Math Problem Statement

Figure JKLM is similar to figure WXYZ. Find the length JM.

Solution

The image shows two triangles, JKLMJKLM and WXYZWXYZ, which are similar. We need to find the length of JMJM, given the lengths of other sides in the triangles.

From the image:

  • In triangle JKLMJKLM:
    • JK=48JK = 48
    • LM=33LM = 33
  • In triangle WXYZWXYZ:
    • WX=26WX = 26
    • YZ=22YZ = 22

Since the triangles are similar, the ratios of the corresponding sides are equal. We can set up a proportion to find JMJM, corresponding to side WZWZ in the smaller triangle.

The proportion based on the corresponding sides JK/WXJK/WX should equal LM/YZLM/YZ and JM/WZJM/WZ. However, to determine JMJM, we need a complete set of side data, and the length WZWZ seems to be missing in the image. Please verify if additional information is available, like the length of side WZWZ, so we can solve the proportion and find JMJM.

Let me know if you'd like further details or if you have that missing side length! Here's a quick set of follow-up questions for understanding:

  1. How do we know when two triangles are similar?
  2. How can you apply the ratio of sides in similar triangles to solve for unknown sides?
  3. What are the key properties of similar triangles?
  4. Why do corresponding angles remain equal in similar triangles?
  5. How would the problem change if additional angle information were given?

Tip: Always check if all sides' ratios are needed to solve a proportion in similar triangle problems!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Similarity of Triangles
Proportions
Geometric Ratios

Formulas

Ratio of corresponding sides in similar triangles

Theorems

Similarity Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10