To solve this problem, all we need to do is just set up a proportion. The two shapes are similar, which means that they are the same shape, but different sizes. Using the wording/letter arrangement in the problem, we can figure out which side of one triangle corresponds to which side of the other triangle.
Triangle LMV (with segments LM, MV, and VL) is similar to triangle UTK (with segments UT, TK, and KU).
Corresponding pairs:
LM(x) : UT(39)
MV(30) : TK(65)
VL : KU
However, we need only be interested in the first two pairs. Here is the proportion with letters:
LM / UT = MV / TK
and as numbers:
x / 39 = 30 / 65
Solve for x:
x / 39 = 30 / 65
Cross multiply:
(x)(65) = (39)(30)
Simplify:
65x = 1170
Divide:
65x/65 = 1170 / 65
Simplify:
x = 18
<h2>Answer:</h2>
The length of side LM (x) in triangle LMV is 18 units.
