What is a line, segment, or ray that intersects a circle at two points called?

A line, segment, or ray that intersects a circle at two distinct points is referred to as a secant. This characteristic of a secant is fundamental in geometry because it demonstrates how secants can create segments within the circle. When a secant intersects the circumference of a circle, it allows for the definition of various geometric properties, such as arc lengths and angles formed by the intersecting points.

In contrast, other terms like tangent represent a different relationship with the circle, specifically touching it at just one point, while a chord is a segment whose endpoints lie on the circle, thus being a subset of secants. Similarly, a radius refers to a line segment that connects the center of the circle to a point on its circumference. Understanding the definition and properties of a secant is vital for solving many geometric problems and analyzing circles effectively.