Math Problem Statement

UV is tangent to circle T. What is m∠T?

Solution

To solve this problem:

Step 1: Identify given information

  1. UV\overrightarrow{UV} is tangent to the circle at UU.
  2. UVT=42\angle UVT = 42^\circ.

Step 2: Key geometric property

In a circle, the angle formed between a radius and a tangent at the point of tangency is 9090^\circ. Therefore, UTU=90\angle UTU = 90^\circ.

Step back

To solve the problem:

  1. Identify the Geometry:

    • UV\overline{UV} is tangent to the circle at UU.
    • TT is the center of the circle.
    • UVT=42\angle UVT = 42^\circ.
  2. Key Properties:

    • The tangent to a circle at a point (here, UU) is perpendicular to the radius at that point.
    • Hence, UTU=90\angle UTU = 90^\circ.
  3. Determine T\angle T:

    • The triangle UVT\triangle UVT has three angles: UVT\angle UVT, T\angle T, and UTV\angle UTV.
    • The sum of the angles in a triangle is 180180^\circ.

    UVT+T+UTV=180\angle UVT + \angle T + \angle UTV = 180^\circ

    Substituting: 42+90+T=18042^\circ + 90^\circ + \angle T = 180^\circ

    Simplify: T=180132=48\angle T = 180^\circ - 132^\circ = 48^\circ

Final Answer:

48\boxed{48^\circ}

Let me know if you'd like a detailed breakdown of the solution or have further questions! Here are related questions to consider:

  1. How do tangents relate to radii in a circle?
  2. Can you prove that the tangent is always perpendicular to the radius at the point of tangency?
  3. How would this problem change if the tangent angle were different?
  4. What are other properties of angles in a triangle that can simplify geometry problems?
  5. Can this technique extend to solving problems involving multiple tangents?

Tip: Always double-check angle relationships in problems involving circles and tangents!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Circle Geometry
Tangent Properties
Triangle Angle Sum

Formulas

Sum of angles in a triangle = 180°

Theorems

Tangent-Radius Perpendicularity Theorem
Triangle Angle Sum Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10