Choose the correct statementa)If two sides of a triangle are unequal t...
Of all the line segments that can be drawn from a point outside a line, the perpendicular is the shortest, Option D.
Choose the correct statementa)If two sides of a triangle are unequal t...
The Correct Statement: D
The correct statement among the options provided is option D: "Of all the line segments that can be drawn from a point outside a line, the perpendicular is the shortest." Here's a detailed explanation of why this statement is true.
Understanding the Concept
- When you have a point outside a line, you can draw multiple line segments connecting that point to different points on the line.
- Among all these segments, the perpendicular line segment (the one that meets the line at a right angle) is the shortest.
Proof by Visualization
- Imagine a point P outside a line segment AB. If you draw a line from P to any point C on line AB, you can see that the distance PC varies depending on where point C is located.
- However, if you draw the perpendicular from point P down to line AB, calling this intersection point D, the length PD (the perpendicular) is shorter than any other distance PC for points C on line AB.
Why this is Important
- This property is fundamental in geometry and is often used in various applications, including architecture and engineering, where finding the shortest distance is crucial.
Conclusion
- Hence, option D is accurate, making it the correct choice. The shortest distance from a point to a line is indeed along the perpendicular line drawn from the point to the line.
This understanding lays important groundwork in geometry and distances, essential for higher mathematical concepts.