Math Problem Statement

In Fig., KP, LQ, MR, NS and BC are parallel to one another. KN = LB = 3KL and M is the mid-point of LN. If PQ = x cm find PR, PS, QS and RC. The answers are 2x, 3x, 2x and 2x respectively

In Fig., KP, LQ, MR, NS and BC are parallel to one another. KN = LB = 3KL and M is the mid-point of LN. If PQ = x cm, find PR, PS, QS, and RC. The answers are 2x, 3x, 2x, and 2x respectively.

Solution

Let's analyze the given diagram and the information provided:

  • KPKP, LQLQ, MRMR, NSNS, and BCBC are all parallel to each other.
  • The segments KN=LB=3KLKN = LB = 3KL and MM is the midpoint of LNLN.
  • The length PQ=xPQ = x.

We are asked to find PRPR, PSPS, QSQS, and RCRC, and the answers provided are 2x2x, 3x3x, 2x2x, and 2x2x, respectively.

Steps to solve the problem:

  1. Similar Triangles: Since all the segments are parallel, the triangles formed between the different lines (e.g., AKP\triangle AKP, ALQ\triangle ALQ, BMC\triangle BMC, etc.) are similar by the Basic Proportionality Theorem (Thales' Theorem).

  2. Applying the Midpoint Theorem:

    • Given MM is the midpoint of LNLN, and since MRBCMR \parallel BC, the ratio of PRPR to PQPQ will be 2:1.
    • This implies PR=2xPR = 2x.
  3. Finding PSPS:

    • Similarly, SS is on the next parallel line, so the proportionality between PSPS and PQPQ gives PS=3xPS = 3x.
  4. Finding QSQS:

    • Since QSBCQS \parallel BC and lies on the next segment after PQPQ, it will also have a proportionality of 2x2x, like PRPR.
  5. Finding RCRC:

    • RCRC, being a continuation in the same proportionality, will again be 2x2x, as it corresponds to the segment under the parallel lines.

Thus, the values of the segments are confirmed as:

  • PR=2xPR = 2x
  • PS=3xPS = 3x
  • QS=2xQS = 2x
  • RC=2xRC = 2x

Would you like a detailed explanation of any of the steps, or do you have any further questions?

Additional Related Questions:

  1. What is the Basic Proportionality Theorem, and how does it apply in this case?
  2. How can we verify that triangles formed by parallel lines are similar?
  3. If the value of PQPQ were given, how would you calculate the other segment lengths numerically?
  4. Why does the midpoint condition MM affect the ratios between the lines?
  5. Can we find the total length of BCBC if PQ=xPQ = x?

Tip:

When dealing with similar triangles, always check for parallel lines and midpoint conditions to apply the Basic Proportionality Theorem for dividing the sides proportionally.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Basic Proportionality Theorem
Similar Triangles
Proportions

Formulas

Ratio of corresponding sides in similar triangles

Theorems

Basic Proportionality Theorem (Thales' Theorem)
Midpoint Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11