SOLUTION: In the ΔABC, AB = 16 in, BC = 9 in, AC = 10 in. AD ⊥ to the extended BC. Find CD.

Algebra ->  Triangles -> SOLUTION: In the ΔABC, AB = 16 in, BC = 9 in, AC = 10 in. AD ⊥ to the extended BC. Find CD.       Log On


   

Question 1116028: In the ΔABC, AB = 16 in, BC = 9 in, AC = 10 in. AD ⊥ to the extended BC. Find CD.
Answer by greenestamps(13209) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!


(1) Draw the figure; make sure angle C is obtuse....

(2) There are two right triangles -- ADC and ADB.

(3) Let CD=x and AD=y; use the Pythagorean Theorem to form two equations in x and y.

(4) Solve the pair of equations. The x^2 and y^2 terms cancel, leaving you with a linear equation in x which is easily solved to find the answer.