Math Problem Statement

In ΔRST, m∠R = (2x - 12)°, m∠S = (8x - 5)°, and m∠T = (x - 12)°. Find m∠S.

Solution

We are given a triangle ΔRST\Delta RST, with the following angles:

mR=(2x12),mS=(8x5),mT=(x12)m\angle R = (2x - 12)^\circ, \quad m\angle S = (8x - 5)^\circ, \quad m\angle T = (x - 12)^\circ

The sum of the angles in any triangle is always 180180^\circ. Therefore, we can set up the following equation based on the sum of the angles:

(2x12)+(8x5)+(x12)=180(2x - 12) + (8x - 5) + (x - 12) = 180

Now, let's solve for xx.

Step 1: Simplify the equation

2x12+8x5+x12=1802x - 12 + 8x - 5 + x - 12 = 180 Combine like terms: (2x+8x+x)+(12512)=180(2x + 8x + x) + (-12 - 5 - 12) = 180 11x29=18011x - 29 = 180

Step 2: Solve for xx

Add 29 to both sides: 11x=180+2911x = 180 + 29 11x=20911x = 209 Now, divide by 11: x=2091119x = \frac{209}{11} \approx 19

Step 3: Find mSm\angle S

Substitute x=19x = 19 into the expression for mS=(8x5)m\angle S = (8x - 5)^\circ:

mS=8(19)5=1525=147m\angle S = 8(19) - 5 = 152 - 5 = 147^\circ

Thus, mS=147m\angle S = 147^\circ.

Let me know if you'd like further details or have any questions! Here are five related questions to expand your understanding:

  1. How can we verify the solution using the values of the other angles?
  2. What happens if one angle in the triangle is a right angle?
  3. How would the solution change if we were solving for mRm\angle R instead?
  4. Can the angles of a triangle ever be negative? Why or why not?
  5. How does the triangle inequality theorem relate to the angles of a triangle?

Tip: Always ensure that the sum of all angles in any triangle equals 180180^\circ, which is a fundamental property of triangles in Euclidean geometry.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Geometry
Triangle Sum Theorem

Formulas

Sum of angles in a triangle: m∠R + m∠S + m∠T = 180°

Theorems

Triangle Sum Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10