Math Problem Statement

Given D is the midpoint of AC, complete the flowchart proof.

Solution

This question is asking you to complete the flowchart proof for two triangles, ABD\triangle ABD and CBD\triangle CBD, with the given that DD is the midpoint of ACAC. Let's walk through the reasoning behind each step:

Given:

  • DD is the midpoint of ACAC.

Step 1: ADCDAD \cong CD

  • Reason: Since DD is the midpoint of ACAC, it divides ACAC into two equal segments, so AD=CDAD = CD.
  • Reason: Definition of midpoint

Step 2: AC\angle A \cong \angle C

  • Reason: ABC\triangle ABC is isosceles (as indicated by the tick marks on ABAB and BCBC, showing that ABBCAB \cong BC), so the base angles A\angle A and C\angle C are congruent.
  • Reason: Base angles of an isosceles triangle are congruent

Step 3: ABCBAB \cong CB

  • Reason: This is given directly from the diagram as the two sides ABAB and BCBC have the same number of tick marks, indicating they are congruent.
  • Reason: Given

Step 4: ABDCBD\triangle ABD \cong \triangle CBD

  • Reason: At this point, we have two congruent sides ABCBAB \cong CB, two congruent angles AC\angle A \cong \angle C, and ADCDAD \cong CD. This is enough to conclude that ABDCBD\triangle ABD \cong \triangle CBD by the SAS (Side-Angle-Side) Congruence Postulate.

Would you like further clarification on any of the reasoning steps? Here are five related questions to deepen your understanding:

  1. What other congruence postulates or theorems could be applied if different information was given in this triangle?
  2. Why does the midpoint ensure that AD=CDAD = CD?
  3. What does the isosceles triangle theorem state, and how does it apply here?
  4. How can you prove two triangles are congruent using the Side-Angle-Side (SAS) postulate?
  5. What role do base angles play in determining the congruence of triangles?

Tip: When proving triangles congruent, always look for congruent sides and angles based on givens, definitions, and postulates like SAS, SSS, or ASA.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Triangle Congruence
Midpoints

Formulas

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Theorems

Midpoint Theorem
Isosceles Triangle Theorem
Side-Angle-Side (SAS) Congruence Postulate

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-10