Loci - GCSE Maths Definition

Reviewed by: Dan Finlay

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In GCSE Maths, a "locus" is a set of points that satisfy a certain rule or condition. "Loci" is just the plural form of locus.

Imagine drawing a path that follows a specific rule, like all the points that are a fixed distance from a central point. This path would form a circle, and the circle is the locus. For example, if you were to find all the points that are always 3 cm away from a given point, you would end up drawing a circle with a 3 cm radius around that point.

Loci problems are all about figuring out the shape or path that matches the given conditions, and they are often used to help you understand different geometric shapes and how they relate to distance and position.

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Dan Finlay

Reviewer: Dan Finlay

Expertise: Maths Subject Lead

Dan graduated from the University of Oxford with a First class degree in mathematics. As well as teaching maths for over 8 years, Dan has marked a range of exams for Edexcel, tutored students and taught A Level Accounting. Dan has a keen interest in statistics and probability and their real-life applications.

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