Digital SAT Math

SAT Math: A Circle Has Diameter Endpoints at (-3, 2) and (5, 8), Find Its Equation

2026-08-30 5 min read
• Direct Answer / Key Takeaway

Center is midpoint (1, 5). Radius squared is distance squared = (5 - 1)^2 + (8 - 5)^2 = 16 + 9 = 25. Equation: (x - 1)^2 + (y - 5)^2 = 25.

Exact Question Text

A circle in the xy-plane has a diameter with endpoints at (-3, 2) and (5, 8). What is the standard equation of the circle?

1. Step-by-Step Formal Solution

  1. Center = ((-3+5)/2, (2+8)/2) = (1, 5).
  2. Radius r = sqrt((5 - 1)^2 + (8 - 5)^2) = sqrt(25) = 5.
  3. Equation: (x - 1)^2 + (y - 5)^2 = 25.

2. Fast Desmos / Calculator Shortcut

Plot points (-3, 2) and (5, 8) with midpoint (1, 5). Type (x - 1)^2 + (y - 5)^2 = 25 to verify it passes through both endpoints.


3. Distractor Trap Analysis

  • Trap A (Sign Flip): Forgetting to reverse inequality or dropping negative sign.
  • Trap B (Partial Evaluation): Solving for intermediate variable and stopping early.
  • Trap C (Extreme Assumption): Over-inferring beyond textual evidence.
  • Option Correct: Accurately satisfies all algebraic and logical constraints.

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