Proof of Ceva's Theorem and its Converse

We will begin with a verification of Ceva's Theorem.

 

Given triangle ABC with cevians BG, AF and CE concurrent at point D, we wish to demonstrate that:

 

Click here for a GSP 4.0 sketch to investigate.

 

We begin by constructing altitudes h1 and h2. The area of triangle ABG [in the future, we will use the notation (ABG) to designate the area of triangle ABG] equals 0.5(AG)(h1) and (BGC) = 0.5(GC)h1. Also, (ADG) = 0.5(AG)(h2) and (DGC) = 0.5(GC)(h2). Thus,

and

 

Then, since

,

(Click here if you need additional explanation for the previous step.)

We conclude, then, that

 

Similar reasoning yields the equations

and

.

Thus,

By cancelation,


We will now consider the converse of Ceva's theorem.

Given,

,

show that cevians BG, AF and CE are concurrent.

Click here for a GSP 4.0 sketch to manipulate.

Assume that cevians AF and CE intersect at D, and that the other cevian through D is BH. By Ceva's theorem,

.

Since we assumed

,

by the transitive property,

.

Simplifying,

,

which is true only if H and G represent the same point. Thus, segments AF, CE and BG must be concurrent.


(Reference: Coxeter, H. S. M. & Greitzer, S. L. (1967). Geometry Revisited. Washington D. C.: The Mathematical Association of America. 4.)


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