Question

Given that the two triangles are similar, solve for x if AU = 20x + 108, UB = 273, BC = 703, UV = 444, AV = 372 and AC = 589. You must show all of your work to receive credit.

Answer 1

If two triangles are similar then the corresponding sides are in proportion. Thus,

AB / AU = BC / UV = AC / AV

AB / (20x+108) = 703 / 444

Where AB is equivalent to:

AB = AU + UB

AB = 20x + 108 + 273

AB = 20x + 381

Therefore going back to the first equation:

(20x + 381) / (20x + 108) = 703/444

444 (20x + 381) = 703 (20x + 108)

8880x + 169164 = 14060x + 75924

14060x - 8880x = 169164 – 75924

5180 x = 93240

x = 93240 / 5180

x = 18