# Math Help - pythagorean theorem help

2. ## Re: pythagorean theorem help

Because the two triangles are similar, we know that whenever a length from the smaller triangle is multiplied by the scaling factor (k) we'll get the corresponding length from the bigger triangle.

From this we can see that 4k = 6 and thus k = 3/2.

Now use Pythagoras to find length AB. Since you have the scaling factor you should be able to find DB.

3. ## Re: pythagorean theorem help

Originally Posted by vegasgunner
Oh come on! Do you understand similar triangles?

$\Delta ABC\sim \Delta DBE~?$

4. ## Re: pythagorean theorem help

Originally Posted by Plato
Oh come on! Do you understand similar triangles?

$\Delta ABC\sim \Delta DBE~?$
That doesn't help anyone Plato!

5. ## Re: pythagorean theorem help

Prove it has given a sufficient hint. you could also write for similar triangles the ratio of sides
AB /BD = AC/DE = BC / BE
AB /BD = BC / BE = 6/4
10 /BD = 8 / BE = 3/2
Now you can find the sides you want to find.