Math Problem Statement

In triangle TUV, TV is extended through point V to point W, m∠TUV = (3x + 11)°, m∠VTU = (x + 13)°, and m∠UVW = (7x - 12)°. What is the value of x?

Solution

In this problem, we are dealing with an extended triangle TUV\triangle TUV, and we need to solve for xx based on the provided angle measures.

Given:

  1. mTUV=(3x+11)m\angle TUV = (3x + 11)^\circ
  2. mVTU=(x+13)m\angle VTU = (x + 13)^\circ
  3. mUVW=(7x12)m\angle UVW = (7x - 12)^\circ

Explanation:

Since TVTV is extended through point VV to point WW, we have an exterior angle UVW\angle UVW. The exterior angle theorem states that the measure of the exterior angle is equal to the sum of the two non-adjacent interior angles.

So, we can write the equation:

mUVW=mTUV+mVTUm\angle UVW = m\angle TUV + m\angle VTU

Substituting the given values:

(7x12)=(3x+11)+(x+13)(7x - 12) = (3x + 11) + (x + 13)

Solve for xx:

  1. Combine like terms on the right-hand side: (7x12)=3x+11+x+13(7x - 12) = 3x + 11 + x + 13 (7x12)=4x+24(7x - 12) = 4x + 24

  2. Subtract 4x4x from both sides: 3x12=243x - 12 = 24

  3. Add 12 to both sides: 3x=363x = 36

  4. Divide by 3: x=12x = 12

Thus, the value of xx is 12\boxed{12}.


Would you like more details on how this theorem works or have any questions? Here are some additional problems to expand your understanding:

  1. What is the sum of the interior angles of any triangle?
  2. Can you apply the exterior angle theorem to any polygon, or is it specific to triangles?
  3. If the value of xx were negative, how would the solution change?
  4. What would happen if the triangle were isosceles? How would it affect the angle measures?
  5. How can you verify that the exterior angle theorem applies in other geometric scenarios?

Tip: Always remember that the exterior angle theorem is a powerful tool for solving triangle problems where extensions are involved.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Geometry
Angles

Formulas

Exterior angle theorem: exterior angle = sum of two non-adjacent interior angles

Theorems

Exterior Angle Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11