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The ratio of the vertex angle to either of the base angles in an isosceles triangle is 5:2. Determine the measure of the vertex angle. Show how you arrived at your answer

2 Answers

3 votes

Hey there!

In an isosceles triangle, the top angle is called the vertex angle and the two angles present at the bottom are the base angles.

Of course, the word "base" gives us the prompt that they are at the bottom.

Now, the ratio is given as 5:2 , '5' is the vertex angle and '2' is the base angle.

Now, most people get confused with the base angle. '2' is the base angle and now, people get confused with which angle to take the ratio.

But, remember, the measure of the angels on the base are equal. ( Both the base angles have the same measurement ).

This is always true for a isosceles.

Given ratio,

... 5:2

Let's take the angles as 5x and 2x.

Remember that the sum of all angles in any triangles is 180°

Hence,

... 5x + 2x + 2x = 180

This is because, there are three angles in total and the base angles are equal.

... 5x + 4x = 180

... 9x = 180

... x = 180 / 9

... x = 20

The vertex angle = 5x

... 5 ( 20 )

... 100

Hence, the measure of the vertex angle is 100°

Hope my answer helps!

User Naeemgik
by
6.1k points
4 votes

Answer:

100 degrees.

Explanation:

The total representation of the triangle's base angles is 5:2:2.

The amount that has to be multiplied by is x for each of the angles.

5x + 2x + 2x = 180 Add the like terms

9x = 180 Divide by 9

x = 180/9 Divide

x = 20

The angles are

Vertex angle = 5*20 = 100

One of the equal angles = 2*20 = 40

The other equal angle = 2 * 20 = 40

User ElusivDangerBoy
by
5.3k points