Math Problem Statement

Given that ∠ABC and ∠DEF are complementary, m∠ABC=10x+7, and m∠DEF=11x−11.5, find m∠FED.

Solution

To solve the problem, let's start by understanding the relationship between the given angles.

Step 1: Identify the key relationship

We know that ∠ABC and ∠DEF are complementary. This means:

mABC+mDEF=90m\angle ABC + m\angle DEF = 90^\circ

Step 2: Substitute the given expressions

We are given:

mABC=10x+7m\angle ABC = 10x + 7

mDEF=11x11.5m\angle DEF = 11x - 11.5

Substituting these into the complementary angle equation:

(10x+7)+(11x11.5)=90(10x + 7) + (11x - 11.5) = 90^\circ

Step 3: Simplify the equation

Combine like terms:

10x+11x+711.5=9010x + 11x + 7 - 11.5 = 90^\circ

21x4.5=9021x - 4.5 = 90^\circ

Step 4: Solve for xx

Add 4.5 to both sides:

21x=94.521x = 94.5

Divide by 21:

x=94.5214.5x = \frac{94.5}{21} \approx 4.5

Step 5: Find mDEFm\angle DEF

Substitute x=4.5x = 4.5 back into the expression for mDEFm\angle DEF:

mDEF=11(4.5)11.5=49.511.5=38m\angle DEF = 11(4.5) - 11.5 = 49.5 - 11.5 = 38^\circ

Step 6: Determine mFEDm\angle FED

Since ∠FED is the same angle as ∠DEF in this context (due to symmetry or identical labeling), we conclude:

mFED=38m\angle FED = 38^\circ

Final Answer: mFED=38m\angle FED = 38^\circ

Would you like more details or have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions for further exploration:

  1. How do you prove that two angles are complementary using their measures?
  2. What would happen if the angles were supplementary instead of complementary?
  3. How would you find xx if the angles were in a different ratio?
  4. Can complementary angles ever be greater than 90°? Why or why not?
  5. What is the measure of each angle if they were both equal and complementary?

Tip: Remember, complementary angles always add up to 90°, while supplementary angles add up to 180°.