Math Problem Statement

Find the measure of angle x in the figure below: The figure shows two triangles forming an 'hourglass' shape. There are angles of 60° and 50° at the base of the lower triangle.

Solution

The given figure shows two triangles forming an "hourglass" shape. You're asked to find the measure of angle xx, with two known angles at the bottom: 6060^\circ and 5050^\circ. Here's how we solve it:

  1. Step 1: Use the Triangle Sum Theorem. In any triangle, the sum of the angles is always 180180^\circ. For the lower triangle, let's call the third angle at the top of this triangle yy.

    The sum of the angles in the lower triangle is: y+60+50=180y + 60^\circ + 50^\circ = 180^\circ Solving for yy: y=1806050=70y = 180^\circ - 60^\circ - 50^\circ = 70^\circ

  2. Step 2: Use Vertical Angles. Vertical angles are congruent, meaning they have the same measure. Angle xx and angle yy are vertical angles, so: x=y=70x = y = 70^\circ

Thus, the measure of angle xx is 7070^\circ.

Would you like further explanation on any of the steps or concepts involved?

Here are 5 related questions for further exploration:

  1. What is the Triangle Sum Theorem and how is it applied?
  2. What are vertical angles and why are they always equal?
  3. How do you calculate angles in non-triangle shapes?
  4. If one of the angles in the lower triangle was changed, how would that affect xx?
  5. Can the concept of complementary and supplementary angles be applied in this problem?

Tip: Remember that vertical angles are always equal when two lines intersect, which is a helpful rule in geometry!

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Angles
Vertical Angles
Triangle Sum Theorem

Formulas

Sum of angles in a triangle = 180°

Theorems

Triangle Sum Theorem
Vertical Angles Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8