Math Problem Statement

In the figure above, ∠BDC = 30° and ∠BCA = 60°. Find ∠ABC.

Solution

Let's analyze the geometry problem in the given image step by step.

Key Information from the Diagram:

  • The quadrilateral is inscribed in a circle (cyclic quadrilateral).
  • We are given the following angle measures:
    • BDC=30\angle BDC = 30^\circ
    • BCA=60\angle BCA = 60^\circ

Objective:

  • Find ABC\angle ABC.

Using Properties of Cyclic Quadrilaterals:

  1. Opposite Angles in a Cyclic Quadrilateral: The sum of opposite angles in a cyclic quadrilateral is always 180180^\circ. This is a key property we will use.

  2. Understanding the Given Angles:

    • BDC=30\angle BDC = 30^\circ (angle subtended by chord BCBC at point DD),
    • BCA=60\angle BCA = 60^\circ (angle subtended by chord BDBD at point AA).
  3. Applying the Inscribed Angle Theorem: In a circle, the measure of an inscribed angle is half of the measure of the arc it subtends. Here, the arc subtended by ABC\angle ABC is the same as the arc subtended by BDC\angle BDC, and similarly for BCA\angle BCA.

  4. Finding ABC\angle ABC: Since the angles ABC\angle ABC and BDC\angle BDC are subtended by the same arc ACAC, we can use the fact that ABC\angle ABC will be double that of BDC\angle BDC, making:

    ABC=180BCABDC\angle ABC = 180^\circ - \angle BCA - \angle BDC

    Substituting the given angles: ABC=1806030=90\angle ABC = 180^\circ - 60^\circ - 30^\circ = 90^\circ

Thus, ABC=90\angle ABC = 90^\circ.

Answer:

The correct option is 90\boxed{90^\circ}.

Would you like more details on any of the steps or properties used?


Follow-Up Questions:

  1. What is the property of opposite angles in a cyclic quadrilateral?
  2. How do we use the inscribed angle theorem to find angles in a circle?
  3. What happens to angles subtended by the same arc in a circle?
  4. Why is the sum of opposite angles in a cyclic quadrilateral always 180180^\circ?
  5. How does the subtended angle change as you move the vertex on the circle?

Tip:

Always remember that in a cyclic quadrilateral, opposite angles are supplementary (i.e., their sum is 180180^\circ). This property is extremely useful in solving problems involving circles.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Cyclic Quadrilaterals
Circle Theorems

Formulas

Sum of opposite angles in a cyclic quadrilateral = 180°
Angle subtended by an arc at the circumference

Theorems

Inscribed Angle Theorem
Cyclic Quadrilateral Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12