Math Problem Statement

Find x

Find x in the triangle similarity problem.

Solution

To find xx from the given image, we need to use the fact that the two triangles PQR\triangle PQR and SQT\triangle SQT are similar. This is because they have corresponding equal angles (P=S\angle P = \angle S, Q=Q\angle Q = \angle Q, and R=T\angle R = \angle T), which gives us a condition of similarity by AA (Angle-Angle).

Step-by-step approach:

  1. Similarity of triangles: Since PQRSQT\triangle PQR \sim \triangle SQT, the corresponding sides of these triangles are proportional. This gives us the relation:

    PQQS=QRQT=PRST\frac{PQ}{QS} = \frac{QR}{QT} = \frac{PR}{ST}

  2. Given information: From the diagram:

    • PQ=9PQ = 9
    • QS=3QS = 3
    • QR=13.5QR = 13.5
    • QT=3xQT = 3x
    • PR=28PR = 28^\circ
    • ST=3xST = 3x
  3. Using the proportion: Using the proportion of corresponding sides from the similar triangles:

    PQQS=QRQT\frac{PQ}{QS} = \frac{QR}{QT}

    Substituting the given values:

    93=13.53x\frac{9}{3} = \frac{13.5}{3x}

    Simplifying:

    3=13.53x3 = \frac{13.5}{3x}

    To solve for xx, multiply both sides by 3x3x:

    3(3x)=13.53(3x) = 13.5

    Simplifying:

    9x=13.59x = 13.5

    Solving for xx:

    x=13.59=1.5x = \frac{13.5}{9} = 1.5

Thus, the value of xx is 1.5\boxed{1.5}.

Would you like further details on this process?

Here are some related questions:

  1. How do you confirm triangle similarity in geometry?
  2. What are other properties of similar triangles?
  3. How can proportionality help in solving real-world problems?
  4. Can you solve for unknown angles using triangle similarity?
  5. What are some other methods for finding missing sides in triangles?

Tip: Always ensure you check whether triangles are similar using the AA, SSS, or SAS criteria before applying proportions.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Triangle Similarity
Proportions

Formulas

\frac{PQ}{QS} = \frac{QR}{QT}

Theorems

AA (Angle-Angle) Similarity Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-10