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°

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion