MathLabs

Problem 4

Let CC be a circle of radius RR and center OO, and let SS be a fixed interior point. Let AA′AA' and BB′BB' be perpendicular chords through SS. The rectangles SAMBSAMB, SB′N′A′SB'N'A', SA′M′B′SA'M'B', and SBNASBNA are formed. Determine the locus of the four points M,N′,M′,NM,N',M',N as AA moves around CC.
Step 5 of 5: State the locus
M,N′,M′,N∈{X:OX=OM}M,N',M',N\in\{X:OX=OM\}
Detailed analysis

The four vertices of the rectangle MN′M′NMN'M'N are all at distance OMOM from its center OO. As AA traverses the whole circle CC, the perpendicular chord AA′AA' takes every direction, so the rectangle rotates through all directions; hence each of the four vertices traverses the entire fixed circle centered at OO with radius OMOM.