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Cissoids

Let S and S' be any two curves and let A be a fixed point. A straight line is drawn through A cutting S and S' at Q and R respectively. Point P is found on the line such that AP = QR, these lengths being measured in the direction indicated by the order of the labels. The locus of P is called the cissoid of S and S' with respect to A. In the dynamic figures below, point Q is typically not draggable. Of course, there may be an exception or two.

The Cissoid of Diocles

This is the cissoid of a circle and a line tangent to the circle with respect to a point on the circle diametrically opposed to the point of tangency. The cissoid has a cusp at the point, and the tangent line is an asymptote.

The Oblique Cissoid

The cissoid of a circle and a tangent line with respect to a point not diametrically opposed to the point of tangency. The cissoid has a cusp at the point, and the tangent line is an asymptote, but the cissoid now crossed the tangent line.

The Cissoid of a Circle and a Line not Tangent.

If the line passes through the center of the circle, it is a strophoid.

The Cissoid of Two Intersecting Lines

The cissoid of two intersecting lines with respect to a point on on either of them is a curve with asymptotes parallel to the given curves. Does it look like a hyperbola?

The Cissoid of a Parabola and its Directrix with Respect to the Focus

In this figure, be certain to drag points Q and A