Math Problem Statement

One of two supplementary angles is one-third the measure of the other. Find the angles.

Solution

Let's denote the two supplementary angles as xx and yy.

Given that the angles are supplementary, we have: x+y=180x + y = 180^\circ We are also told that one angle is one-third the measure of the other. Let's assume xx is the smaller angle, so: x=13yx = \frac{1}{3}y

Now we can substitute x=13yx = \frac{1}{3}y into the equation x+y=180x + y = 180^\circ: 13y+y=180\frac{1}{3}y + y = 180^\circ

To solve for yy, first combine the terms on the left-hand side: 13y+33y=180\frac{1}{3}y + \frac{3}{3}y = 180^\circ 43y=180\frac{4}{3}y = 180^\circ

Next, solve for yy by multiplying both sides by 34\frac{3}{4}: y=180×34y = 180^\circ \times \frac{3}{4} y=135y = 135^\circ

Since x=13yx = \frac{1}{3}y, substitute y=135y = 135^\circ into this equation to find xx: x=13×135=45x = \frac{1}{3} \times 135^\circ = 45^\circ

Thus, the two supplementary angles are 4545^\circ and 135135^\circ.

Would you like more details, or do you have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions you might find interesting:

  1. What are complementary angles, and how do they differ from supplementary angles?
  2. If one angle is half the measure of its supplementary angle, what are the two angles?
  3. Can two obtuse angles be supplementary? Why or why not?
  4. What is the relationship between the two angles if they are both equal and supplementary?
  5. How would the problem change if the angles were complementary instead of supplementary?

Tip: Remember, supplementary angles always add up to 180180^\circ, while complementary angles add up to 9090^\circ.