Math Problem Statement

For triangle A to be similar to triangle B, the value of x is ___.

Solution

To solve this problem, we must verify that the triangles are similar through dilation, which preserves proportionality between corresponding sides. Let's calculate xx by using the ratios of the corresponding sides.

Step-by-Step Solution:

  1. Identify corresponding sides between triangles A and B:

    • 15cm15 \, \text{cm} in A\triangle A corresponds to xcmx \, \text{cm} in B\triangle B.
    • 12cm12 \, \text{cm} in A\triangle A corresponds to 16cm16 \, \text{cm} in B\triangle B.
    • 6cm6 \, \text{cm} in A\triangle A corresponds to 8cm8 \, \text{cm} in B\triangle B.
  2. Use the proportionality condition: Since the triangles are similar: Side of ACorresponding side of B=constant ratio.\frac{\text{Side of } \triangle A}{\text{Corresponding side of } \triangle B} = \text{constant ratio}. Using the corresponding sides 12cm12 \, \text{cm} and 16cm16 \, \text{cm}, we compute the ratio: Ratio=1216=34.\text{Ratio} = \frac{12}{16} = \frac{3}{4}.

  3. Set up the proportion for xx: Using the corresponding sides 15cm15 \, \text{cm} and xcmx \, \text{cm}: 15x=34.\frac{15}{x} = \frac{3}{4}.

  4. Solve for xx: Cross-multiply: 3x=154.3x = 15 \cdot 4. Simplify: 3x=60x=603=20.3x = 60 \quad \Rightarrow \quad x = \frac{60}{3} = 20.

Final Answer:

The value of xx is 20 cm.


Would you like a more detailed explanation or have further questions?
Here are 5 related questions for practice:

  1. What does it mean for two triangles to be similar?
  2. How do you verify similarity between two triangles?
  3. Can the ratio of corresponding sides help find unknown lengths in all types of triangles?
  4. How does dilation affect the angles of a triangle?
  5. If the scale factor between two similar figures is kk, what happens to their areas?

Tip: Always confirm the proportionality of all sides when verifying triangle similarity.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Similarity of triangles
Proportions

Formulas

Ratio of corresponding sides: (Side of Triangle A) / (Corresponding Side of Triangle B) = constant
Cross-multiplication for solving proportions

Theorems

Triangle Similarity Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10