One angle in a triangle is 90°.
The ratio between the other two angles is 2:1.
What are the sizes of the other angles in the triangle?
We have hundreds of course questions with personalized recommendations + Account 100% premium
One angle in a triangle is 90°.
The ratio between the other two angles is 2:1.
What are the sizes of the other angles in the triangle?
To solve this problem, let's follow these steps:
Now, let's work through each step.
Step 1: Given a right triangle, one angle is , and the other two angles are in the ratio 2:1.
Step 2: Express the other two angles in terms of :
- One angle is .
- The second angle is .
Step 3: Use the sum of angles in a triangle to write an equation:
.
Step 4: Simplify and solve the equation:
Combine like terms:
.
Subtract from both sides:
.
Divide both sides by 3:
.
Now we can find the measures of the other angles:
The angle expressed as is .
The angle expressed as is .
Therefore, the solution is that the other two angles are and .
60°, 30°
Find the measure of the angle \( \alpha \)
The problem states that the ratio between the other two angles is 2:1. This means only the two non-90° angles have this relationship, not all three angles together.
It doesn't matter for solving! Whether you call them 2x and x or x and 2x, you'll get the same two angle measures: 60° and 30°. The larger angle (60°) corresponds to the "2" part of the ratio.
With ratio problems in triangles, you'll usually get nice whole number answers. If you get decimals, double-check your setup equation and arithmetic - there might be an error.
Yes! Since the angles are in ratio 2:1, you can think: 2 parts + 1 part = 3 total parts. The remaining 90° ÷ 3 = 30° per part, so the angles are 60° and 30°.
Yes! The 30-60-90 triangle (which this problem creates) and the 45-45-90 triangle are the two most common special right triangles you'll encounter.
Get unlimited access to all 18 Angles questions, detailed video solutions, and personalized progress tracking.
Unlimited Video Solutions
Step-by-step explanations for every problem
Progress Analytics
Track your mastery across all topics
Ad-Free Learning
Focus on math without distractions
No credit card required • Cancel anytime