Triangle $PQR$: Find $\tan P,\,\tan Q,\,\tan R$ Values

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the integer values of $\tan P$, $\tan Q$, and $\tan R$ in triangle $PQR$. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and problem-solving related to trigonometric functions in the context of triangle geometry.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that $\tan P$, $\tan Q$, and $\tan R$ are integers, suggesting that specific integer values can be derived.
  • One participant expresses a desire not to delve into the derivation process, indicating confidence in the values they possess.
  • Another participant presents a solution but does not provide details on the derivation, instead referencing multiple proofs.
  • A later reply thanks participants for their involvement, indicating a collaborative atmosphere.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There appears to be no consensus on the specific integer values of $\tan P$, $\tan Q$, and $\tan R$, as the discussion includes multiple assertions and references to proofs without clear agreement on the outcomes.

Contextual Notes

The discussion lacks detailed derivations and proofs, which may limit understanding of how the integer values are determined. The assumptions underlying the integer nature of the tangent values are not explicitly stated.

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In triangle $PQR$, $\tan P,\,\tan Q,\,\tan R$ are integers, find their values.
 
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anemone said:
In triangle $PQR$, $\tan P,\,\tan Q,\,\tan R$ are integers, find their values.

Do not ask me how to derive but the values are

1, 2,3

because i know

$\arctan(1) + \arctan (2) + \arctan (3) = \pi$
 
My solution:

The triple tangent identity says that for angles $x,\,y,\,z$ such that $x+y+z=\pi$, then we must have:

$$\tan(x)+\tan(y)+\tan(z)=\tan(x)\tan(y)\tan(z)$$

And so, as a consequence, we must have:

$$\left(\tan(P),\tan(Q),\tan(R)\right)$$

are one of the six permutations of:

$(1,2,3)$.
 

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Last edited:
Thanks all for participating!:)

Solution proposed by other:

Note that we have $\tan P+\tan Q+\tan R=\tan P \tan Q \tan R$.

Let $\tan P=m$, $\tan Q=n$ and $\tan R=k$, where $m,\,n,\,k$ are integers such that $m+n+k=mnk$.

We can tell $PQR$ cannot be a right triangle.

Now, suppose $\angle P$ is obtuse. Then $m$ is negative while $n$ and $k$ are positive. If $n=k=1$, then $mnk=m<m+2=m+n+k$. Any increase in the values of $n$ or $k$ will increase that of $m+n+k$ while decrease that of $mnk$. It follows that $PQR$ is an acute triangle, so that $m,\,n,\,k$ are all positive.

We may assume that $k \ge n \ge m$. Then $mnk=m+n+k \le 3k$, so that $mn \le 3$. We cannot have $m=n=1$, hence $m=1$, $n=2$, $k=3$.
 

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