Math Problem Statement

solve for x

Solve for x using the given diagram with proportional segments and parallel lines.

Solution

In this diagram, we observe two triangles. Based on the setup, it looks like the triangles are either similar or involve parallel lines, since the two lines with red arrows suggest that corresponding segments are proportional.

Let's summarize the given information:

  • Two parallel lines are marked with red arrows.
  • The sides of the triangle are given as:
    • Left vertical side: 2 units (top) and 1 unit (bottom).
    • Right slant side: 2x42x - 4 units for the top segment and 2 units for the bottom segment.

Setup for solving xx:

Since the lines are parallel and the triangles share an angle, the two triangles are similar by the Basic Proportionality Theorem (also called Thales' Theorem). This theorem states that if a line is drawn parallel to one side of a triangle and intersects the other two sides, then the two triangles formed are similar, and corresponding sides are proportional.

Thus, we can set up the following proportion for the corresponding sides:

left side topleft side bottom=right side topright side bottom\frac{\text{left side top}}{\text{left side bottom}} = \frac{\text{right side top}}{\text{right side bottom}}

Substituting the values:

21=2x42\frac{2}{1} = \frac{2x - 4}{2}

Now, we can solve for xx:

  1. Cross-multiply: 2×2=1×(2x4)2 \times 2 = 1 \times (2x - 4) 4=2x44 = 2x - 4

  2. Add 4 to both sides: 4+4=2x4 + 4 = 2x 8=2x8 = 2x

  3. Divide by 2: x=4x = 4

Thus, x=4x = 4.

Would you like further details or explanations?


Here are 5 related questions to deepen understanding:

  1. What is the Basic Proportionality Theorem, and how does it apply to similar triangles?
  2. How can we verify whether two triangles are similar using angles and sides?
  3. What happens if the triangles are not similar? How would the proportion change?
  4. Can you solve for xx if the sides had different proportions?
  5. What other geometric properties can we deduce from the given diagram?

Tip: When triangles are similar, corresponding angles are equal, and corresponding sides are proportional.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Similar Triangles
Proportions
Basic Proportionality Theorem

Formulas

(left side top) / (left side bottom) = (right side top) / (right side bottom)

Theorems

Basic Proportionality Theorem (Thales' Theorem)

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10