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Coordinate proofs

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54218410
Quadrilateral \(ABCD\) has vertices \(A(0, 4)\), \(B(-3, 0)\), \(C(0, -2)\), and \(D(3, 0)\). Use a coordinate proof to show that \(ABCD\) is a kite but not a rhombus.
Figure for problem 542184

Hints

- Compare all four side lengths rather than only the diagonals. - Group equal sides by whether they share a vertex. - Check the stronger side-length requirement for a rhombus.

Solution

1. The squared side lengths are \(AB^2=25\), \(BC^2=13\), \(CD^2=13\), and \(DA^2=25\). 2. Thus \(AB=AD\) and \(BC=CD\), giving two distinct pairs of congruent adjacent sides. 3. Therefore, \(ABCD\) is a kite. 4. Since \(AB^2=25\ne13=BC^2\), not all four sides are congruent. 5. Therefore, \(ABCD\) is not a rhombus.

Answer

\(ABCD\) is a kite because \(AB=AD=5\) and \(BC=CD=\sqrt{13}\). It is not a rhombus because the two pairs of side lengths are different.
54219810
Let \(a>0\) and \(b>0\). Rectangle \(ABCD\) has coordinates \(A(0, 0)\), \(B(a, 0)\), \(C(a, b)\), and \(D(0, b)\). Use coordinates to prove that the diagonals of a rectangle bisect each other and are congruent.
Figure for problem 542198

Hints

- Treat the two diagonal properties as separate coordinate checks. - Compare the midpoint of each diagonal first. - Then compare their length expressions without substituting particular values.

Solution

1. The midpoint of \(\overline{AC}\) is \(\left(\frac{a}{2}, \frac{b}{2}\right)\). 2. The midpoint of \(\overline{BD}\) is also \(\left(\frac{a}{2}, \frac{b}{2}\right)\). 3. Therefore, the diagonals bisect each other. 4. The diagonal lengths are \(AC=\sqrt{a^2+b^2}\) and \(BD=\sqrt{(-a)^2+b^2}=\sqrt{a^2+b^2}\). 5. Therefore, the diagonals are congruent.

Answer

Both diagonals have midpoint \(\left(\frac{a}{2}, \frac{b}{2}\right)\), so they bisect each other. Both have length \(\sqrt{a^2+b^2}\), so they are congruent.
54221410
Triangle \(ABC\) has vertices \(A(1, 1)\), \(B(5, 3)\), and \(C(3, 7)\). Use a coordinate proof to show that \(\triangle ABC\) is an isosceles right triangle, and identify the right-angle vertex.
Figure for problem 542214

Hints

- Test the two sides meeting at each possible right-angle vertex. - Use one coordinate relationship for perpendicularity and another for congruent sides. - Keep the shared vertex of the equal sides in view when naming the triangle.

Solution

1. The slope of \(\overline{AB}\) is \(\frac{3-1}{5-1}=\frac{1}{2}\). 2. The slope of \(\overline{BC}\) is \(\frac{7-3}{3-5}=-2\). 3. The slopes are negative reciprocals, so \(AB\perp BC\). Thus \(\angle ABC=90^\circ\). 4. The squared lengths are \(AB^2=(5-1)^2+(3-1)^2=20\) and \(BC^2=(3-5)^2+(7-3)^2=20\). 5. Therefore, \(AB=BC\), so the triangle is isosceles with vertex \(B\). 6. Hence \(\triangle ABC\) is an isosceles right triangle with right angle at \(B\).

Answer

\(AB\perp BC\) because their slopes are \(\frac{1}{2}\) and \(-2\). Also, \(AB^2=BC^2=20\). Therefore, \(\triangle ABC\) is an isosceles right triangle with the right angle at \(B\).
54223510
Quadrilateral \(ABCD\) has vertices \(A(-4, 0)\), \(B(4, 0)\), \(C(2, 3)\), and \(D(-2, 3)\). Use coordinate methods to prove that \(ABCD\) is an isosceles trapezoid.
Figure for problem 542235

Hints

- Use slopes to determine which pairs of opposite sides are parallel. - Use the distance formula on the two nonparallel sides. - Match the resulting properties to the definition of an isosceles trapezoid.

Solution

1. The slopes of \(\overline{AB}\) and \(\overline{CD}\) are both \(0\), so \(\overline{AB}\parallel\overline{CD}\). 2. The slopes of \(\overline{AD}\) and \(\overline{BC}\) are \(\frac{3}{2}\) and \(-\frac{3}{2}\), so those sides are not parallel. 3. The leg lengths are \(AD=\sqrt{(2)^2+(3)^2}=\sqrt{13}\) and \(BC=\sqrt{(-2)^2+(3)^2}=\sqrt{13}\). 4. The quadrilateral has exactly one pair of parallel opposite sides and congruent legs, so it is an isosceles trapezoid.

Answer

Since \(\overline{AB}\parallel\overline{CD}\), \(\overline{AD}\not\parallel\overline{BC}\), and \(AD=BC=\sqrt{13}\), quadrilateral \(ABCD\) is an isosceles trapezoid.
54235410
Points \(A(x_1, y_1)\) and \(B(x_2, y_2)\) are reflected across the line \(y=x\) to points \(A'(y_1, x_1)\) and \(B'(y_2, x_2)\). Use coordinates to prove that the reflection preserves the length of \(\overline{AB}\).
Figure for problem 542354

Hints

- Write the squared distance between the original points. - Write the squared distance after the coordinates are exchanged. - Compare the two sums without expanding them.

Solution

1. The squared length of \(\overline{AB}\) is \(AB^2=(x_2-x_1)^2+(y_2-y_1)^2\). 2. The squared length of \(\overline{A'B'}\) is \(A'B'^2=(y_2-y_1)^2+(x_2-x_1)^2\). 3. Addition is commutative, so \(A'B'^2=AB^2\). 4. Segment lengths are nonnegative, so taking square roots gives \(A'B'=AB\). Therefore, reflection across \(y=x\) preserves distance.

Answer

\(A'B'^2=(y_2-y_1)^2+(x_2-x_1)^2=AB^2\), so \(A'B'=AB\). The reflection preserves segment length.
54215510
A student claims that quadrilateral \(ABCD\), with \(A(-5, 0)\), \(B(0, 4)\), \(C(5, 0)\), and \(D(0, -4)\), is a square because its diagonals are perpendicular and bisect each other. Use a coordinate proof to determine the most specific classification of \(ABCD\). Then identify the additional square property that the student failed to verify.
Figure for problem 542155

Hints

- Check enough coordinate relationships to distinguish a rhombus from a square. - Compare the side lengths and the diagonal lengths separately. - Ask which verified properties do not, by themselves, force right angles.

Solution

1. The squared side lengths are \(AB^2=41\), \(BC^2=41\), \(CD^2=41\), and \(DA^2=41\). Thus all four sides are congruent. 2. The midpoint of \(\overline{AC}\) is \((0, 0)\), and the midpoint of \(\overline{BD}\) is also \((0, 0)\), so the diagonals bisect each other. 3. Diagonal \(\overline{AC}\) is horizontal and diagonal \(\overline{BD}\) is vertical, so they are perpendicular. 4. The diagonal lengths are \(AC=10\) and \(BD=8\), so the diagonals are not congruent. 5. Therefore, \(ABCD\) is a rhombus, but it is not a square. The student failed to verify a property that would force right angles, such as congruent diagonals.

Answer

\(ABCD\) is a rhombus, not a square. Its four sides are congruent, and its diagonals are perpendicular and bisect each other, but the diagonals have lengths \(10\) and \(8\). The missing square property is congruent diagonals, equivalently four right angles.
54216110
Let \(a>0\) and \(b>0\). Triangle \(ABC\) has coordinates \(A(0, 0)\), \(B(2a, 0)\), and \(C(0, 2b)\). Point \(M\) is the midpoint of \(\overline{AB}\), and point \(N\) is the midpoint of \(\overline{AC}\). Use a coordinate proof to show that \(\overline{MN}\parallel\overline{BC}\) and \(MN=\frac{1}{2}BC\).
Figure for problem 542161

Hints

- Begin by expressing both midpoint coordinates in terms of \(a\) and \(b\). - Use one coordinate comparison to establish direction and another to compare size. - Simplify the two segment-length expressions before comparing them.

Solution

1. The midpoint coordinates are \(M(a, 0)\) and \(N(0, b)\). 2. The slope of \(\overline{MN}\) is \(\frac{b-0}{0-a}=-\frac{b}{a}\). 3. The slope of \(\overline{BC}\) is \(\frac{2b-0}{0-2a}=-\frac{b}{a}\). Equal slopes show that \(\overline{MN}\parallel\overline{BC}\). 4. The lengths satisfy \(MN=\sqrt{a^2+b^2}\) and \(BC=\sqrt{(2a)^2+(2b)^2}=2\sqrt{a^2+b^2}\). 5. Therefore, \(MN=\frac{1}{2}BC\).

Answer

The midpoints are \(M(a, 0)\) and \(N(0, b)\). Both \(\overline{MN}\) and \(\overline{BC}\) have slope \(-\frac{b}{a}\), so they are parallel. Their lengths are \(\sqrt{a^2+b^2}\) and \(2\sqrt{a^2+b^2}\), so \(MN=\frac{1}{2}BC\).
54216810
Quadrilateral \(ABCD\) has vertices \(A(-1, 1)\), \(B(4, 2)\), \(C(6, 6)\), and \(D(1, 5)\). Use a coordinate proof to determine the most specific standard classification of \(ABCD\). Your proof must also explain why the quadrilateral is neither a rectangle nor a rhombus.
Figure for problem 542168

Hints

- Compare opposite sides using coordinate changes in both directions. - After establishing a broad classification, test the extra properties of its special cases. - Use separate evidence for right angles and for congruent adjacent sides.

Solution

1. The displacement from \(A\) to \(B\) is \((5, 1)\), and the displacement from \(D\) to \(C\) is also \((5, 1)\). Thus \(\overline{AB}\parallel\overline{DC}\) and \(AB=DC\). 2. The displacement from \(B\) to \(C\) is \((2, 4)\), and the displacement from \(A\) to \(D\) is also \((2, 4)\). Thus \(\overline{BC}\parallel\overline{AD}\) and \(BC=AD\). 3. Both pairs of opposite sides are parallel, so \(ABCD\) is a parallelogram. 4. The slopes of adjacent sides \(\overline{AB}\) and \(\overline{BC}\) are \(\frac{1}{5}\) and \(2\). Their product is \(\frac{2}{5}\), not \(-1\), so the sides are not perpendicular and the parallelogram is not a rectangle. 5. The squared adjacent side lengths are \(AB^2=26\) and \(BC^2=20\). Since adjacent sides are not congruent, the parallelogram is not a rhombus.

Answer

\(ABCD\) is a parallelogram. Its opposite sides have matching displacement vectors. It is not a rectangle because adjacent side slopes are not negative reciprocals, and it is not a rhombus because \(AB^2=26\ne20=BC^2\).
54217510
Points \(A(-4, 1)\), \(B(2, 5)\), and \(P(1, 0)\) are given. Use coordinates to prove that \(P\) lies on the perpendicular bisector of \(\overline{AB}\). Then state the resulting classification of \(\triangle APB\) by side length.
Figure for problem 542175

Hints

- Locate the midpoint of the segment before testing the proposed bisector. - Compare the directions of the segment and the line from its midpoint to \(P\). - Use a second coordinate check to connect the bisector result to the triangle's side lengths.

Solution

1. The midpoint of \(\overline{AB}\) is \(M(-1, 3)\). 2. The slope of \(\overline{AB}\) is \(\frac{5-1}{2-(-4)}=\frac{2}{3}\). 3. The slope of \(\overline{MP}\) is \(\frac{0-3}{1-(-1)}=-\frac{3}{2}\). The slope product is \(-1\), so \(MP\perp AB\). 4. Since line \(MP\) passes through midpoint \(M\) and is perpendicular to \(\overline{AB}\), point \(P\) lies on the perpendicular bisector of \(\overline{AB}\). 5. Also, \(PA^2=(1+4)^2+(0-1)^2=26\), \(PB^2=(1-2)^2+(0-5)^2=26\), and \(AB^2=(2+4)^2+(5-1)^2=52\). 6. Therefore, exactly two sides are congruent, so \(\triangle APB\) is isosceles with base \(\overline{AB}\).

Answer

The midpoint is \(M(-1, 3)\). The slopes of \(\overline{AB}\) and \(\overline{MP}\) are \(\frac{2}{3}\) and \(-\frac{3}{2}\), so \(MP\perp AB\). Thus \(P\) lies on the perpendicular bisector of \(\overline{AB}\). Since \(PA^2=PB^2=26\) while \(AB^2=52\), \(\triangle APB\) is isosceles with base \(\overline{AB}\).
54220710
The circle \(x^2+y^2=25\) has center \(O(0, 0)\). Point \(T(3, 4)\) lies on line \(m\), whose equation is \(3x+4y=25\). Use coordinates to prove that line \(m\) is tangent to the circle at \(T\).
Figure for problem 542207

Hints

- Verify first that the claimed point belongs to both geometric objects. - Compare the direction of the radius with the direction of the line. - Connect that direction relationship at a point on the circle to tangency.

Solution

1. Substituting \(T(3, 4)\) into the circle equation gives \(3^2+4^2=9+16=25\), so \(T\) lies on the circle. 2. Substituting \(T(3, 4)\) into the line equation gives \(3(3)+4(4)=9+16=25\), so \(T\) lies on \(m\). 3. The slope of radius \(\overline{OT}\) is \(\frac{4}{3}\). 4. Rewriting the line equation gives \(y=-\frac{3}{4}x+\frac{25}{4}\), so the slope of \(m\) is \(-\frac{3}{4}\). 5. The slopes are negative reciprocals, so \(OT\perp m\). 6. A line perpendicular to a radius at its endpoint on the circle is tangent there. Therefore, \(m\) is tangent to the circle at \(T\).

Answer

Point \(T\) lies on both the circle and line \(m\). The radius \(OT\) has slope \(\frac{4}{3}\), while \(m\) has slope \(-\frac{3}{4}\), so they are perpendicular. Hence \(m\) is tangent at \(T\).
54222110
Let \(a>0\) and \(b>0\). Quadrilateral \(ABCD\) has vertices \(A(a, 0)\), \(B(0, b)\), \(C(-a, 0)\), and \(D(0, -b)\). a) Use coordinates to prove that \(ABCD\) is a rhombus. b) Determine the condition on \(a\) and \(b\) under which the rhombus is a square.
Figure for problem 542221

Hints

- Compare all four side-length expressions before using diagonal information. - Express each diagonal length in terms of one parameter. - Identify the extra rhombus property that distinguishes a square.

Solution

1. The squared side lengths are \(AB^2=a^2+b^2\), \(BC^2=a^2+b^2\), \(CD^2=a^2+b^2\), and \(DA^2=a^2+b^2\). 2. All four sides are congruent, so \(ABCD\) is a rhombus. 3. Diagonal \(\overline{AC}\) has length \(2a\), and diagonal \(\overline{BD}\) has length \(2b\). 4. A rhombus is a square exactly when its diagonals are congruent, so \(2a=2b\). 5. Therefore, the rhombus is a square exactly when \(a=b\).

Answer

a) Each side has length \(\sqrt{a^2+b^2}\), so \(ABCD\) is a rhombus. b) It is a square exactly when \(a=b\), because then diagonals \(AC=2a\) and \(BD=2b\) are congruent.
54222610
Right triangle \(ABC\) has coordinates \(A(0, 0)\), \(B(2a, 0)\), and \(C(0, 2b)\), where \(a,b>0\). Let \(H\), \(G\), and \(O\) be its orthocenter, centroid, and circumcenter. Use coordinates to prove that these three points are collinear and that \(HG:GO=2:1\).
Figure for problem 542226

Hints

- Use special center locations in a right triangle. - Write the centroid as the average of the vertex coordinates. - Compare the vectors from the orthocenter to the other two centers.

Solution

1. Since \(\angle A=90^\circ\), the orthocenter is \(H=A=(0, 0)\). 2. The centroid is \(G\left(\frac{0+2a+0}{3}, \frac{0+0+2b}{3}\right)=\left(\frac{2a}{3}, \frac{2b}{3}\right)\). 3. The circumcenter is the midpoint of hypotenuse \(\overline{BC}\), so \(O=(a, b)\). 4. Vector \(\overrightarrow{HG}=\left(\frac{2a}{3}, \frac{2b}{3}\right)=\frac{2}{3}(a, b)=\frac{2}{3}\overrightarrow{HO}\). 5. Therefore, \(H\), \(G\), and \(O\) are collinear. Also, \(HG=\frac{2}{3}HO\) and \(GO=\frac{1}{3}HO\), so \(HG:GO=2:1\).

Answer

The points are \(H(0, 0)\), \(G\left(\frac{2a}{3}, \frac{2b}{3}\right)\), and \(O(a, b)\). They are collinear, with \(HG:GO=2:1\).
54224210
An isosceles trapezoid is placed in the coordinate plane with vertices \(A(-a, 0)\), \(B(a, 0)\), \(C(b, h)\), and \(D(-b, h)\), where \(a>b>0\) and \(h>0\). Use coordinates to prove that its diagonals are congruent.
Figure for problem 542242

Hints

- Apply the distance formula to each diagonal separately. - Simplify the horizontal changes carefully, including their signs. - Compare the squared lengths before taking square roots.

Solution

1. For diagonal \(\overline{AC}\), \(AC^2=(b-(-a))^2+(h-0)^2=(a+b)^2+h^2\). 2. For diagonal \(\overline{BD}\), \(BD^2=(-b-a)^2+(h-0)^2=(a+b)^2+h^2\). 3. Since \(AC^2=BD^2\) and both lengths are positive, \(AC=BD\). 4. Therefore, the diagonals of the isosceles trapezoid are congruent.

Answer

The squared diagonal lengths are \(AC^2=(a+b)^2+h^2\) and \(BD^2=(-a-b)^2+h^2=(a+b)^2+h^2\). Therefore, \(AC=BD=\sqrt{(a+b)^2+h^2}\), so the diagonals are congruent.
54225610
Right triangle \(ABC\) has vertices \(A(0, 0)\), \(B(2a, 0)\), and \(C(0, 2b)\), where \(a>0\) and \(b>0\). Let \(M\) be the midpoint of hypotenuse \(\overline{BC}\). Use coordinates to prove that \(M\) is equidistant from all three vertices.
Figure for problem 542256

Hints

- Find the midpoint coordinates of the hypotenuse first. - Compare squared distances from that midpoint to each vertex. - Look for sign changes that disappear when squared.

Solution

1. The midpoint of \(\overline{BC}\) is \(M(a, b)\). 2. \(MA^2=(a-0)^2+(b-0)^2=a^2+b^2\). 3. \(MB^2=(a-2a)^2+(b-0)^2=a^2+b^2\). 4. \(MC^2=(a-0)^2+(b-2b)^2=a^2+b^2\). 5. Since the three squared distances are equal, \(MA=MB=MC\). Thus \(M\) is equidistant from all three vertices.

Answer

\(M=(a, b)\) and \(MA=MB=MC=\sqrt{a^2+b^2}\). Therefore, the midpoint of the hypotenuse is equidistant from the three vertices.
54226310
Triangle \(ABC\) has vertices \(A(0, 0)\), \(B(6, 0)\), and \(C(2, 4)\). Use coordinate methods to prove that the three altitudes are concurrent and find their point of intersection.
Figure for problem 542263

Hints

- Find the slope of each side before writing the corresponding altitude. - Start with the altitude to the horizontal side. - Verify that the intersection of two altitudes also lies on the third.

Solution

1. Since \(\overline{AB}\) is horizontal, the altitude from \(C\) is the vertical line \(x=2\). 2. The slope of \(\overline{BC}\) is \(-1\), so the altitude from \(A\) has slope \(1\) and equation \(y=x\). 3. These two altitudes intersect at \((2, 2)\). 4. The slope of \(\overline{AC}\) is \(2\), so the altitude from \(B\) has slope \(-\frac{1}{2}\) and equation \(y=-\frac{1}{2}(x-6)\). 5. Substituting \((2, 2)\) gives \(2=-\frac{1}{2}(2-6)\), so the point lies on the third altitude. 6. Therefore, all three altitudes are concurrent at \((2, 2)\).

Answer

The three altitudes intersect at \((2, 2)\), the orthocenter of the triangle.
54227010
The positive x-axis and positive y-axis form a right angle. Use coordinates to prove that the ray \(y=x\) in the closed first quadrant is exactly the set of points in that angle that are equidistant from its two sides.
Figure for problem 542270

Hints

- Write a general point on the proposed ray. - Express its perpendicular distances to the coordinate axes. - Prove the reverse direction using a general point in the angle.

Solution

1. A point on the ray has coordinates \(P(t, t)\) with \(t\ge0\). 2. Its perpendicular distance to the x-axis is \(t\), and its perpendicular distance to the y-axis is also \(t\). Thus every point on the ray is equidistant from the two axes. 3. Conversely, let \(Q(a, b)\) be a point in the closed first quadrant that is equidistant from the axes. 4. Its distances to the x-axis and y-axis are \(b\) and \(a\), respectively. Equal distances give \(a=b\). 5. Therefore, \(Q\) lies on \(y=x\). Hence the ray is exactly the angle-bisector locus.

Answer

Points \((t, t)\) are distance \(t\) from both axes, and any point \((a, b)\) in the closed first quadrant that is equidistant from the axes must satisfy \(a=b\). Therefore, the ray \(y=x\) is exactly the internal angle bisector.
54228410
Quadrilateral \(ABCD\) has vertices \(A(-1, 2)\), \(B(2, 4)\), \(C(4, 1)\), and \(D(1, -1)\). Use coordinate methods to prove that \(ABCD\) is a square.
Figure for problem 542284

Hints

- Compare all four side lengths using squared distances. - Use slopes of one pair of adjacent sides to test for a right angle. - Match the verified properties to a square characterization.

Solution

1. The squared side lengths are \(AB^2=3^2+2^2=13\), \(BC^2=2^2+(-3)^2=13\), \(CD^2=(-3)^2+(-2)^2=13\), and \(DA^2=(-2)^2+3^2=13\). Thus all four sides are congruent. 2. The slope of \(\overline{AB}\) is \(\frac{2}{3}\), and the slope of \(\overline{BC}\) is \(-\frac{3}{2}\). 3. Their product is \(-1\), so \(\overline{AB}\perp\overline{BC}\). 4. A quadrilateral with four congruent sides and a right angle is a square.

Answer

All four sides have length \(\sqrt{13}\), and adjacent sides \(\overline{AB}\) and \(\overline{BC}\) are perpendicular. Therefore, \(ABCD\) is a square.
54229110
Points \(A(-2, 1)\), \(B(3, 4)\), and \(C(5, -1)\) are consecutive vertices of parallelogram \(ABCD\). Determine the coordinates of \(D\), then verify the result using the diagonals.
Figure for problem 542291

Hints

- Use a diagonal property of parallelograms rather than side slopes. - Find the midpoint of the diagonal whose endpoints are known. - Set the midpoint of the other diagonal equal to that point.

Solution

1. In a parallelogram, the diagonals bisect each other. The midpoint of \(\overline{AC}\) is \(\left(\frac{-2+5}{2}, \frac{1+(-1)}{2}\right)=\left(\frac{3}{2}, 0\right)\). 2. Let \(D=(x, y)\). The midpoint of \(\overline{BD}\) must also be \(\left(\frac{3}{2}, 0\right)\). 3. Therefore, \(\frac{3+x}{2}=\frac{3}{2}\), so \(x=0\), and \(\frac{4+y}{2}=0\), so \(y=-4\). 4. Thus \(D=(0, -4)\). The midpoint of \(\overline{BD}\) is \(\left(\frac{3+0}{2}, \frac{4+(-4)}{2}\right)=\left(\frac{3}{2}, 0\right)\), matching the midpoint of \(\overline{AC}\). 5. Since the diagonals bisect each other, the four points form a parallelogram.

Answer

\(D=(0, -4)\). Both diagonals have midpoint \(\left(\frac{3}{2}, 0\right)\), verifying the parallelogram.
54229810
Segment \(\overline{AB}\) has endpoints \(A(-2, 3)\) and \(B(4, -1)\). a) Find an equation of the perpendicular bisector of \(\overline{AB}\). b) Use coordinates to verify that point \(P(3, 4)\) lies on the perpendicular bisector and is equidistant from \(A\) and \(B\).
Figure for problem 542298

Hints

- Find the midpoint and slope of the original segment. - Use the negative reciprocal slope for the perpendicular line. - Verify the point both in the line equation and with squared distances.

Solution

1. The midpoint of \(\overline{AB}\) is \(M\left(\frac{-2+4}{2}, \frac{3+(-1)}{2}\right)=(1, 1)\). 2. The slope of \(\overline{AB}\) is \(\frac{-1-3}{4-(-2)}=-\frac{2}{3}\), so the perpendicular slope is \(\frac{3}{2}\). 3. An equation of the perpendicular bisector is \(y-1=\frac{3}{2}(x-1)\). 4. For \(P(3, 4)\), the equation gives \(4-1=\frac{3}{2}(3-1)=3\), so \(P\) lies on the line. 5. Also, \(PA^2=(3-(-2))^2+(4-3)^2=26\) and \(PB^2=(3-4)^2+(4-(-1))^2=26\). Thus \(PA=PB=\sqrt{26}\).

Answer

a) \(y-1=\frac{3}{2}(x-1)\). b) Point \(P(3, 4)\) satisfies the equation and has \(PA=PB=\sqrt{26}\), so it lies on the perpendicular bisector.
54230510
A circle has diameter endpoints \(A(-3, 0)\) and \(B(3, 0)\). Point \(P(x, y)\), distinct from \(A\) and \(B\), lies on the circle, so \(x^2+y^2=9\). Use coordinates to prove that \(\angle APB\) is a right angle.
Figure for problem 542305

Hints

- Write the slopes from \(P\) to both diameter endpoints. - Use the circle equation to replace \(y^2\). - Simplify the product of the slopes.

Solution

1. Because \(P\) is distinct from \(A\) and \(B\), \(x\ne-3\) and \(x\ne3\). The slope of \(\overline{PA}\) is \(\frac{y}{x+3}\), and the slope of \(\overline{PB}\) is \(\frac{y}{x-3}\). 2. Their product is \(\frac{y^2}{(x+3)(x-3)}=\frac{y^2}{x^2-9}\). 3. Since \(x^2+y^2=9\), \(y^2=9-x^2\). 4. Therefore, the slope product is \(\frac{9-x^2}{x^2-9}=-1\). 5. The two segments are perpendicular, so \(\angle APB=90^\circ\).

Answer

The slopes of \(\overline{PA}\) and \(\overline{PB}\) have product \(-1\), so \(PA\perp PB\) and \(\angle APB=90^\circ\).
54231210
Triangle \(ABC\) has vertices \(A(0, 0)\), \(B(8, 0)\), and \(C(2, 6)\). Use coordinate methods to find the circumcenter and write an equation of the circumscribed circle.
Figure for problem 542312

Hints

- Find two side midpoints and perpendicular slopes. - Intersect two perpendicular bisectors to locate the center. - Use the distance from the center to one vertex for the radius.

Solution

1. The perpendicular bisector of \(\overline{AB}\) is \(x=4\). 2. Segment \(\overline{AC}\) has midpoint \((1, 3)\) and slope \(3\), so its perpendicular bisector has slope \(-\frac{1}{3}\) and equation \(y-3=-\frac{1}{3}(x-1)\). 3. Substituting \(x=4\) gives \(y-3=-1\), so \(y=2\). The circumcenter is \(O(4, 2)\). 4. The squared radius is \(OA^2=4^2+2^2=20\). 5. The circle equation is \((x-4)^2+(y-2)^2=20\). 6. Also, \(OB^2=(-4)^2+2^2=20\) and \(OC^2=(-2)^2+4^2=20\), confirming that all three vertices lie on the circle.

Answer

The circumcenter is \((4, 2)\), and the circumscribed circle is \((x-4)^2+(y-2)^2=20\).
54231910
A \(90^\circ\) counterclockwise rotation about the origin maps \((x, y)\) to \((-y, x)\). Use coordinates to prove that this rotation preserves the distance between any two points.
Figure for problem 542319

Hints

- Write the image coordinates of two general points. - Compare the two squared-distance expressions. - Notice that the coordinate differences are exchanged and one sign changes.

Solution

1. Let \(P(x_1, y_1)\) and \(Q(x_2, y_2)\). Their images are \(P'(-y_1, x_1)\) and \(Q'(-y_2, x_2)\). 2. The squared original distance is \(PQ^2=(x_2-x_1)^2+(y_2-y_1)^2\). 3. The squared image distance is \(P'Q'^2=((-y_2)-(-y_1))^2+(x_2-x_1)^2\). 4. This simplifies to \((y_2-y_1)^2+(x_2-x_1)^2=PQ^2\). 5. Since distances are nonnegative, \(P'Q'=PQ\). Therefore, the rotation preserves distance.

Answer

\(P'Q'^2=(y_2-y_1)^2+(x_2-x_1)^2=PQ^2\), so \(P'Q'=PQ\). The rotation preserves every distance.
54232610
Right triangle \(ABC\) has vertices \(A(0, 0)\), \(B(6, 0)\), and \(C(0, 8)\). Point \(D\) divides \(\overline{BC}\) so that \(BD:DC=3:4\). Use coordinates to prove that \(\overline{AD}\) bisects \(\angle A\).
Figure for problem 542326

Hints

- Use the given ratio to find the coordinates of \(D\). - Determine the equation of the line through \(A\) and \(D\). - Compare that line’s direction with the two coordinate-axis sides of the triangle.

Solution

1. By the section formula, \(D=\left(\frac{4(6)+3(0)}{7}, \frac{4(0)+3(8)}{7}\right)=\left(\frac{24}{7}, \frac{24}{7}\right)\). 2. Therefore, line \(AD\) has slope \(1\) and equation \(y=x\). 3. Rays \(\overrightarrow{AB}\) and \(\overrightarrow{AC}\) lie on the positive x-axis and positive y-axis, so \(\angle A=90^\circ\). 4. Line \(y=x\) makes a \(45^\circ\) angle with each positive coordinate axis. 5. Thus \(\angle BAD\cong\angle DAC\), so \(\overline{AD}\) bisects \(\angle A\). 6. Also, \(AB:AC=6:8=3:4=BD:DC\), consistent with the Angle Bisector Theorem.

Answer

\(D=\left(\frac{24}{7}, \frac{24}{7}\right)\), so \(\overline{AD}\) lies on \(y=x\), the \(45^\circ\) bisector of the coordinate axes. Therefore, \(\overline{AD}\) bisects \(\angle A\).
54233310
For \(a>0\), consider the circle \((x-a)^2+(y-a)^2=a^2\). Use coordinates to prove that the circle is tangent to both coordinate axes and identify the two points of tangency.

Hints

- Read the center and radius from the circle equation. - Find the perpendicular distance from the center to each coordinate axis. - Verify the perpendicular feet in the circle equation.

Solution

1. The circle has center \(O(a, a)\) and radius \(a\). 2. The perpendicular distance from \(O\) to the x-axis is \(a\), equal to the radius. The perpendicular foot is \(T_x(a, 0)\). 3. Substitution gives \((a-a)^2+(0-a)^2=a^2\), so \(T_x\) lies on the circle. Therefore, the x-axis is tangent at \((a, 0)\). 4. The perpendicular distance from \(O\) to the y-axis is also \(a\), with foot \(T_y(0, a)\). 5. Substitution gives \((0-a)^2+(a-a)^2=a^2\), so \(T_y\) lies on the circle. Therefore, the y-axis is tangent at \((0, a)\).

Answer

The circle is tangent to the x-axis at \((a, 0)\) and to the y-axis at \((0, a)\), because the center is exactly one radius from each axis.
54234010
The circle \(x^2+y^2=25\) has center \(O(0, 0)\). Point \(P(13, 0)\) lies outside the circle. Two proposed tangency points are \(T_1\left(\frac{25}{13}, \frac{60}{13}\right)\) and \(T_2\left(\frac{25}{13}, -\frac{60}{13}\right)\). Use coordinates to verify that \(\overline{PT_1}\) and \(\overline{PT_2}\) are tangent segments and find their lengths.
Figure for problem 542340

Hints

- Verify each proposed point in the circle equation. - Compare the slope of each radius with the slope of the segment from \(P\). - Use the distance formula for one tangent segment and symmetry for the other.

Solution

1. For either point, \(x^2+y^2=\frac{625+3600}{169}=25\), so both points lie on the circle. 2. The slope of \(\overline{OT_1}\) is \(\frac{60}{25}=\frac{12}{5}\). 3. The slope of \(\overline{PT_1}\) is \(\frac{60}{25-169}=-\frac{5}{12}\). Their product is \(-1\), so \(OT_1\perp PT_1\), making \(\overline{PT_1}\) tangent. 4. The reflected coordinates of \(T_2\) produce slopes \(-\frac{12}{5}\) and \(\frac{5}{12}\), so \(OT_2\perp PT_2\) as well. 5. \(PT_1^2=\left(13-\frac{25}{13}\right)^2+\left(0-\frac{60}{13}\right)^2=144\), so \(PT_1=12\). 6. By the same calculation or reflection symmetry, \(PT_2=12\).

Answer

Both segments are tangent because each is perpendicular to the radius at its circle point. Their lengths are \(PT_1=PT_2=12\).
54234710
Lines \(\ell\), \(m\), and \(n\) have equations \(3x-4y=12\), \(3x-4y=-8\), and \(3x-4y=2\), respectively. Use coordinate methods to prove that \(n\) is parallel to \(\ell\) and \(m\) and lies halfway between them.
Figure for problem 542347

Hints

- Compare the slopes from the three equations. - Use the distance formula for parallel lines in standard form. - Compare each distance from \(n\) with the full distance between the outer lines.

Solution

1. Rewriting each equation in slope-intercept form gives slope \(\frac{3}{4}\), so the three distinct lines are parallel. 2. The distance between \(\ell\) and \(m\) is \(\frac{|12-(-8)|}{\sqrt{3^2+(-4)^2}}=\frac{20}{5}=4\). 3. The distance between \(n\) and \(\ell\) is \(\frac{|2-12|}{5}=2\). 4. The distance between \(n\) and \(m\) is \(\frac{|2-(-8)|}{5}=2\). 5. Therefore, \(n\) is parallel to both lines and is equidistant from them, so it lies halfway between \(\ell\) and \(m\).

Answer

All three lines have slope \(\frac{3}{4}\). Line \(n\) is \(2\) units from each of \(\ell\) and \(m\), while \(\ell\) and \(m\) are \(4\) units apart. Thus \(n\) lies halfway between them.
54238210
In triangle \(ABC\), let \(A(-a, 0)\), \(B(a, 0)\), and \(C(u, v)\), where \(a>0\) and \(v\ne0\). Point \(M(0, 0)\) is the midpoint of \(\overline{AB}\). Use coordinates to prove Apollonius's theorem for median \(\overline{CM}\): \(CA^2+CB^2=2(CM^2+AM^2)\).
Figure for problem 542382

Hints

- Write all four squared lengths from the coordinates. - Add the two side-length expressions before expanding fully. - Compare the result with twice the sum involving the median and half the base.

Solution

1. The squared side lengths are \(CA^2=(u+a)^2+v^2\) and \(CB^2=(u-a)^2+v^2\). 2. Adding gives \(CA^2+CB^2=(u+a)^2+(u-a)^2+2v^2=2u^2+2a^2+2v^2\). 3. The squared median length is \(CM^2=u^2+v^2\), and \(AM^2=a^2\). 4. Therefore, \(2(CM^2+AM^2)=2(u^2+v^2+a^2)=2u^2+2a^2+2v^2\). 5. The two expressions are equal, proving \(CA^2+CB^2=2(CM^2+AM^2)\).

Answer

Both sides simplify to \(2u^2+2a^2+2v^2\), so \(CA^2+CB^2=2(CM^2+AM^2)\).
54239610
A circle has center \(C(3, -2)\) and radius \(4\). A dilation centered at the origin with scale factor \(-2\) maps the circle to a new figure. Use coordinates to prove that the image is a circle, and find its center, radius, and equation.
Figure for problem 542396

Hints

- Apply the dilation rule to the original center. - Express the image coordinates in terms of the original coordinates. - Compare the squared distance from an image point to the image center with the original radius equation.

Solution

1. The center maps as \(C(3, -2)\mapsto C'(-6, 4)\). 2. Let \(P(x, y)\) be any point on the original circle, so \((x-3)^2+(y+2)^2=16\). 3. Its image is \(P'(X, Y)=(-2x, -2y)\). Then \(X+6=-2(x-3)\) and \(Y-4=-2(y+2)\). 4. Therefore, \((X+6)^2+(Y-4)^2=4[(x-3)^2+(y+2)^2]=4\cdot16=64\). 5. Every image point lies on the circle centered at \((-6, 4)\) with radius \(8\). Conversely, reversing the dilation maps every point of that circle back to the original circle.

Answer

The image is the circle centered at \((-6, 4)\) with radius \(8\). Its equation is \((x+6)^2+(y-4)^2=64\).
54240310
Parallelogram \(ABCD\) has coordinates \(A(0, 0)\), \(B(u, v)\), \(D(r, s)\), and \(C(u+r, v+s)\). Use coordinates to prove the parallelogram law: \(AC^2+BD^2=2(AB^2+AD^2)\).
Figure for problem 542403

Hints

- Write vectors for both sides from \(A\) and both diagonals. - Add the two squared diagonal lengths before simplifying. - Watch how the mixed terms cancel.

Solution

1. The squared side lengths are \(AB^2=u^2+v^2\) and \(AD^2=r^2+s^2\). 2. Diagonal \(\overline{AC}\) has vector \((u+r, v+s)\), so \(AC^2=(u+r)^2+(v+s)^2\). 3. Diagonal \(\overline{BD}\) has vector \((r-u, s-v)\), so \(BD^2=(r-u)^2+(s-v)^2\). 4. Adding the diagonal expressions cancels the cross terms: \(AC^2+BD^2=2u^2+2v^2+2r^2+2s^2\). 5. This equals \(2[(u^2+v^2)+(r^2+s^2)]=2(AB^2+AD^2)\).

Answer

Expanding the two diagonal-length expressions cancels their cross terms and gives \(AC^2+BD^2=2u^2+2v^2+2r^2+2s^2=2(AB^2+AD^2)\).
54241010
Points \(A(-3, 0)\) and \(B(3, 0)\) are fixed. Use coordinates to determine and prove the locus of all points \(P(x, y)\) satisfying \(PA^2-PB^2=24\).
Figure for problem 542410

Hints

- Write both squared distances before taking their difference. - Expand only enough to see which terms cancel. - Check the converse by substituting the resulting coordinate condition back into the equation.

Solution

1. The squared distances are \(PA^2=(x+3)^2+y^2\) and \(PB^2=(x-3)^2+y^2\). 2. Subtracting gives \(PA^2-PB^2=(x+3)^2-(x-3)^2=12x\). 3. The condition \(PA^2-PB^2=24\) becomes \(12x=24\), so \(x=2\). 4. Every point with \(x=2\) satisfies the original equation because substituting \(x=2\) makes the difference of squared distances equal to \(24\), regardless of \(y\).

Answer

The locus is the vertical line \(x=2\).
54241710
Point \(P(5, 1)\) lies outside line \(\ell\), whose equation is \(2x-y=3\). Use coordinates to find the foot \(H\) of the perpendicular from \(P\) to \(\ell\), and prove that your point is correct.
Figure for problem 542417

Hints

- Find the slope of the given line before writing the perpendicular line. - The desired point satisfies two line equations at once. - Verify both incidence and perpendicularity.

Solution

1. Rewrite \(\ell\) as \(y=2x-3\), so its slope is \(2\). 2. A perpendicular line has slope \(-\frac{1}{2}\). The perpendicular through \(P\) is \(y-1=-\frac{1}{2}(x-5)\). 3. Solving this equation with \(y=2x-3\) gives \(x=\frac{13}{5}\) and \(y=\frac{11}{5}\). 4. Substitution verifies \(2\left(\frac{13}{5}\right)-\frac{11}{5}=3\), so \(H\) lies on \(\ell\). 5. The slope of \(PH\) is \(-\frac{1}{2}\), whose product with the slope \(2\) of \(\ell\) is \(-1\). Therefore, \(PH\perp\ell\).

Answer

The perpendicular foot is \(H\left(\frac{13}{5}, \frac{11}{5}\right)\).
54242410
Points \(A(-2, 0)\) and \(B(2, 0)\) are fixed. Use coordinates to determine and prove the locus of all points \(P(x, y)\) satisfying \(PA^2+PB^2=20\).
Figure for problem 542424

Hints

- Write both squared distances before adding them. - Look for cancellation of the linear terms. - Identify the standard geometric figure represented by the simplified equation.

Solution

1. The squared distances are \(PA^2=(x+2)^2+y^2\) and \(PB^2=(x-2)^2+y^2\). 2. Adding gives \(PA^2+PB^2=2x^2+2y^2+8\). 3. Setting this equal to \(20\) gives \(2x^2+2y^2=12\), so \(x^2+y^2=6\). 4. Every point on the circle \(x^2+y^2=6\) makes the original sum equal to \(20\), so the implication works in both directions.

Answer

The locus is the circle centered at the origin with radius \(\sqrt{6}\), whose equation is \(x^2+y^2=6\).
54243110
Triangles \(ABC\) and \(ABD\) share base \(\overline{AB}\). Let \(G\) be the centroid of \(\triangle ABC\), and let \(H\) be the centroid of \(\triangle ABD\). Use coordinates to prove that \(\overline{GH}\parallel\overline{CD}\) and \(GH=\frac{1}{3}CD\).
Figure for problem 542431

Hints

- Write each centroid as the average of its three vertices. - Subtract the centroid coordinates before simplifying. - Interpret the resulting vector multiple geometrically.

Solution

1. Let \(A(x_1, y_1)\), \(B(x_2, y_2)\), \(C(x_3, y_3)\), and \(D(x_4, y_4)\). 2. The centroids are \(G\left(\frac{x_1+x_2+x_3}{3}, \frac{y_1+y_2+y_3}{3}\right)\) and \(H\left(\frac{x_1+x_2+x_4}{3}, \frac{y_1+y_2+y_4}{3}\right)\). 3. Therefore, \(\overrightarrow{GH}=\left(\frac{x_4-x_3}{3}, \frac{y_4-y_3}{3}\right)=\frac{1}{3}\overrightarrow{CD}\). 4. Since one vector is a positive scalar multiple of the other, the segments are parallel and \(GH=\frac{1}{3}CD\).

Answer

The centroid difference vector is \(\overrightarrow{GH}=\frac{1}{3}\overrightarrow{CD}\). Hence \(GH\parallel CD\) and \(GH=\frac{1}{3}CD\).
54243710
Points \(A(-3, 0)\) and \(B(3, 0)\) are fixed. Use coordinates to determine and prove the locus of all points \(P(x, y)\) satisfying \(PA=2PB\).
Figure for problem 542437

Hints

- Replace the distance ratio with an equation involving squared distances. - Expand and gather the \(x\)- and \(y\)-terms. - Complete the square to identify the locus.

Solution

1. Square the distance condition to obtain \((x+3)^2+y^2=4[(x-3)^2+y^2]\). 2. Expanding and simplifying gives \(x^2-10x+y^2+9=0\). 3. Completing the square gives \((x-5)^2+y^2=16\). 4. Every point on this circle satisfies the squared distance equation. Since distances are nonnegative, the squared equation is equivalent to \(PA=2PB\).

Answer

The locus is the circle centered at \((5, 0)\) with radius \(4\), whose equation is \((x-5)^2+y^2=16\).
54219110
Line \(\ell\) has equation \(Ax+By+C=0\), where \(A\) and \(B\) are not both zero. Point \(P(x_0, y_0)\) is given. Use coordinates to prove that the perpendicular distance from \(P\) to \(\ell\) is \(\frac{|Ax_0+By_0+C|}{\sqrt{A^2+B^2}}\).
Figure for problem 542191

Hints

- Use \((A, B)\) as a direction perpendicular to the line. - Move from \(P\) by an unknown multiple of that normal vector. - Choose the multiple so the new point satisfies the line equation.

Solution

1. A normal vector to \(\ell\) is \((A, B)\). 2. Let \(k=\frac{Ax_0+By_0+C}{A^2+B^2}\), and define \(H=(x_0-kA, y_0-kB)\). 3. Substitution gives \(A(x_0-kA)+B(y_0-kB)+C=Ax_0+By_0+C-k(A^2+B^2)=0\), so \(H\) lies on \(\ell\). 4. Vector \(\overrightarrow{PH}=(-kA, -kB)\) is parallel to the normal vector, so \(PH\perp\ell\). 5. Its length is \(PH=|k|\sqrt{A^2+B^2}=\frac{|Ax_0+By_0+C|}{\sqrt{A^2+B^2}}\).

Answer

Let \(k=\frac{Ax_0+By_0+C}{A^2+B^2}\) and \(H=(x_0-kA, y_0-kB)\). Then \(H\) lies on \(\ell\), and \(\overrightarrow{PH}=(-kA, -kB)\) is perpendicular to \(\ell\). Therefore, \(PH=|k|\sqrt{A^2+B^2}=\frac{|Ax_0+By_0+C|}{\sqrt{A^2+B^2}}\).
54224910
Quadrilateral \(ABCD\) has vertices \(A(x_1, y_1)\), \(B(x_2, y_2)\), \(C(x_3, y_3)\), and \(D(x_4, y_4)\). Points \(E\), \(F\), \(G\), and \(H\) are the midpoints of \(\overline{AB}\), \(\overline{BC}\), \(\overline{CD}\), and \(\overline{DA}\), respectively. Use coordinates to prove that \(EFGH\) is a parallelogram.
Figure for problem 542249

Hints

- Write the coordinates of all four midpoints first. - Compare the horizontal and vertical changes along opposite sides of the midpoint quadrilateral. - Use a parallelogram test based on opposite sides.

Solution

1. The midpoint coordinates are \(E\left(\frac{x_1+x_2}{2}, \frac{y_1+y_2}{2}\right)\), \(F\left(\frac{x_2+x_3}{2}, \frac{y_2+y_3}{2}\right)\), \(G\left(\frac{x_3+x_4}{2}, \frac{y_3+y_4}{2}\right)\), and \(H\left(\frac{x_4+x_1}{2}, \frac{y_4+y_1}{2}\right)\). 2. The displacement vector from \(E\) to \(F\) is \(\overrightarrow{EF}=\left(\frac{x_3-x_1}{2}, \frac{y_3-y_1}{2}\right)\). 3. The displacement vector from \(H\) to \(G\) is also \(\overrightarrow{HG}=\left(\frac{x_3-x_1}{2}, \frac{y_3-y_1}{2}\right)\). Thus \(\overline{EF}\) and \(\overline{HG}\) are parallel and congruent. 4. Similarly, \(\overrightarrow{FG}=\left(\frac{x_4-x_2}{2}, \frac{y_4-y_2}{2}\right)=\overrightarrow{EH}\). 5. Therefore, both pairs of opposite sides are parallel and congruent, so \(EFGH\) is a parallelogram.

Answer

The opposite sides of \(EFGH\) have equal displacement vectors: \(\overrightarrow{EF}=\overrightarrow{HG}=\left(\frac{x_3-x_1}{2}, \frac{y_3-y_1}{2}\right)\) and \(\overrightarrow{FG}=\overrightarrow{EH}=\left(\frac{x_4-x_2}{2}, \frac{y_4-y_2}{2}\right)\). Therefore, \(EFGH\) is a parallelogram.
54227710
Triangle \(ABC\) has vertices \(A(x_1, y_1)\), \(B(x_2, y_2)\), and \(C(x_3, y_3)\). Let \(M\) be the midpoint of \(\overline{BC}\), and let \(G\left(\frac{x_1+x_2+x_3}{3}, \frac{y_1+y_2+y_3}{3}\right)\). Use coordinates to prove that \(G\) lies on median \(\overline{AM}\) and that \(AG:GM=2:1\).
Figure for problem 542277

Hints

- Write the midpoint coordinates of \(M\). - Compare the displacement vectors from \(A\) to \(M\) and from \(A\) to \(G\). - Interpret a scalar multiple of one directed segment by another.

Solution

1. The midpoint is \(M\left(\frac{x_2+x_3}{2}, \frac{y_2+y_3}{2}\right)\). 2. The displacement vector from \(A\) to \(M\) is \(\overrightarrow{AM}=\left(\frac{x_2+x_3-2x_1}{2}, \frac{y_2+y_3-2y_1}{2}\right)\). 3. The displacement vector from \(A\) to \(G\) is \(\overrightarrow{AG}=\left(\frac{x_2+x_3-2x_1}{3}, \frac{y_2+y_3-2y_1}{3}\right)\). 4. Therefore, \(\overrightarrow{AG}=\frac{2}{3}\overrightarrow{AM}\). This shows that \(A\), \(G\), and \(M\) are collinear and that \(AG=\frac{2}{3}AM\). 5. Then \(GM=AM-AG=\frac{1}{3}AM\), so \(AG:GM=2:1\).

Answer

The midpoint is \(M\left(\frac{x_2+x_3}{2}, \frac{y_2+y_3}{2}\right)\). The displacement vectors satisfy \(\overrightarrow{AG}=\left(\frac{x_2+x_3-2x_1}{3}, \frac{y_2+y_3-2y_1}{3}\right)=\frac{2}{3}\overrightarrow{AM}\). Thus \(A\), \(G\), and \(M\) are collinear, \(AG=\frac{2}{3}AM\), and \(GM=\frac{1}{3}AM\). Therefore, \(AG:GM=2:1\).
54236110
Triangle \(ABC\) has vertices \(A(0, 0)\), \(B(6, 0)\), and \(C(0, 6)\). Let \(D\), \(E\), and \(F\) be the midpoints of \(\overline{BC}\), \(\overline{CA}\), and \(\overline{AB}\), respectively. Use coordinates to prove that the three medians meet at one point and divide the triangle into six triangles of equal area.
Figure for problem 542361

Hints

- Find the three side midpoints first. - Intersect two median equations, then test the point on the third median. - Use convenient bases on the coordinate axes and a determinant for the remaining pieces.

Solution

1. The midpoints are \(D(3, 3)\), \(E(0, 3)\), and \(F(3, 0)\). 2. Median \(AD\) lies on \(y=x\). Median \(BE\) has equation \(y=-\frac{1}{2}x+3\). Their intersection is \(G(2, 2)\). 3. The line through \(C(0, 6)\) and \(F(3, 0)\) has equation \(y=-2x+6\), and \(G(2, 2)\) satisfies it. Thus all three medians are concurrent at \(G\). 4. Using \(\frac{1}{2}(\text{base})(\text{height})\), \(\operatorname{Area}(\triangle AGF)=\operatorname{Area}(\triangle BGF)=3\) because \(AF=BF=3\) and the height from \(G\) to \(\overline{AB}\) is \(2\). 5. Similarly, \(\operatorname{Area}(\triangle AGE)=\operatorname{Area}(\triangle CGE)=3\) because \(AE=CE=3\) and the distance from \(G\) to line \(AC\) is \(2\). 6. The determinant area formula gives \(\operatorname{Area}(\triangle BGD)=\frac{1}{2}|(-4)(3)-2(-3)|=3\) and \(\operatorname{Area}(\triangle CGD)=\frac{1}{2}|2(-3)-(-4)(3)|=3\). 7. Therefore, the medians meet at \(G(2, 2)\) and form six triangles, each with area \(3\) square units.

Answer

The three medians are concurrent at \(G(2, 2)\). Each of the six smaller triangles has area \(3\) square units.
54236810
Parallelogram \(ABCD\) has diagonal intersection at the origin. Its vertices are \(A(p, q)\), \(B(r, s)\), \(C(-p, -q)\), and \(D(-r, -s)\). The diagonals are perpendicular, so \(pr+qs=0\). Use coordinates to prove that \(ABCD\) is a rhombus.
Figure for problem 542368

Hints

- Write squared lengths for two consecutive sides. - Subtract the expressions instead of expanding each completely on its own. - Connect the resulting dot-product term to the perpendicular diagonals.

Solution

1. The squared length of \(\overline{AB}\) is \(AB^2=(p-r)^2+(q-s)^2\). 2. The squared length of \(\overline{BC}\) is \(BC^2=(-p-r)^2+(-q-s)^2=(p+r)^2+(q+s)^2\). 3. Subtracting gives \(BC^2-AB^2=4pr+4qs=4(pr+qs)\). 4. Since the diagonals are perpendicular, \(pr+qs=0\). Therefore, \(BC^2-AB^2=0\), so \(AB=BC\). 5. A parallelogram with congruent consecutive sides is a rhombus. Hence \(ABCD\) is a rhombus.

Answer

The perpendicular-diagonal condition gives \(pr+qs=0\). Since \(BC^2-AB^2=4(pr+qs)=0\), consecutive sides are congruent. Therefore, the parallelogram is a rhombus.
54237510
The circle \(x^2+y^2=25\) is cut by the line \(3x+4y=10\). Use coordinates to find the midpoint and length of the chord formed by the intersections, and prove that the segment from the circle's center to the chord is perpendicular to the chord.
Figure for problem 542375

Hints

- Use the line's normal vector to locate the perpendicular foot from the origin. - Parameterize the chord line using a direction vector perpendicular to that normal vector. - Substitute the parameterization into the circle equation and compare the two parameter values.

Solution

1. The circle's center is \(O(0, 0)\). A normal vector to the line is \((3, 4)\), so the perpendicular from \(O\) follows the direction \((3, 4)\). 2. A point on this perpendicular has the form \((3t, 4t)\). Substituting into \(3x+4y=10\) gives \(25t=10\), so the perpendicular foot is \(M\left(\frac{6}{5}, \frac{8}{5}\right)\). 3. A direction vector for the chord line is \((-4, 3)\). Since \(\left(\frac{6}{5}, \frac{8}{5}\right)\cdot(-4, 3)=0\), \(\overline{OM}\) is perpendicular to the chord. 4. Parameterize the chord line by \((x, y)=\left(\frac{6}{5}, \frac{8}{5}\right)+t(-4, 3)\). 5. Substitution into the circle equation gives \(4+25t^2=25\), so the two intersection parameters are \(t=\pm\frac{\sqrt{21}}{5}\). 6. The two parameters are opposites, so their points have midpoint \(M\left(\frac{6}{5}, \frac{8}{5}\right)\). Their parameter difference is \(\frac{2\sqrt{21}}{5}\), and \(\|(-4, 3)\|=5\), so the chord length is \(2\sqrt{21}\).

Answer

The chord's midpoint is \(\left(\frac{6}{5}, \frac{8}{5}\right)\), and its length is \(2\sqrt{21}\). The center-to-midpoint direction is parallel to \((3, 4)\), which is perpendicular to the chord direction \((-4, 3)\).
54238910
Triangle \(ABC\) has vertices \(A(0, 0)\), \(B(6, 0)\), and \(C(2, 4)\). Let \(H\) be its orthocenter, and let \(H'\) be the reflection of \(H\) across \(\overline{AB}\). Use coordinates to prove that \(H'\) lies on the circumcircle of \(\triangle ABC\).
Figure for problem 542389

Hints

- Use slopes to find two altitudes and their intersection. - Reflect the orthocenter by changing the sign of its y-coordinate. - Find the circle equation through the three triangle vertices and test the reflected point.

Solution

1. Since \(AB\) is horizontal, the altitude from \(C\) is \(x=2\). 2. Line \(AC\) has slope \(2\), so the altitude from \(B\) has slope \(-\frac{1}{2}\) and equation \(y=-\frac{1}{2}x+3\). 3. Intersecting this altitude with \(x=2\) gives \(H(2, 2)\). Reflecting across \(AB\), which lies on the x-axis, gives \(H'(2, -2)\). 4. A circle through \(A(0, 0)\) has equation \(x^2+y^2+Dx+Ey=0\). 5. Substituting \(B(6, 0)\) gives \(D=-6\), and substituting \(C(2, 4)\) gives \(E=-2\). Thus the circumcircle is \(x^2+y^2-6x-2y=0\). 6. Substituting \(H'(2, -2)\) gives \(4+4-12+4=0\). Therefore, \(H'\) lies on the circumcircle.

Answer

The orthocenter is \(H(2, 2)\), so its reflection across \(AB\) is \(H'(2, -2)\). This point satisfies the circumcircle equation \(x^2+y^2-6x-2y=0\), so \(H'\) lies on the circumcircle.
54244410
Trapezoid \(ABCD\) has \(\overline{AB}\parallel\overline{CD}\), with \(AB=b\) and \(CD=c\), where \(b,c>0\). Choose and justify a convenient coordinate placement for the trapezoid. Then, if diagonals \(\overline{AC}\) and \(\overline{BD}\) intersect at \(P\), use your coordinates to prove \(\frac{AP}{PC}=\frac{BP}{PD}=\frac{b}{c}\).
Figure for problem 542444

Hints

- Use a rigid motion to put one base on the x-axis; the other base must then lie on a horizontal line. - Keep the horizontal offset of the second base as a variable rather than assuming an isosceles trapezoid. - Parameterize both diagonals and use the equal y-coordinates at their intersection before forming segment ratios.

Solution

1. A translation and rotation preserve lengths, parallelism, intersection ratios, and the shape of the trapezoid. Therefore, place \(A(0, 0)\), \(B(b, 0)\), \(D(d, h)\), and \(C(d+c, h)\), where \(h>0\). This puts the parallel bases on horizontal lines without loss of generality. 2. A point on \(\overline{AC}\) has coordinates \((t(d+c), th)\), where \(0<t<1\). 3. A point on \(\overline{BD}\) has coordinates \((b+s(d-b), sh)\), where \(0<s<1\). 4. At the intersection \(P\), the y-coordinates give \(t=s\). 5. Equating x-coordinates gives \(t(d+c)=b+t(d-b)\), so \(t(b+c)=b\) and \(t=\frac{b}{b+c}\). 6. Therefore, \(\frac{AP}{PC}=\frac{t}{1-t}=\frac{b}{c}\). 7. The same parameter \(s=t\) divides \(\overline{BD}\), so \(\frac{BP}{PD}=\frac{s}{1-s}=\frac{b}{c}\).

Answer

Place \(A(0, 0)\), \(B(b, 0)\), \(D(d, h)\), and \(C(d+c, h)\); translations and rotations preserve the required ratios, so this loses no generality. Parameterizing the diagonals gives \(t=s=\frac{b}{b+c}\). Hence \(\frac{AP}{PC}=\frac{BP}{PD}=\frac{t}{1-t}=\frac{b}{c}\).

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