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Given segments of length \( \mathrm{a}, \mathrm{b} \), and c as shown, construct a segment of length x so that \( \frac{a}{\mathrm{~b}}=\frac{\mathrm{x}}{\mathrm{c}} \). Let b and a be end-to-end on a side of an arbitrary angle. Call the vertex of the angle A , the point between b and \( \mathrm{a} B \), and the end of a C . Describe how to construct a segment of length x that satisfies the given proportion using this angle. A. On the other side of the angle, mark D such that \( \mathrm{DA}=\mathrm{c} \). Connect B with D , and draw a line through C that is parallel to \( \overrightarrow{\mathrm{BD}} \), labeling its intersection B. On the other side of the angle, mark D such that \( \mathrm{DA}=\mathrm{c} \). Connect C with D . Then \( \mathrm{CD}=\mathrm{x} \). C. On the other side of the angle, mark D such that \( \mathrm{DA}=\mathrm{c} \). Connect B with D . Then \( \mathrm{BD}=\mathrm{x} \). D. On the other side of the angle, mark D such that \( \mathrm{DA}=\mathrm{C} \). Connect C with D , and draw a line through B that is perpendicular to \( \overrightarrow{C D} \), labeling its intersection with \( \overrightarrow{A D} \) as E . Then \( \mathrm{DE}=\mathrm{x} \). E. It is not possible to construct the described segment.

Ask by Mccarthy Mann. in the United States
Mar 21,2025

Upstudy AI Solution

Tutor-Verified Answer

Answer

To construct a segment of length \( x \) such that \( \frac{a}{b} = \frac{x}{c} \), follow these steps: 1. Draw an angle with vertex \( A \). 2. On one side, mark points \( B \) and \( C \) with \( AB = b \) and \( BC = a \). 3. On the other side, mark point \( D \) with \( AD = c \). 4. Draw a line from \( B \) to \( D \). 5. Draw a line through \( C \) parallel to \( BD \), intersecting \( AD \) at point \( E \). The segment \( AE \) (or \( x \)) will satisfy the proportion \( \frac{a}{b} = \frac{x}{c} \). Therefore, the correct answer is Option A.

Solution

1. Draw an arbitrary angle with vertex \( A \). 2. On one side of the angle, mark points \( B \) and \( C \) with \( AB = b \) and \( BC = a \) (so that \( B \) lies between \( A \) and \( C \)). 3. On the other side of the angle starting at \( A \), mark point \( D \) such that \( AD = c \). 4. Connect point \( B \) to point \( D \) with a straight line. 5. Through point \( C \) (on the side where \( BC = a \)), draw a line parallel to the segment \( BD \). Let this parallel line meet the ray \( AD \) at point \( E \). By the intercept (or Thales') theorem, triangles \( ABC \) and \( ADE \) are similar, which gives the relation \[ \frac{a}{b} = \frac{AE}{AD}. \] Since \( AD = c \), if we define \( AE = x \), then we have \[ \frac{a}{b} = \frac{x}{c}. \] Thus, the segment \( AE \) (or the portion marked as \( x \)) satisfies the desired proportion. The correct construction is described in Option A.

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Extra Insights

To construct segment \( x \) such that \( \frac{a}{b} = \frac{x}{c} \), you can follow a clever geometric approach! Start by placing segments \( b \) and \( a \) to form a vertex \( A \). Mark point \( D \) opposite the angle such that \( DA = c \) and connect \( B \) to \( D \). Next, draw a parallel line through point \( C \) to line \( \overrightarrow{BD} \). The intersection of this line with the line extending from \( C \) will give the desired segment \( x \). This method applies the principles of similar triangles thus ensuring that \( \frac{AC}{BD} = \frac{a}{b} \) and you end up with \( CD = x \). This practical application of geometric construction reinforces how ratios excel in illustrating relationships visually, making it a fantastic exercise in both geometry and proportions!

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