Use proportions to find the missing side length x in two similar figures
To find the missing side length x in two similar figures using proportions, follow these steps:
1. Identify the corresponding sides in the two similar figures. These corresponding sides are sides that are in the same position or have the same relative location in both figures.
2. Write a proportion using the corresponding side lengths. The proportion should compare the lengths of the corresponding sides in both figures.
Example: If the corresponding sides are AB and CD, the proportion can be written as: AB/CD = x/ y. Here, x is the missing side length we want to find.
3. Cross-multiply the proportion. Multiply the numerator of the first fraction by the denominator of the second fraction and vice versa.
Example: (AB * y) = (CD * x)
4. Solve the resulting equation for the missing side length x by isolating it on one side of the equation.
Example: x = (AB * y) / CD
5. Substitute the known values for AB, CD, and y into the equation and evaluate to find the value of x.