To solve the problem, we need to find the length of \( AB \) given that \( OB = 13 \, \text{cm} \), \( OP = 12 \, \text{cm} \), and \( OP \perp AB \). Here's the step-by-step solution:
Step 1: Understand the geometry.
The point \( O \) is the center of the circle, and \( OB \) is the radius of the circle. Since \( OP \perp AB \), \( P \) is the midpoint of \( AB \). This means \( AP = PB \), so \( AB = 2 \times AP \).
Step 2: Use the Pythagorean theorem in \( \triangle OPA \).
In \( \triangle OPA \), \( OA \) is the hypotenuse (which is the radius of the circle, \( OB = 13 \, \text{cm} \)), \( OP = 12 \, \text{cm} \), and \( AP \) is the unknown side. By the Pythagorean theorem:
\[ OA^2 = OP^2 + AP^2 \]
Substituting the known values:
\[ 13^2 = 12^2 + AP^2 \]
Simplify:
\[ 169 = 144 + AP^2 \]
Solve for \( AP^2 \):
\[ AP^2 = 169 - 144 = 25 \]
Take the square root of both sides:
\[ AP = \sqrt{25} = 5 \, \text{cm} \]
Step 3: Find the length of \( AB \).
Since \( P \) is the midpoint of \( AB \), we have:
\[ AB = 2 \times AP = 2 \times 5 = 10 \, \text{cm} \]
Final Answer:
The length of \( AB \) is \( 10 \, \text{cm} \).
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