Can Thales' Theorem Help Me Solve My Trapezoid Equation?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving for the angles E and F in a trapezoid, given the angles A, B, C, and D. Participants explore the application of Thales' theorem and the properties of cyclic quadrilaterals in relation to the trapezoid's geometry.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks help in calculating angles E and F after determining angles A, B, C, and D.
  • Another participant mentions the relationship between opposite interior angles of a cyclic quadrilateral.
  • A participant states that since AD is parallel to BC and the trapezoid is cyclic, it must be isosceles, leading to the equation E + F = 60°.
  • Further equations involving angles G and H at vertex B are suggested, hinting at their relationship with angles E and F.
  • A participant expresses confusion about the nature of their triangles and the angles involved, indicating a misunderstanding of the trapezoid's properties.
  • Thales' theorem is introduced as a potential aid in solving the problem, specifically relating to right angles formed by diameters.
  • A later reply reflects relief and realization that the solution may have been simpler than initially thought, acknowledging previous confusion over angle types.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding regarding the trapezoid's properties and the application of Thales' theorem. There is no consensus on the correct approach to calculating angles E and F, and some confusion remains about the trapezoid's configuration.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the cyclic nature of the trapezoid and the parallel lines, but there are unresolved assumptions about the specific configuration of angles and triangles involved. The discussion reflects uncertainty about the relationships between the angles.

lornick
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I have the above equation to try and complete and I have no idea how to do it I have worked out all the angles for A, B, C, and D accept the ones within the diagonal line E and F. Any hints?
 

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I don't see an equation you are trying to complete, but what do we know about the opposite interior angles of a cyclic quadrilateral?
 
Sorry don't have an equation, my wording mistake, just trying to calculate the angle of E and F. What I have worked out is the angles of A, B, C, and D. A=70 B=110 C=120 D=60. But have no idea how to calculate E and F. If I turn C and D into a right angle on the outside of the trapezoid I get 30 and if I turn B and A into a right angle on the outside of the trapezoid I get 20. But not sure how to compute this into my E and F. Also I forgot to mention that A and D are parallel lines to B and C. Forgot to draw in the arrows on the line.Thank you for any help in solving this.
 
Since $\overline{AD}\parallel\overline{BC}$, and the trapezoid is cyclic, we know it must be isosceles. So we know $\angle A=60^{\circ}$, if $\measuredangle C=120^{\circ}$.

Thus, we know:

$$\angle E+\angle F=60^{\circ}$$

If we label the two angles at vertex $B$ as $G$ and $H$, we then know:

$$\angle G+\angle H=120^{\circ}$$

Can you find two more equations involving these 4 angles? Hint: add the interior angles of the two triangles making up the trapezoid...:D

Also, to simplify matters, $G$ and $H$ must share a special relationship to $E$ and $F$. ;)
 
[QUOTE Since $\overline{AD}\parallel\overline{BC}$, and the trapezoid is cyclic, we know it must be isosceles. So we know $\angle A=60^{\circ}$, if $\measuredangle C=120^{\circ}$.

I had changed the original degrees and didn't realize I had changed the triangles to equal sides. My triangles are not level only the horizontal lines are level, which leaves me with one obtuse angle and one acute angle. :S so sorry I confused matters, but I didn't want to get into trouble for my question from my teachers. Or am I confused lol.
 
Last edited:
Hi lornick! Welcome to MHB! :)

Thales' theorem may help you.
200px-Thales%27_Theorem_Simple.svg.png

Thales' theorem: if AC is a diameter, then the angle at B is a right angle.
 
I like Serena said:
Hi lornick! Welcome to MHB! :)

Thales' theorem may help you.

Thales' theorem: if AC is a diameter, then the angle at B is a right angle.

Oh nooo I can't believe it was that simple, I have been trying to calculate it as a acute and obtuse angle (hence my issues). The time when you are doing maths and you start to bash your head against a brick wall, only to realize that the answer was right in front of you lol. Thank you sooooooooo much!
 

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