Math Problem Statement

What is the length of BD?

Solution

Let's solve the given problem step by step. The triangle ABC\triangle ABC is an equilateral triangle with side length 2020, and DD is the midpoint of AC\overline{AC}, forming two 30-60-90 triangles.

Step 1: Understand the properties of a 30-60-90 triangle

In a 30-60-90 triangle:

  • The ratio of the sides is 1:3:21 : \sqrt{3} : 2, where:
    • The shortest side (opposite the 30° angle) is half the hypotenuse.
    • The side opposite the 60° angle is 3\sqrt{3} times the shortest side.

Step 2: Break down the triangle

Since ABC\triangle ABC is equilateral:

  • AB=BC=AC=20\overline{AB} = \overline{BC} = \overline{AC} = 20.
  • DD is the midpoint of AC\overline{AC}, so AD=DC=10\overline{AD} = \overline{DC} = 10.

Step 3: Solve for BD\overline{BD}

In BDC\triangle BDC:

  • BC=20\overline{BC} = 20 (hypotenuse).
  • DC=10\overline{DC} = 10 (short side).
  • BD\overline{BD} is the side opposite the 60° angle.

From the 30-60-90 triangle ratio: BD=DC3=103.\overline{BD} = \overline{DC} \cdot \sqrt{3} = 10 \cdot \sqrt{3}.

Final Answer:

The length of BD\overline{BD} is: 103\boxed{10\sqrt{3}}

Let me know if you want further clarification or have any related questions!

Related Questions:

  1. What is the perimeter of triangle ABC\triangle ABC?
  2. How can you calculate the area of triangle ABC\triangle ABC?
  3. What are the properties of an equilateral triangle?
  4. How do 30-60-90 triangle ratios apply in real-world problems?
  5. How would the solution change if AB=24\overline{AB} = 24?

Tip:

Always memorize the side ratios for special right triangles like 30-60-90 and 45-45-90—they simplify many geometric problems!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Equilateral Triangle
Special Right Triangles
Trigonometric Ratios

Formulas

30-60-90 triangle side ratios: 1 : √3 : 2

Theorems

Properties of Equilateral Triangles
30-60-90 Triangle Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10