Understanding Triangle Proofs: Solving for Unknown Sides

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the relationships in triangle proofs, specifically in the context of an equilateral triangle and the application of the Pythagorean theorem. The original poster seeks clarification on certain algebraic manipulations and geometric relationships involving segments and angles in the triangle setup.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the derivation of relationships between the sides of the triangles, questioning how certain equations are formed, particularly the transition from geometric properties to algebraic expressions.

Discussion Status

Some participants provide insights into the use of the Pythagorean theorem and the relationships between the segments, while others express confusion regarding the algebraic steps and seek further clarification. There is an ongoing exploration of the reasoning behind the equations presented.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that M is the midpoint of PP', which is central to the discussion, and they reference the Pythagorean theorem as a key tool in their reasoning. There is an acknowledgment of potential misunderstandings in terminology and mathematical expressions.

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Homework Statement


THIS PART I UNDERSTAND ( I am just adding it so the pic makes sence).

Let angle AOP traced out be 30 deg. Produce PM to P' making MP' equal to PM.
The two triangles OMP and OMP' have their sides OM and MP' equal to OM and MP and also the contained angles equal.
Therefore OP' = OP, and angle OP'P = angle OPP' = 60 deg.
That the triangle P'OP is equilateral

THIS IS WHERE I DONT UNDERSTAND:
Hence: OP^2 = PP'^2 = 4PM^2 = 4OP^2 - 4a^2
Where OM equals a.
3OP^2 = 4a^2

I understand why OP^2 = PP'^2 but how do they equal 4PM^2 = 4OP^2 - 4a^2 ?
And where did 3OP^2 = 4a^2 come from?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 

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Miike012 said:

Homework Statement


THIS PART I UNDERSTAND ( I am just adding it so the pic makes sence).

Let angle AOP traced out be 30 deg. Produce PM to P' making MP' equal to PM.
The two triangles OMP and OMP' have their sides OM and MP' equal to OM and MP and also the contained angles equal.
Therefore OP' = OP, and angle OP'P = angle OPP' = 60 deg.
That the triangle P'OP is equilateral

THIS IS WHERE I DONT UNDERSTAND:
Hence: OP^2 = PP'^2 = 4PM^2 = 4OP^2 - 4a^2
Where OM equals a.
3OP^2 = 4a^2

I understand why OP^2 = PP'^2 but how do they equal 4PM^2 = 4OP^2 - 4a^2 ?
And where did 3OP^2 = 4a^2 come from?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Note that, M is the midpoint of PP'.

So we have: [tex]PP' = 2 PM \Rightarrow PP' ^ 2 = 4 PM ^ 2[/tex].

And, [tex]4PM ^ 2 = 4 (OP ^ 2 - OM ^ 2)[/tex], this is just Pythagorean Identity (note that POM is a right triangle).

Hope that you can get it. :)
 
Last edited:
Thank you.
 
Actually no that doesn't make sense to me...
4PM^2 = 4(OP^2 - OM^2)
.
.

First off.. why are you multiplying the right side by 4?
 
He's not. He is just rewriting 4(PM)2 in a different form, using the Theorem of Pythagoras.

BTW, "sence" is not a word in English.

since - means because, or due to.
sense - a means of determining something
scents - smells or aromas
cents - fractional parts of a dollar.
 
Ok...
Theorem of Pythagoras is. PM^2 + OM^2 = OP^2 (right?)
We noted that PP' = 2PM
Thus. 4PM^2 + OM^2 = OP^2
Then.. 4PM^2 = OP^2 - OM^2

Where did the factor of four from the right side come from?
 
Miike012 said:
Ok...
Theorem of Pythagoras is. PM^2 + OM^2 = OP^2 (right?)
So PM^2 = OP^2 - OM^2.

From the work that VietDao29 showed, PP' = 4PM^2 = ?
Miike012 said:
We noted that PP' = 2PM
Thus. 4PM^2 + OM^2 = OP^2
Then.. 4PM^2 = OP^2 - OM^2

Where did the factor of four from the right side come from?
 
Still didnt help... Ill just ask my teacher. thanks.
 
PM is half of PP', so PP' = 2PM, hence (PP')2 = (2PM)2 = 4(PM)2. That's all it is.
 

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