Angle bisector theorem
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Introduction & Formulas
The Angle bisector theorem states that given triangle and angle bisector AD, where D is on side BC, then . It follows that . Likewise, the converse of this theorem holds as well.
Further by combining with Stewart's theorem it can be shown that
Proof
By the Law of Sines on and ,
First, because is an angle bisector, we know that and thus , so the denominators are equal.
Second, we observe that and . Therefore, , so the numerators are equal.
It then follows that
Examples & Problems
- Let ABC be a triangle with angle bisector AD with D on line segment BC. If and , find AB and AC.
Solution: By the angle bisector theorem, or . Plugging this into and solving for AC gives . We can plug this back in to find . - In triangle ABC, let P be a point on BC and let . Find the value of .
Solution: First, we notice that . Thus, AP is the angle bisector of angle A, making our answer 0. - Part (b), 1959 IMO Problems/Problem 5.