Question

if the two triangles are similar, find x.

16
5.5
17
x

x = 49.5
x = 5.8
x = 5.2
x = 46.5

Explanation:

Step1: Use the property of similar triangles

For similar triangles, the ratios of corresponding sides are equal. So, we have the proportion \(\frac{5.5}{16}=\frac{x}{17}\).

Step2: Solve the proportion for \(x\)

Cross - multiply: \(16x = 5.5\times17\). Then \(16x=93.5\). Divide both sides by 16: \(x=\frac{93.5}{16}=5.84375\approx5.8\) (There might be a miscalculation in the original thought process. Let's re - check. If we assume the correct proportion is \(\frac{5.5}{16}=\frac{x}{17}\), \(x=\frac{5.5\times17}{16}=\frac{93.5}{16} = 5.84375\approx5.8\))

Answer:

\(x = 5.8\)