• − 8‚ + 24 = 0
⟹ 2€ + • + 2‚ − 6 = 0 ……. (3)
By putting the value of €, •, ‚ in equation (3)
8Š + 2Š + 8Š − 6 = 0
⟹ 18Š = 6
1
⟹Š=
3
, ,
› , ›
š š š
The required point of contact is

41 | P a g e
Example 4.29: Show that the spheres
( , + * , + + , = 25 and ( , + * , + + , − 18x − 24y − 40z + 225 = 0

, ,4 .
Ÿ ),
ž ž
touch externally and their point of contact is

Solution:

r) r,
h (0,0,0) h (9,12,20)

h(€, •, ‚)
Figure 4.33

( , + * , + + , = 25 ….....(S) )
Radius of the sphere r) = 5
Centre of the sphere = C) (0,0,0)
( , + * , + + , − 18x − 24y − 40z + 225 = 0
(( − 9), + (* − 12), + (+ − 20), = 400 ……..(S, )
Radius of the sphere r, = 20
Centre of the sphere = C, (9,12,20)

C) C, = >(9 − 0), + (12 − 0), +(20 − 0), = 25

r) + r, = 5 + 20 = 25
C) C, = r) + r,
Hence the spheres touch externally.
Let C(€, •, ‚) be the point of contact.
Hence,

42 | P a g e
€−0 •−0 ‚−0
= = = Š(‹-*)
9 − 0 12 − 0 20 − 0
⟹ € = 9Š, • = 12Š, ‚ = 20Š
As º(€, •, ‚) be the common point for both sphere
⟹ € , + • , + ‚ , = 25
€ , + • , + ‚ , − 18€ − 24• − 40‚ + 225 = 0
By solving both the equation
we get,
−18€ − 24• − 40‚ + 250 = 0
⟹ 9€ + 12• + 20‚ − 125 = 0
By putting the value of €, •, ‚
81Š + 144Š + 400Š − 125 = 0
⟹ 625Š = 125
1
⟹Š=
5
, ,4
Ÿ ),
ž ž
The required point of contact is

Example 4.30: Two spheres of radii C) and C, cut orthogonally prove that the radius of the
¼ ¼
common circle is ´ 4 .
™¼´4 Œ¼44

Solution:

C) C,

h M h

Figure 4.34

43 | P a g e
If the Spheres ‘) and ‘, intersect orthogonally then ∠º) ³º, = 90°

C) C, = ™C), + C,,

Area of the triangle ∆º) ³º, = , C) C,

)

Let ³½ = C be the radius of common circle

Then Area of the triangle ∆º) ³º, = , C (º) º, ) = , C>C), + C,,

) )

By comparing the area of ∆º) ³º,

CC = C>C), + C,,
) )
, ) , ,

⟹C=
¼´ ¼4

™¼4́ Œ¼44

Example 4.31: Find the angle of intersection of the spheres (( − 1), + (* − 2), + (+ − 3), = 4
and (( − 3), + (* − 1), + (+ + 1), = 9.

S) ≡ (( − 3), + (* − 1), + (+ + 1), = 9

Solution: The equations of the given spheres are

S, ≡ (( − 1), + (* − 2), + (+ − 3), = 4

C) 2
3

h (3,1, −1) h (1,2,3)

Figure 4.35
Let ∠º) ³º, = ¾ be the angle of intersection of the Spheres ‘) and ‘, .
Now,

C) C, = >(3 − 1), + (1 − 2), + (−1 − 3), = √21

44 | P a g e
In ∆º) ³º,
,
3, + 2, − G√21I 2
cos ¾ = =−
2×3×2 3
2
⟹ cos ¾ = (taking the accute angle)
3
2
⟹ ¾ = eÀ‹ „) y z
3

Example 4.32: Show that the two spheres (x − 0), + (y + 3), + (z + 1), = 2 and
(x + 3), + (y + 4), + (z + 2), = 9 are orthogonal.
Solution: The equations of the given spheres are
,
(x − 0), + (y + 3), + (z + 1), = G√2I
(x + 3), + (y + 4), + (z + 2), = (3),

C)
√2 3

h (0, −3, −1) h (−3, −4, −2)

Figure 4.36

C) C, = >(0 + 3), + (−3 + 4), + (−1 + 2), = √11

(C)C, ), = (C) A), + (C, A),
⟹ The spheres are orthogonal

Example 4.33: Show that the two spheres x , + y , + z , + 2x + 2y + 1 = 0 and

x , + y , + z , + 4y − 2z + 3 = 0 are orthogonal. Find their plane of intersection.
Solution: The equations of the given spheres are
S) ≡ x , + y , + z , + 2x + 2y + 1 = 0
@) = 1, A) = 1, B) = 0, F) = 1
S, ≡ x , + y , + z , + 4y − 2z + 3 = 0
45 | P a g e
@, = 0, A, = 2, B, = −1, F, = 3
Two spheres are orthogonal if
2@) @, + 2A)A, + 2B) B, = F) + F,
2@) @, + 2A)A, + 2B) B, = 0 + 4 + 0 = 4
F) + F, = 1 + 3 = 4
⟹ 2@) @, + 2A)A, + 2B) B, = F) + F,
Hence the spheres S) and S, are orthogonal.
Plane of intersection is given by
S) − S, = 0 ⟹ 2( − 2* + 2+ − 2 = 0
⟹(−*++−1=0

Example 4.34: Find the equation of the sphere that passes through the two points (0,0,0), (0,2,0)
and cuts orthogonally the two spheres
( , + * , + + , + 2x − 25 = 0 and ( , + * , + + , − 4z − 8 = 0.
Solution: Let the equation of the sphere be
( , + * , + + , + 2ux + 2vy + 2wz + d = 0 .……(S)
Sphere (S) passes through the points (0,0,0) and (0,2,0)
⟹ d = 0 and v = −1
Sphere (S) cuts the spheres ( , + * , + + , + 2x − 25 = 0 orthogonally
By applying the condition of orthogonality

2@) @, + 2A) A, + 2B) B, = F) + F, ⟹ 2@(1) = 0 − 25 ⟹ @ = −

,ž
,

Again, sphere (S) cuts the sphere (, + *, + +, − 4z − 8 = 0 orthogonally

⟹ 2@) @, + 2A)A, + 2B) B, = F) + F, ⟹ 2B(−2) = 0 − 8 ⟹ B = 2
The required equation of the sphere is
( , + * , + + , − 25x − 2y + 4z = 0

46 | P a g e
 Check Your Progress

1. Prove that the polar plane of any point on the line , = =

m n„) oŒš
š ›
with respect to the sphere

( , + * , + + , = 1 passes through the line = = „) .

,mŒš n„) o
)š „š

2. Find the equation of the tangent plane of the sphere ( , + * , + + , = 9 at (1, −2,2).
Ans. ( − 2* + 2+ = 9.

( , + * , + + , + 2x − 25 = 0
3. Show that the spheres

and ( , + * , + + , − 25x − 2y + 4z = 0 are orthogonal.

( , + * , + + , − 4z − 8 = 0
4. Show that the spheres

and ( , + * , + + , − 25x − 2y + 4z = 0 are orthogonal.

( , + * , + + , + 6y + 2z + 8 = 0
5. Show that the spheres

and ( , + * , + + , + 6x + 8y + 4z + 20 = 0 are orthogonal. Find their plane of intersection.

Ans. 3( + * + + + 6 = 0.

( , + * , + + , + 2( + 2* + 1 = 0 and
6. Find the angle of intersection of two intersecting spheres

( , + * , + + , + 4* − 2+ + 2 = 0.
1
ÁÂ. ¾ = eÀ‹ „) y z
2√3

( , + * , + + , + 2@) ( + 2A) * + 2B) + + F) = 0 and

7. Find the angle of intersection of two intersecting spheres

( , + * , + + , + 2@, ( + 2A, * + 2B, + + F, = 0.

2@) @, + 2A) A, + 2B) B, − F) − F,
ÁÂ. ¾ = eÀ‹ „) ªÃ ë
2>@), + A), + B), − F) >@,, + A,, + B,, − F,

47 | P a g e
4.21 The Length of the Tangent and Power of a Point

Sphere ( , + * , + + , + 2@( + 2A* + 2B+ + F = 0

C(-u,-v,-w)

Ä( , , )
T Figure 4.37
Tangent Line

Centre of Sphere = C(−@, −A, −B)

Radius = CT = >@, + A , + B , − F
T is the point of contact.
CT ⊥ PT
PT , = PC , − CT ,
PT , = {(() + @), + (*) + A), + (+) + B), } − (@, + A , + B , − F)
PT , = (), + *), ++), + 2@() + 2A*) + 2B+) + F
PT , is also known as the Power of the point P with respect to the given sphere.

48 | P a g e
 4.22 The Radical plane of two Spheres
The locus of a point whose powers with respect to two given spheres are the same is called the

S) ≡ x , + * , + + , + 2@) ( + 2A) * + 2B) + + F) = 0

radical plane of the two spheres.

S, ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 2@, ( + 2A ,* + 2B, + + F, = 0
Let P(€, •, ‚) be any point.
The power of the point P(€, •, ‚) with respect to the sphere ‘) = 0 is given by
(£Æ) ), = € , + • , + ‚ , + 2@) € + 2A) • + 2B) ‚ + F)
and the power of the point P(€, •, ‚) with respect to the sphere ‘, = 0 is given by
(£Æ, ), = € , + • , + ‚ , + 2@, € + 2A ,• + 2B, ‚ + F,
For radical plane
(£Æ) ), = (£Æ, ),
⟹ € , + • , + ‚ , + 2@) € + 2A) • + 2B) ‚ + F) = € , + • , + ‚ , + 2@, € + 2A,• + 2B, ‚ + F,
⟹ 2@) € + 2A) • + 2B) ‚ + F) = 2@, € + 2A, • + 2B, ‚ + F,
⟹ 2€(@) − @, ) + 2•(A) − A,) + 2‚(B) − B, ) + (F) − F, ) = 0
Hence the locus of P (€ → (, • → *, ‚ → +) is
2((@) − @, ) + 2*(A) − A,) + 2+(B) − B, ) + (F) − F, ) = 0
or ‘) − ‘, = 0
This is the required equation of radical plane of two spheres.

4.23 The Radical Axis(Radical Line) of three Spheres

The radical planes of three spheres taken two at a time pass through a common line which is said

‘) ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 2@)( + 2A) * + 2B) + + F) = 0

to be the radical axis (or radical line) of the three spheres.

‘, ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 2@, ( + 2A ,* + 2B, + + F, = 0
…..(1)

‘š ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 2@š ( + 2A š* + 2Bš + + Fš = 0
…..(2)

Radical plane of ‘) and ‘, is given by ‘) − ‘, = 0 ……( )

….(3)

Radical plane of ‘, and ‘š is given by ‘, − ‘š = 0 ……( )

Radical plane of ‘š and ‘) is given by ‘š − ‘) = 0 ……( p )

) and ( ) represent a line ‘) = ‘, = ‘š

) and ( p represent a line ‘) = ‘, = ‘š
)
Plane (

p ) and ( ) represent a line ‘) = ‘, = ‘š

Plane (
Plane (

Clearly these three planes pass through the line ‘) = ‘, = ‘š which is the equation of the radical
line (or radical axis) of three given spheres.

49 | P a g e
 4.24 Coaxial System of Spheres
A family of spheres is called a coaxial system of spheres if for all the spheres any two of them

S) ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 2@)( + 2A) * + 2B) + + F) = 0

have the same radical plane.

S, ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 2@, ( + 2A, * + 2B, + + F, = 0

The radical plane of the spheres S) = 0 and S, = 0 is given by
S) − S, = 0
The equation of the co-axial system of spheres determined by the spheres S) = 0 and S, = 0 is

S) + λ(S) − S, ) = 0 or S, + μ(S) − S, ) = 0 or S) + νS, = 0.

given by the following different three ways

4.25 Limiting Points of a Co-axial system of spheres

The centres of the spheres of a co-axial system which have zero radius are called limiting points of
the co-axial system.

Example 4.35: Find the length of the tangent and power of the point P(6,6,5) with respect to the

( , + * , + + , + 2( + 2* + 4+ + 2 = 0.
sphere

Solution:

Sphere ( , + * , + + , + 2( + 2* + 4+ + 2 = 0

C(-1,-1,-2)

Ä((É,, É, , ) )
T Figure 4.38
Tangent Line

Equation of the given sphere

( , + * , + + , + 2( + 2* + 4+ + 2 = 0
Centre of Sphere = C(−1, −1, −2)

Radius = CT = >(−1), + (−1), + (−2), − 2 = 2

50 | P a g e
T is the point of contact.
CT ⊥ PT
PT , = PC , − CT ,
PT , = {(6 + 1), + (6 + 1), + (5 + 2), } − (2),
PT , = 143
PT = √143
Hence the length of the tangent is PT = √143 and power of the point P(6,6,5) with respect to the
given sphere is PT , = 143.

Example 4.36: Find the radical plane of the spheres ( , + * , + + , + 4( + 6* + 7+ + 8 = 0 and

( , + * , + + , + 2( + 2* + 4+ + 2 = 0.

S) ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 4( + 6* + 7+ + 8 = 0
Solution: Equation of the given spheres are

and S, ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 2( + 2* + 4+ + 2 = 0

⟹ S) − S, = 0
Radical plane of the given spheres is given by

⟹ (( , + * , + + , + 4( + 6* + 7+ + 8) − (( , + * , + + , + 2( + 2* + 4+ + 2) = 0
⟹ 2( + 4* + 3+ + 6 = 0

S) ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 2( + 2* + 2+ + 2 = 0
Example 4.37: Find the equation of the radical axis of the spheres

S, ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 4( + 4+ + 4 = 0
Sš ≡ ( , + * , + + , + ( + 6* − 4+ − 2 = 0
Solution: The radical plane of the spheres S) = 0 and S, = 0 is given by
S) − S, = 0
⟹ −2( + 2* − 2+ − 2 = 0
⟹(−*+++1=0
Again the radical plane of the spheres S) = 0 and Sš = 0 is given by
S) − Sš = 0
⟹ ( − 4* + 6+ + 4 = 0

( − * + + + 1 = 0; ( − 4* + 6+ + 4 = 0
The equation of required radical axes is given by

Example 4.38: Find the limiting points of the co-axial system of spheres determined by the

( , + * , + + , + 3( − 3* + 6 = 0, ( , + * , + + , − 6* − 6+ + 6 = 0.
spheres

S) ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 3( − 3* + 6 = 0
Solution: The equations of the given spheres are

S, ≡ ( , + * , + + , − 6* − 6+ + 6 = 0
The radical plane of the spheres S) = 0 and S, = 0 is given by
S) − S, = 0

51 | P a g e
⟹ 3( + 3* + 6+ = 0
⟹ ( + * + 2+ = 0

P ≡ ( + * + 2+ = 0
The equation of radical plane is

The equation of the co-axial system of spheres determined by the spheres S) = 0 and S, = 0 is

S) + λP = 0
given by

⟹ (( , + * , + + , + 3( − 3* + 6) + λ(( + * + 2+) = 0
⟹ ( , + * , + + , + (3 + λ)x + (−3 + λ)y + 2λz + 6 = 0

, , −λ
„š„Ê š„Ê
, ,
Centre of the sphere is

−3 − λ , 3−λ ,
Radius = œy z +y z + (−λ), − 6
2 2
= , >(3 + λ), + (3 − λ), + 4λ, − 24 = , √6λ, − 6
) )

1
If the radius of the sphere is zero, then
>6λ, − 6 = 0
2
⟹ 6λ, − 6 = 0
⟹ λ, − 1 = 0
⟹ λ = 1, −1
Putting λ = 1 in the co-ordinates of centre of the sphere, we get
(−2,1, −1)
Again putting λ = −1 in the co-ordinates of centre of the sphere, we get
(−1,2,1)
The required limiting points of the co-axial system of spheres are (−2,1, −1) and (−1,2,1).

52 | P a g e
4.26 Summary
We conclude with summarizing what we have covered in this unit
The definition of sphere
A point lies on the boundary, inside or outside the sphere.
Circle, Great circle and Small circle.
Equation of a Sphere with centre at C(u, v, w) and radius r
Equation of a Sphere with centre at origin O(0,0,0) and radius r
General equation of the Sphere and determine its centre and radius
The equation of the Sphere with a given diameter
The equation of a circle and determine its centre and radius
The great circle and find the equation of a sphere for which the circle is a great circle
Intersection of two sphere
Equation of a sphere passing through a circle
A line does not intersect the sphere or intersect the sphere at two point or it is tangent line
Equation of tangent planes
Condition of tangency
Equation of plane of contact
Pole and polar planes
The equation of the polar plane of a point A(() , *) , +) ) with respect to the sphere
( , + * , + + , = -, is (() + **) + ++) = -,
The equation of the polar plane of a point A(() , *) , +) ) with respect to the sphere
( , + * , + + , = -, is (() + **) + ++) = -,
The pole of the polar plane .( + /* + 0+ = 1 with respect to the sphere
( , + * , + + , = - , is , ,
23 4 634 73 4
5 5 5
Condition that the two spheres are orthogonal
Angle of intersection of two spheres
The two spheres are touch internally or externally and find their point of contact
The length of a tangent and power of a point
The radical plane of two spheres
The radical axis(radical line) of three spheres
The Coaxial system of spheres
The limiting points of a co-axial system of spheres

53 | P a g e
4.27 Terminal Questions
1. Find the equation of the sphere with centre at (2,3,4) and which passes through the
point(1,2,8).
Ans. (( − 2), + (* − 3), + (+ − 4), = 18
2. Find the equation of the sphere with centre at (1,2,3) and radius 6.
Ans. (( − 1), + (* − 2), + (+ − 3), = 36
3. Find the centre and radius of the sphere ( , + * , + + , − 4x − 6y − 2z + 5 = 0.
Ans. Radius = 3 and Centre = (2,3,1)
4. Find the equation of the sphere on the join of (2,4,6) and (−2, −4, −6) as diameter.
Ans. ( , + * , + + , − 56 = 0
5. Find the equation of the sphere with centre at (€, •, ‚) and which touch the plane
-( + d* + e+ + F = 0.

Ans. (( − €), + (* − •), + (+ − ‚), =

(3ƒŒf†ŒgˆŒË)4
Ì 4ŒÍ4ŒÎ4

6. Find the equation of the sphere with centre at (0,0,0) and which passes through the
point(0, d, 0).
Ans. ( , + * , + + , = d,
7. Find the equation of the sphere with centre at (0,0,0) and which passes through the point
(0,0, e).
Ans. ( , + * , + + , = e ,
7. Find the equation of the sphere on the join of (a, 0,0) and (0,0, c) as diameter.
Ans. ( , + * , + + , − ax − cz = 0
8. (i) Show that the point P(2,1,2) lies on the sphere ( , + * , + + , = 9.
(ii) Show that the point Q(1,1, −4) lies inside the sphere ( , + * , + + , − 6( + 4* + 4+ − 32 = 0.
(iii) Show that the point R(4,4,7) lies outside the sphere ( , + * , + + , + 2( + 2* − 4+ − 19 = 0.
9. Find the centre and radius of the circle (( − 1), + (* − 2), + (+ − 3), = 16,
( + * + + − 3 = 0.
Ans. Centre of the circle = (0,1,2), Radius of the circle = √13
10. Find the equation of the sphere which passes through the point (€, •, ‚) and the circle
( , + * , + + , = -, , + = 0.
Ans. (( , + * , + + , − -, )‚ − (€ , + • , + ‚ , − -, )+ = 0.

54 | P a g e
11. Find the equation of the sphere for which the circle
( , + * , + + , + 2( − 8 = 0, 2( + 2* + + + 8 = 0 is a great circle.

Ans. ( , + * , + + , + + + +š=0
)›Ï ÐÑ ›Ò Ð
š š š

12. Find the equation to the plane in which the circle of intersection of the spheres
( , + * , + + , + 7( + 16* + 9+ + 18 = 0 and ( , + * , + + , + 4( + * + 3+ + 8 = 0 lies.
Ans. 3( + 15* + 6+ + 10 = 0
13. Prove that the circle (( − 4), + (* + 2), + (+ − 2), = 36, ( − 2* + 2+ = 12
is a great circle.
14. Show that the equation of the circle whose centre is (0,1,2) and which lies on the sphere
(( − 1), + (* − 2), + (+ − 3), = 16 is (( − 1), + (* − 2), + (+ − 3), = 16,
( + * + + − 3 = 0.
15. Show that the line ( = * = + intersect the sphere ( , + * , + + , = - , at the point ( , , )
3 3 3
√š √š √š

and (− ,− ,− ).
3 3 3
√š √š √š

= =
mŒ, n„š o„š
, , „)
16. Show that the line is the tangent line of the sphere

( , + * , + + , + 2( − 2* − 2+ − 6 = 0 and find the point of contact.

Ans. (−2,3,3)
17. Find the equation of the tangent plane of the sphere ( , + * , + + , + 2( − 2* − 2+ − 6 = 0 at
the point (−2,3,3).
Ans. ( − 2* − 2+ + 14 = 0
18. Show that the plane ( − 2* − 2+ + 14 = 0 is a tangent plane of the sphere
( , + * , + + , + 2( − 2* − 2+ − 6 = 0 and find the point of contact..
Ans. (−2,3,3)
19. Show that the plane * = 0 touches the sphere (( − 2), + (* − 2), + (+ − 2), = 4 and find
the point of contact.
Ans. Point of Contact (2,0,2).
20. Show that the plane + = 0 touches the sphere (( − 2), + (* − 2), + (+ − 2), = 4 and find
the point of contact.
Ans. Point of Contact (2,2,0).

55 | P a g e
21. Show that the plane 2( − * − 22 = 16 touches the sphere
( , + * , + + , − 4( + 2* + 2+ − 3 = 0, and find the point of contact.
ÁÂ. (q, − , −p)
22. Show that the spheres
( , + * , + + , + 2x + 4y + 6z + 7 = 0
and ( , + * , + + , − 4x − 2y + 8z + 9 = 0 are orthogonal.
23. Find the radical plane of the spheres ( , + * , + + , + 7( + 9* + 7+ + 8 = 0 and ( , + * , +
+ , + 2( + 2* + 4+ + 2 = 0.
Ans. 5( + 7* + 3+ + 6 = 0.
24. Find the equation of the radical axis of the spheres
S) ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 4( + 2* + 2+ + 2 = 0
S, ≡ ( , + * , + + , + 2( + * + + + 4 = 0
Sš ≡ ( , + * , + + , + ( + 3* − 4+ − 2 = 0
Ans. 2( + * + + − 2 = 0 = 3( − * + 6+ + 4

4.28 Further Readings

1. Analytical Solid Geometry by Shanti Narayan and P.K. Mittal, Published by S. Chand &
Company Ltd. 7th Edition.
2. A text book of Mathematics for BA/B.Sc Vol 1, by V Krishna Murthy & Others, Published by
S. Chand & Company, New Delhi.
3. A text Book of Analytical Geometry of Three Dimensions, by P.K. Jain and Khaleel Ahmed,
Published by Wiley Eastern Ltd., 1999.
4. Co-ordinate Geometry of two and three dimensions by P. Balasubrahmanyam, K.Y.
Subrahmanyam, G.R. Venkataraman published by Tata-MC Gran-Hill Publishers Company Ltd.,
New Delhi.
5. Plane and solid Geometry by C.A. Hart, Published by Forgotten Books 2013.
6. The Project Gutenberg EBook of Solid Geometry with Problems and Applications by H. E.
Slaught and N. J. Lennes, 2009

56 | P a g e