Circles $k_1$ and $k_2$ with radii $r_1=6$ and $r_2=3$ are externally tangent and touch a circle $k$ with radius $r=9$ from inside. A common external tangent of $k_1$ and $k_2$ intersects $k$ at $P$ and $Q$. Determine the length of $PQ$.
Source:
Tags: geometry
Circles $k_1$ and $k_2$ with radii $r_1=6$ and $r_2=3$ are externally tangent and touch a circle $k$ with radius $r=9$ from inside. A common external tangent of $k_1$ and $k_2$ intersects $k$ at $P$ and $Q$. Determine the length of $PQ$.