SOLUTION: To determine the width of a chasm, a marker (A) is placed directly opposite a rock (R) on the other side. Point B is placed 3 m away from point A, as shown. Marker C is placed 3 m
Algebra ->
Triangles
-> SOLUTION: To determine the width of a chasm, a marker (A) is placed directly opposite a rock (R) on the other side. Point B is placed 3 m away from point A, as shown. Marker C is placed 3 m
Log On
Question 1160134: To determine the width of a chasm, a marker (A) is placed directly opposite a rock (R) on the other side. Point B is placed 3 m away from point A, as shown. Marker C is placed 3 m along the edge
of the chasm, and marker D is placed so that BD is parallel to AC. Markers C and D and the rock are collinear (i.e. lie in a straight line). If BD measures 5 m, find the width of the chasm (AR).
Please also explain the formula used. Is triangle proportionality theory used here or another theory?
You can put this solution on YOUR website! Let W = width of chasm
Then by ratios of parts of the triangle BDR,
5/3 =BD/AC = (W+3)/W
5/3 = (W+3)/W
5W = 3W + 9
2W = 9
W - 4.5
