Math Problem Statement

Which fact given below can be used to show that x = 54° and y = 83° in the diagram? Write a sentence to explain how you know that triangles ABE and ACD are similar.

Solution

Let's work through the problem step by step.

Part (a) - Finding xx and yy

You need to identify the facts that show x=54x = 54^\circ and y=83y = 83^\circ.

  • Angle xx: Since angle EAB=54EAB = 54^\circ and angle ADEADE is an alternate angle to it (because line ABAB and CDCD seem parallel), the fact is "Alternate angles are equal". Thus, x=54x = 54^\circ.

  • Angle yy: Since angle ABE=83ABE = 83^\circ and angle BCDBCD is a corresponding angle (as line ABAB and CDCD are parallel), the fact is "Corresponding angles are equal". Therefore, y=83y = 83^\circ.

Part (b) - Why Triangles ABE and ACD are Similar

The triangles ABE\triangle ABE and ACD\triangle ACD are similar because they have two pairs of equal corresponding angles:

  1. Angle ABE=BCDABE = BCD (both are 83°), as they are corresponding angles.
  2. Angle A=AA = A (common angle between the two triangles).

Since two angles are the same, the triangles are similar by the AA (Angle-Angle) similarity criterion.


Let me know if you'd like more details on any part or if you have other questions. Here are some related questions you might explore:

  1. Can alternate angles be used in non-parallel lines?
  2. How do you prove two lines are parallel using corresponding angles?
  3. What are the other criteria for triangle similarity?
  4. Can two triangles with one equal angle be considered similar?
  5. What are real-world applications of triangle similarity?

Tip: Always look for shared angles or parallel lines when determining if triangles are similar!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Angles
Triangle Similarity

Formulas

None

Theorems

Alternate angles are equal
Corresponding angles are equal
AA (Angle-Angle) Similarity

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10