Permutations & Combinations
Points of Intersection
Grade None

Question:

<p>Find the maximum number of points of intersection of 7 straight lines and 5 circles when 3 straight lines are parallel and 2 circles are concentric.</p>

Step-by-Step Solution

Key Concept: Maximum intersections occur when objects are in general position (no unwanted coincidences). Count all possible pairs and subtract intersections that are forbidden due to the given constraints (parallel lines don't meet, concentric circles don't intersect).
<p><strong>Step 1: Calculate maximum intersections without restrictions</strong></p><p>• Line-Line: C(7,2) × 1 = 21 points</p><p>• Circle-Circle: C(5,2) × 2 = 20 points</p><p>• Line-Circle: 7 × 5 × 2 = 70 points</p><p>Total without restrictions = 21 + 20 + 70 = 111 points</p><p><strong>Step 2: Subtract intersections lost due to 3 parallel lines</strong></p><p>• 3 parallel lines among themselves intersect at 0 points instead of C(3,2) = 3 points</p><p>Loss = 3 points</p><p><strong>Step 3: Subtract intersections lost due to 2 concentric circles</strong></p><p>• 2 concentric circles intersect at 0 points instead of 2 points</p><p>Loss = 2 points</p><p><strong>Step 4: Apply principle of inclusion-exclusion</strong></p><p>Maximum intersection points = 111 - 3 - 2 = <strong>106</strong></p>
Correct Answer: 106

Master Permutations & Combinations with Mathbee

Practice this topic under real exam conditions with strict timers, or ask our AI Mentor to explain the concepts step-by-step.

Start Practicing for Free