Question

Triangles ABC and EDC are outlined on a bridge. The triangles share vertex C and angles D and B are right angles. A new bridge structure requires triangles that are in a ratio of 1:1. If AC = 5x − 5 and EC = 3x + 9, find the distance between the top and bottom of the bridge, in feet.

Answer 1

CHECK THE ATTACHED FIQURE FOR THE BRIDGE

Answer:

60 ft

Step-by-step explanation:

From the question we know that triangles ABC and EDC are in a 1:1 with this given ratio it implies that

triangles ABC and EDC are congruent then we can say

side EC = side AC

3x + 9 = 5x - 5

Then we can simplify to know value of x

3x + 14= 5x

2x = 14

x = 7

But we know that AC= 5x - 5 , then substitute value of x into it

AC = 5x + 5 = 5(7) - 5

= 35 - 5

AC= 30 ft

Also EC= 3x + 9 then substitute value of x into it

EC = 3x + 9 = 3(7) + 9

= 21 + 9

EC= 30 ft

Then the the distance between the top and bottom of the bridge, in feet, = EC+AC

= 30 + 30 = 60 ft