Math Problem Statement

In right triangle ABC, right-angled at C, M is the midpoint of hypotenuse AB. C is joined to M and produced to a point D such that DM = CM. Point D is joined to point B. Show that: (i) ΔAMC ≅ ΔBMD (ii) ∠DBC is a right angle (iii) ΔDBC ≅ ΔACB (iv) CM = 1/2 AB.

Solution

In the given problem involving right triangle ABCABC with MM as the midpoint of hypotenuse ABAB, and points CC and DD such that DM=CMDM = CM, we need to show several properties. Let's address each one systematically:

(i) AMCBMD\triangle AMC \cong \triangle BMD

Since MM is the midpoint of ABAB, we have:

  • AM=MBAM = MB
  • AMC=BMD\angle AMC = \angle BMD (Each is 90° since MM lies on the hypotenuse and DM=CMDM = CM makes MCD\triangle MCD isosceles with MCD=MDC\angle MCD = \angle MDC)
  • CM=DMCM = DM (Given)

Thus, by SAS (Side-Angle-Side) congruence postulate, AMCBMD\triangle AMC \cong \triangle BMD.

(ii) DBC\angle DBC is a right angle

Since AMCBMD\triangle AMC \cong \triangle BMD, corresponding parts of congruent triangles are equal, which implies:

  • DBC=ACB\angle DBC = \angle ACB (Corresponding angles in congruent triangles)
  • ACB=90\angle ACB = 90^\circ (As ACB\angle ACB is the right angle of the right triangle ABCABC)

Hence, DBC\angle DBC is a right angle.

(iii) DBCACB\triangle DBC \cong \triangle ACB

For triangles DBC\triangle DBC and ACB\triangle ACB:

  • DBC=ACB=90\angle DBC = \angle ACB = 90^\circ (From previous proofs)
  • BCBC is a common side.
  • BD=ACBD = AC (Since AMCBMD\triangle AMC \cong \triangle BMD, BD=AMBD = AM and AM=ACAM = AC as MM is the midpoint of ABAB)

By RHS (Right-angle Hypotenuse-Side) congruence criterion, DBCACB\triangle DBC \cong \triangle ACB.

(iv) CM=12ABCM = \frac{1}{2} AB

Given MM is the midpoint of ABAB, by definition, CMCM (which is AMAM or MBMB) is exactly half of ABAB.

Would you like more details on any of these proofs or have any questions about the steps taken? Here are some further questions to explore:

  1. Why does the midpoint of the hypotenuse of a right triangle always coincide with the circumcenter?
  2. How does the property of triangle congruence help in solving real-world problems?
  3. Can you derive the Pythagorean theorem from the given triangle and its properties?
  4. What are other significant points within a triangle besides the midpoint of the hypotenuse?
  5. How can understanding these geometric principles aid in understanding more complex shapes?

Tip: When proving triangles are congruent, always clearly state which criterion you are using (SSS, SAS, ASA, AAS, or RHS) and ensure you have demonstrated each part of that criterion.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Triangle Congruence
Midpoint Theorem
Pythagoras Theorem

Formulas

SAS Congruence
RHS (Right Angle-Hypotenuse-Side) Congruence
Midpoint Formula

Theorems

Congruence of Triangles
Right-Angle Triangle Properties
Midpoint Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11