Topic : Triangles

Triangles

Similar Triangles: Two triangles are said to be similar if their corresponding angles are equal and
their corresponding sides are proportional.
All congruent figures are similar but the converse is not true. Two polygons with same number
of sides are similar, if
(i) Their corresponding angles are equal and
(ii) Their corresponding sides are in the same ration (i.e., proportion).
Criteria for Similarity: in and ABC and DEF
(i) AAA Similarity: ABC ~ DEF When A = D, B = E and C = F
AB BC
(ii) SAS Similarity: ∆ABC ~ DEF when  and B = E
DE EF
AB AC BC
(iii) SSS Similarity: ABC ~ DEF,  
DE DF EF
The proof of the following theorems can be asked in the examination:
(i) Basic Proportionality Theorem: If a line is drawn parallel to one side of a triangle to intersect the
other sides in distinct points, the other two sides are divided in the same ratio.
(ii) The ratio of the areas of two similar triangles is equal to the square of the ratio of their
corresponding sides.
(iii) Pythagoras Theorem: In a right triangle, the square of the hypotenuse is equal to the sum of the
squares of the other two sides.
(iv) Converse of Pythagoras Theorem: In a triangle, if the square of one side is equal to the sum of
the squares of the other two sides then the angle opposite to the first side is a right angle.
Right Angled Triangle:
(i) If a perpendicular is drawn from the vertex of the right angle of a right triangle to the hypotenuse,
then the triangles on both sides of the perpendicular are similar to the Whole triangle and also to each
other.
(ii) In the right triangle, the square of the hypotenuse is equal to the sum of the square of the other
two sides (Pythagoras Theorem).
(iii) If in a triangle, square of one side is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides, then
the angle opposite to the first side is a right angle.
Thales Theorem: If a line is drawn parallel to one side of a triangle to intersect the other two sides in
distinct points, then the other two sides are divided in the same ratio (Basic Proportionally Theorem or
Thales Theorem).
If a line divides any two sides of a triangle in the same ratio, then the line is parallel to the third side.

1
Topic : Triangles
Exercise 6.1

Q(1) Fill in the blanks using the correct word given in brackets:
Sol:— (i) All circles are Similar. (Congruent, similar)
(ii) All squares are Similar. (Similar, congruent)
(iii) All equilateral triangles are similar. (Isosceles, equilateral)
(iv) Two polygons of the same number of sides are similar, if (a) their corresponding
angles are equal and (b) their corresponding sides are proportional. (Equal,
proportional)

Q(2) Give two different examples of pair of

(i) Similar figures
(ii) Non-similar figures
Sol:— (i) Two equilateral triangles with sides 1 cm and 2 cm

60o
2 cm 2 cm
60o
1 cm 1 cm

o o
60o 60o
60 60
1 cm 2 cm
Two squares with sides 1 cm and 2 cm.

2 cm

1 cm

2 cm
2 cm
1 cm 1 cm

1 cm 2 cm

(ii) Trapezium and Square

P Q A B

S R D C

Triangle and Parallelogram

A P Q

S R
B C
2
Topic : Triangles
(3) State whether the following quadrilaterals are similar or not:

Sol:— Quadrilateral PQRS and ABCD are not similar as their corresponding sides are proportional, i.e.
1:2, but their corresponding angles are not equal.

Exercise 6.2
Q(1) In figure, (i) and (ii), DE||BC. Find EC in (i) and AD in (ii).

Sol:— (i) Let EC = x cm

It is given that DE||BC.
By using basic proportionality theorem, we obtain
AD AE

DB EC
1.5 1

3 x
31
x
1.5
x2
 EC  2 cm
(ii) Let AD = x cm
It is given that DE||BC.
By using basic proportionality theorem, we obtain
AD AE

DB EC
x 1.8

7.2 EC

3
Topic : Triangles
1.8  7.2
x
5.4
 x = 2.4
 AD = 2.4 cm

Q(2) E and F are point on the sides PQ and PR respectively of a PQR, For each of the following
cases, state whether EF||QR:
(i) PE = 3.9 cm, EQ = 3 cm, PF = 3.6 cm and FR = 2.4 cm
(ii) PE = 4 cm, QE = 4.5 cm, PF = 8 cm and RF = 9 cm
(iii) PQ = 1.28 cm, PR = 2.56 cm, PE = 0.18 and PF = 0.36 cm
Sol:— (i)

P
3.6 cm
3.9 cm
F
2.4 cm
E R
3 cm

Q
Given that, PE = 3.9 cm, EQ = 3 cm, PF = 3.6 cm, FR = 2.4 cm
PE 3.9
  1.3
EQ 3
PF 3.6
  1.5
FR 2.4
PE PF
Hence, 
EQ FR
Therefore, EF is not parallel to QR.
(ii)

P
4 cm
8 cm
E
4.5 cm
Q F
9 cm

PE = 4 cm, QE = 4.5 cm, PF = 8 cm, RF = 9 cm

4
Topic : Triangles
PE 4 8
 
EQ 4.5 9
PE 8

FR 9
PE PF
Hence, 
EQ FR
Therefore, EF is parallel to QR.
(iii)

E
F
Q

PQ = 1.28 cm, PR = 2.56 cm, PE = 0.18 cm, PF = 0.36 cm.

PE 0.18 18 9
  
PQ 1.28 128 64
PF 0.36 9
 
PR 2.56 64
PE PF
Hence, 
PQ PR
Therefore, EF is parallel to QR.

5
Topic : Triangles
AM AN
Q(3) In figure, if LM||CB and LN||CD, prove that  .
AB AD

Sol:— In the given figure, LM || CB

By using basic proportionality theorem, we obtain
AM AL
 (i)
AB AC
Similarly,, LN||CD
AN AL
  (ii)
AD AC
From (i) and (ii), we obtain
AM AN

AB AD

BF BE
Q(4) In figure, DE||AC and DF||AE, prove that  .
FE EC

Sol:— In ABC,
ABC, DE||AC
BD BE
  (Basic Proportionality Theorem)) (i)
DA EC
In BAE,
BAE, DF||AE
BD BF
  (Basic Proportionality Theorem) (ii)
DA FE
From (i) and (ii), we obtain
BE BF

EC FE

6
Topic : Triangles
Q(5) In Figure, DE||OQ and DF||OR. Show that EF||QR.
Sol:— In  POQ, DE||OQ

D
E F

O
Q R

PE PD
  (Basic Proportionality theorem) (i)
EQ DO
In POR, DF||OR
PF PD
  (Basic Proportionality theorem) (ii)
FR DO
From (i) and (ii), we obtain
PE PF

EQ FR
 EF||QR (Converse of basic Proportionality theorem)

Q(6) In figure, A, B and C are points on OP, OQ and OR respectively such that AB||PQ and
AC||PR. Show that BC||QR.
Sol:—
P

B O C
Q R

In POQ, AB||PQ
OA OB
  (Basic Proportionality theorem) (i)
AP BQ
In POR, AC||PR
OA OC
  (By Basic Proportionality theorem) (ii)
AP CR
Form (i) and (ii), we obtain
7
Topic : Triangles
OB OC

BQ CR
 BC||QR (By the converse of basic proportionality theorem)

Q(7) Using Theorem 6.1, prove that a line drawn through the mid-point of one side of a
triangle parallel to another side bisects the third side. (Recall that you have proved it in
Class IX)
Sol:— Consider the given figure in which PQ is a line segment drawn through the mid-point P of line
AB, such that PQ||BC
A
By using basic proportionality theorem, we obtain
AQ AP
 
QC PB
AQ 1 P Q
  (P is the mid–point of AB,  AP = PB)
QC 1
 AQ = QC
Or, Q is the mid-point of AC. B C
Q(8) Using Theorem 6.2, prove that the line joining the mid-points of any two sides of a
triangle is parallel to the third side. (Recall that you have done it in Class IX).
Sol:— Consider the given figure in which PQ is a line segment joining the mid-points P and Q of line
AB and AC respectively.
i.e., AP = PB and AQ = QC A
It can be observed that
AP 1
 P
PB 1
AQ 1
And  B
QC 1 Q
AP AQ
 
PB QC
Hence, by using basic proportionality theorem, we obtain PQ||BC. C
Q(9) ABCD is a trapezium in which AB||DC and its diagonals intersect each other at the
AO CO
point O. show that  . Show that ABCD is a trapezium.
BO DO
Sol:— Draw a line EF though point O, such that EF||CD A B
In ADC, EO||CD
By using basic proportionality theorem, we obtain
AE AO
E F
  ..........(i) O
ED OC
In ABD, OE||AB
So, by using basic proportionality theorem, we obtain D D
ED OD

AE BO
AE BO
  ...............(ii)
ED OD

8
Topic : Triangles
Form equations (i) and (ii), we obtain
AO BO
 
OC OD
AO OC
 
BO OD

Q(10) The diagonals of a quadrilateral ABCD intersect each other at the point O such that
AO CO
 . Show that ABCD is a trapezium. A B
BO DO
Sol:— Let us consider the following figure for the given question.
Draw a line OE||AB
E
O
In ABD, OE||AB
By using basic proportionality theorem, we obtain
AE BO
  ..................(i) D C
ED OD
However, it is given that
AO OB
  ..................(ii)
OC OD
From equations (i) and (ii), we obtain
AE AO
 
ED OC
 EO||DC [by the converse of basic proportionality theorem]
 AB||OE||DC
 AB||CD
 ABCD is a trapezium.

9
Topic : Triangles
Exercise 6.3

Q(1) State which pairs of triangles in Figure

Fig are similar. Write the similarity criterion used by
you for answering the question and also write the pairs of similar triangles in the
symbolic form:
form

Sol:— (i) P = 60o

A = P
Q = 80o
B = Q
R = 40o
C = R
Therefore, ABC ~ PQR
PQR [By AAA similarity criterion]
AB BC CA
  
QR RP PQ
(ii) ABC ~ QRP
 ABC QRP [By SSS similarity criterion]
(iii) The given triangles are not similar as the corresponding sides are not proportional.
(iv) In MNL
MNL and QPR, we observe that,
MNQP = MLQR = 12

10
Topic : Triangles
Q(2) In Figure, ΔODC
ODC ~ ΔOBA,
Δ BOC = 125° and CDO = 70°. Find DOC,DCO
DCO and OAB.

Sol:— DOB is a straight line.

∴ DOC + COB COB = 180°
 DOCDOC = 180° - 125°
= 55°
In ΔDOC,
DCO + CDO CDO + DOC = 180°
(Sum of the measures of the angles of a triangle is 180º.)
 DCODCO + 70º + 55º = 180°
 DCO = 55°
It is given that ΔODC ~ ΔOBA.
∴ OAB = OCD OCD [Corresponding angles are equal in similar triangles.]
 OAB = 55°

(3) Diagonals AC and BD of a trapezium ABCD with AB||DC

DC intersect each other at the point
OA OB
O. Using a similarity criterion for two triangles, show that  .
OC OD
Sol:— In ΔDOC and ΔBOA

A B

D C
CDO = ABO
ABO [Alternate interior angles as AB || CD]
DCO = BAO
BAO [Alternate interior angles as AB || CD]
DOC = BOA
BOA [Vertically opposite angles]
∴ ΔDOC ~ ΔBOA [AAA similarity criterion]
DO OC
  [Corresponding sides are proportional]
proportional
BO OA
OA OB
 
OC OD

11
Topic : Triangles
QR QT
Q(4) In Figure,  and 1 = 2. Show that ΔPQS
Δ ~ Δ TQR.
QS PR

Sol:— In ΔPQR, PQR

PQR = PRQ
∴ PQ = PR (i)
Given,
QR QT
 
QS PR
Using (i), we obtain
QR QT
  ..............(ii)
QS QP
In PQS and TQR,
TQR,
QR QT
  [Using (ii)]
QS QP
Q = Q
 PQS ~ TQR
TQR [SAS similarity criterion]

Q(5) S and T are points on sides PR and QR of ΔPQR

Δ such that P = RTS.
RTS. Show that ΔRPQ ~
ΔRTS.
Sol:— In ΔRPQ and ΔRST,
RTS = QPS
QPS (Given)
R = R
R (Common angle)
∴ ΔRPQ ~ ΔRTS (By AA similarity criterion)
R

S
T

Q
P

12
Topic : Triangles
Q(6) In Figure, if ΔABE
ABE ≅ ΔACD, show that ΔADE ~ ΔABC.
Δ

Sol:— It is given that ΔABE ≅ ΔACD.

∴ AB = AC [By CPCT] (1)
And, AD = AE [By CPCT] (2)
In ΔADE and ΔABC,
AD AE
  [Dividing equation (2) by (1)]
AB AC
∠A = ∠A
A [Common angle]
∴ ΔADE ~ ΔABC [By SAS similarity criterion]

Q(7) In Figure,
ure, altitudes AD and CE of ΔABC
Δ intersect each other at the point P. Show that:
(i) Δ AEP ~ Δ CDP
(ii) Δ ABD ~ Δ CBE
(iii) Δ AEP ~ Δ ADB
(iv) Δ PDC ~ Δ BEC
Sol:— (i) In ΔAEP and ΔCDP,
AEP = CDP
 (Each 90°)
APE = CPD
CPD (Vertically opposite angles)
Hence, by using AA similarity criterion,
ΔAEP ~ ΔCDP
(ii) In ΔABD and ΔCBE,
ADB = CEB (Each 90°)
ADB
ABD = CBE (Common)
ABD
Hence, by using AA similarity criterion,
ΔABD ~ ΔCBE
(iii) In ΔAEP and ΔADB,
AEP = ADB
 (Each 90°)
PAE = DAB
 (Common)
Hence, by using AA similarity criterion,
ΔAEP ~ ΔADB
(iv) In ΔPDC and ΔBEC,
PDC = BEC (Each 90°)
PDC
PCD = BCE (Common angle)
PCD
Hence, by using AA similarity criterion,
ΔPDC ~ ΔBEC

13
Topic : Triangles
Q(8) E is a point on the side AD produced of a parallelogram ABCD and BE intersects CD at F.
Show that ΔABE ~ Δ CFB.
Sol:— In ΔABE and ΔCFB,
A = C C (Opposite angles of a parallelogram)
AEB = CBFCBF (Alternate interior angles as AE || BC)
∴ ΔABE ~ ΔCFB (By AA similarity criterion)

A B

D C
F
E

Q(9) In Figure, ABC andAMP are two right triangles, right angled at B and M respectively.
Prove that:
(i) ΔABC ~ ΔAMP
CA BC
(ii) 
PA MP

Sol:— In ΔABC and ΔAMP,

ABC = AMP
AMP (Each 90°)
A = A
A (Common)
∴ ΔABC ~ ΔAMP (By AA similarity criterion)
CA BC
  [Corresponding
[Corresponding sides of similar triangles are proportional]
proportional
PA MP

Q(10) CD and GH are respectively the bisectors of ∠ ACB and∠ EGF such that D and H lie on sides
CD AC
AB and FE of ΔABC and Δ EFG respectively. If ΔABC ~ Δ FEG, show that: (i) 
GH FG
(ii) Δ DCB ~ ΔHGE
(iii) Δ DCA ~ Δ HGF F
Sol:— It is given that ΔABC ~ ΔFEG.
∴ A = F, B B = E, and ACB = FGE
A
ACB = FGE H
∴ ACD = FGH FGH (Angle bisector) D
And, DCB = HGE HGE (Angle bisector)
In ΔACD and ΔFGH,
B C E G
A = F F (Proved above)
ACD = FGH FGH (Proved above)
∴ ΔACD ~ ΔFGH (By AA similarity criterion)

14
Topic : Triangles
CD AC
 
GH FG
In ΔDCB and ΔHGE,
DCB = HGE
HGE (Proved above)
B = E
E (Proved above)
∴ ΔDCB ~ΔHGE
ΔHGE (By AA similarity criterion)
In ΔDCA and ΔHGF,
ACD = FGH
FGH (Proved above)
A = F
F (Proved above)
∴ ΔDCA ~ΔHGF
ΔHGF (By AA similarity criterion)

Q(11) In Figure,, E is a point on side CB produced of an isosceles triangle ABC with AB = AC.
If AD  BC and EF  AC, prove that ΔABD ~ Δ ECF.

Sol:— It is given that ABC is an isosceles triangle.

∴ AB = AC
 ABD = ECF ECF
In ΔABD and ΔECF,
ADB = EFCEFC (Each 90°)
BAD = CEFCEF (Proved above)
∴ ΔABD ~ ΔECF (By using AA similarity criterion)

Q(12) Sides AB and BC and median AD of a triangle ABC are respectively proportional to sides
PQ and QR and median PM of Δ PQR (see Figure).
Fig Show that ΔABC ~ Δ PQR.

Sol:— Median divides the opposite side.

BC QR
 BD  and QM 
2 2
Given that,

15
Topic : Triangles
AB BC AD
 
PQ QR PM
1
AB 2 BC AD
  
PQ 1 QR PM
2
AB BD AD
  
PQ QM PM
In ABD and PQM,
AB BD AD
  [Proved above]
PQ QM PM
 ABD ~ PQM [By SSS similarity criterion]
  ABD = PQM (Corresponding angles of similar triangles)
In ABC and PQR,
ABD = PQM (Proved above)
AB BC
 
PQ QR
 ABC ~ PQR (By SAS similarity criterion)

Q(13) D is a point on the side BC of a triangle ABC such that ∠ ADC = ∠ BAC. Show that CA2 =
CB.CD.
Sol:— In ΔADC and ΔBAC,
ADC = BAC (Given)
ACD = BCA (Common angle)
∴ ΔADC ~ ΔBAC (By AA similarity criterion)
We know that corresponding sides of similar triangles are in proportion.
CA CD
 
CB CA
 CA  CB  CD
2
A

B C
D

16
Topic : Triangles
Q(14) Sides AB and AC and median AD of a triangle ABC are respectively proportional to sides
PQ and PR and median PM of another triangle PQR. Show that Δ ABC ~ Δ PQR.
Sol:— Given that
AB AC AD
 
PQ PR PM
Let us extend AD and PM up to point E and L respectively, such that AD = DE and PM = ML. Then,
join B to E, C to E, Q to L, and R to L.

P
A

C M R
D
B Q
Q

E
L
We know that medians divide opposite sides.
Therefore, BD = DC and QM = MR
Also, AD = DE (By construction)
And, PM = ML (By construction)
In quadrilateral ABEC, diagonals AE and BC bisect each other at point D.
Therefore, quadrilateral ABEC is a parallelogram.
∴ AC = BE and AB = EC (Opposite sides of a parallelogram are equal)
Similarly, we can prove that quadrilateral PQLR is a parallelogram and PR = QL, PQ = LR
It was given that
AB AC AD
  
PQ PR PM
AB BE 2AD
  
PQ QL 2PM
AB BE AE
  
PQ QL PL
∴ ΔABE ~ ΔPQL (By SSS similarity criterion)
We know that corresponding angles of similar triangles are equal.
∴ BAE = QPL … (1)
Similarly, it can be proved that ΔAEC ~ ΔPLR and
CAE = RPL … (2)
Adding equation (1) and (2), we obtain
BAE + CAE = QPL + RPL
CAB = RPQ … (3)
In ΔABC and ΔPQR,

17
Topic : Triangles
AB AC
  (given)
PQ PR
∠CAB = ∠RPQ [Using equation (3)]
∴ ΔABC ~ ΔPQR (By SAS similarity criterion)

Q(15) A vertical pole of length 6 m casts a shadow 4 m long on the ground and at the same time
a tower casts a shadow 28 m long. Find the height of the tower.
Sol:— Let AB and CD be a tower and a pole respectively.
Let the shadow of BE and DF be the shadow of AB and CD respectively.
At the same time, the light rays from the sun will fall on the tower and the pole at the same
angle.
Therefore, DCF = BAE
And, DFC = BEA
CDF = ABE (Tower and pole are vertical to the ground)
∴ ΔABE ~ ΔCDF (AAA similarity criterion)
AB BE
 
CD DF
AB 28
 
6m 4
 AB = 42 m
Therefore, the height of the tower will be 42 metres.

Q(16) If AD and PM are medians of triangles ABC and PQR, respectively where Δ ABC ~ Δ PQR,
AB AD
prove that  .
PQ PM
Sol:— It is given that ΔABC ~ ΔPQR
P
A

B C Q R
D M
We know that the corresponding sides of similar triangles are in proportion.
AB AC BC
   … (1)
PQ PR QR
Also, A = P, B = Q, C = R … (2)
Since AD and PM are medians, they will divide their opposite sides.
BC QR
 BD  and QM  … (3)
2 2
From equations (1) and (3), we obtain
AB BD
 … (4)
PQ QM
In ΔABD and ΔPQM,
B = Q [Using equation (2)]
18
Topic : Triangles
AB BD
 [Using equation (4)]
PQ QM
 ABD ~ PQM (By SAS similarity criterion)
AB BD AD
  
PQ QM PM
Exercise 6.4
Q(1) Let Δ ABC ~ Δ DEF and their areas be, respectively, 64 cm2 and 121 cm2. If EF = 15.4 cm, find
BC.
Sol:— It is given that ABC ~ DEF,
2 2 2
ar(ABC)  AB   BC   AC 
      
ar(DEF)  DE   EF   DF 
Given that,
EF = 15.4 cm,
 ar(ABC) = 64 cm2,
 ar(DEF) = 121 cm2,
2
ar(ABC)  BC 
  
ar(DEF)  EF 
 64 cm2  BC 2
 2 

 121 cm  (15.4 cm)
2

BC  8 
    cm
15.4  11 
 8  15.4 
 BC    cm   8  1.4  cm  11.2cm
 11 

Q(2) Diagonals of a trapezium ABCD with AB||DC intersect each other at the point O. If AB = 2
CD, find the ratio of the areas of triangles AOB and COD.
Sol:— Since AB || CD,

A B

D C
 OAB = OCD and OBA = ODC (Alternate interior angles)
In ΔAOB and ΔCOD,
AOB = COD (Vertically opposite angles)
OAB = OCD (Alternate interior angles)
OBA = ODC (Alternate interior angles)
∴ ΔAOB ~ ΔCOD (By AAA similarity criterion)

19
Topic : Triangles
2
ar(AOB)  AB 
  
ar(COD)  CD 
Since AB = 2 CD,
2
ar(AOB)  2CD  4
     4:1
ar(COD)  CD  1

Q(3) In Figure,, ABC and DBC are two triangles on the same base BC. If AD intersects BC at O,
show that
ar(ABC) AO

ar(DBC) DO

Sol:— Let us draw two perpendiculars AP and DM on line BC.

1
We know that area of a triangle =  Base  Height
2
1
ar(ABC) 2 BC  AP AP
  
ar(DBC) 1 BC  DM DM
2
A B
M
O

D C
In ΔAPO and ΔDMO,
APO = DMO
DMO (Each = 90°)
AOP = DOM
DOM (Vertically opposite angles)
∴ ΔAPO ~ ΔDMO (By AA similarity criterion)
AP AO

DM DO
ar(ABC) AO
 
ar(DBC) DO

20
Topic : Triangles
Q(4) If the areas of two similar triangles are equal, prove that they are congruent.
Sol:— Let us assume two similar triangles as ΔABC ~ ΔPQR.
2 2 2
ar(ABC)  AB   BC   AC 
       ..........(i)
ar(PQR)  PQ   QR   PR 
Given that , ar (ABC) = ar(PQR)
ar(ABC)
 1
ar(PQR)
Putting this value in equation (i), we obtain
2 2 2
 AB   BC   AC 
1      
 PQ   QR   PR 
 AB = PQ, BC = QR, and AC = PR
 ABC  PQR (By SSS congruence criterion)

Q(5) D, E and F are respectively the midpoints of sides AB, BC and CA of Δ ABC. Find the ratio of
the areas of Δ DEF and Δ ABC.
Sol:— D and E are the mid-points of ΔABC.
1 A
DE||AC and DE = AC
2
In BED and BCA,
BED = BCA (Corresponding angles)
BDE = BAC (Corresponding angles)
EBD = CBA (Common angles) D F
 BED ~ BCA (AAA similarity criterion)
2
ar(BED)  DE 
  
ar(BCA)  AC 
ar(BED) 1 B C
 
ar(BCA) 4 E
1
 ar(BED)  ar(BCA)
4
1 1
Similarity, ar(CFE)  ar(CBA) and ar(ADF)  ar(ABC)
4 4
Also, ar(DEF)  ar(ABC)  [ar(BED)  ar(CFE)  ar(ADF)]
3 1
 ar(DEF)  ar(ABC)  ar(ABC)  ar(ABC)
4 4
ar(DEF) 1
 
ar(ABC) 4

21
Topic : Triangles
Q(6) Prove that the ratio of the areas of two similar triangles is equal to the square of the ratio
of their corresponding medians.
Sol:— Let us assume two similar triangles as ΔABC ~ ΔPQR.
Let AD and PS be the medians of these triangles.
ΔABC ~ ΔPQR
AB BC AC P
   ..........(i)
PQ QR PR A
A = P, B = Q, C = R ............. (ii)
Since AD and PS are medians,
BC
BD = DC = C R
2
QR D
And, QS = DC = B S
2 Q
Equation (i) Becomes
AB BD AC
  ...........(iii)
PQ QS PR
In ABD and PQS,
B = Q [Using equation (ii)]
AB BD
And,  [Using equation (iii)]
PQ QS
 ΔABD ~ ΔPQS (SAS similarity criterion)
Therefore, it can be said that
AB BD AD
  ...........(iv)
PQ QS PS
2 2 2
ar(ABC)  AB   BC   AC 
     
ar(PQR)  PQ   QR   PR 
From equations (1) and (4), we may find that
AB BC AC AD
  
PQ QR PR PS
And hence,
2
ar(ABC)  AD 
 
ar(PQR)  PS 

22
Topic : Triangles
Q(7) Prove that the area of an equilateral triangle described on one side of a square is equal to
half the area of the equilateral triangle described on one of its diagonals.
Sol:— Let ABCD be a square of side a.
E

A B

D
C
F

Therefore, its diagonal = 2a

Two desired equilateral triangles are formed as ΔABE and ΔDBF.
Side of an equilateral triangle, ΔABE, described on one of its sides = a
Side of an equilateral triangle, ΔDBF, described on one of its diagonals = 2a
We know that equilateral triangles have all its angles as 60 º and all its sides of the same length.
Therefore, all equilateral triangles are similar to each other. Hence, the ratio between the areas
of these triangles will be equal to the square of the ratio between the sides of these triangles.
2
Area of ABE  a  1
  
Area of DBF  2a  2
Tick the correct answer and justify:
Q(8) ABC and BDE are two equilateral triangles such that D is the mid-point of BC. Ratio of the
areas of triangles ABC and BDE is
(A) 2 : 1
(B) 1 : 2
(C) 4 : 1
(D) 1 : 4
Sol:— We know that equilateral triangles have all its angles as 60 º and all its sides of the same length.
Therefore, all equilateral triangles are similar to each other. Hence, the ratio between the areas
of these triangles will be equal to the square of the ratio between the sides of these triangles.
Let side of ΔABC = x
A

60o

E
60o

60o 60o 60o

B C
D
23
Topic : Triangles
x
Therefore, side of BDE 
2
2
 
area(ABC)  x  4
   
x
area(BDE)   1
2
Hence, the correct answer is (C).

Q(9) Sides of two similar triangles are in the ratio 4 : 9. Areas of these triangles are in the ratio
(A) 2 : 3
(B) 4 : 9
(C) 81 : 16
(D) 16 : 81
Sol:— If two triangles are similar to each other, then the ratio of the areas of these triangles will be
equal to the square of the ratio of the corresponding sides of these triangles.
It is given that the sides are in the ratio 4:9.
2
4 16
Therefore, ratio between areas of these triangles =   
9 81
Hence, the correct answer is (D).

24
Topic : Triangles
Exercise 6.5
Q(1) Sides of triangles are given below. Determine which of them right triangles are. In case of
a right triangle, write the length of its hypotenuse.
(i) 7 cm, 24 cm, 25 cm
(ii) 3 cm, 8 cm, 6 cm
(iii) 50 cm, 80 cm, 100 cm
(iv) 13 cm, 12 cm, 5 cm
Sol:— (i) It is given that the sides of the triangle are 7 cm, 24 cm, and 25 cm.
Squaring the lengths of these sides, we will obtain 49, 576, and 625.
49 + 576 = 625
Or, 7  24  25
2 2 2

The sides of the given triangle are satisfying Pythagoras theorem.

Therefore, it is a right triangle.
We know that the longest side of a right triangle is the hypotenuse.
Therefore, the length of the hypotenuse of this triangle is 25 cm.
(ii) It is given that the sides of the triangle are 3 cm, 8 cm, and 6 cm.
Squaring the lengths of these sides, we will obtain 9, 64, and 36.
However, 9 + 36 ≠ 64
Or, 32 + 62 ≠ 82
Clearly, the sum of the squares of the lengths of two sides is not equal to the square of
the length of the third side.
Therefore, the given triangle is not satisfying Pythagoras theorem.
Hence, it is not a right triangle.
(iii) Given that sides are 50 cm, 80 cm, and 100 cm.
Squaring the lengths of these sides, we will obtain 2500, 6400, and 10000.
However, 2500 + 6400 ≠ 10000
Or, 502 + 802 ≠ 1002
Clearly, the sum of the squares of the lengths of two sides is not equal to the square of
the length of the third side.
Therefore, the given triangle is not satisfying Pythagoras theorem.
Hence, it is not a right triangle.
(iv) Given that sides are 13 cm, 12 cm, and 5 cm.
Squaring the lengths of these sides, we will obtain 169, 144, and 25.
Clearly, 144 +25 = 169
Or, 12  5  13
2 2 2

The sides of the given triangle are satisfying Pythagoras theorem.

Therefore, it is a right triangle.
We know that the longest side of a right triangle is the hypotenuse.
Therefore, the length of the hypotenuse of this triangle is 13 cm.

25
Topic : Triangles
Q(2) PQR is a triangle right angled at P and M is a point on QR such that PM ⊥ QR. Show that
PM2= QM.MR.
Sol:— Let MPR = x
In MPR, Q
MRP = 180o – 90o – x
MRP = 90o – x
Similarity, in MPQ,
MPQ,
o
MPQ = 90 – MPR M
o
 90 – x
MQP = 180o – 90o – (90o – x)
MQP = x
In QMP and PMR,PMR, P R
MPQ = MRP
PMQ = RMP
MQP = MPR
 QMP ~ PMR PMR (By AAA Similarity criterion)
QM MP
 
PM MR
 PM2  QM  MR

Q(3) In Figure,, ABD is a triangle right angled at A and AC ⊥ BD. Show that
(i) AB2 = BC.BD
.BD
(ii) AC2 = BC.DC
(iii) AD2 = BD.CD

Sol:—

Q(4) ABC is an isosceles triangle right angled at C. Prove that AB2 = 2AC2.
Sol:— Given that ABC
ABC is an isosceles triangle.
 AC = CB
Applying Pythagoras theorem in ABC ABC (i.e. right-angled
right angled at point C), we obtain
2 2 2
 AC + AC = AB (AC = CB)
 2AC2 = AB2

26
Topic : Triangles
Q(5) ABC is an isosceles triangle with AC = BC. If AB2 = 2AC2, prove that ABC is a right triangle.
Sol:— Given that,
AB2 = 2AC2 A

B
 AB2 = AC2 + AC2
 AB2 = AC2 + BC2 (As AC = BC)
The triangle is satisfying the Pythagoras theorem.
Therefore, the given triangle is a right-angled triangle.

Q(6) ABC is an equilateral triangle of side 2a. Find each of its altitudes.
Sol:— Let AD be the altitude in the given equilateral triangle, ABC.
We know that altitude bisects the opposite side.
 BD = DC = a

B C
D
In ADB,
ADB = 90o
Applying Pythagoras theorem, we obtain
 AD2 + DB2 = AB2
 AD2 + a2 = (2a)2
 AD2 + a2 = 4a2
 AD2 = 3a2
 AD = a 3
In an equilateral triangles, all the altitudes are equal in length.
Therefore, the length of each altitude will be 3a .

27
Topic : Triangles
Q(7) Prove that the sum of the squares of the sides of a rhombus is equal to the sum of the
squares of its diagonals.
Sol:— In ΔAOB, ΔBOC, ΔCOD, ΔAOD, Applying Pythagoras theorem, we obtain:
obtain
A B

D C
 AB2 = AO2 + OB2 .................(i)
 BC2 = BO2 + OC2 .................(ii)
 CD2 = CO2 + OD2 ..................(iii)
 AD2 = AO2 + OD2 ..................(iv)
Adding all these equations, we obtain
 AB2 + BC2 + CD2 + AD2 = 2(AO2 + OB2 + OC2 + OD2)
  AC 2  BD  2  AC 2  BD  2 
 2          (Diagonals bisect each other)
  2   2   2   2  
  AC 2 BD 2 
 2  
 2 2 

2
 (AC)2  BD 

Q(8) In Figure,, O is a point in the interior of a triangle ABC, ODBC, OEAC

AC and OFAB.
OF Show
that
(i) OA2 + OB2 + OC2 – OD2 – OE2 – OF2 = AF2 + BD2 + CE2,
(ii) AF2 + BD2+ CE2 = AE2 + CD2 + BF2.

Sol:— Join OA, OB, and OC.

(i) Applying Pythagoras theorem in ΔAOF, we obtain
OA2 = OF2 + AF2
Similarly, in ΔBOD,
OB2 = OD2 + BD2
Similarly, in ΔCOE,
OC2 = OE2 + EC2
Adding these equations,
OA2 + OB2 + OC2 = OF2 + AF2 + OD2 + BD2 + OE2 + EC2

28
Topic : Triangles
OA2 + OB2 + OC2 – OD2 – OE2 – OF2 = AF2 + BD2 + EC2
(ii) From the above result,
AF2 + BD2 + EC2 = (OA2 – OE2) + (OC2 – OD2) + (OB2 – OF2)
 AF2 + BD2 + EC2 = AE2 + CD2 + BF2

Q(9) A ladder 10 m long reaches a window 8 m above the ground. Find the distance of the foot
of the ladder from base of the wall.
A
Sol:— Let OA be the wall and AB be the ladder.
AB2 = OA2 + BO2
(10 m)2 = (8 m)2 + OB2 8m
10 m
2 2 2
100 m = 64 m + OB
OB2 = 36 m2
O B
OB = 6 m
Therefore, the distance of the foot of the ladder from the base of the wall is 6m.

Q(10) A guy wire attached to a vertical pole of height 18 m is 24 m long and has a stake attached
to the other end. How far from the base of the pole should the stake be driven so that the
wire will be taut?
Sol:— Let OB be the pole and AB be the wire. B
By Pythagoras theorem,
 AB2 = OB2 + OA2 24 m
 (24 m)2 = (18 m)2 + OA2 18 m
 OA2 = (576 – 324) m2 = 252 m2
 OA = 252 m  6  6  7 m  6 7 m O A
Therefore, the distance from the base is 6 7 m . Stack

Q(11) An aeroplane leaves an airport and flies due north at a speed of 1000 km per hour. At the
same time, another aeroplane leaves the same airport and flies due west at a speed of
1
1200 km per hour. How far apart will be the two planes after 1 hours?
2
1 1
Sol:— Distance travelled by the plane flying towards north in 1 hrs  1,000  1  1,500 km
2 2
N

1500 km

W B E

1800 km

1 1
Similarly, distance travelled by the plane flying towards west in 1 hrs  1,200  1  1,800 km
2 2
Let these distances be represented by OA and OB respectively.
Applying Pythagoras theorem,

29
Topic : Triangles
1
Distance between these planes after 1 hrs , AB  OA 2  OB2
2
  
 1,500 2   1,800 2 km   2250000  3240000  km
  5490000 km   9  610000 km  300 61 km

1
Therefore, the distance between these planes will be 300 61 km after 1 hrs .
2
Q(12) Two poles of heights 6 m and 11 m stand on a plane ground. If the distance between the
feet of the poles is 12 m, find the distance between their tops.
Sol:— Distance travelled C

A P
11 m

6m

D
B
12 m

Let CD and AB be the poles of height 11 m and 6 m.

Therefore, CP = 11 – 6 = 5 m
From the figure, it can be observed that AP = 12 m
Applying Pythagoras theorem for APC, we obtain
AP2 + PC2 = AC2
 (12 m)2 + (5 m)2 = AC2
 AC2 = (144 + 25) m2 = 169 m2.
 AC = 13 m
Therefore, the distance between their tops is 13 m.

Q(13) D and E are points on the sides CA and CB respectively of a triangle ABC right angled at C.
Prove that AE2 + BD2 = AB2 + DE2.
Sol:— Applying Pythagoras theorem in ΔACE, we obtain

C B
2 2 2 E
AC + CE = AE ..................(i)
Applying Pythagoras theorem in BCD, we obtain
BC2 + CD2 = BD2 ...................(ii)
Using equation (i) and equation (ii), we obtain

30
Topic : Triangles
AC2 + CE2 + BC2 + CD2 = AE2 + BD2 ..................(iii)
Applying Pythagoras theorem in CDE, CDE, we obtain
DE2 = CD2 + CE2
Applying Pythagoras theorem in ABC, ABC, we obtain
2 2 2
AB = AC + CE
Putting the values in equation (iii), we obtain
DE2 + AB2 = AE2 + BD2

Q(14) The perpendicular from A on side BC of a Δ ABC intersects BC at D such that DB = 3CD
(see Figure).
Prove that 2AB2 = 2AC2 + BC2.

Sol:— Applying Pythagoras theorem for ΔACD, we obtain

 AC2 = AD2 + DC2
 AD2 = AC2 – DC2 ................(i)
Applying Pythagoras theorem in ΔABD, we obtain
 AB2 = AD2 + DB2
 AD2 = AB2 – DB2 .................(ii)
From equation (i) and equation (ii), we obtain
 AC2 – DC2 = AB2 – DB2 ................(iii)
It is given that 3DC = DB
BC 3BC
 DC  and DB 
4 4
Putting these values in equation (iii), we obtain
2 2
 BC   3BC 
 AC2     AB  
2

 4   4 
BC2 9BC2
 AC2   AB2 
16 16
 16AC2 – BC2 = 16 AB2 – 9BC2
 16AB2 – 16AC2 = 8BC2
 2AB2 = 2AC2 + BC2

31
Topic : Triangles
1
Q(15) In an equilateral triangle ABC, D is a point on side BC such that BD = BC. Prove that
3
9AD2 = 7AB2.
Sol:— Let the side of the equilateral triangle be a, and AE be the altitude of ΔABC.

BC a
BE = EC= 
2 2 A
a 3
And, AE =
2
1
Given that, BD = BC
3
a
BD =
3
a a a
DE  BE  BD    B C
2 3 6 D E
Applying Pythagoras theorem in ADE, we obtain
AD2 = AE2 + DE2
 a 3   a
AD2    
 2  6
 3a2   a2 
  
 4   36 
28a2

36
7
 AB2
9
 9AD2  7AB2

Q(16) In an equilateral triangle, prove that three times the square of one side is equal to four
times the square of one of its altitudes.
Sol:— Let the side of the equilateral triangle be a, and AE be the altitude of ABC.
BC a
 BE  EC  
2 2
Applying Pythagoras theorem in ABE, we obtain A
AB2 = AE2 + BE2
2
 a
 a2  AE2   
2
a2
 AE  a 
2 2

4 B C
3a 2
E
 AE2 
4
 4AE2 = 3a2
 4 × (Square of altitude) = 3 × (Square of one side)

32
Topic : Triangles
Q(17) Tick the correct answer and justify : In ΔABC, AB = 6 3 cm, AC = 12 cm and BC = 6 cm. The
angle B is :
(A) 120° B
(B) 60°
(C) 90°
(D) 45 6 cm 6 3 cm
Sol:— Given that, AB = cm, AC = 12 cm, and BC = 6 cm
It can be observed that C A
AB2 = 108 12 cm
AC2 = 144
And, BC2 = 36
AB2 +BC2 = AC2
The given triangle, ΔABC, is satisfying Pythagoras theorem.
Therefore, the triangle is a right triangle, right-angled at B.
 ∠B = 90°

33