Question

what values of a and b make $\triangle wxy \cong \triangle ecd$?
(image of two right triangles: $\triangle wxy$ with right angle at x, leg wy = 46, leg xy = a + 17; $\triangle ecd$ with right angle at c, leg ec = b + 44, leg cd = 20)
$a = \square$
$b = \square$
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Explanation:

Step1: Equate corresponding sides for \(a\)

Since \(\triangle WXY \cong \triangle ECD\), the corresponding sides \(XY\) and \(CD\) are equal. So, \(a + 17 = 20\).
Subtract 17 from both sides: \(a = 20 - 17 = 3\).

Step2: Equate corresponding sides for \(b\)

The corresponding sides \(WY\) and \(ED\) are equal. So, \(b + 44 = 46\).
Subtract 44 from both sides: \(b = 46 - 44 = 2\).

Answer:

\(a = 3\), \(b = 2\)