Math Problem Statement

ΔABC is right angled at B On the side AC, a point D is taken such that AD

DC and AB

BD . Find the measure of ∠ CAB .

Solution

Given that triangle ΔABC\Delta ABC is right-angled at BB, we are asked to find the measure of CAB\angle CAB under the condition that AD=DCAD = DC and AB=BDAB = BD, where DD is a point on side ACAC.

Step-by-Step Solution:

  1. Understanding the Geometry:

    • Triangle ΔABC\Delta ABC is a right-angled triangle with ABC=90\angle ABC = 90^\circ.
    • The point DD lies on side ACAC, and it divides ACAC into two equal parts, meaning AD=DCAD = DC.
    • The condition AB=BDAB = BD implies that triangle ΔABD\Delta ABD is isosceles, with the two sides ABAB and BDBD being equal.
  2. Using Triangle Properties:

    • Since triangle ΔABD\Delta ABD is isosceles, ABD=ADB\angle ABD = \angle ADB (the angles opposite the equal sides).
    • In triangle ΔABC\Delta ABC, the angle sum must be 180°. Therefore, we have: ABC+CAB+ACB=180\angle ABC + \angle CAB + \angle ACB = 180^\circ Given that ABC=90\angle ABC = 90^\circ, we can simplify: CAB+ACB=90\angle CAB + \angle ACB = 90^\circ
  3. Considering the Symmetry:

    • Since AD=DCAD = DC, point DD is the midpoint of ACAC.
    • From the isosceles triangle ΔABD\Delta ABD, we know that ABD=ADB\angle ABD = \angle ADB. Additionally, the total angle around point DD is 180180^\circ, and hence ADB+ABD=180ABC=90\angle ADB + \angle ABD = 180^\circ - \angle ABC = 90^\circ.
  4. Concluding the Measure of CAB\angle CAB: The symmetry of the situation suggests that CAB=45\angle CAB = 45^\circ. This is because the equalities AD=DCAD = DC and AB=BDAB = BD imply that the triangle ΔABD\Delta ABD splits the right angle at BB into two equal parts.

Thus, the measure of CAB\angle CAB is: 45\boxed{45^\circ}


Would you like a more detailed breakdown of any of the steps?

Further questions:

  1. What happens if the triangle ΔABC\Delta ABC is not right-angled?
  2. How can the properties of isosceles triangles help in other geometric proofs?
  3. What would change if ABBDAB \neq BD but AD=DCAD = DC?
  4. How do you calculate angles in other types of triangles (isosceles, equilateral)?
  5. Can the method of symmetry be used in non-Euclidean geometry?

Tip:

Always look for symmetry and congruence in geometric problems—they often simplify the solution process and provide insight into unknown angles or side lengths.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Right-Angled Triangles
Isosceles Triangles
Symmetry

Formulas

Angle sum property of triangles
Angle properties of isosceles triangles

Theorems

Angle sum property
Properties of isosceles triangles

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10