Math Problem Statement

In triangle VWX, VX is extended through point X to point Y, m∠XVW = (x + 6)°, m∠WXY = (8x - 9)°, and m∠VWX = (2x + 10)°. What is the value of x?

Solution

We are given a triangle VWX\triangle VWX, with VX\overline{VX} extended through point XX to point YY. The following angles are provided:

  • mXVW=(x+6)m\angle XVW = (x + 6)^\circ,
  • mWXY=(8x9)m\angle WXY = (8x - 9)^\circ,
  • mVWX=(2x+10)m\angle VWX = (2x + 10)^\circ.

Since VX\overline{VX} is extended to point YY, we can use the Exterior Angle Theorem, which states that the exterior angle (in this case WXY\angle WXY) is equal to the sum of the two non-adjacent interior angles of the triangle VWX\triangle VWX.

Thus, we have the equation: mWXY=mXVW+mVWXm\angle WXY = m\angle XVW + m\angle VWX

Substituting the given expressions: (8x9)=(x+6)+(2x+10)(8x - 9) = (x + 6) + (2x + 10)

Now, let's simplify and solve for xx:

  1. Combine like terms on the right-hand side: 8x9=(x+2x)+(6+10)8x - 9 = (x + 2x) + (6 + 10) 8x9=3x+168x - 9 = 3x + 16

  2. Subtract 3x3x from both sides: 8x3x9=168x - 3x - 9 = 16 5x9=165x - 9 = 16

  3. Add 9 to both sides: 5x=255x = 25

  4. Divide by 5: x=5x = 5

Thus, the value of xx is 5\boxed{5}.

Would you like further details on this solution?

Here are some related questions to extend your understanding:

  1. What is the measure of XVW\angle XVW when x=5x = 5?
  2. How would the problem change if the angle WXY\angle WXY were different?
  3. Can you explain the Exterior Angle Theorem in your own words?
  4. What if we were given the sum of all interior angles? How would that affect solving for xx?
  5. How do linear pair properties apply in this kind of problem?

Tip: Always remember that in any triangle, the sum of the interior angles is 180°, which can help check or solve for missing angles.

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Triangle Geometry
Exterior Angle Theorem

Formulas

m∠WXY = m∠XVW + m∠VWX
Sum of non-adjacent interior angles = exterior angle

Theorems

Exterior Angle Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10