Math Problem Statement

Solve the math

AD is an altitude of an isosceles triangle ABC in which AB = AC. Show that AD bisects ∠A. OR In the figure below, the diagonal PR of quadrilateral PQRS bisects ∠QPS and ∠QRS. Prove that QR = SR.

Solution

The problem in the image provides two options. Let's solve both:

Problem 1:

AD is an altitude of an isosceles triangle ABC in which AB = AC. Show that AD bisects ∠A.

Solution:

  1. Since AB=ACAB = AC, triangle ABC is isosceles, meaning that the angles opposite these sides, i.e., B=C\angle B = \angle C.

  2. The altitude ADAD is drawn from vertex AA to the base BCBC, making ADAD perpendicular to BCBC. Therefore, ADB=ADC=90\angle ADB = \angle ADC = 90^\circ.

  3. In triangle ABDABD and triangle ACDACD:

    • AB=ACAB = AC (given).
    • AD=ADAD = AD (common side).
    • ADB=ADC=90\angle ADB = \angle ADC = 90^\circ (altitude property).

    Therefore, by the RHS congruence criterion, ABDACD\triangle ABD \cong \triangle ACD.

  4. Since the two triangles are congruent, BAD=CAD\angle BAD = \angle CAD. This shows that ADAD bisects A\angle A.

Problem 2:

In the figure below, the diagonal PR of quadrilateral PQRS bisects QPS\angle QPS and QRS\angle QRS. Prove that QR = SR.

Solution:

  1. The diagonals PRPR bisect QPS\angle QPS and QRS\angle QRS, so:

    • QPR=SPR\angle QPR = \angle SPR (since PRPR bisects QPS\angle QPS).
    • QRP=SRP\angle QRP = \angle SRP (since PRPR bisects QRS\angle QRS).
  2. In triangles QPRQPR and SPRSPR:

    • QPR=SPR\angle QPR = \angle SPR (given).
    • QRP=SRP\angle QRP = \angle SRP (given).
    • PR=PRPR = PR (common side).

    Therefore, by the ASA congruence criterion, QPRSPR\triangle QPR \cong \triangle SPR.

  3. Since the triangles are congruent, we conclude that QR=SRQR = SR.

Would you like further details or explanations? Here are some related questions for deeper understanding:

  1. What are the properties of an isosceles triangle?
  2. How does congruence work in triangle proofs?
  3. What is the significance of the altitude in an isosceles triangle?
  4. Can a diagonal in a quadrilateral always bisect opposite angles?
  5. What are the different criteria for triangle congruence (SSS, SAS, ASA, RHS)?

Tip: In geometry, always look for congruent triangles to prove equal lengths or bisected angles!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Congruent Triangles
Isosceles Triangle
Angle Bisectors
ASA Congruence

Formulas

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Theorems

RHS Congruence Criterion
ASA Congruence Criterion

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-10