Trigonometry Preparing for math contest; Please help

In summary, a triangle ABC is acute if and only if the product of the tangents of its angles, alfa and beta, is greater than 1. It is right if and only if the product is equal to 1. And it is obtuse if and only if the product is less than 1. The sum of alfa and beta, denoted as k, is between 90 and 180 in an acute triangle, equal to 90 in a right triangle, and less than 90 in an obtuse triangle. When calculating the product of the tangents using the formula (sinx/cosx)(sin(k-x)/cos(k-x)), we can simplify it to (A-Bsin^2x)/(
  • #1
MathExpert
6
0
Prove that the triangle ABC is:

a) acute, if and only if tan(alfa)*tan(beta)>1
b) right, if and only if tan(alfa)*tan(beta)=1
c) obtuse, if and only if tan(alfa)*tan(beta)<1
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
  • #2
start with the following...
k=alpha+beta
90<k<180 in an acute triangle
k=90 in a right triangle
k<90 in an obtuse triangle

(sinx/cosx)(sin(k-x)/cos(k-x))
=(sinxsinkcosx-cosksin^2x)/(cos^2xcosk+sinksinxcosx)
sinxsinkcosx=A and cosk=B
(A-Bsin^2x)/(A+Bcos^2x)= (A-Bsin^2x)/(A+B-Bsin^2x)
we then want B equal to zero. cosk=0 when k=90. when k is greater B becomes negative.
 
Last edited:
  • #3


Before we begin, it is important to note that the triangle ABC has three angles, alfa, beta, and gamma, and three sides, a, b, and c. The angles alfa and beta are adjacent to the side c, while the angle gamma is opposite the side c. Additionally, we will be using the trigonometric ratio tangent (tan) in our proofs.

a) To prove that triangle ABC is acute if and only if tan(alfa)*tan(beta)>1, we will first assume that the triangle is acute. This means that all three angles are less than 90 degrees. Using the tangent ratio, we know that tan(alfa)=a/c and tan(beta)=b/c. Multiplying these two ratios together, we get: tan(alfa)*tan(beta)=(a/c)*(b/c)=(ab)/(c^2). Since all three angles are less than 90 degrees, the side c must be the longest side according to the triangle inequality theorem. This means that c^2>a^2 and c^2>b^2. Substituting this into our equation, we get: (ab)/(c^2)<1. Therefore, tan(alfa)*tan(beta)<1.

Now, assuming that tan(alfa)*tan(beta)>1, we can prove that the triangle ABC is acute. If tan(alfa)*tan(beta)>1, then (ab)/(c^2)>1. This means that ab>c^2, and by the triangle inequality theorem, we know that c must be the longest side. Therefore, all three angles must be less than 90 degrees, making the triangle ABC acute.

b) Similarly, to prove that the triangle ABC is right if and only if tan(alfa)*tan(beta)=1, we will first assume that the triangle is right. This means that one angle is equal to 90 degrees. Without loss of generality, let's assume that angle alfa is the right angle. Using the tangent ratio, we know that tan(alfa)=a/c and tan(beta)=b/c. Substituting these into our equation, we get: tan(alfa)*tan(beta)=(a/c)*(b/c)=(ab)/(c^2)=1. Therefore, tan(alfa)*tan(beta)=1.

Conversely, assuming that tan(alfa)*tan(beta)=1, we can prove that the triangle ABC is right. If tan(alfa)*tan(beta)=1, then
 

FAQ: Trigonometry Preparing for math contest; Please help

What is trigonometry?

Trigonometry is a branch of mathematics that deals with the study of triangles and the relationships between their sides and angles.

Why is trigonometry important?

Trigonometry is important because it has many real-life applications, such as in engineering, physics, and navigation. It also serves as a fundamental building block for more advanced mathematical concepts.

How can I prepare for a math contest in trigonometry?

To prepare for a math contest in trigonometry, you should practice solving various types of trigonometric problems, such as finding missing angles and sides in triangles. You can also study formulas and theorems related to trigonometry and try to understand their applications.

What are some common formulas used in trigonometry?

Some common formulas used in trigonometry include the Pythagorean theorem, sine, cosine, and tangent ratios, and the law of sines and cosines.

How can I improve my understanding of trigonometry concepts?

You can improve your understanding of trigonometry concepts by practicing regularly, seeking help from a tutor or teacher, and using visual aids such as diagrams and graphs to better understand the relationships between angles and sides in triangles.

Similar threads

Back
Top