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If possible, find the length of EF. If not, explain why the length of EF cannot be determined

If possible, find the length of EF. If not, explain why the length of EF cannot be-example-1
User Dirk N
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1 Answer

12 votes

9514 1404 393

Answer:

a. yes; AA similarity

b. maybe 8, (or 30)

Explanation:

a. The missing angle of ∆ABC is 180° -60° -20° = 100°. So, two of the angles of ∆ABC match those of ∆DEF, meaning the triangles are similar by the AA theorem.

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b. We notice the side ratios to be ...

DE/AB = 12/9 = 4/3

Using that same ratio for corresponding sides ...

EF/BC = 4/3

EF = BC(4/3) = 6(4/3) = 8

Using the marked side lengths, we find EF = 8.

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We note that two angles and the side between them are sufficient information to solve ∆DEF with no reference to the markings of ∆ABC. Doing that, we find EF ≈ 30.4. We credit the discrepancy to the fact that ∆ABC is mis-marked. The longer side cannot be opposite the smaller angle.

If possible, find the length of EF. If not, explain why the length of EF cannot be-example-1
User Rxg
by
5.6k points