# Math Help - length of x

1. ## length of x

How can I find x?

I have examples but they are all triangles. This isn't a triangle so I don't know. :s
This is so easy but my notes don't cover it. :|

I have tried 15 / 1.8 but this surely can not be right?

2. create a triangle by drawing a horizontal line at the bottom of the 1.2m side on the left. Then you know that line is 15m and you can work out the vertical side on the right. Then you've got a right angle triangle where you know two sides, and I guess you work out angles and whatever.

3. nervousnelly is right. you would of course use similar triangles to solve for x.

(base of large triangle)/(height of large triangle) = (x)/(height of small triangle)

4. I have the base of the large triangle as 2.5m which I think is correct.
I am confused on how I'm meant to find x as it is a smaller triangle inside the large one.

5. Originally Posted by Jamie88
I have the base of the large triangle as 2.5m which I think is correct.
I am confused on how I'm meant to find x as it is a smaller triangle inside the large one.
It is indeed a smaller triangle but it does share angles so let A= the bottom angle

$Tan(A)=\frac{opp}{adj}=\frac{15}{3.7-1.2}=\frac{x}{1.8}$

$\frac{15}{3.7-1.2}=\frac{x}{1.8}$

Then just solve for x

$x=\frac{15*1.8}{2.5}=10.8$

6. Ohhh I see this now, thanks matey.