Math Problem Statement

Find the missing length indicated. Find TU.

Solution

To solve for TUTU in this problem, we need to analyze the setup of the triangle and apply proportional reasoning, as segments IGIG and UHUH appear to be parallel.

  1. Identify given information:

    • IGIG and UHUH are marked with matching hash marks, which indicates that they are parallel. This creates two similar triangles: IUG\triangle IUG and TUH\triangle TUH.
    • The length IGIG is given as x+2x + 2, and UHUH is given as 2x172x - 17.
  2. Set up a proportion: Since the triangles are similar, the ratios of corresponding sides are equal. Therefore: IGUH=IUUT\frac{IG}{UH} = \frac{IU}{UT}

  3. Substitute known values: From the diagram, we can assign:

    • IG=x+2IG = x + 2
    • UH=2x17UH = 2x - 17
    • IUIU and UTUT are congruent because they have the same markings, meaning IU=UTIU = UT.

    Therefore, we have: x+22x17=1\frac{x + 2}{2x - 17} = 1

  4. Solve for xx: Multiply both sides by 2x172x - 17 to eliminate the denominator: x+2=2x17x + 2 = 2x - 17 Rearrange to isolate xx: 2+17=2xx2 + 17 = 2x - x x=19x = 19

  5. Find TUTU: Substitute x=19x = 19 back into TU=2x17TU = 2x - 17: TU=2(19)17=3817=21TU = 2(19) - 17 = 38 - 17 = 21

So, the length of TUTU is 21.

Would you like further explanation on any part?


Here are five related questions to expand your understanding:

  1. How do we know that triangles IUGIUG and TUHTUH are similar?
  2. What would happen if IUIU and UTUT were not equal?
  3. How can you determine the similarity of triangles in other types of problems?
  4. What other methods could solve for unknown sides in similar triangles?
  5. How do parallel lines affect proportional relationships in geometry?

Tip: In geometry, similar triangles have corresponding angles equal and their sides in proportion, which can be a powerful tool for finding unknown lengths.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Geometry
Proportions
Similar Triangles

Formulas

Proportion formula: IG / UH = IU / UT

Theorems

Similarity of triangles
Properties of parallel lines creating similar triangles

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10