Question

The triangles are similar. What is the value of x? Enter your answer in the box. X=

Answer 1

x = 16

Explanation:

Since the triangles are similar then the ratios of corresponding sides are equal, that is

`(x)/(4)` =
`(20)/(5)` ( cross- multiply )

5x = 4 × 20 = 80 ( divide both sides by 5 )

x = 16

Answer 2

x =16

Explanation:

You can use Theorem Pythagoras method to solve this question.

The formula is a^2 + b^2 =c^2

In this question a=x , b=12, and c= 20

to find a which means x you should use this formula : c^2 - b^2=20^2-12^2

= 400 - 144

=√256

=16

You also can use another method by using the second diagram.

In that diagram you have to know that 12÷3 is 4, 20÷5 is 4, hence x÷4 is 4

so , x=16.

I hope this two ways for answering this question will be helpful for you.