Math Problem Statement

CDE is a tangent to the circle below. Calculate the size of angle θ. Fully justify your answer.

Solution

In the given problem, we are asked to calculate the size of angle θ\theta, with CDECDE as a tangent to the circle at point DD.

Key Information:

  • CDECDE is a tangent, and we are to use properties related to circles and tangents.
  • BDA=56\angle BDA = 56^\circ (this is an exterior angle formed between the tangent and a chord).
  • DBA=37\angle DBA = 37^\circ is given.
  • DAF=29\angle DAF = 29^\circ, part of the cyclic quadrilateral inside the circle.

Step-by-Step Solution:

  1. Using the Tangent-Secant Theorem:

    • The angle between the tangent and a chord (in this case, BDA\angle BDA) is equal to the angle in the alternate segment of the circle. Therefore, BDA=B\angle BDA = \angle B.
    • Since BDA=56\angle BDA = 56^\circ, we can conclude that B=56\angle B = 56^\circ.
  2. Angles in a Triangle:

    • Now, consider triangle ABDABD inside the circle. The angles in this triangle must sum to 180180^\circ. A+B+DBA=180\angle A + \angle B + \angle DBA = 180^\circ Substituting the known values: θ+56+37=180\theta + 56^\circ + 37^\circ = 180^\circ Simplifying this equation: θ+93=180\theta + 93^\circ = 180^\circ θ=18093=87\theta = 180^\circ - 93^\circ = 87^\circ

Conclusion:

The size of angle θ\theta is 8787^\circ.

Let me know if you'd like any further details or explanations!

Here are some follow-up questions to reinforce the concept:

  1. How does the tangent-secant theorem apply to different types of circles?
  2. Why do the angles in a triangle always sum to 180 degrees?
  3. What are some other properties of cyclic quadrilaterals?
  4. How would the solution change if the tangent was extended beyond point EE?
  5. Can you apply this method to solve for angles in an ellipse?

Tip: Always remember that the angle between a tangent and a chord is equal to the angle in the alternate segment of the circle. This property is key to solving many circle geometry problems!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Circle Geometry
Angles
Tangents
Cyclic Quadrilaterals

Formulas

Sum of angles in a triangle = 180°
Tangent-Secant Theorem: The angle between a tangent and a chord is equal to the angle in the alternate segment of the circle

Theorems

Tangent-Secant Theorem
Angle Sum Property of a Triangle

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11