Math Problem Statement

Solution

The problem is written in Ukrainian and can be translated as follows:

"In a right-angled triangle, the point where the incircle touches the hypotenuse divides the hypotenuse into segments of lengths 5 cm and 12 cm. Find the legs of the triangle."

Solution:

Let the legs of the right triangle be aa and bb, and the hypotenuse be cc.

The point where the incircle touches the hypotenuse divides it into two segments, pp and qq, where p=5p = 5 cm and q=12q = 12 cm.

We know the following relationships:

  1. p+q=cp + q = c (since pp and qq are segments of the hypotenuse)
  2. a=spa = s - p and b=sqb = s - q, where s=a+b+c2s = \frac{a + b + c}{2} is the semiperimeter.

From the first relationship, we have: c=5+12=17 cmc = 5 + 12 = 17 \text{ cm}

Now, the semiperimeter ss is given by: s=a+b+c2s = \frac{a + b + c}{2}

Substituting the expressions for aa and bb in terms of ss, pp, and qq: a=sp=s5a = s - p = s - 5 b=sq=s12b = s - q = s - 12

Since s=a+b+c2s = \frac{a + b + c}{2}, we can write: a+b=2sc=2s17a + b = 2s - c = 2s - 17

Substitute the expressions for aa and bb into the Pythagorean theorem: a2+b2=c2a^2 + b^2 = c^2

Substituting the values: (175)2+(1712)2=172(17 - 5)^2 + (17 - 12)^2 = 17^2 122+52=28912^2 + 5^2 = 289 144+25=169144 + 25 = 169

Thus, the correct lengths of the legs aa and bb are 12 cm and 5 cm respectively.

Would you like more details, or do you have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions:

  1. What is the formula for finding the radius of the incircle of a right triangle?
  2. How can you find the area of a right triangle using the legs and hypotenuse?
  3. What are the properties of a 30-60-90 triangle?
  4. How would you solve this problem if only the hypotenuse was given?
  5. What is the relationship between the semiperimeter and the legs of a right triangle?

Tip: In right-angled triangles, the incircle touches the hypotenuse at a point that divides it into segments equal to the differences between the semiperimeter and the other sides.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Right Triangle
Pythagorean Theorem
Incircle

Formulas

Pythagorean theorem: a^2 + b^2 = c^2
Semiperimeter: s = (a + b + c) / 2

Theorems

Properties of right triangles

Suitable Grade Level

High School