Math Problem Statement

In the given figure, BM is a median and BM = MC. What is the value of angle x?

Solution

We are given a triangle ABC\triangle ABC where BMBM is a median, meaning it divides the opposite side ACAC into two equal segments, and it is also stated that BM=MCBM = MC. The angle at point AA is labeled as 5x5x and the angle at point CC is labeled as xx, and we are asked to find the value of angle xx.

Steps to solve:

  1. Since BMBM is the median and BM=MCBM = MC, the triangle is isosceles with BMC\triangle BMC being equal in terms of side lengths.

  2. In any triangle, the sum of the interior angles must equal 180°. Therefore, the sum of angles A\angle A, B\angle B, and C\angle C in triangle ABC\triangle ABC must satisfy: A+B+C=180\angle A + \angle B + \angle C = 180^\circ

  3. From the diagram, we know:

    • A=5x\angle A = 5x
    • C=x\angle C = x

    So, let B=y\angle B = y. This gives us the equation: 5x+y+x=1805x + y + x = 180^\circ Simplifying: 6x+y=1806x + y = 180^\circ

  4. Since BMC\triangle BMC is isosceles, the angles at BB and CC opposite the equal sides BMBM and MCMC are equal. Thus, B=C=x\angle B = \angle C = x.

  5. Substituting y=xy = x into the equation 6x+y=1806x + y = 180^\circ: 6x+x=1806x + x = 180^\circ 7x=1807x = 180^\circ Solving for xx: x=180725.71x = \frac{180^\circ}{7} \approx 25.71^\circ

Thus, the measure of angle xx is approximately 25.7125.71^\circ.

Would you like a detailed explanation of any part of the solution?

Related Questions:

  1. What are the properties of an isosceles triangle?
  2. How do we apply the sum of angles in a triangle to solve for unknown angles?
  3. How would the solution change if BMBM was not equal to MCMC?
  4. What other properties can be deduced from a median in a triangle?
  5. How would this problem change if the triangle was scalene instead of isosceles?

Tip: Always remember that the sum of the interior angles of any triangle is 180180^\circ, which is crucial for solving most angle-related problems.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Isosceles Triangle
Sum of Interior Angles

Formulas

Sum of angles in a triangle: A + B + C = 180°

Theorems

Isosceles Triangle Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-10