If two circles of different radii touch externally, then what is the maximum number of common tangents that can be drawn to the two circles?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
The correct answer is option 1 i.e. 3.
Two Direct Common Tangents: These tangents lie on the same side of the line connecting the centers of the two circles. They cross each other outside the circles.
One Transverse Common Tangent: This tangent crosses the line connecting the centers of the two circles, lying between the two circles at the point of external tangency.
Therefore, the total is three common tangents can be drawn.