10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry

Introduction to Geometry (2689)

Achilleas Sinefakopoulos

Friday
Apr 30, 2021 - Oct 8, 2021
7:30 - 9:00 PM ET (4:30 - 6:00 PM PT)

Overview
Week 5 (May 28) Class Transcript - Similar Triangles and Right Triangles
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Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:29:23
Hi, everyone!

Hridhaan
2021-05-28 19:29:37
Hello!

Sarah010
2021-05-28 19:29:37
hi!

Colorcrazy
2021-05-28 19:29:37
hello!

Brendangho
2021-05-28 19:29:37
hello

AndrewZhong2012
2021-05-28 19:29:37
hi

Teediv
2021-05-28 19:29:37
hi

Sunshine2016
2021-05-28 19:29:37
hi!

LONC123
2021-05-28 19:29:37
Hi

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 19:29:37
HELLO!

neptune08
2021-05-28 19:29:37
Hi!

snake2020
2021-05-28 19:29:37
Hello!

Evang12
2021-05-28 19:29:37
hi

Rinnypig
2021-05-28 19:29:37
Hello!

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 19:29:37
hi

apple.xy
2021-05-28 19:29:37
Hi!

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 1/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 19:29:37
hi

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:29:40
Hello again. New material will begin in a few minutes.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:29:49
Before we get started, let's quickly review what we did last week.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:29:53
We began our discussion of similarity. Recall that two figures are similar if they are "scaled" versions of one another. For polygons,
this means that all the corresponding angles are equal and all the corresponding sides form the same ratio.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:30:07
We learned three ways to prove that two triangles are similar.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:30:09
AA Similarity: If ∠A = ∠D and ∠B = ∠E, then △ABC ∼ △DEF .

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:30:13
AB AC
SAS Similarity: If ∠A = ∠D and = , then △ABC ∼ △DEF .
DE DF

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:30:18
AB AC BC
SSS Similarity: If = = , then △ABC ∼ △DEF .
DE DF EF

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:30:31
In particular, AA similarity occurs very frequently so you should always be on the lookout for it; if the corresponding angles in two
triangles are equal, then they are similar! Note that this is a special result that holds for triangles. In general, we cannot conclude
that two polygons are similar just because their corresponding angles are equal. (Certainly not all rectangles are similar!) However,
for triangles, we can.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:30:44
If you are still confusing the ideas of similarity and congruence, make sure you learn the difference between the two! This will be
very important to keep straight as we go forward. We are here to help!

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:30:53
Introduction to Geometry

Week 5: Similar Triangles and Right Triangles

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:31:03
There are two flagpoles, one of height 12 and one of height 16. A rope is connected from the top of each flagpole to the bottom of
the other. The ropes intersect at a point x units above the ground. Find x. In the accompanying diagram, this is equivalent to
finding the length EF .

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:31:07

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:31:18

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 2/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry
Wow, this one's a bit intimidating! It really doesn't feel like we have enough information. It feels like the answer will depend on the
length BD, doesn't it?

apple.xy
2021-05-28 19:31:36
No?

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:31:39
Well, let's see! Here are what some different diagrams look like, with different lengths BD :

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:31:44

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:31:49

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:31:57

dan09
2021-05-28 19:32:19
So it doesn't depend on BD!

pnacham
2021-05-28 19:32:19
I don't think BD affects EF...

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 3/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:32:25
Hmmm, EF looks the same in all of them, doesn't it? So maybe we really do have enough information. Let's see if we can figure
out how this works! What can we use here?

dan09
2021-05-28 19:33:01
Similar triangles

pnacham
2021-05-28 19:33:01
Similar Triangles!

ReaderB
2021-05-28 19:33:01
Similar triangles

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 19:33:01
Similar triangles!

Suraahi
2021-05-28 19:33:01
Similar triangles

MathNinja7
2021-05-28 19:33:01
Similar triangles

pwr
2021-05-28 19:33:01
similar triangles

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:33:05
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯
¯¯¯
¯¯¯
¯¯
We have that EF ∥ AB ∥ CD, so we have parallel lines, and therefore similar triangles. Which similar triangles do you see?

dan09
2021-05-28 19:34:53
△ADB ∼ △CBD

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 19:34:53
triangles ABD and EFD.

pwr
2021-05-28 19:34:53
triangle BCD ~ triangle BEF and triangle ABD ~ triangle EFD

Evang12
2021-05-28 19:34:53
triangles ADB and EDF are similar

Wuwuspring
2021-05-28 19:34:53
triangles ABD amd EFD are similar

Sarah010
2021-05-28 19:34:53
triangle FED is similar to triangle BAD

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:35:01
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Since ∠EDF = ∠ADB (same angle) and ∠DF E = ∠DBA (since EF ∥ AB ), we know that △ABD ∼ △EF D by AA.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:35:28
Similarly, △CDB ∼ △EF B by AA. What should we do with this?

pwr
2021-05-28 19:35:54
make ratios

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 19:35:54
set ratios

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:35:57
Anytime we see similar triangles and we seek lengths, it makes sense to look at ratios of sides. Which ratios will be useful here?

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:36:10
Which length should they involve?

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:36:36

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 4/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry
(use the letters of the vertices, please)

pnacham
2021-05-28 19:37:02
EF

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 19:37:02
EF

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:37:25
EF
It makes sense to focus on ratios involving EF , since we want to solve for it. What can we say is equal to?
AB

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:38:14
(use the similarity, not the labeling)

ReaderB
2021-05-28 19:38:51
FD/BD

pwr
2021-05-28 19:38:51
(FD)/(BD)

Wuwuspring
2021-05-28 19:38:51
EF/AB = FD/BD

apple.xy
2021-05-28 19:38:51
EF/AB = FD/BD

Sarah010
2021-05-28 19:38:51
EF/AB = FD/BD

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:38:58
Let's use ratios involving the side we're looking for. From △EF D ∼ △ABD, we get

EF FD
= .
AB BD

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:39:05
What similar equation can we get from △EF B ∼ △CDB ?

pwr
2021-05-28 19:40:11
(EF)/(CD)= (BF)/(BD)

ReaderB
2021-05-28 19:40:11
EF/CD = BF/BD

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 19:40:11
EF/CD = BF/BD

MathNinja7
2021-05-28 19:40:11
EF BF
=
CD BD

Brendangho
2021-05-28 19:40:11
EF/CD = BF/BD

superhero2020
2021-05-28 19:40:11
EF BF
=
CD BD

dan09
2021-05-28 19:40:11
EF BF
=
CD BD

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 19:40:11
EF/CD = BF/BD

Sarah010
2021-05-28 19:40:11

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 5/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry
EF/CD = BF/BD

apple.xy
2021-05-28 19:40:11
EF/CD = BF/BD

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 19:40:11
EF/CD = FB/BD.

AndrewZhong2012
2021-05-28 19:40:11
EF/CD=BF/BD

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 19:40:11
EF/CD=BF/BD

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:40:38
EF BF
We get the equation = .
CD BD

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:41:05
Since AB = 12 and CD = 16, combining, we have

EF FD
=
12 BD

and

EF BF
= .
16 BD

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:41:13
That's a lot of unknowns! Anyone see a clever trick to get rid of them?

ReaderB
2021-05-28 19:41:29
Add the two equations together!

pwr
2021-05-28 19:41:29
add them together?

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:41:34
If we add the two equations, we get

EF EF F D + BF
+ = .
12 16 BD

Can we do anything more to simplify that?

ReaderB
2021-05-28 19:42:10
FD + BF = BD

dan09
2021-05-28 19:42:10
F D + BF = BD

apple.xy
2021-05-28 19:42:10
EF/12 + EF/16 = 1 since FD+BF = BD!

pwr
2021-05-28 19:42:10
FD+BF=BD

grayspider
2021-05-28 19:42:10
F D + BF = BD

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 19:42:10
FD + BF = BD

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 6/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:42:13
Aha! We know that F D + BF = BD. Therefore,

EF EF F D + BF BD
+ = = = 1.
12 16 BD BD

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:42:21
Wow... that's convenient! What do we get when we solve for EF ?

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:43:22
(EF =?)

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 19:44:03
EF = 48/7

AndrewZhong2012
2021-05-28 19:44:03
EF=48/7

Sarah010
2021-05-28 19:44:03
48
EF =
7

ReaderB
2021-05-28 19:44:03
EF = 48/7

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 19:44:03
EF= 48/7

apple.xy
2021-05-28 19:44:03
EF=48/7

snake2020
2021-05-28 19:44:03
48
EF = .
7

MathNinja7
2021-05-28 19:44:03
48
EF =
7

ReaderB
2021-05-28 19:44:03
48
EF =
7

dan09
2021-05-28 19:44:03
48
EF =
7

pwr
2021-05-28 19:44:03
EF=48/7

Evang12
2021-05-28 19:44:03
EF = 48/7

Hridhaan
2021-05-28 19:44:03
EF=48/7

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 19:44:03
EF = 48/7.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:44:15
1 1
Solving, EF ( + ) = 1, so

12 16

1 1 1 48
EF = = = = .
1 1 4 3 7 7
+ +
12 16 48 48 48

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 7/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:44:40
Again, parallel lines lead to equal angles, which lead to similar triangles. You'll see this coming up quite often, so keep it in mind!

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:44:57
Here's yet another problem involving similar triangles.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:45:00
In the diagram BH = 6, H U = 4, and U S = 5. If the perimeter of △BU S is 25, then find the perimeter of △H U B.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:45:01

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:45:09
How will we incorporate into our diagram the fact that the perimeter of △BU S is 25 ?

apple.xy
2021-05-28 19:45:34
assign variables?

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:45:38
Let U B = x. Then what is BS in terms of x ?

pwr
2021-05-28 19:46:27
BS=20-x

Evang12
2021-05-28 19:46:27
BS = 20-x

Wuwuspring
2021-05-28 19:46:27
BS=20-x

superhero2020
2021-05-28 19:46:27
BS = 20 − x

RyanL2019
2021-05-28 19:46:27
BS=20-x

MathNinja7
2021-05-28 19:46:27
BS = 20 − x

hchhaya
2021-05-28 19:46:27
BS = 20 - x

snake2020
2021-05-28 19:46:27
BS = 20 − x.

Sunshine2016
2021-05-28 19:46:27
BS= 20-x

Colorcrazy
2021-05-28 19:46:27

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 8/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry
BS=20-x

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:46:33
Using the given perimeter of △BU S, we can see that BS = 25 − 5 − x = 20 − x.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:46:36

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:46:44
Do you notice anything special about this diagram?

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:47:03
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
I see many of you wondering whether BU is perpendicular to H S . It might or might not be, but the problem doesn't tell us one way
or another and there doesn't seem to be a good way to prove that. What else could we look at?

dan09
2021-05-28 19:47:36
Similar triangles!

pwr
2021-05-28 19:47:36
similar triangles?

Suraahi
2021-05-28 19:47:36
Similar triangles?

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:47:41
Let's look for similar triangles. What do we see?

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 19:49:14
triangle SBH is similar to triangle BUH

Sarah010
2021-05-28 19:49:14
triangle HBS is similar to triangle HUB

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:49:20
Let's compare △H U B to △H BS. What do we know about them that we could use to prove they are similar?

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 19:50:06
they share an angle, also maybe side length ratios

pwr
2021-05-28 19:50:06
they share one angle and have corresponding sides in ratio

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:50:28
HU 4 2 HB 6 2
We have = = and = = , so two pairs of corresponding sides of △H U B and △H BS are in proportion.
HB 6 3 HS 9 3

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:50:41
What else?

apple.xy
2021-05-28 19:51:44
https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 9/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry
they share <BHU

pwr
2021-05-28 19:51:44
they share angle H

Suraahi
2021-05-28 19:51:44
<H is shared in both triangles

MathNinja7
2021-05-28 19:51:44
∠BH S = ∠BH U

Brendangho
2021-05-28 19:51:44
They share angle <UHB

superhero2020
2021-05-28 19:51:44
tehy share the angle ∠BH U

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 19:51:44
angles BHS and UHB are the same angle

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:51:47
Furthermore, they both share ∠H , which is the angle between these pairs of corresponding sides!

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:52:07
Which similarity theorem can we apply now?

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 19:53:12
SAS

AndrewZhong2012
2021-05-28 19:53:12
SAS

pwr
2021-05-28 19:53:12
SAS!

Sunshine2016
2021-05-28 19:53:12
SAS

Sarah010
2021-05-28 19:53:12
SAS

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 19:53:12
SAS similatiry

MathNinja7
2021-05-28 19:53:12
SAS

superhero2020
2021-05-28 19:53:12
SAS

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 19:53:12
SAS similarity theorem

Hridhaan
2021-05-28 19:53:12
SAS

Suraahi
2021-05-28 19:53:12
SAS

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 19:53:12
SAS similarity

Hridhaan
2021-05-28 19:53:12
SAS similarity

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:53:16
So, we have △H U B ∼ △H BS by SAS similarity! How does this help us find x ?
https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 10/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry

pwr
2021-05-28 19:53:48
we can use ratios!

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 19:53:48
we can create ratios

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:54:13
As we just saw, the ratio of each side of △H U B to its corresponding side of △H BS is 2/3. What does applying this to U B and
BS give us?

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:54:37
(use parentheses, if needed)

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 19:55:08
x: (20-x) = 2/3

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 19:55:08
x/(20-x) = BH/HS = 6/9.

Rinnypig
2021-05-28 19:55:08
We can say that x/(20-x)=2/3

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 19:55:08
x/(20-x) = 2/3

pwr
2021-05-28 19:55:08
(x)/(20-x)=2/3

AndrewZhong2012
2021-05-28 19:55:08
x/(20-x)=2/3

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:55:18
Applying this to U B and BS, we have:

2 UB x
= = .
3 BS 20 − x

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:55:22
Now what?

Suraahi
2021-05-28 19:55:37
We solve for x

Sunshine2016
2021-05-28 19:55:37
solve for x

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 19:55:37
we can solve for x

dan09
2021-05-28 19:55:37
Solve for x!

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:55:57
Multiplying to clear fractions, we get

3x = 2(20 − x) = 40 − 2x.

What do we get in the end?

apple.xy
2021-05-28 19:56:33
x=8

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 19:56:33
we have x=8
https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 11/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry

Sarah010
2021-05-28 19:56:33
x=8

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 19:56:33
x=8

tkubota
2021-05-28 19:56:33
x = 8

dan09
2021-05-28 19:56:33
x = 8

pwr
2021-05-28 19:56:33
x=8

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 19:56:33
x = 8.

snake2020
2021-05-28 19:56:33
x = 8.

Wuwuspring
2021-05-28 19:56:33
x=8

Evang12
2021-05-28 19:56:33
x=8

LONC123
2021-05-28 19:56:33
x=8

hchhaya
2021-05-28 19:56:33
x=8

Brendangho
2021-05-28 19:56:33
x=8

grayspider
2021-05-28 19:56:33
x = 8

MathNinja7
2021-05-28 19:56:33
x=8

Suraahi
2021-05-28 19:56:33
x=8

RyanL2019
2021-05-28 19:56:33
x=8

Hridhaan
2021-05-28 19:56:33
x = 8

Sunshine2016
2021-05-28 19:56:33
x=8

GarudS
2021-05-28 19:56:39
x=8

turquoisewolf
2021-05-28 19:56:39
x=8

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:56:50
If we combine like terms, we see that 5x = 40, or

x = 8.

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 12/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:56:53
So what's the answer to the problem?

RollOver2020
2021-05-28 19:57:40
18

Teediv
2021-05-28 19:57:40
18

Suraahi
2021-05-28 19:57:40
18

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 19:57:40
the perimeter of triangle HUB is 18

AndrewZhong2012
2021-05-28 19:57:40
18

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 19:57:40
the perimeter of triangle HUB is 18.

MathNinja7
2021-05-28 19:57:40
18

JC0001
2021-05-28 19:57:40
18

Siella
2021-05-28 19:57:40
18

neptune08
2021-05-28 19:57:40
18

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 19:57:40
18

Sunshine2016
2021-05-28 19:57:40
18

Teediv
2021-05-28 19:57:40
18 units

Suraahi
2021-05-28 19:57:40
BH + BU + U B = 6 + 4 + 8 = 18

grayspider
2021-05-28 19:57:40
6 + 4 + 8 = 18

Evang12
2021-05-28 19:57:40
the perimeter of triangle HUB is 18

dan09
2021-05-28 19:57:40
8 + 4 + 6 = 18

RyanL2019
2021-05-28 19:57:40
8+4+6=18

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 19:57:40
18

Brendangho
2021-05-28 19:57:40
18

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:57:56
We have to be careful to look back at the problem statement to make sure we are answering the right question. In this case we
were asked for the perimeter of △H U B, which will require us to go back to the original diagram.
https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 13/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:58:05
The perimeter of this triangle is

6 + 4 + x = 6 + 4 + 8 = 18,

which is our answer.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:58:17
You should always be on the lookout for similarities and congruences in a diagram. Over time, you will develop a better feel for
when similarities and congruences may exist.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:58:26
If you happen to have information about a lot of sides in a diagram, it is always good to check if you have pairs of sides sharing a
common ratio. That might be a sign that you should be using SAS or SSS similarity.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:58:39
We now examine the relationship between areas of similar triangles.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:58:47
[ABC]
Suppose triangles ABC and XY Z are similar such that AB = 4(XY ). What is ?
[XY Z]

Achilleas
2021-05-28 19:59:36
( [ABC] is "larger" than [XYZ] , so there's no way this ratio is smaller than 1)

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 19:59:53
16

JC0001
2021-05-28 19:59:53
16

Suraahi
2021-05-28 19:59:53
2
4 = 16

ReaderB
2021-05-28 19:59:53
16

hchhaya
2021-05-28 19:59:53
16

cwc28
2021-05-28 20:00:03
16/1

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:00:08
We seem to think the answer should be 42 = 16. This makes sense intuitively: if we scale up our lengths by a factor of 4, areas
should scale up by a factor of 42 , since areas are like lengths squared.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:00:21
But we can't just say it makes sense. We need to prove it!

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:00:23

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 14/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:00:37
There are our two similar triangles, with our corresponding altitudes drawn in because we are interested in area.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:00:51
We know that AB = 4(XY ), and that △ABC ∼ △XY Z. In order to relate the area of ABC to the area of XY Z, we need to
relate altitude CP to altitude ZV . Any ideas? (Please be specific.)

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:01:05
Can we just say that since the side length ratio between similar triangles △ACB and △XZY is 4, then the ratio of the heights
CP

ZV
will also be 4?

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:01:32
we have to prove it

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:01:44
Nope. Not until we prove it! Neither CP nor ZV are side-lengths of these similar triangles. So we need to do more work than this
to prove that the heights have a ratio of 4! Any ideas on how to do that?

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:02:10
similar triangles

Rinnypig
2021-05-28 20:02:10
More similar triangles?

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:02:26
Which pair of similar triangles will do?

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:02:52
we can use triangle APC similar to triangle XVZ

Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:02:52
Triangle CPA and ZVX

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 20:02:52
triangles ACP and XZV

grayspider
2021-05-28 20:02:52
△ACP ∼ △XZV

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:03:09
Note that ∠CAP = ∠ZXV because △ABC ∼ △XY Z , and we also have right angles from the altitudes, so we have
△AP C ∼ △XV Z by AA Similarity.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:03:21
CP
What does this tell us about ?
ZV

superhero2020
2021-05-28 20:04:36
it is 4

tkubota
2021-05-28 20:04:36
The ratio is 4

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 15/43
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CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 20:04:36
CP/ZV = 4/1 = 4

Evang12
2021-05-28 20:04:36
CP/ZV = AC/XZ = 4

iejake
2021-05-28 20:04:36
it is equal to 4

Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:04:36
CP/ZV = 4

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:04:36
CP/ZV = 4.

pwr
2021-05-28 20:04:36
it's 4

Sarah010
2021-05-28 20:04:36
CP/ZV=4

GarudS
2021-05-28 20:04:36
it is 4

MathNinja7
2021-05-28 20:04:36
CP
That tells us = 4
ZV

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:04:36
CP/ZV = AC/XZ = 4.

AndrewZhong2012
2021-05-28 20:04:36
CP/ZV=4

RyanL2019
2021-05-28 20:04:36
CP/ZV=4

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:04:47
We have

CP AC AB
= = = 4
ZV XZ XY

[ABC]
from △AP C ∼ △XV Z. So, what do we know about ?
[XY Z]

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 20:05:31
it is 16/1

Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:05:31
It is 42 = 16

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 20:05:31
it is (4/1)^2 = 16

tkubota
2021-05-28 20:05:31
It is 16

hchhaya
2021-05-28 20:05:44
it is the square of CP/ZV, which is 42 = 16.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:05:46
We have

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 16/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry
[ABC] (AB)(CP )/2 AB CP
= = ( )( ) = (4)(4) = 16.
[XY Z] (XY )(ZV )/2 XY ZV

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:05:53
By an analogous argument, we see that given any pair of similar triangles, the ratio of their areas equals the square of the ratio of
their corresponding sides.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:06:07
We also see that in similar triangles, corresponding altitudes have the same ratio as corresponding sides. (Can you prove this will
always be true? Try it on your own!)

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:06:22
Let's put this area result to work.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:06:25
¯¯
¯¯¯
¯¯¯¯ ¯
¯¯¯
¯¯¯
¯¯
The area of triangle XY Z in the diagram is 8 square inches. Points A and B are midpoints of segments XY and XZ . Point C is
¯¯
¯¯¯
¯¯¯
the midpoint of Y Z . What is the area of the shaded region?

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:06:27

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:06:42
We just learned a result involving areas of similar triangles. Do you see any similar triangles in the figure?

Wuwuspring
2021-05-28 20:07:32
trianlges XAB and XYZ

Sarah010
2021-05-28 20:07:32
triangle XAB is similar to triangle XYZ

Sunshine2016
2021-05-28 20:07:32
∆XAB ~ ∆XYZ

pwr
2021-05-28 20:07:32
triangle XAB ~ triangle XYZ

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:07:53
(A lot of you are talking about stuff involving point Q. When I look at the given information, I don't see anything about Q. So it's
going to be hard to prove those similarities that you're claiming. Some other similarity follows immediately from the given
information! Let's start there!)

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:08:11
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯
¯¯¯
¯¯¯
Why is △XAB ∼ △XY Z ? Keep in mind that we were not given that AB and Y Z are parallel, so we can't assume that!

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:09:25
SAS similarity theorem

Sarah010
2021-05-28 20:09:25
they are similar by SAS

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 20:09:25
SAS similarity

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 17/43
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Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:10:28
Which ratios of corresponding side lengths are equal and what is the pair of congruent anglea?

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:11:58
(try to use the letters for the vertices of the corresponding triangles)

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:12:40
XA/XY = XB/XZ = 1/2 with angle AXB and angle YXZ the same

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 20:12:40
XA/XY = XB/XZ = 1/2, <AXB = <YXZ

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:12:47
¯¯
¯¯¯
¯¯¯¯ ¯
¯¯¯
¯¯¯
¯¯
XA XB 1
Because A and B are midpoints of XY and XZ , we have = = . Since we also have ∠AXB = ∠Y XZ, we have
XY XZ 2
△XAB ∼ △XY Z by SAS Similarity.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:12:55
Let's put this observation (and its consequences) in our pockets for a moment. We'll put it to use after we set the stage a little
more.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:13:00
It will probably help to find [XY C]. What is [XY C] ?

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:14:00
4

pwr
2021-05-28 20:14:00
4

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 20:14:00
4

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 20:14:00
4

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:14:00
the area of triangle XYC is equal to 4

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:14:00
4 square inches

Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:14:00
4

snake2020
2021-05-28 20:14:00
.
2
4 in

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:14:03
Why is [XY C] = 4 ?

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:15:13
because of the fact C is the midpoint of YZ

snake2020
2021-05-28 20:15:13
C is the midpoint of Y Z .

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:15:13
the height is shared and C is the midpoint of YZ.

Evang12
2021-05-28 20:15:13
because YC = YZ/2

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:15:37
also triangles XYC and XCZ share an altitude

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 18/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:16:21
What does the fact that △XY C and △XY Z have the same altitude give us about

[XY C]
?
[XY Z]

superhero2020
2021-05-28 20:17:11
it is 1/2

Brendangho
2021-05-28 20:17:11
[XYC]/[XYZ] = 1/2

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:17:11
[XYC]/[XYZ] = 1/2.

GarudS
2021-05-28 20:17:11
it's 1/2

turquoisewolf
2021-05-28 20:17:11
[XYC]/[XYZ] = 4/8 = 1/2

Wuwuspring
2021-05-28 20:17:11
[XYC]/[XYZ]=1/2

Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:17:11
YC 1
It says that it is equal to YZ
=
2

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:17:11
we have area of XYC/area of XYZ= 1/2

hchhaya
2021-05-28 20:17:11
it equals 1/2

RyanL2019
2021-05-28 20:17:11
[XYC]/[XYZ]=1/2

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:17:20
Because △XY C and △XY Z have the same altitude, we know that areas are in the same ratio as the bases:

[XY C] YC
= .
[XY Z] YZ

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:17:28
¯¯
¯¯¯
¯¯¯
We also know that C is the midpoint of Y Z , so we have

[XY C] YC 1
= = .
[XY Z] YZ 2

Since [XY Z] = 8, this gives us [XY C] = 4.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:17:36
Now, let's find [XAQ]. What is [XAQ] ?

Siella
2021-05-28 20:18:36
1

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 20:18:36
[XAQ] = 1

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 20:18:36
1

snake2020
2021-05-28 20:18:36
https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 19/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry

.
2
1 in

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:18:36
[XAQ] = 1.

ReaderB
2021-05-28 20:18:36
[XAQ] = 1

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:18:41
We seem to think that the area of △XAQ is 1/4 the area of △XY C, or 1. Why is this true? (Remember, we don't know that Q is
the midpoint of side XC !)

AndrewZhong2012
2021-05-28 20:19:18
similar triangles again?

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:19:32
Which similar triangles should we use?

ReaderB
2021-05-28 20:20:12
triangle XAQ is similar to triangle XYC

JC0001
2021-05-28 20:20:12
∆XQA and ∆XCY

Wuwuspring
2021-05-28 20:20:12
triangles XAQ and XYC

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:20:12
triangles XAQ and XYC.

pwr
2021-05-28 20:20:12
triangle XAQ ~ triangle XYC

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 20:20:12
triangles XYC and XAQ

GarudS
2021-05-28 20:20:12
triangle XAQ and XYC

superhero2020
2021-05-28 20:20:12
△XAQ ∼ △XY C

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:20:14
Why are △XAQ and △XY C similar?

Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:21:22
AA similarity

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:21:22
AA similarity theorem

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:21:27
Earlier, we showed that △XAB and △XY Z are similar. Therefore, ∠XAB = ∠XY Z, or in other words, ∠XAQ = ∠XY C.

Since they also share ∠AXQ, we now deduce that triangles XAQ and XY C are similar by AA similarity.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:21:41
We know that [XY C] = 4.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:21:46
2
XA 1 1 1
Because △XAQ ∼ △XY C and = , the area of △XAQ is ( ) = the area of △XY C. Since [XY C] = 4, we
XY 2 2 4

have [XAQ] = 1.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:21:52
So, what is the area of the shaded region?

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 20/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry
pwr
2021-05-28 20:22:36
3

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:22:36
3

GarudS
2021-05-28 20:22:36
4-1 = 3

AndrewZhong2012
2021-05-28 20:22:36
3

Siella
2021-05-28 20:22:36
3

Wuwuspring
2021-05-28 20:22:36
3

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:22:36
the area of the shaded region is 3.

Sunshine2016
2021-05-28 20:22:36
3

hchhaya
2021-05-28 20:22:36
4-1=3

Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:22:36
2
3in

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 20:22:36
it is 3

Sarah010
2021-05-28 20:22:36
it's 4-1=3

snake2020
2021-05-28 20:22:36
.
2
3 in

MathNinja7
2021-05-28 20:22:36
3

RollOver2020
2021-05-28 20:22:36
The area of the shaded region is 3 units squared

turquoisewolf
2021-05-28 20:22:36
3 inches squared

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 20:22:36
3

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:23:00
The shaded region is what's left when △XAQ is removed from △XY C, so its area is [XY C] − [XAQ] = 3 square inches.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:23:10
Note that we computed the area of the shaded region (an awkward four-sided shape) by first computing the areas of regions that
we know how to handle (triangles with same altitude, similar triangles). Keep this strategy in mind whenever you have to deal with
shapes that you are not used to; use what you already know to conquer the unknown!

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:23:35
We've looked at lots of similar triangle problems. I think we are now ready to move on to right triangles.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:23:41
We start our study of right triangles with a configuration you saw last week.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:23:45

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 21/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:23:51
¯¯
¯¯¯
¯¯¯
Before we go on, let's introduce a little vocabulary. In a right triangle, the side opposite the right angle -- Y Z in the above diagram
of △XY Z -- is called the hypotenuse. The other two sides are called the legs.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:24:01
Note that we do not use the word hypotenuse to describe any side of a triangle that does not contain a right angle.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:24:12
What do we know about the triangles in this diagram?

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 20:24:58
they are similar

Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:24:58
They are similar

Brendangho
2021-05-28 20:24:58
They are all similar

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:24:58
there are a lot of similar triangles

pwr
2021-05-28 20:24:58
they are similar!

Wuwuspring
2021-05-28 20:24:58
they are similar

grayspider
2021-05-28 20:24:58
They are all similar

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 20:24:58
they are all similar

Rinnypig
2021-05-28 20:24:58
They are similar.

MathNinja7
2021-05-28 20:24:58
All of them are similar

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:25:06
The three right triangles (△XZY , △W ZX, △W XY ) are all similar!

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:25:21
We know that △XZY ∼ △W ZX since ∠XZY = ∠W ZX and the right angles are equal.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:25:29
Similarly, △XZY ∼ △W XY since ∠XY Z = ∠W Y X and the right angles are equal.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:25:37
We are now ready to present a proof of the famous Pythagorean Theorem!

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10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:26:19
What will we show for the side lengths of △XY Z?

pwr
2021-05-28 20:26:57
a^2+b^2=c^2

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 20:26:57
a^2 + b^2 = c^2

Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:26:57
2 2 2
a + b = c

AndrewZhong2012
2021-05-28 20:26:57
a^2+b^2=c^2

superhero2020
2021-05-28 20:26:57
2 2 2
a + b = c

Brendangho
2021-05-28 20:26:57
2 2 2
a + b = c

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:27:01
We will show that a2 + b2 = c2 . Let's try to use our knowledge of similar triangles. We want to prove a relationship involving the
sides; what should we look at?

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:27:29
side ratios

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:27:33
Let's look at the ratios between corresponding sides. Can you write some side ratio equalities involving a?

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:28:37
a/d=c/a

pwr
2021-05-28 20:28:37
c/a=a/d

Sarah010
2021-05-28 20:28:37
a/d = c/a

Rinnypig
2021-05-28 20:28:37
d/a=a/c

snake2020
2021-05-28 20:28:37
a : d = c : a.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:28:49
Notice that a appears in △W XY and in △XZY . The a in △W XY corresponds to c in △XZY (they are both hypotenuses),
a d
and d in △W XY corresponds to a in △XZY (they are both the shorter legs). Therefore, = , and cross-multiplying gives
c a

us a 2
= cd.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:29:03
Can you derive a similar equation involving b2 ?

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 20:30:06
b^2 = ec

pwr
2021-05-28 20:30:06
c/b=b/e

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 20:30:06
b^2 = ce

Sarah010
2021-05-28 20:30:06

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 23/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry
b/e=c/b

Brendangho
2021-05-28 20:30:06
b/e = c/b

Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:30:06
2
ce = b

Hridhaan
2021-05-28 20:30:06
2
b = ce

Brendangho
2021-05-28 20:30:06
b^2 = ce

superhero2020
2021-05-28 20:30:06
b c
=
e b

GarudS
2021-05-28 20:30:06
b/c= e/b

hchhaya
2021-05-28 20:30:06
b/e = c/b, so b^2 = ec.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:30:16
b e
In the same way, but using △W ZX ∼ △XZY , we find = , so b2 = ce.
c b

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:30:27
So we have a2 = cd and b2 = ce. Can you now finish the proof that a2 + b
2
= c
2
?

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 20:31:07
b^2 + a^2 = ec + dc = (e + d)c = c^2

apple.xy
2021-05-28 20:31:07
a^2 + b^2 = ce + cd = c(e+d) = c^2 since e + d = c

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 20:31:13
a^2 + b^2 = cd + ce, a^2 + b^2 = c(d+e), a^2 + b^2 = c^2

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:31:16
Yes!

2 2 2
a + b = cd + ce = c(d + e) = c .

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:31:21
We have thus proved the Pythagorean Theorem.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:31:34
This relationship holds for any right triangle: the sum of the squares of the legs equals the square of the hypotenuse.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:31:43
A useful technique for finding lengths in geometry problems is to construct right triangles and then use the Pythagorean Theorem.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:31:49
Let's put this knowledge to work.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:31:50
First, a simple one. Suppose △XY Z is a right triangle with right angle at Y . Given that XZ = 7 and XY = 4, what is Y Z ?

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:33:28
square root of 33

tkubota
2021-05-28 20:33:28
√49 − 16 = √33

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 24/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry

snake2020
2021-05-28 20:33:28
√33 .

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 20:33:28
YZ = sqrt(33)

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:33:28
square root of 33.

hchhaya
2021-05-28 20:33:28
sqrt(33)

AndrewZhong2012
2021-05-28 20:33:28
sqrt(33)

yoyododococo123
2021-05-28 20:33:28
√33

ReaderB
2021-05-28 20:33:28
√33

Teediv
2021-05-28 20:33:28
the square root of 33

ARay10
2021-05-28 20:33:28
√33

Wuwuspring
2021-05-28 20:33:28
square root of 33

iejake
2021-05-28 20:33:28
√33

pwr
2021-05-28 20:33:28
sqrt(33)

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:33:35
We have a right triangle, so we can use the Pythagorean Theorem. We have to be careful and make sure we get the hypotenuse
right. In this case, we have a right angle at Y , so XZ is the length of the hypotenuse. Therefore, the Pythagorean Theorem gives
us

2 2 2
XY + YZ = XZ .

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:33:41
Plugging in our numbers yields 16 + Y Z 2 = 49, so Y Z = √33.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:33:52

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:33:53
Find the area of △M N O.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:33:58
What do we need in order to find the area?

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Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:34:39
(THE? )

AndrewZhong2012
2021-05-28 20:34:49
atitude

pwr
2021-05-28 20:34:49
find an altitude

Siella
2021-05-28 20:34:49
height

hchhaya
2021-05-28 20:34:49
altitude

superhero2020
2021-05-28 20:34:49
altitude

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:35:03
(There is no unique altitude)

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:35:10
We need an altitude. Which altitude should we draw?

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:35:52
altitude from N to MO

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:35:52
the one from N to MO.

Rinnypig
2021-05-28 20:35:52
The one through N perpendicular to MO.

iejake
2021-05-28 20:35:52
N to line segment MO

GarudS
2021-05-28 20:35:52
From N perpendicular to MO

dan09
2021-05-28 20:35:52
From N to M O

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:35:57
We draw the altitude to side M O, because we know that this altitude cuts side M O in half.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:35:58

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:36:03
¯
¯¯¯
¯¯¯
¯¯¯
Or do we? Let N X be the altitude. Can you prove then M X = OX? (Hint: Think Pythagorean Theorem!)

Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:37:00
2 2 2 2
MN − MX = NO − XO

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 20:37:00
Let MX = x, By the Pythagorean theorem, MX must equal XO, so yes, both are 6

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Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:37:08
We have

2 2 2
MX = MN − NX
2 2
= 8 − NX
2 2
= NO − NX
2
= OX ,

so M X = OX .

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:37:26
We could also see that △M N X is congruent to △ON X by AAS. We know that M N = ON and therefore also ∠M = ∠O , and
we also know ∠N XM = ∠N XO = 90 .
∘

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:37:36
Since M O = 12, we conclude that M X = OX = 6.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:37:37

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:37:39
How does this help?

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:38:06
we can find the height using the pythagorean theorem

hchhaya
2021-05-28 20:38:06
using Pythagorean theorem, we can find the altitude

GarudS
2021-05-28 20:38:06
We use the pythagorean theorem for altitude

Sarah010
2021-05-28 20:38:06
use the pythagorean theorem to find the altitude

iejake
2021-05-28 20:38:14
now we can use the Pythagorean theorem to find the altitude

Brendangho
2021-05-28 20:38:14
we can use pythagorean theorem to find the height of the triangle

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:38:15
We can use the Pythagorean Theorem to find N X. What is N X ?

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:38:42
(simplify the radical, please)

pwr
2021-05-28 20:39:21
2*sqrt(7)

hchhaya
2021-05-28 20:39:21
2sqrt(7)

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 20:39:21
2√ 7

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Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:39:21
√M N 2
− MX
2
= 2√ 7

GarudS
2021-05-28 20:39:21
2√ 7

Brendangho
2021-05-28 20:39:21
2√ 7

RyanL2019
2021-05-28 20:39:21
NX=√28=2√7

ARay10
2021-05-28 20:39:21
2√ 7

MathNinja7
2021-05-28 20:39:21
2√ 7

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 20:39:21
2sqrt(7)

AndrewZhong2012
2021-05-28 20:39:21
2sqrt(7)

snake2020
2021-05-28 20:39:21
2√ 7 .

JC0001
2021-05-28 20:39:21
2 sqrt7

Rinnypig
2021-05-28 20:39:21
NX=2√7

yoyododococo123
2021-05-28 20:39:21
2√ 7

LONC123
2021-05-28 20:39:21
2sqrt7

iejake
2021-05-28 20:39:21
2sqrt(7)

Bluepantzola1
2021-05-28 20:39:21
2sqrt7

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:39:35
From the Pythagorean Theorem, we have

2 2 2
NX + MX = MN .

So, we have

2 2 2
NX = MN − MX = 64 − 36 = 28.

Therefore,

N X = √28 = 2√7.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:39:44
So, what is the area of △M N O?

Teediv
2021-05-28 20:40:09
12√7

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hchhaya
2021-05-28 20:40:09
12sqrt(7)

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 20:40:09
12√7

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 20:40:09
12sqrt(7)

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:40:09
12sqrt(7)

AndrewZhong2012
2021-05-28 20:40:09
12sqrt(7)

Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:40:09
12√7

snake2020
2021-05-28 20:40:09
12√7 .

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:40:11
The area of △M N O is

(M O)(N X) (12)(2√7)
= = 12√7.
2 2

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:40:18
Notice that in this problem, we built a right triangle to find a length. This is one of the most commonly used strategies for finding a
length in geometry problems. Build a right triangle in which you know two of the sides, and then use the Pythagorean Theorem.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:40:27
Let's try a proof using the Pythagorean Theorem.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:40:29
Prove that the shortest distance between a point and a line is the length of the segment through the point and perpendicular to the
line.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:40:37
How should we approach this?

Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:40:53
Draw a diagram

hchhaya
2021-05-28 20:40:53
draw a diagram first

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:40:54
Let's make a diagram. We let A be our point. Let B be the foot of the perpendicular from A to the line.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:40:58

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Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:41:01
We want to prove that the perpendicular segment from the point is shorter than any other possible segment; what else should we
include in the diagram?

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 20:41:36
a hypotenuse

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:41:36
connect A to the line

Sunshine2016
2021-05-28 20:41:36
A hypotenuse

hchhaya
2021-05-28 20:41:36
a hypotenuse

snake2020
2021-05-28 20:41:44
Other segments from A to the line.

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:41:44
a segment from A to the line that is not AB

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:41:47
We need some other point on the line, say C, and we want to show that AC > AB.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:41:48

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:41:57
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Segment AB is perpendicular to line BC, and AC is some other segment from A to the line. What can we say now?

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apple.xy
2021-05-28 20:42:32
AB^2 + CB^2 = AC^2

hchhaya
2021-05-28 20:42:32
BC^2 + AB^2 = AC^2

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:42:34
We have a right triangle, so we can make an equation with the Pythagorean Theorem.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:42:36
= AC . What does this tell us about the relationship between AB and AC ?
2 2 2
AB + BC

Sunshine2016
2021-05-28 20:43:15
AC>AB

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:43:15
AB is less than AC

GarudS
2021-05-28 20:43:15
AB^2 +BC^2 = AC^2 so AC^2 > AB^2

pwr
2021-05-28 20:43:15
AB is smaller than AC

MathNinja7
2021-05-28 20:43:15
AC > AB

RyanL2019
2021-05-28 20:43:15
AB<AC

Wuwuspring
2021-05-28 20:43:15
AB<AC

grayspider
2021-05-28 20:43:15
AB < AC

Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:43:15
AB is less than AC because BC doesn't equal 0

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:43:25
We know that BC > 0 (because B and C are different), so this tells us that AB2 < AC
2
, which means AB < AC.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:43:31
We can do the same for any point on our line besides B to show that every point on the line but B is farther from A than B is. This
is how we know that the shortest distance from a point to a line is the length of the altitude from the point to the line. In general,
we call this shortest distance the distance between the point and the line.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:43:41
Let's state the Pythagorean Theorem again. It tells us that in a right triangle, we have a special relationship between the sides.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:43:48
Pythagorean Theorem. In △ABC, if ∠C is a right angle, then BC 2 + AC
2
= AB .
2

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:43:55
What is the converse of this statement?

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 20:45:02
if BC^2 + AC^2 = AB^2, <C is right

hchhaya
2021-05-28 20:45:02
if AB^2 = BC^2 + AC^2, then angle C is a right angle.

MathNinja7
2021-05-28 20:45:02
If BC^2 + AC^2 = AB^2 then ∠C is a right angle

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 20:45:02

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in triangle ABC, if (BC)^2 + (AC)^2 = (AB)^2, then <C is a right angle

Wuwuspring
2021-05-28 20:45:02
if BC^2+AC2=AB^2, then <C is a right angle

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:45:02
In triangle ABC, if BC^2 + AC^2 = AB^2, then angle C is a right angle.

Evang12
2021-05-28 20:45:02
if BC^2 + AC^2 = AB^2, then angle C is a right angle

Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:45:02
If BC 2 + AC
2
= AB
2
, <C is a right angle

dan09
2021-05-28 20:45:02
In △ABC , if BC 2 + AC
2
= AB
2
, then ∠C is a right angle

Colorcrazy
2021-05-28 20:45:02
If BC^2 + AC^2 = AB^2, then angle C is a right angle

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:45:05
Converse: In △ABC, if BC 2 + AC
2 2
= AB , then ∠C is a right angle.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:45:16
Is the converse true?

snake2020
2021-05-28 20:45:29
Yes,

GarudS
2021-05-28 20:45:29
Yes

pwr
2021-05-28 20:45:29
yes!

hchhaya
2021-05-28 20:45:29
yes!

Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:45:29
Yes

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 20:45:29
yes

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:45:29
yes

Sarah010
2021-05-28 20:45:29
yes

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:45:29
yes, but we have to prove it

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:45:32
The converse is true. Let's prove it!

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:45:35
Suppose that we have △ABC , where the relationship BC 2 + AC 2 = AB
2
holds. We do not know that ∠C is a right angle and
cannot assume that it is. We need to prove that ∠C is a right angle.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:45:46
Let's construct another triangle △DEF such that BC = EF , AC = DF , and ∠F = 90 .
∘
If we can show that △ABC and
△DEF are congruent, then we'd be able to conclude that ∠C = ∠F = 90 .
∘

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:45:51

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Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:46:06
The left triangle we know satisfies the Pythagorean identity and the right has a right angle.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:46:20
So let's try to show that they're congruent. We're already close. By construction, we have BC = EF and AC = DF . We will use
SSS to show that △ABC ≅ △DEF .

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:46:32
To use SSS, we need all three sides of the triangles, but so far we only have information about two of them. How can we find the
third side DE of triangle DEF ?

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:47:06
use the pythagorean theorem

Brendangho
2021-05-28 20:47:06
using pythagorean theorem

pwr
2021-05-28 20:47:06
we know its right so we can use pythagorean theorem

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:47:08
Triangle DEF is a right triangle with right angle at F . What relationship do the sides satisfy?

hchhaya
2021-05-28 20:47:25
EF^2 + DF^2 = DE^2

MathNinja7
2021-05-28 20:47:25
2 2 2
DF + FE = DE

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:47:27
By the Pythagorean Theorem, we know that

2 2 2
EF + DF = DE .

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:47:36
However, keep in mind that we were originally given that

2 2 2
BC + AC = AB .

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:47:41
Therefore, AB2 = BC 2 + AC 2 = EF
2
+ DF
2
= DE ,
2
so we have AB = DE.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:47:51

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Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:47:57
We thus conclude that △ABC and △DEF are congruent by SSS. Therefore, ∠C = ∠F = 90
∘
as desired, as they are
corresponding parts of congruent triangles.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:48:04
We have thus proven the converse of the Pythagorean Theorem!

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:48:14
This proof was pretty tricky and demonstrated a common strategy. If you want to prove something about a figure, sometimes what
you want to do is draw a different figure where you know the property you want holds, and then prove your original figure is
congruent to the new one. Here, instead of proving that △ABC was a right triangle directly, we drew another triangle which we
knew was right and then proved it was congruent to △ABC.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:48:26
So, we now know the following two statements are true:

1) In a right triangle, the sum of the squares of the legs equals the square of the hypotenuse.

2) In ANY triangle, if the sum of the squares of two sides equals the square of the third side in a triangle, then the triangle is a right
triangle.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:48:38
If a triangle has side lengths of 20, 21, and 29, can we conclude that it must be a right triangle?

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:48:54
Do these side lengths satisfy the side relationship from the Pythagorean Theorem? Show the arithmetic.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:50:52
(Some of you love using square roots, but proving equations with them is usually more difficult or inconvenient. Integers are way
easier to work with.)

Brendangho
2021-05-28 20:51:15
20^2 = 400, 21^2 = 441, 400 + 441 = 841 = 29^2

pwr
2021-05-28 20:51:15
20^2+21^2=400+441= 841 and 29^2=841 so the triangle is right

Bluepantzola1
2021-05-28 20:51:15
Yes, 20^2=400 21^2=441 29^2=841 400+441=841

cwc28
2021-05-28 20:51:15
20^2=400, 21^2=441, 400+441=841, 841=29^2

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:51:15
20^2 + 21^2 = 400 + 441 = 841 = 29^2.

Hridhaan
2021-05-28 20:51:15
20^2=400, 21^2=441. 29^2=841, 441+400=841 so yes

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:51:24
Yes. We have

2 2 2
20 + 21 = 400 + 441 = 841 = 29 .

Therefore, from the converse of the Pythagorean Theorem, we can conclude that the triangle must be a right triangle.
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Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:51:38
Let's conclude this class by studying the famous 45-45-90 and 30-60-90 triangles. Let's start with the former.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:51:42

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:51:48
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Let's label the length of BC as x. What are the lengths of the other two sides in terms of x?

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:51:58
Let's start with AC. What is AC in terms of x?

pwr
2021-05-28 20:52:37
x

superhero2020
2021-05-28 20:52:37
x

apple.xy
2021-05-28 20:52:37
AC = x

hchhaya
2021-05-28 20:52:37
x

ReaderB
2021-05-28 20:52:37
x

JC0001
2021-05-28 20:52:37
x

yoyododococo123
2021-05-28 20:52:37
AC=x

Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:52:37
AC = x

GarudS
2021-05-28 20:52:37
x

Wuwuspring
2021-05-28 20:52:37
AC=x

Sunshine2016
2021-05-28 20:52:37
x

Sarah010
2021-05-28 20:52:37
AC is x

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:52:37

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AC = x.

ReaderB
2021-05-28 20:52:37
AC = x

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 20:52:37
x

ChippyChipmunk
2021-05-28 20:52:37
AC=x

LONC123
2021-05-28 20:52:37
AC=x

Evang12
2021-05-28 20:52:37
AC is just x

Siella
2021-05-28 20:52:37
AC =x

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:52:53
Since ∠A = ∠B, we know that ABC is an isosceles triangle with AC = BC. Therefore, AC = x.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:53:02
What about the hypotenuse?

hchhaya
2021-05-28 20:53:44
xsqrt(2)

snake2020
2021-05-28 20:53:44

AB = xsqrt2 .

pwr
2021-05-28 20:53:44
x*sqrt(2)

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:53:44
BC is equal to x √2

Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:53:44
It is x√2

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 20:53:44
x * sqrt(2)

apple.xy
2021-05-28 20:53:44
AB = sqrt(2x ) = xsqrt(2)
2

dan09
2021-05-28 20:53:44
x√ 2

Sunshine2016
2021-05-28 20:53:44
x√2

snake2020
2021-05-28 20:53:44
AB = x√2 .

GarudS
2021-05-28 20:53:44
x√ 2

ChippyChipmunk
2021-05-28 20:53:44
AB=xsqrt2

Hridhaan
2021-05-28 20:53:44
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BC = AC = x. BA = √2x2 = x√ 2

AndrewZhong2012
2021-05-28 20:53:44
x*sqrt(2)

RyanL2019
2021-05-28 20:53:44
x√2

Sarah010
2021-05-28 20:53:44
AB = √2x

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:53:47
If we call the hypotenuse c, we have

2 2 2 2
c = x + x = 2x ,

so

c = x√2.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:53:50

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:54:02
We see that in a 45-45-90 triangle, the sides form an x : x : x√ 2 ratio, or more simply, a 1 : 1 : √2 ratio.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:54:09
So, whenever you have an isosceles right triangle, if you have one side, you can quickly compute the other sides.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:54:16
Next let's take a look at the 30-60-90 triangle and ask the same question.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:54:21
Let's label the length of BC as x. We want to find the lengths of the other two sides in terms of x.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:54:22

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Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:54:28
Can we do anything to make this triangle more like something we know how to deal with?

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:55:06
reflect it over AC to make it an equilateral triangle

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:55:15
Let's flip this triangle across its longer leg; what have we created?

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:55:24

Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:55:56
An equilateral triangle

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 20:55:56
an equilateral triangle!!!!!

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:55:56
an equilateral triangle

superhero2020
2021-05-28 20:55:56
an equilateral triangle

dan09
2021-05-28 20:55:56
An equilateral triangle!

ReaderB
2021-05-28 20:55:56
an equilateral triangle!

Wuwuspring
2021-05-28 20:55:56
equilateral triangle

Sunshine2016
2021-05-28 20:55:56
Equilateral triangle

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Mathqueen20
2021-05-28 20:55:56
an equilateral triangle

Teediv
2021-05-28 20:55:56
equilateral trianngle

pwr
2021-05-28 20:55:56
an equilateral triangle

turquoisewolf
2021-05-28 20:55:56
An equilateral triangle

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:56:13
Not only is this triangle isosceles, it is equilateral since all the angles are 60 .
∘

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:56:22

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:56:26
Does this diagram give us any information about AB and AC ?

RyanL2019
2021-05-28 20:57:06
AB=2x

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:57:20
Since BB′ is 2x, we know that AB = 2x since the side lengths of an equilateral triangle are equal.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:57:21
What is the length of AC ?

JC0001
2021-05-28 20:58:00
AC = x*sqrt3

pwr
2021-05-28 20:58:00
x*sqrt(3)

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:58:00
AC= x sqrt {3}

dan09
2021-05-28 20:58:00
AC = x√3

RyanL2019
2021-05-28 20:58:00
x√3

Suraahi
2021-05-28 20:58:00
x√3

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 20:58:00
AC = x * sqrt(3)

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 39/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry

Sarah010
2021-05-28 20:58:00
AC = x√3

Sunshine2016
2021-05-28 20:58:00
√3

Sirahulania
2021-05-28 20:58:00
AC =x √3

yoyododococo123
2021-05-28 20:58:00
x sqrt(3)

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 20:58:00
AC = √3x

GarudS
2021-05-28 20:58:33
AC = x√3

AndrewZhong2012
2021-05-28 20:58:33
xsqrt(3)

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:58:37
If we let AC = b and apply the Pythagorean Theorem to △ABC, we have

2 2 2 2
x + b = (2x) = 4x ,

2 2
b = 3x ,

b = x√3.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:58:46

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:58:52
So in a 30-60-90 triangle, the sides have an x : x√3 : 2x ratio, or more simply, a 1 : √3 : 2 ratio.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:59:00
Be careful about the order! The shorter leg (the one opposite the 30 angle) is x, the longer leg (the one opposite the 60 angle) is
∘ ∘

√3 ⋅ x, and the hypotenuse is 2x.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:59:12
Once again, when you see a 30-60-90, if you know one side, you know them all.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:59:24
Because we know so much about how the sides of 45-45-90 and 30-60-90 triangles are related, whenever we see a 30, 45, or 60
degree angle in a problem, we should try to find ways to build right triangles and use what we know about 45-45-90 and 30-60-90

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 40/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry
triangles to solve the problem. You'll see some challenging examples in this week's problems as well as the challenge problems at
the end of Chapter 6.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:59:39
SUMMARY

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:59:40
We started today's class by solving more problems involving similar triangles. You should be on the lookout for AA, SAS, and SSS
similarity. In particular, parallel lines yield many congruent angles, which often lead to similar triangles via AA. Another frequently
occurring configuration is the "right triangles within right triangles" diagram; in a right triangle, if we draw the altitude from the
vertex with the right angle, then all three right triangles in the diagram are similar.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:59:51
We then learned that if we have two similar triangles, the ratio of their areas equals the square of the ratio of their corresponding
sides.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 20:59:57
Next, we used similar triangles to prove the Pythagorean Theorem, which states that in a right triangle, the sum of the squares of
the legs equals the square of the hypotenuse. We then proved its converse, which states that if the sum of the squares of two
sides equals the square of the third side, then the triangle is a right triangle.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 21:00:07
We then looked at 45-45-90 and 30-60-90 triangles.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 21:00:09
The sides in a 45-45-90 triangle form a 1 : 1 : √2 ratio as in the diagram below.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 21:00:10

Achilleas
2021-05-28 21:00:15
The sides in a 30-60-90 triangle form a 1 : √3 : 2 ratio as in the diagram below.

Achilleas
2021-05-28 21:00:21

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 41/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry

Achilleas
2021-05-28 21:00:35
Any questions?

grayspider
2021-05-28 21:01:06
Nope

Brendangho
2021-05-28 21:01:06
no

Teediv
2021-05-28 21:01:06
nope

snake2020
2021-05-28 21:01:06
Nope.

turquoisewolf
2021-05-28 21:01:06
No

hchhaya
2021-05-28 21:01:06
nope!

Rinnypig
2021-05-28 21:01:06
Nope.

CalvinGarces
2021-05-28 21:01:06
no

RyanL2019
2021-05-28 21:01:06
no

Vitah2008
2021-05-28 21:01:06
nope

grayspider
2021-05-28 21:01:06
No, sir

RollOver2020
2021-05-28 21:01:06
None here!

GarudS
2021-05-28 21:01:06
nope??

ReaderB
2021-05-28 21:01:06
Nope! Thank you for the class!

shenpinyi
2021-05-28 21:01:06
no

tkubota
2021-05-28 21:01:06
no

https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 42/43
10/12/21, 8:27 PM 2689 Introduction to Geometry

Achilleas
2021-05-28 21:01:10
Thank you all! Have a wonderful week! See you next time!

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https://artofproblemsolving.com/class/2689-intro-geometry/transcript/40733 43/43