Math Problem Statement

The shaded triangle DEC is an equilateral triangle. What is the size of angle ABC?

Solution

In this problem, we are tasked with finding the size of angle ABCABC. Here's the step-by-step solution:

  1. Given Information:

    • Triangle DECDEC is equilateral, meaning all its internal angles are 6060^\circ.
    • Angle DCE=60\angle DCE = 60^\circ.
    • Angle EAC=80\angle EAC = 80^\circ.
  2. Understanding the Geometry:

    • ABC\triangle ABC is a larger triangle that contains DEC\triangle DEC.
    • We need to find ABC\angle ABC (the angle at vertex BB).
  3. Using Angle Sum in Triangle AECAEC:

    • In triangle AECAEC, we know:
      • EAC=80\angle EAC = 80^\circ.
      • DEC=60\angle DEC = 60^\circ because triangle DECDEC is equilateral.
    • The sum of the internal angles in any triangle is 180180^\circ. AEC=180EACDEC\angle AEC = 180^\circ - \angle EAC - \angle DEC AEC=1808060=40\angle AEC = 180^\circ - 80^\circ - 60^\circ = 40^\circ
  4. Using Exterior Angle Theorem:

    • Now, observe that angle ABCABC is an exterior angle to triangle AECAEC.
    • The exterior angle theorem states that an exterior angle of a triangle is equal to the sum of the two opposite interior angles.
    • Therefore, ABC=EAC+AEC\angle ABC = \angle EAC + \angle AEC: ABC=80+40=120\angle ABC = 80^\circ + 40^\circ = 120^\circ

Thus, the size of angle ABCABC is 120120^\circ.

Would you like more details or have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions:

  1. How do you calculate the angles of an equilateral triangle?
  2. What is the exterior angle theorem and how is it applied?
  3. How can the sum of angles in a triangle help solve more complex geometry problems?
  4. How does symmetry play a role in understanding equilateral triangles?
  5. How can other properties of triangles (isosceles, scalene) affect angle calculations?

Tip: When solving for angles, always consider using the exterior angle theorem, as it provides a direct relationship between internal and external angles in a triangle.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Triangles
Angle Sum Property
Exterior Angle Theorem

Formulas

Angle Sum Property: The sum of the internal angles in any triangle is 180°
Exterior Angle Theorem: The exterior angle of a triangle is equal to the sum of the two opposite interior angles

Theorems

Exterior Angle Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10