Inscribing in Circle a Triangle Equiangular with Given
Contents |
Theorem
In a given circle, it is possible to inscribe a triangle which is equiangular to a given triangle.
Construction
Let $ABC$ be the given circle and let $\triangle DEF$ be the given triangle.
Let $GH$ be drawn tangent to $ABC$ at $A$.
On the straight line $AH$ construct $\angle HAC$ equal to $\angle DEF$.
On the straight line $AG$ construct $\angle GAB$ equal to $\angle DFE$.
Join $BC$.
Then $\triangle ABC$ is the given triangle.
Proof
We have that $AH$ touches the circle $ABC$, and $AC$ is a chord of circle $ABC$.
Then from Angles made by Chord with Tangent $\angle HAC = \angle ABC$.
But $\angle HAC = \angle DEF$.
Similarly, we have that $AG$ touches the circle $ABC$, and $AB$ is a chord of circle $ABC$.
Then from Angles made by Chord with Tangent $\angle GAB = \angle ACB$.
But $\angle GAB = \angle DFE$.
So from Sum of Angles of Triangle Equals Two Right Angles it follows that the remaining angles are equal also: $\angle BAC = \angle EDF$.
Hence the result.
$\blacksquare$
Historical Note
This is Proposition 2 of Book IV of Euclid's The Elements.