In a ∆PQR, N is a point on PR, such that QN ⊥ PR. If PN.NR = QN2, then prove that ∠PQR = 90°.
Given,
In ∆PQR,
N is a point on PR, such that QN ⊥ PR
And PN.NR = QN2
We have,
PN.NR = QN2
⇒ PN.NR = QN.QN
And
∠PNQ = ∠RNQ (common angle)
∴ ∆QNP ∼ ∆RNQ
Then, ∆QNP and ∆RNQ are equiangular.
∠PQN + ∠RQN = ∠QRN + ∠QPN
⇒ ∠PQR = ∠QRN + ∠QPN …..(ii)
We know that, sum of angles of a triangle = 180°
In ∆PQR,
∠PQR + ∠QPR + ∠QRP = 180°
⇒∠PQR + ∠QPN + ∠QRN = 180°
[∵ ∠QPR = ∠QPN and ∠QRP = ∠QRN]
⇒∠PQR + ∠PQR = 180°
⇒ 2∠PQR = 180°
[using Equation (ii)]
⇒ ∠PQR = 180°/2 = 90°
∴ ∠PQR = 90°
[each angle is equal to 90° by SAS similarity criteria]
Hence Proved.
Note:
To remember the process first, show that ∆QNP ∼ ∆RNQ, by SAS similarity criterion and then use the property that sum of all angles of a triangle is 180°.