Math Problem Statement

In a triangle ABC, let BD be its altitude and let H be its orthocenter. The perpendicular bisector of HD meets (BCD) at P, Q. Find ∠APB + ∠AQB = ?

Solution

Let's analyze and solve the problem step by step.

Given:

  • ABC\triangle ABC where BDBD is the altitude, and HH is the orthocenter.
  • The perpendicular bisector of HDHD meets line BCDBCD at points PP and QQ.
  • We need to find APB+AQB\angle APB + \angle AQB.

Solution:

  1. Understanding the Geometry:

    • Since HH is the orthocenter, BDBD is perpendicular to ACAC.
    • PP and QQ lie on the perpendicular bisector of HDHD, which makes PP and QQ equidistant from HH and DD.
  2. Key Concept:

    • Since PP and QQ are on the perpendicular bisector, HPD\triangle HPD and HQD\triangle HQD are isosceles triangles, with HP=PDHP = PD and HQ=QDHQ = QD.
    • The configuration suggests that PP and QQ might be symmetric with respect to line ACAC, indicating some symmetry in the angles we need to find.
  3. Utilizing Symmetry:

    • By the properties of perpendicular bisectors and symmetry, APB\triangle APB and AQB\triangle AQB should be congruent.
    • This implies that APB=AQB\angle APB = \angle AQB.
    • Let APB=α\angle APB = \alpha. Therefore, AQB=α\angle AQB = \alpha.
  4. Sum of Angles:

    • APB+AQB=α+α=2α\angle APB + \angle AQB = \alpha + \alpha = 2\alpha.
    • Since APBQAPBQ is a cyclic quadrilateral (as PP and QQ lie on the perpendicular bisector and symmetry), APB\angle APB and AQB\angle AQB add up to 180180^\circ.

Thus, the sum APB+AQB=180\angle APB + \angle AQB = 180^\circ.

Conclusion:

APB+AQB=180\boxed{\angle APB + \angle AQB = 180^\circ}

Would you like further details or clarifications on this solution? Here are some related questions:

  1. Why does the perpendicular bisector ensure symmetry between points PP and QQ?
  2. What properties of the orthocenter are crucial for this problem?
  3. How can we prove that APBQAPBQ is a cyclic quadrilateral?
  4. What role does symmetry play in determining the angles in this problem?
  5. Can this method be generalized to other configurations involving perpendicular bisectors and orthocenters?

Tip: Remember that in many geometry problems involving symmetry, congruent triangles can reveal equal angles or distances, which can simplify the solution process.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Triangles
Orthocenter
Cyclic Quadrilateral

Formulas

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Theorems

Properties of Orthocenter
Cyclic Quadrilateral Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12