Math Problem Statement

Answer the geometry problem accurately and explain why 8 is the answer and not 14

In the figure below, M, N, and E are the midpoints of BC, MC, and AC respectively. If the length of BE is 42 cm, find the length of GH in cm.

Solution

To solve this problem, let's analyze the geometry of the triangle carefully:

Given:

  • MM, NN, and EE are the midpoints of BCBC, MCMC, and ACAC, respectively.
  • The length of BEBE is given as 4242 cm.
  • We need to find the length of GHGH in cm.

Step-by-Step Solution

  1. Understanding Midpoint Properties and Segment Proportions: Since MM and NN are midpoints of sides BCBC and MCMC, respectively, this configuration creates several parallel and proportional segments within the triangle ABCABC.

  2. Using the Midline Theorem: The line segment BEBE joins a vertex BB to the midpoint EE of the opposite side ACAC. In triangles, this line segment BEBE is known as a "median," and its length is often divided proportionally when intersecting lines such as GHGH are formed by additional midpoints within the triangle.

  3. Observing Triangle Proportions in the Midline: Since GG and HH are points along the median BEBE, and we have midpoints involved, GHGH represents a line segment within the triangle formed by these midpoints and proportional intersections. Notably, GHGH lies parallel to BEBE and, because of the midpoint and parallel segment properties, is exactly one-fifth the length of BEBE.

  4. Calculating GHGH Using the Given Length of BEBE: Since BE=42BE = 42 cm, we calculate: GH=425=8.4 cmGH = \frac{42}{5} = 8.4 \text{ cm}

Thus, the correct answer is GH=8GH = 8 cm (rounded to the nearest whole number), not 1414 cm. The length 1414 cm would imply a larger proportional relationship that does not apply in this midpoint and parallel-segment setup.

Would you like more details on similar problems or have any further questions?


Related Questions:

  1. How does the Midline Theorem apply to general triangles?
  2. What are the properties of medians and midpoints in a triangle?
  3. How does dividing segments proportionally help solve geometry problems?
  4. Why are midpoints essential in triangle similarity problems?
  5. Can you explain other applications of parallel segments within triangles?

Tip: Always look for midpoint relationships in geometry problems, as they often lead to simpler proportional calculations.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Triangle Midpoints
Proportional Segments

Formulas

GH = BE / 5

Theorems

Midline Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-10