Math Problem Statement

What is the measure of BC when AD = 18?

Solution

Let's analyze the problem and solve it step by step.

The diagram shows a trapezium ABCDABCD where:

  • ABCDAB \parallel CD,
  • AB=10cmAB = 10 \, \text{cm},
  • AD=18cmAD = 18 \, \text{cm},
  • BCBC needs to be determined.

The line segments AEAE, EFEF, and FDFD appear to be equal, meaning the trapezium is divided into congruent parts along its height.


Steps to solve:

  1. Identify proportionality: Since AEAE, EFEF, and FDFD divide ADAD into three equal parts, we can determine: AE=EF=FD=AD3=183=6cm.AE = EF = FD = \frac{AD}{3} = \frac{18}{3} = 6 \, \text{cm}.

  2. Length of BC: Since ABCDAB \parallel CD, the segments form a trapezium, and BCBC corresponds to the third segment after ABAB. To determine the length of BCBC:

    • We add AEAE and FDFD to ABAB, as the slant cuts extend symmetrically outward: BC=AB+2×AE=10+2(6)=10+12=22cm.BC = AB + 2 \times AE = 10 + 2(6) = 10 + 12 = 22 \, \text{cm}.

Final Answer:

The measure of BCBC is 22 cm.


Would you like a step-by-step explanation or further clarification?

Related Questions:

  1. What is the height of the trapezium in the given problem?
  2. How can you calculate the area of this trapezium?
  3. What would happen if ADAD was divided into 4 equal parts instead?
  4. How does the proportionality of segments help in trapeziums?
  5. Can you determine CDCD using the same approach?

Tip:

In trapeziums, parallel lines and proportionality of segments are key to solving for unknown lengths. Use properties of symmetry and equal divisions carefully.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Trapezium Properties
Proportionality of Segments

Formulas

Proportional Division Formula
Trapezium Length Relationship

Theorems

Proportionality Theorem
Properties of Parallel Lines

Suitable Grade Level

Grade 8-10