Math Problem Statement

Assuming that the two right triangles are similar, find the height of the tower from the given measurements.

100 cm

106 cm

126 cm

136 cm

Assuming that the two right triangles are similar, find the height of the tower from the given measurements.

Solution

To solve the problem, we will use the fact that the two triangles are similar. This means that the ratios of the corresponding sides of the two triangles are equal.

Given:

  • The height BC=63cmBC = 63 \, \text{cm}
  • The base AB=16cmAB = 16 \, \text{cm}
  • The base RP=32cmRP = 32 \, \text{cm}

Let:

  • The height of the tower RQ=hcmRQ = h \, \text{cm}

Step 1: Set up the ratio of corresponding sides:

Since the triangles are similar, the ratio of their corresponding sides should be equal:

RQBC=RPAB\frac{RQ}{BC} = \frac{RP}{AB}

Step 2: Substitute the known values:

h63=3216\frac{h}{63} = \frac{32}{16}

Step 3: Simplify the ratio:

3216=2\frac{32}{16} = 2

So the equation becomes:

h63=2\frac{h}{63} = 2

Step 4: Solve for hh:

Multiply both sides by 63 to find the height hh:

h=2×63=126cmh = 2 \times 63 = 126 \, \text{cm}

Answer:

The height of the tower RQRQ is 126 cm.

Would you like any further details or have any other questions?

Here are some related questions to consider:

  1. What is the importance of triangle similarity in geometric problems?
  2. How can you verify if two triangles are similar using angle and side criteria?
  3. What are some real-life applications of similar triangles?
  4. How would the problem change if the tower's base was not known?
  5. How can the Pythagorean theorem be applied to find the height of a triangle in different situations?

Tip: When working with similar triangles, always ensure you correctly identify the corresponding sides and angles to set up the appropriate ratio.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Similar Triangles
Proportions

Formulas

Ratio of corresponding sides in similar triangles
Proportion equation: (height of tower)/(height of smaller triangle) = (base of tower)/(base of smaller triangle)

Theorems

Similarity of Triangles
Basic Proportionality Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 7-10