Proofs
A quick way to see that the triangle LMN is equilateral is to observe that MN becomes CZ under a clockwise rotation of 30° around A and an homothety of ratio √3 with the same center, and that LN also becomes CZ after a counterclockwise rotation of 30° around B and an homothety of ratio √3 with the same center. The respective spiral similarities are A(√3,-30°) and B(√3,30°). That implies MN = LN and the angle between them must be 60°.
Analytically, it can be determined that each of the three segments of the LMN triangle has a length of:
There are in fact many proofs of the theorem's statement, including a trigonometric one, a symmetry-based approach, and proofs using complex numbers.
Read more about this topic: Napoleon's Theorem
Famous quotes containing the word proofs:
“Trifles light as air
Are to the jealous confirmation strong
As proofs of holy writ.”
—William Shakespeare (15641616)
“A mans women folk, whatever their outward show of respect for his merit and authority, always regard him secretly as an ass, and with something akin to pity. His most gaudy sayings and doings seldom deceive them; they see the actual man within, and know him for a shallow and pathetic fellow. In this fact, perhaps, lies one of the best proofs of feminine intelligence, or, as the common phrase makes it, feminine intuition.”
—H.L. (Henry Lewis)
“I do not think that a Physician should be admitted into the College till he could bring proofs of his having cured, in his own person, at least four incurable distempers.”
—Philip Dormer Stanhope, 4th Earl Chesterfield (16941773)