Calculating Ratio of BP and PC in Right Triangle ΔABC

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a right triangle ΔABC with specific geometric properties, including isosceles characteristics and relationships between points on the triangle. The goal is to find the ratio of segments BP and PC, given certain conditions about perpendicularity and midpoints.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the geometric setup, questioning the definitions of perpendicularity and the implications of the triangle's isosceles nature. There are attempts to visualize the problem through drawings and to derive relationships between angles and segments.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the properties of isosceles triangles and suggested using geometric equations to find the intersection point. There is a mix of interpretations regarding the angles and segment ratios, with some participants expressing confusion about the expected outcome.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted discrepancy in the expected ratio of BP to PC, with some participants asserting it should be 1:1 based on equal division, while others suggest it is 2:1, leading to further exploration of the assumptions and calculations involved.

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Homework Statement


let \DeltaABC be a right angled triangle such that angle A = 90o, AB = AC and let M be the mid point of the side AC. Take the point P on the side BC so that AP is vertical to BM. Let H be the intersection point of AP and BM. Find the ratio BP : PC


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Please give me a clue to start
 
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songoku said:
Take the point P on the side BC so that AP is vertical to BM.

Do you mean perpendicular?
 
songoku said:
Please give me a clue to start

Draw a picture
 
dx said:
Do you mean perpendicular?

yes it's perpendicular

i have drawn a picture

because CM = MA, is it correct if i assume that angle CMB = angle AMB = 22.5o?

thx
 

Attachments

If AB=AC then you got isosceles triangle and the angles are: 90,45,45 degrees. Also P divides BC on two equal parts (since the triangle is isosceles).

Using sine and the Pitagorean theorem you would easly come up with AH and AM. Since AM=AC/2, you will find AC.

Regards.
 
Last edited:
sorry but the question is BP : PC

if P divides BC on two equal parts, it means that BP : PC = 1 : 1
but the answer is 2 : 1 and i don't know how to get it

is angle CMB = angle AMB = 22.5 degree?

thx
 
1. A(0,0); B(a,0); C(0,a), M(0,a/2).
2. Slope of MB = -1/2
3. Slope of AP = 2
4. Equation of AP: y = 2x
5. Equation of CB : y = -x + a
6.Intersection of AP & CB is P(a/3, 2a/3).
7. BP: PC = 2:1.
 
wow, i never thought of using line equation and gradient
really nice...

thx a lot leong ^^
 

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