Math Problem Statement

In a ∆ABC, AD _|_BC and AD² = BD X CD. Prove that A ABC is a right- angled triangle.solve in 2 steps

Solution

To prove that ΔABC\Delta ABC is a right-angled triangle given that ADBCAD \perp BC and AD2=BD×CDAD^2 = BD \times CD, we can condense the proof into two key steps:

Step 1: Use the Geometric Mean Theorem

The Geometric Mean Theorem states that if an altitude is drawn from the right angle of a right triangle to the hypotenuse, then the length of the altitude is the geometric mean of the segments of the hypotenuse. For triangle ΔABC\Delta ABC, since ADBCAD \perp BC, we can apply this theorem:

AD2=BD×CDAD^2 = BD \times CD

This is exactly the condition given in the problem. Therefore, this implies that ΔABC\Delta ABC must be a right-angled triangle, with the right angle at AA.

Step 2: Apply the Converse of the Pythagorean Theorem

Since AD2=BD×CDAD^2 = BD \times CD is satisfied, and it follows from the Geometric Mean Theorem, BAC\angle BAC must be 9090^\circ. Hence, ΔABC\Delta ABC is a right-angled triangle by the converse of the Pythagorean Theorem.

Conclusion:

Thus, ΔABC\Delta ABC is a right-angled triangle with the right angle at BAC\angle BAC.

Would you like further clarification or details on any part of the proof?


Here are five related questions:

  1. How can the Converse of the Pythagorean Theorem be used in other geometric proofs?
  2. What is the importance of the altitude in right triangles?
  3. Can the Geometric Mean Theorem be applied to non-right triangles?
  4. How can the property AD2=BD×CDAD^2 = BD \times CD be used to find the length of ADAD given BDBD and CDCD?
  5. What are the implications if AD2BD×CDAD^2 \neq BD \times CD?

Tip: When proving a triangle is right-angled, check if any geometric mean relationships exist between segments and altitudes.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Right-angled triangles
Altitude
Pythagorean Theorem

Formulas

-

Theorems

Geometric Mean Theorem
Converse of the Pythagorean Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

High School