Math Problem Statement

Solve this geometry accurately

In the figure below, M, N, and E are the mid-points 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, we need to find the length of GHGH in the given triangle. Here’s a step-by-step approach:

Given:

  1. MM, NN, and EE are midpoints of BCBC, MCMC, and ACAC, respectively.
  2. The length of BEBE is given as 42 cm.

Explanation:

Since MM, NN, and EE are midpoints:

  • BEBE connects a vertex to the midpoint of the opposite side, making BEBE a median of triangle ABCABC.

Step 1: Properties of Medians and Midpoints

  • The line segments connecting the midpoints of two sides of a triangle (like MNMN) are parallel to the third side and equal to half its length.
  • Hence, MNABMN \parallel AB and MN=12ABMN = \frac{1}{2} AB.

Step 2: Median Intersections

The centroid GG of triangle ABCABC divides each median in the ratio 2:1, where the longer segment is from the vertex to the centroid.

Step 3: Relation between GHGH and BEBE

Point HH lies on median BEBE, and GG divides BEBE in the ratio 2:1. Therefore, GHGH is one-third the length of BEBE.

Calculation:

Given: BE=42 cmBE = 42 \text{ cm} Thus, the length of GHGH is: GH=13×42=14 cmGH = \frac{1}{3} \times 42 = 14 \text{ cm}

The length of GHGH is 14 cm.

Would you like further details or have any questions about this solution?

Here are five related questions to extend your understanding:

  1. How do the properties of midpoints help in solving problems involving triangles?
  2. What are other significant properties of the centroid in a triangle?
  3. Can the method used here be applied to any triangle, or does it require specific types like equilateral?
  4. How would the problem change if point HH was located at a different position on the median?
  5. How does the centroid's location affect the triangle's area distribution?

Tip: When dealing with triangle medians, remember that the centroid divides each median in a 2:1 ratio, providing a helpful geometric property for solving related problems.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Triangle Properties
Centroid and Median

Formulas

Length of GH = (1/3) * BE

Theorems

Centroid Theorem: The centroid divides each median in the ratio 2:1.

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12