Math Problem Statement

In the figure, which of the following rigid transformations allows us to obtain polygon P from polygon Q, assuming the rotations are counterclockwise?

Solution

Let's analyze the problem in the image.

Problem Context:

We have two polygons, PP and QQ, shown on the coordinate plane. The question asks which rigid transformation allows us to obtain polygon PP from polygon QQ, assuming counterclockwise (anticlockwise) rotations.

Analyzing Transformations:

The options are:

  • A) Reflection with respect to the yy-axis.
  • B) 180° rotation about the origin.
  • C) Reflection with respect to the yy-axis, followed by a 180° rotation about the origin.
  • D) Reflection with respect to the xx-axis, followed by a 180° rotation about the origin.
  • E) 90° rotation about the origin.

Steps to Solve:

  1. Visual Analysis: Polygon QQ seems to be a reflection or rotation of polygon PP. We need to figure out how one can be obtained from the other.
  2. Reflection or Rotation: By observing the shapes of PP and QQ, we first look for any symmetries. Reflection across the axes or rotations about the origin may help.

Let's break down each option:

  • Option A (Reflection across the yy-axis): Reflecting across the yy-axis would flip the polygon horizontally, but this does not produce polygon PP from QQ, since the polygons aren't just mirrored horizontally.

  • Option B (180° rotation about the origin): A 180° rotation would flip the shape completely upside down, but this also doesn't seem to map PP to QQ directly.

  • Option C (Reflection across the yy-axis and 180° rotation): This involves first flipping QQ across the yy-axis, and then rotating it 180° about the origin. This could align the two shapes.

  • Option D (Reflection across the xx-axis and 180° rotation): This sequence involves a reflection across the xx-axis and a rotation, but it's not as promising since polygon PP would end up flipped vertically, which doesn't seem to be the case.

  • Option E (90° rotation about the origin): A 90° rotation counterclockwise moves points in a specific way. This doesn't seem to match the transformation needed.

Best Choice:

The correct sequence of transformations appears to be Option C, which involves a reflection across the yy-axis followed by a 180° rotation about the origin.

Would you like more details on the steps or need clarification? Here are 5 related questions for further exploration:

  1. What is the geometric definition of a rigid transformation?
  2. How does a reflection across the yy-axis affect the coordinates of points?
  3. How do you perform a 180° rotation around the origin mathematically?
  4. What are the differences between rotations and reflections in geometry?
  5. How would the transformation differ if the rotation were clockwise instead of counterclockwise?

Tip: When performing transformations, sketching out the steps can often make it easier to visualize the final result!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Rigid Transformations
Symmetry
Rotations

Formulas

-

Theorems

Reflection Theorem
Rotation Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12