Math Problem Statement

find the value of x and y

Find x and y in the given diagram of similar triangles.

Solution

To solve for xx and yy, we can use the property of similar triangles. The given diagram shows two similar triangles. For similar triangles, the corresponding sides are proportional.

The two similar triangles are:

  1. The smaller triangle with sides xx (left side), 88 cm (right side), and 1010 cm (base).
  2. The larger triangle with sides 66 cm (left side), yy (right side), and 1515 cm (base).

Using the property of similar triangles, we have the following proportion relationships:

x6=8y=1015\frac{x}{6} = \frac{8}{y} = \frac{10}{15}

Let's first find the common ratio using the base lengths:

1015=23\frac{10}{15} = \frac{2}{3}

Now we can use this ratio to find xx and yy.

  1. Finding xx:

x6=23\frac{x}{6} = \frac{2}{3}

Solving for xx:

x=6×23=4 cmx = 6 \times \frac{2}{3} = 4 \text{ cm}

  1. Finding yy:

8y=23\frac{8}{y} = \frac{2}{3}

Solving for yy:

y=8×32=12 cmy = \frac{8 \times 3}{2} = 12 \text{ cm}

Hence, the values are:

  • x=4x = 4 cm
  • y=12y = 12 cm

Would you like further details or have any questions?

5 Related Questions:

  1. How do we prove two triangles are similar?
  2. What is the general formula for the ratio of sides in similar triangles?
  3. How can we apply this concept to solve real-world problems?
  4. How do we handle cases when the triangles are not similar?
  5. What are other geometric properties related to similar triangles?

Tip:

For any pair of similar figures, always ensure you identify the corresponding sides before setting up proportions.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Similar Triangles
Proportions

Formulas

Side ratios in similar triangles: (side1 of triangle1) / (corresponding side1 of triangle2) = (side2 of triangle1) / (corresponding side2 of triangle2)

Theorems

Basic Proportionality Theorem (Thales' theorem)

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10