In right triangle , the right angle is at . Point lies between and on . Suppose that
and
If , what is the length of ?
When two right triangles share a side, translate each tangent ratio into a ratio of actual side lengths using one common scale factor. Then use the way the smaller triangle fits inside the larger one, such as , to determine that scale factor. Once the needed legs are known, use the Pythagorean theorem to find the requested segment.
Hints
Identify the two right triangles
Both and are right triangles because lies on and the right angle of the larger triangle is at .
Use a common scale factor
From , write and for some positive number .
Connect the segments on AC
Use to express in terms of , then use .
Finish with the Pythagorean theorem
After finding and , they are the legs of right triangle .
Desmos Guide
Use algebra first
Algebra is faster for this problem because the tangent ratios naturally create side ratios. Desmos can verify the scale factor and the final length.
Find the scale factor
Graph and . Click their intersection. Its -coordinate is the scale factor .
Verify the hypotenuse
Enter . This calculates the hypotenuse of triangle from its two legs.
Step-by-step Explanation
Use the tangent ratio in triangle ABC
For , the opposite side is and the adjacent side is . Since , let
Use the tangent ratio in triangle DBC
Triangle is also right at . For , the opposite side is and the adjacent side is . Therefore,
Since , it follows that .
Use the given length AD
Because lies between and , . Thus,
So and .
Find BD
In right triangle , the legs are and . Therefore,