What geometry theorem is used in this figure?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around identifying the geometry theorem applicable to a figure involving a triangle, specifically regarding the relationship between the sides and angles. Participants explore whether the triangle is a right triangle and how various theorems, including the angle bisector theorem, might apply to the given ratios of the sides.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question whether the triangle in the figure is a right triangle, suggesting that the Pythagorean theorem does not hold with the given dimensions.
  • Others assert that the triangle is not a right triangle and provide calculations of angles using the law of cosines, indicating a specific angle measurement.
  • A participant proposes that the ratio of the areas of the triangles is equal to the ratio of their bases, leading to a relationship involving the sides of the triangle.
  • Some participants reference the triangle angle bisector theorem as relevant to the discussion, although there is uncertainty about its application and proof.
  • Several comments express frustration with the clarity of the original drawing, suggesting that it may have contributed to misunderstandings about the problem.
  • There are conflicting views on the accuracy of the drawing, with some insisting it is correct while others argue it is misleading.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether the triangle is a right triangle or the correctness of the drawing. Multiple competing views remain regarding the application of theorems and the interpretation of the figure.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note that the drawing lacks clarity, which may affect the understanding of the problem. There are also unresolved questions about the assumptions made regarding the triangle's properties and the application of theorems.

  • #31
barryj said:
You are wrong. The drawing is correct. You should NEVER assume things. If the drawing does not say it is a right triangle, then do not assume it is.
Ok.
Should we assume that the baseline is one straight line or is there an angle at the vertex between the 4 and 6 length lines?
Should we assume that all those lines to the top meet at the same point? It looks a little like the line farthest to the right comes in at a different point.
Of course, I am being sarcastic. The point is that the easier you can make it for us, the more likely it is that you will get good help.
 
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  • #32
@barryj you should learn the first rule of conversation/debate: when you find yourself in a hole, stop digging.
 
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  • #33
FactChecker said:
Ok.
Should we assume that the baseline is one straight line or is there an angle at the vertex between the 4 and 6 length lines?
Should we assume that all those lines to the top meet at the same point? It looks a little like the line farthest to the right comes in at a different point.
No, there is a 120 degree angle at the 4/6 intersection and the lines do not meet at the same point. They are separated by 2 inches. This thread is getting silly. I am gone!
 
  • #34
barryj said:
No, there is a 120 degree angle at the 4/6 intersection and the lines do not meet at the same point. They are separated by 2 inches. This thread is getting silly. I am gone!
Of course, I was being sarcastic, but I actually thought it was a right angle until I did the calculation and didn't get 12.
 
  • #35
FactChecker said:
Of course, I was being sarcastic, but I actually thought it was a right angle until I did the calculation and didn't get 12.
You had best get another calculator.
 
  • #36
barryj said:
You had best get another calculator.
My calculator is fine. If that was a right angle, the length of ##x## would be 12.8062484748657.
(And the angle would not be bisected to give a partitioning of 4 and 6. Although, I didn't calculate what they should be.)
 
  • #37
Thread closed temporarily for Moderation...
 
  • #38
After some thread cleanup, the thread will remain closed. Thank you everybody for helping the OP with his question.
 
  • #39
[Mentor Note -- OP has requested that this clarification post be added to the end of this closed thread]

The moderator closed part 1 before I could post the requested theorem. I have attached the figure and a copy of the theorem from a geometry book for those that are interested.
 

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