how do you do this proof?
prove that the segment joining the midpoints of the diagonals of a trapezoid is parallel to the bases and has a length equal to half the difference of the lengths of the bases.
help please!
2007-12-03 13:13:57 · 3 answers · asked by Ari L 2 in Education & Reference ➔ Homework Help
Sketch one on a graph, and make one vertex be at (0,0), a second at arbitrary point (2x,0) then the top two (which will have the same y-coordinates) at (2a, 2y) and (2b, 2y)
Then use the midpoint formula to get those (which is why you put the 2s in front of the variables, to avoid fractions)
And use slope to show parallel, and distance formula to show that
2007-12-03 13:19:10 · answer #1 · answered by hayharbr 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Extend the short base and erect altitudes through the midpoints of the slopes. The triangles thus formed on each side are congruent by SAA. Therefore the midpoints of the slopes bisect the altitudes, and the line connecting them is parallel to both bases.
2007-12-03 21:59:40 · answer #2 · answered by Helmut 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
u draw a picture first....i once did a proof like this
2007-12-03 21:23:37 · answer #3 · answered by colo 1 · 0⤊ 1⤋