Math Problem Statement

Write an equation and solve it to find at least one of the missing side lengths in the given similar polygons.

Solution

In this image, we have two polygons: one labeled as the "preimage" and the other labeled as the "image." The task is to find at least one missing side length by forming an equation.

From the image, we can observe that the polygons are similar, meaning that the side lengths of the "image" and "preimage" are proportional. Here's what we know:

Preimage (larger shape):

  • AB=3.5AB = 3.5
  • BC=4BC = 4
  • CD=CD = (unknown)
  • DA=5.9DA = 5.9

Image (smaller shape):

  • AB=A'B' = (unknown)
  • BC=1.3B'C' = 1.3
  • CD=2C'D' = 2
  • DA=D'A' = (unknown)

Since the polygons are similar, we can set up a proportion using corresponding sides.

For example, if we set up a proportion between the side lengths BCBC and BCB'C', we can solve for another side. The ratio between corresponding sides is constant.

Step 1: Set up the proportion

We know that: BCBC=ABAB=CDCD=DADA\frac{BC}{B'C'} = \frac{AB}{A'B'} = \frac{CD}{C'D'} = \frac{DA}{D'A'} So, let's use the known lengths to find one of the unknowns. Using the side BCBC and BCB'C', we get: BCBC=41.3\frac{BC}{B'C'} = \frac{4}{1.3} This simplifies to: 41.33.08\frac{4}{1.3} \approx 3.08 So, the ratio of the side lengths is about 3.08. Now, we can use this ratio to solve for one of the missing sides, for example, ABAB and ABA'B'.

Step 2: Solve for ABA'B'

Using the ratio, we have: ABAB=3.08\frac{AB}{A'B'} = 3.08 Substitute AB=3.5AB = 3.5: 3.5AB=3.08\frac{3.5}{A'B'} = 3.08 Now, solve for ABA'B': AB=3.53.081.14A'B' = \frac{3.5}{3.08} \approx 1.14

Thus, the length of ABA'B' is approximately 1.14 units.


Would you like more details on another side or any specific clarification?

Here are 5 related questions for further exploration:

  1. How can we use proportions to find the length of DAD'A'?
  2. How would you find the value of CDCD using a similar method?
  3. What is the importance of similarity in solving for unknown side lengths?
  4. Can you verify the proportionality for all pairs of corresponding sides?
  5. What other mathematical relationships are used in transformations like this?

Tip: When working with similar polygons, always ensure you correctly match corresponding sides to set up the right proportions.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Proportions
Similarity of polygons

Formulas

Ratio of corresponding sides in similar polygons
Proportion equation

Theorems

Similarity Theorem for polygons

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10