Math Problem Statement

Solve for x only using the coordinates in the picture

Solve for x only using the coordinates in the picture

Solution

To solve for xx in the given diagram, let's analyze the information provided:


Step 1: Key observations

  1. CBCB is the midsegment of triangle RSTRST.

    • By the Midsegment Theorem, the midsegment of a triangle is parallel to one side of the triangle and equal to half the length of that side.
    • Therefore, CBRTCB \parallel RT and CB=12RTCB = \frac{1}{2} RT.
  2. The given lengths are:

    • CB=x+19CB = x + 19
    • RT=x+29RT = x + 29.

Step 2: Apply the Midsegment Theorem

Since CB=12RTCB = \frac{1}{2} RT, we can write the equation:

x+19=12(x+29).x + 19 = \frac{1}{2} (x + 29).


Step 3: Solve for xx

  1. Multiply through by 2 to eliminate the fraction:

2(x+19)=x+29.2(x + 19) = x + 29.

  1. Distribute:

2x+38=x+29.2x + 38 = x + 29.

  1. Subtract xx from both sides:

x+38=29.x + 38 = 29.

  1. Subtract 38 from both sides:

x=9.x = -9.


Final Answer:

The value of xx is -9.


Verification:

  1. If x=9x = -9:
    • CB=x+19=9+19=10CB = x + 19 = -9 + 19 = 10.
    • RT=x+29=9+29=20RT = x + 29 = -9 + 29 = 20.
  2. Check the Midsegment Theorem:
    • CB=12RT    10=12(20)CB = \frac{1}{2} RT \implies 10 = \frac{1}{2}(20), which is correct.

Thus, x=9x = -9 satisfies the conditions.


Would you like further clarification or a detailed explanation of any step?

Here are some related questions to explore further:

  1. What is the Midsegment Theorem, and how does it apply to triangles?
  2. How do you prove that a midsegment is parallel to one side of a triangle?
  3. What happens to the lengths when a midsegment divides a triangle?
  4. How can this property of midsegments be used in coordinate geometry?
  5. Can midsegments be used to find the area of triangles?

Tip: The Midsegment Theorem is a powerful tool in geometry that simplifies the analysis of triangles and helps solve for unknown lengths.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Triangles
Midsegment Theorem
Linear Equations

Formulas

Midsegment = 1/2 * Opposite Side

Theorems

Midsegment Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10