How to Calculate the Diagonal Length of a Parallelogram?

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    Parallelogram
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the diagonal length of a parallelogram using given circumferences of triangles formed by the diagonal and the parallelogram itself. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and problem-solving techniques.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Homework-related, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that the diagonal divides the parallelogram into two triangles, each with a circumference of 6.21 m, while the perimeter of the parallelogram is 7.12 m.
  • One participant emphasizes the distinction between circumference and perimeter, suggesting that a sketch may help in solving the problem.
  • Another participant proposes solving for the quantity (a+b) using the perimeter equation and substituting it into the triangle circumference equation to find the diagonal length.
  • A participant calculates values leading to a proposed diagonal length of 2.65 m, but corrections are made regarding the equations used in the calculations.
  • There is a confirmation from one participant that the diagonal length of 2.65 m is correct, followed by further corrections to the equations presented.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the method of using equations to find the diagonal length, but there are corrections and clarifications regarding the calculations and the equations used, indicating some level of disagreement or confusion about the steps involved.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved mathematical steps and corrections made throughout the discussion, particularly regarding the equations and values used to calculate the diagonal length.

ZebraGa
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The diagonal divides the parallelogram into two triangles, each triangle circumference is 6.21 m. The circumference of the parallelogram is 7.12 m. Calculate the diagonal length.
I need tips how to solve this problem.
 
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ZebraGa said:
The diagonal divides the parallelogram into two triangles, each triangle circumference is 6.21 m. The circumference of the parallelogram is 7.12 m. Calculate the diagonal length.
I need tips how to solve this problem.

Circumference is the distance around a circle. Perimeter is the distance around a polygon.

Make a sketch ... solve the system of equations for $\color{red}{x}$
 
skeeter said:
Circumference is the distance around a circle. Perimeter is the distance around a polygon.

Make a sketch ... solve the system of equations for $\color{red}{x}$

Sorry I'm a bit lost, I haven't had math for years, can you explain it a bit further?
 
Using the first equation, solve for the quantity $(a+b)$.

Substitute the value you find for $(a+b)$ into the second equation and solve for the length of the diagonal, $\color{red}{x}$.
 
2(a+b)=7.12
x=3.56

(a+b)+3.56=6.21
x=2.65
Diagonal is 2.65 m?
 
That's correct.
 
ZebraGa said:
2(a+b)=7.12
x=3.56

correction ... (a+b) = 3.56

(a+b)+3.56=6.21

correction ... 3.56 + x = 6.21

x=2.65

ok?
 

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