Math Problem Statement

Solve for x in two cases: 1) Similar triangles with given side lengths 12 cm, 5 cm, 6 cm, and x. 2) Similar polygons with side lengths 4 cm, 7 cm, 21 cm, and x.

Solution

Problem Analysis

  1. Question 1:

    • We have two similar triangles.
    • Using the property of similarity, corresponding sides are proportional.

    The proportions can be written as: 126=5x\frac{12}{6} = \frac{5}{x} Solve for xx.

  2. Question 2:

    • Two similar polygons with corresponding side lengths provided.
    • Use the similarity ratio: 47=x21\frac{4}{7} = \frac{x}{21} Solve for xx.

Solutions:

1) Solving for xx in Question 1:

From the proportion: 126=5x    2=5x\frac{12}{6} = \frac{5}{x} \implies 2 = \frac{5}{x} Multiply both sides by xx: 2x=5    x=52=2.5cm.2x = 5 \implies x = \frac{5}{2} = 2.5 \, \text{cm}.

2) Solving for xx in Question 2:

From the proportion: 47=x21\frac{4}{7} = \frac{x}{21} Cross multiply: 4×21=7×x    84=7x4 \times 21 = 7 \times x \implies 84 = 7x Solve for xx: x=847=12cm.x = \frac{84}{7} = 12 \, \text{cm}.


Final Answers:

  1. x=2.5cmx = 2.5 \, \text{cm}
  2. x=12cmx = 12 \, \text{cm}

Would you like a detailed step-by-step breakdown or have other questions?


Related Questions:

  1. What are the properties of similar triangles?
  2. How can we generalize proportionality in polygons?
  3. How to use ratios effectively for scaling geometric shapes?
  4. Can the same method apply for three-dimensional figures?
  5. What are other real-life applications of similarity in geometry?

Tip: Always ensure the triangles or polygons are verified as similar before applying proportionality.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Similarity in Triangles
Proportionality

Formulas

Proportionality: a1/b1 = a2/b2

Theorems

Similarity Theorem for Triangles and Polygons

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 7-9