If ∠ A and ∠ B are acute angles such that Cos A = Cos B, then show that ∠ A = ∠ B
Let us consider a triangle ABC in which CD ⊥ AB
It is given that
Cos A = Cos B
In Δ ADC, cos A = AD/AC
In Δ ADB, cos B = BD/BC
⇒ AD/AC = BD/BC ..(i)
We have to prove ∠A = ∠B. To prove this, let us extend AC to P such that BC = CP, as shown below:
Now, From equation (i), we obtain
⇒ AD/AC = BD/BC .
Rewriting we get, (BC = CP)
⇒ AD/AC = BD/CP ..(i)
Now, if we join, B and P to get BP, as shown, below:
Then, by using the converse of Basic proportionality theorem we get,
Now, CD||BP
⇒ ∠ACD = ∠CPB (Corresponding angles) ..(iii)
⇒ ∠BCD = ∠CBP (Alternate interior angles) ...(iv)
And, by construction, we have BC = CP
∠CBP = ∠CPB (Angle opposite to equal sides of a triangle) ...(v)
From equations (iii), (iv), and (v), we obtain
∠ACD = ∠BCD ..Eq. (vi)
Now, In ΔCAD and ΔCBD,
∠ACD = ∠BCD [Using equation equation (vi)]
∠CDA = ∠CDB (Both 90°)
Therefore, the remaining angles should be equal
⇒ ∠CAD = ∠CBD
⇒ ∠A = ∠B