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Two Points Plus One Line

Age 14 to 16
Challenge Level Yellow starYellow starYellow star
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This problem gives an opportunity to find the parameters that express the generality in the context.

For example, if the distance between the feet of perpendiculars dropped from $A$ and $B$ is taken as the unit length, then the length of the perpendiculars can be expressed in terms of that unit.

There may be other useful unit lengths to consider, but the important skill is to see that enlarging the diagram doesn't change the feature being explored, so a thoughtful choice of unit can help to make the problem more convenient to handle and access.

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The NRICH Project aims to enrich the mathematical experiences of all learners. To support this aim, members of the NRICH team work in a wide range of capacities, including providing professional development for teachers wishing to embed rich mathematical tasks into everyday classroom practice.

NRICH is part of the family of activities in the Millennium Mathematics Project.

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