The following geometric principle describes a relationship between the line segments created when two chords intersect within a circle. This principle states that for any circle, if two chords intersect internally, the product of the lengths of the segments of one chord is equal to the product of the lengths of the segments of the other chord. For instance, if chord AB intersects chord CD at point E inside a circle, then (AE EB) = (CE ED).
This theorem provides a useful tool for solving geometric problems related to circles and intersecting chords. It simplifies calculations involving lengths of chord segments, enabling determination of unknown lengths when others are known. Historically, understanding relationships within circles has been fundamental to surveying, astronomy, and other practical applications.