Thread: geometry measurements

see attatched picture
in the diagram AB is parallel to CD
AB = OC = 12cm. OB = 10cm
use similar triangles to calculate the length of CD

Originally Posted by mrmann

see attatched picture
in the diagram AB is parallel to CD
AB = OC = 12cm. OB = 10cm
use similar triangles to calculate the length of CD

Since AB is parallel to CD, then
angle ABO = angle DCO

angle AOB = angle DOC
because vertical angles are congruent.

So, triangle ABO is similar to triangle DOC
because two of their three angles are equal each to each.

The two triangles are similar, and hence, proportional.
By proportion,
(here, be careful in your choosing what sides are corresponding to each triangles. For a guide, use the two congruent angles ABO and CDO.)
AB/BO = CD/CO
12/10 = CD/12
Cross multiply,
10(CD) = 12(12)
CD = 144/10 = 14.4 cm ------answer.