Triangle ABC with side lengths AB = 3 cm, AC = 5 cm, BC = 6 cm. If AD is the internal angle bisector of ∠A meeting BC at D, find BD.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 2.25 cm

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The Angle Bisector Theorem relates the division of the opposite side to the adjacent sides. It is frequently used to split a side into two segments proportional to the neighbouring side lengths.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • |AB| = 3 cm, |AC| = 5 cm, |BC| = 6 cm.
  • AD bisects ∠A internally, meeting BC at D.


Concept / Approach:
Angle Bisector Theorem: BD/DC = AB/AC. Also BD + DC = BC. Solve the proportion to find BD explicitly.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Let BD = x, then DC = 6 − x.x / (6 − x) = AB/AC = 3/5.Cross-multiply: 5x = 18 − 3x ⇒ 8x = 18 ⇒ x = 18/8 = 2.25 cm.



Verification / Alternative check:
Check ratio: BD:DC = 2.25 : 3.75 = 3 : 5 (correct).



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
2, 2.5, and 3 cm do not maintain BD/DC = 3/5 with BC fixed at 6 cm.



Common Pitfalls:
Using AB/AC = BD/BC by mistake; the theorem relates BD/DC, not BD/BC.



Final Answer:
2.25 cm

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