[Math] Circle tangent to $x$-axis and $y$-axis

algebra-precalculus

How can I show that a circle that is tangent to $x$-axis and $y$-axis has radius $R$ and center $(R,R)$ using algebra?

So I have this concept about it.
Since the point on $y$ tangent to the circle (I'll call it $Y$) is $(0,Y)$ and on $x$ (I'll call it $X$) is $(X,0)$. Let's call the center $E$.
From $X$ to $E$ and $Y$ to $E$ are the radii.
So $XE=YE$. Then I'll use the distance formula (which I don't know how to render here) but I can't continue from it.

So, how can I continue?

Best Answer

The equation to a circle is $$(x-x_c)^2+(y-y_c)^2=r^2$$We know the circle is tangent to $x,y$ axi.

We also know the derivative of the circle equation (with respect to $x$): $$2x+2(y-y_c)y'=0$$$$y'=\frac x{y-y_c}$$$$y=\sqrt{r^2-(x-x_c)^2}+y_c$$$$y'=\frac x{\sqrt{r^2-(x-x_c)^2}}$$

Setting the denominator equal to $0$, we get $$0=\sqrt{r^2-(x-x_c)^2}$$$$x=\pm r+x_c$$For this to be our $y-intercept$, we have $x=0$.$$x_c=\pm r$$This puts our $x-coordinate$ for the center to actually be $\pm r$.

We can repeat the process by differentiating with respect to $y$ and setting the denominator equal to $0$ to get $y_c=\pm r$.