Ptolemy's Theorem in Equilateral Triangle

XAT 2020 · Quantitative Ability & Data Interpretation · Medium · Quantitative Aptitude

XYZ is an equilateral triangle, inscribed in a circle. P is a point on the arc YZ such that X and P are on opposite sides of the chord YZ. Which of the following MUST always be true?

  1. A.

    XZ + YP = XY + PZ

  2. B.

    XP = XY

  3. C.

    XP + PZ = XY + YP

  4. D.

    XP = YP + PZ

  5. E.

    XP = XY + YZ

Answer

D

Explanation

Quadrilateral XYPZXYPZ is cyclic. By Ptolemy's Theorem on cyclic quadrilateral XYPZXYPZ: XP⋅YZ=YP⋅XZ+PZ⋅XYXP \cdot YZ = YP \cdot XZ + PZ \cdot XY. Since △XYZ\triangle XYZ is equilateral, XY=YZ=XZ=sXY = YZ = XZ = s. XP⋅s=YP⋅s+PZ⋅s  ⟹  XP=YP+PZXP \cdot s = YP \cdot s + PZ \cdot s \implies XP = YP + PZ.

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