In △ABC, if A − B = 15° and B − C = 30°, find the measure of ∠A.

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: 80°

Explanation:

Introduction / Context:Angles in a triangle relate via differences given. Convert them to expressions in one variable, then apply A + B + C = 180° to solve.

Given Data / Assumptions:

  • A − B = 15° ⇒ A = B + 15°.
  • B − C = 30° ⇒ C = B − 30°.
  • A + B + C = 180°.

Concept / Approach:Substitute the expressions for A and C into the sum of angles and solve for B, then get A.

Step-by-Step Solution:

(B + 15°) + B + (B − 30°) = 180°3B − 15° = 180°3B = 195° ⇒ B = 65°A = B + 15° = 80°

Verification / Alternative check:C = B − 30° = 35°. Check sum: 80° + 65° + 35° = 180° ✓, and differences match the givens.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:75°, 85°, 65° are values of other angles or near-misses; only 80° satisfies all constraints for A.

Common Pitfalls:Sign errors when expressing C, or forgetting to add all three angles to 180° in the final step.

Final Answer:80°

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