In a linear pair, the measures of two angles sum to 180 degrees. Given m<1 = 5x + 9 and m<2 = 3x + 11, the equation to solve is 5x + 9 + 3x + 11 = 180. Solving for x allows for the determination of the individual angle measures. Understanding the concept of a linear pair is crucial for setting up the equation correctly. The problem emphasizes the importance of recognizing angle relationships in geometry.
#1
bernardl
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<1 and <2 form a linear pair. If m<1 = 5x + 9 and m<2 = 3x + 11, find the measures of both angles.
Whoever gave you this problem clearly expected you to know what "linear pair of angles" meant! Did you? If so it is easy to set up an equation to solve.
For the sake of argument, lets assume this is, in fact, a right triangle with a rectangle inscribed in it.
Here is what looks like a very elegant solution:
Triangles A and B are similar
a/4=2/b
ab=8
But what is happening in that second line? Is there a property of similar triangles I'm forgetting?