Math Problem Statement

In triangle ABC, BC = 60, AD = 20. E and G are two points on the one-quarter circle whose center is F. Find the length of EF.

Solution

Let's analyze the given triangle ABC\triangle ABC with the following details:

  1. BC=60BC = 60
  2. AD=20AD = 20
  3. Points EE and GG lie on a one-quarter circle centered at FF.

Since EE and GG are on the quarter-circle, FF serves as the center of this arc, and lines DFDF and EFEF are radii of this circle segment. Additionally, the one-quarter circle implies a right angle at DD and EE, so DEF=90\angle DEF = 90^\circ.

Steps to Solve for EFEF

  1. Recognize Right Triangle Properties: Since DEF=90\angle DEF = 90^\circ and AD=20AD = 20, the radius of the quarter-circle is DF=EFDF = EF. So, we need to find the radius EFEF in terms of the geometry of ABC\triangle ABC and the quarter-circle.

  2. Use Right Triangle Proportions: Given the setup, DEF\triangle DEF forms a right triangle where DF=EFDF = EF, and both are half the length from DD to AA (since AD=20AD = 20 and forms a perpendicular distance from BB and CC).

Therefore: EF=AD2=202=10EF = \frac{AD}{2} = \frac{20}{2} = 10

Conclusion

The length of EFEF is 10 units.

Would you like further details on any of the steps?


Here are some follow-up questions related to the concepts used in this problem:

  1. How do right triangle properties apply in a one-quarter circle configuration?
  2. What additional properties can be derived from the lengths in ABC\triangle ABC?
  3. How would the solution change if BAC\angle BAC was not a right angle?
  4. How does the concept of radius affect the solution when dealing with quarter circles?
  5. What other methods could be used to verify the length of EFEF in this configuration?

Tip: When dealing with quarter circles in geometry, focus on symmetry and radius properties as they often simplify calculations.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Right Triangles
Circle Properties

Formulas

Length of EF = AD / 2

Theorems

Pythagorean Theorem
Properties of Right Triangles and Quarter Circles

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12