Question

an architect is completing the plans for a triangular deck. use the diagram below to find the missing dimension. the missing dimension is feet. (simplify your answer. type an integer, fraction, or mixed number.) 5 inches 7 inches 17 feet

Explanation:

Step1: Assume similar - triangles

Since the two triangular shapes are similar, the ratios of corresponding sides are equal.

Step2: Set up the proportion

Let the missing dimension be $x$. The ratio of the vertical - to - horizontal sides in the small triangle is $\frac{7}{5}$, and in the large triangle is $\frac{x}{17}$. So, $\frac{7}{5}=\frac{x}{17}$.

Step3: Solve for $x$

Cross - multiply: $5x = 7\times17$. Then $5x=119$. Divide both sides by 5: $x=\frac{119}{5}=23\frac{4}{5}$.

Answer:

$23\frac{4}{5}$