.

( Alternate Interior Angles Theorem)

2) We can prove that because

9-3 Similar Triangles they are vertical angles. ( Vertical angles Theorem)

Determine whether the triangles are similar. If

so, write a similarity statement. Explain your
reasoning.

2.
SOLUTION:
1.
We can prove by SAS Similarity.
SOLUTION:
We can prove by AA Similarity. 1) We can prove that because they are
both right angles.(All right angles are congruent.)
1) We can prove that because
they are alternate interior angles and 2) Since these are right triangles, we can use the
Pythagorean Theorem to find the missing sides
. ( Alternate Interior Angles Theorem)

2) We can prove that because

they are vertical angles. ( Vertical angles Theorem)

2.
SOLUTION:
We can prove by SAS Similarity.

1) We can prove that because they are

both right angles.(All right angles are congruent.)

2) Since these are right triangles, we can use the

Pythagorean Theorem to find the missing sides

Now, since we are using SAS Similarity to prove this

relationship, we can set up ratios of corresponding
sides to see if they are equal. We will match short
side to short side and middle side to middle side.

So, by SAS Similarity.

eSolutions Manual - Powered by Cognero Page 1

9-3 Similar Triangles Since the ratios of the corresponding sides are not
So, by SAS Similarity. all the same, these triangles are not similar.

4.
3.
SOLUTION:
SOLUTION: Since no angles measures are provided in these
Since no angles measures are provided in these triangles, we can determine if these triangles are
triangles, we can determine if these triangles can be similar by using the SSS Similarity Theorem.This
proven similar by using the SSS Similarity requires that we determine if each pair of
Theorem.This requires that we determine if each pair corresponding sides have an equal ratio.
of corresponding sides have an equal ratio.
We know the following correspondences exist
We know the following correspondences exist because we are matching longest side to longest side,
because we are matching longest side to longest side, middle to middle, and shortest to shortest:
middle to middle, and shortest to shortest:

Since the ratios of the corresponding sides are not Since the ratios of the corresponding sides are
all the same, these triangles are not similar. equal, by SSS Similarity.

5. MULTIPLE CHOICE In the figure,

intersects at point C. Which additional
information would be enough to prove that
4.
A DAC and ECB are congruent.
SOLUTION:
B and are congruent.
Since no angles measures are provided in these
triangles, we can determine if these triangles are C and are parallel.
similar by using the SSS Similarity Theorem.This D CBE is a right angle.
requires that we determine if each pair of
corresponding sides have an equal ratio.

We know the following correspondences exist

because we are matching longest side to longest side,
middle to middle, and shortest to shortest:

SOLUTION:
Since , by the Vertical Angle
Theorem, option C is the best choice. If we know
that , then we know that the alternate
interior angles formed by these segments and sides
and are congruent. This would allow us to
eSolutions Manual - Powered by Cognero use AA Similarity to prove the triangles are similar.
Page 2
Since the ratios of the corresponding sides are
equal, by SSS Similarity.
CCSS STRUCTURE Identify the similar
 Solve for x.
Since the ratios of the corresponding sides are
equal, Triangles
9-3 Similar by SSS Similarity.

5. MULTIPLE CHOICE In the figure, 7. VS

intersects at point C. Which additional
information would be enough to prove that

A DAC and ECB are congruent.

B and are congruent.
C and are parallel. SOLUTION:
D CBE is a right angle. We can see that because all right
triangles are congruent.
Additionally, , by Reflexive Property.

Therefore, by AA Similarity, .

Use the corresponding side lengths to write a

proportion.
SOLUTION:
Since , by the Vertical Angle
Theorem, option C is the best choice. If we know
that , then we know that the alternate
interior angles formed by these segments and sides
and are congruent. This would allow us to
use AA Similarity to prove the triangles are similar. Solve for x.

CCSS STRUCTURE Identify the similar

triangles. Find each measure. 8. COMMUNICATION A cell phone tower casts a
6. KL 100-foot shadow. At the same time, a 4-foot 6-inch
post near the tower casts a shadow of 3 feet 4
inches. Find the height of the tower.
SOLUTION:
Make a sketch of the situation. 4 feet 6 inches is
equivalent to 4.5 feet.
SOLUTION:
By AA Similarity,

Use the corresponding side lengths to write a

proportion.

Solve for x.

In shadow problems, you can assume that the angles

7. VS formed by the sun’s rays with any two objects are
eSolutions Manual - Powered by Cognero congruent and that the two objects form the sidesPage
of 3
two right triangles.
9-3 Similar Triangles So, the cell phone tower is 1620 inches or 135 feet
In shadow problems, you can assume that the angles tall.
formed by the sun’s rays with any two objects are
congruent and that the two objects form the sides of Determine whether the triangles are similar. If
two right triangles. so, write a similarity statement. If not, what
would be sufficient to prove the triangles
Since two pairs of angles are congruent, the right similar? Explain your reasoning.
triangles are similar by the AA Similarity Postulate.
So, the following proportion can be written:

9.
Let x be the tower’s height. (Note that 1 foot = 12
inches and covert all the dimensions to inches) SOLUTION:

100 ft = 1200 inches Matching up short to short, middle to middle, and long
4 feet 6 inches = 54 inches to long sides, we get the following ratios:
3 feet 4 inches = 40 inches.

Substitute these corresponding values in the

proportion.

So, the cell phone tower is 1620 inches or 135 feet Since, then
tall. by SSS Similarity
Determine whether the triangles are similar. If
so, write a similarity statement. If not, what
would be sufficient to prove the triangles
similar? Explain your reasoning.

10.
SOLUTION:
9. No; needs to be parallel to for
by AA Similarity. Additionally, there
SOLUTION: are no given side lengths to compare to use SAS or
SSS Similarity theorems.
Matching up short to short, middle to middle, and long
to long sides, we get the following ratios:

11.
SOLUTION:
We know that , because their
measures are equal. We also can match up the
adjacent sides that include this angle and determine if
eSolutions Manual - Powered by Cognero
Since, then they have the same ratio. We will match short toPage 4
short and middle to middle lengths.
by SSS Similarity
 SOLUTION:
property. Additionally, we can prove that
No; needs to be parallel to for , because they are corresponding
by AA Similarity. Additionally, there angles formed by parallel lines . Therefore,
9-3 Similar Triangles
are no given side lengths to compare to use SAS or by AA Similarity.
SSS Similarity theorems.

11. 13.
SOLUTION: SOLUTION:
We know that , because their The known information for relates to a SAS
measures are equal. We also can match up the relationship, whereas the known information for
adjacent sides that include this angle and determine if is a SSA relationship. Since they are no the
they have the same ratio. We will match short to same relationship, there is not enough information to
short and middle to middle lengths. determine if the triangles are similar.

If JH = 3 or WY = 24, then all the sides would have

the same ratio and we could prove
by SSS Similarity.

Yes; since and , we

know that by SAS Similarity. 14.
Determine whether the triangles are similar. If SOLUTION:
so, write a similarity statement. If not, what No; the angles of are 59, 47, and 74 degrees
would be sufficient to prove the triangles and the angles of are 47, 68, and 65 degrees.
similar? Explain your reasoning. Since the angles of these triangles won't ever be
congruent, so the triangles can never be similar.

15. CCSS MODELING When we look at an object, it

is projected on the retina through the pupil. The
distances from the pupil to the top and bottom of the
12. object are congruent and the distances from the pupil
to the top and bottom of the image on the retina are
SOLUTION:
congruent. Are the triangles formed between the
We know that due to the Reflexive object and the pupil and the object and the image
property. Additionally, we can prove that similar? Explain your reasoning.
, because they are corresponding
angles formed by parallel lines . Therefore,
by AA Similarity.

SOLUTION:
Yes; sample answer: and
13. therefore, we can state that their ratios
SOLUTION: are proportional, or We also know that
The known information for relates to a SAS
relationship, whereas because vertical angles are
eSolutions Manual - Powered by the known information for
Cognero Page 5
is a SSA relationship. Since they are no the congruent. Therefore, by SAS
same relationship, there is not enough information to Similarity.
determine if the triangles are similar.
 SOLUTION:
are proportional, or We also know that
No; the angles of are 59, 47, and 74 degrees
and the angles of are 47, 68, and 65 degrees. because vertical angles are
9-3 Similar
Since theTriangles
angles of these triangles won't ever be congruent. Therefore, by SAS
congruent, so the triangles can never be similar. Similarity.

15. CCSS MODELING When we look at an object, it ALGEBRA Identify the similar triangles. Then
is projected on the retina through the pupil. The find each measure.
distances from the pupil to the top and bottom of the 16. JK
object are congruent and the distances from the pupil
to the top and bottom of the image on the retina are
congruent. Are the triangles formed between the
object and the pupil and the object and the image
similar? Explain your reasoning.

SOLUTION:
We know that vertical angles are congruent. So,
.
Additionally, we are given that .
.
SOLUTION:
Therefore, by AA Similarity,
Yes; sample answer: and
therefore, we can state that their ratios Use the corresponding side lengths to write a
proportion.
are proportional, or We also know that
because vertical angles are
congruent. Therefore, by SAS
Similarity.

ALGEBRA Identify the similar triangles. Then

Solve for x.
find each measure.
16. JK

17. ST

SOLUTION:
We know that vertical angles are congruent. So,
.
Additionally, we are given that . SOLUTION:
. By the Reflexive Property, we know that
Therefore, by AA Similarity, .
.
Use the corresponding side lengths to write a Also, since , we know that
proportion. ( Corresponding Angle Postulate).

Therefore, by AA Similarity,

Use the corresponding side lengths to write a

proportion.
Solve for x.

eSolutions Manual - Powered by Cognero Page 6

17. ST
 Solve for x.

9-3 Similar Triangles

17. ST 18. WZ, UZ

SOLUTION:
SOLUTION:
By the Reflexive Property, we know that We are given that and we also
. know that ( All right angles are
congruent.)
.
Also, since , we know that Therefore, by AA Similarity,
( Corresponding Angle Postulate).
Use the Pythagorean Theorem to find WU.
Therefore, by AA Similarity,

Use the corresponding side lengths to write a

proportion.

Since the length must be positive, WU = 24.

Solve for x.
Use the corresponding side lengths to write a
proportion.

Solve for x.

18. WZ, UZ

Substitute x = 12 in WZ and UZ.

WZ = 3x – 6
=3(12) – 6
SOLUTION: = 30
We are given that and we also UZ = x + 6
know that ( All right angles are = 12 + 6
congruent.) = 18

Therefore, by AA Similarity, 19. HJ, HK

Use the Pythagorean Theorem to find WU.

eSolutions Manual - Powered by Cognero Page 7
 =3(12) – 6 Substitute x = 2 in HJ and HK.
= 30 HJ = 4(2) + 7
UZ = x + 6 =15
= 12Triangles
9-3 Similar +6 HK = 6(2) – 2
= 18 = 10

19. HJ, HK 20. DB, CB

SOLUTION: SOLUTION:
Since we are given two pairs of congruent angles, We know that ( All right angles
are congruent.) and we are given that
we know that , by AA Similarity.
.
Therefore, , by AA Similarity.
Use the corresponding side lengths to write a
proportion.
Use the corresponding side lengths to write a
proportion.

Solve for x. Solve for x.

Substitute x = 2 in HJ and HK. Substitute x = 2 in DB and CB.

HJ = 4(2) + 7 DB = 2(2) + 1
=15 =5
HK = 6(2) – 2 CB = 2 (2) – 1 + 12
= 10 = 15
20. DB, CB 21. GD, DH

SOLUTION:
SOLUTION:
We know that ( All right angles
We know that ( Reflexive Property) and
are congruent.) and we are given that
are given .
.
Therefore, by AA Similarity.
Therefore, , by AA Similarity.
Use the corresponding side lengths to write a
Use the corresponding side lengths to write a
proportion:
proportion.

eSolutions Manual - Powered by Cognero Page 8

Solve for x.
Solve for x.
 Substitute x = 2 in DB and CB. Substitute x = 8 in GD and DH.
DB = 2(2) + 1 GD = 2 (8) – 2
=5 = 14
9-3 Similar – 1 + 12
Triangles
CB = 2 (2) DH = 2 (8) + 4
= 15 = 20

21. GD, DH 22. STATUES Mei is standing next to a statue in the

park. If Mei is 5 feet tall, her shadow is 3 feet long,
and the statue’s shadow is feet long, how tall is
the statue?
SOLUTION:
Make a sketch of the situation. 4 feet 6 inches is
SOLUTION:
equivalent to 4.5 feet.
We know that ( Reflexive Property) and
are given .
Therefore, by AA Similarity.

Use the corresponding side lengths to write a

proportion:

Solve for x.

In shadow problems, you can assume that the angles

formed by the Sun’s rays with any two objects are
congruent and that the two objects form the sides of
two right triangles.
Substitute x = 8 in GD and DH.
Since two pairs of angles are congruent, the right
GD = 2 (8) – 2
triangles are similar by the AA Similarity Postulate.
= 14
DH = 2 (8) + 4 So, the following proportion can be written:
= 20

22. STATUES Mei is standing next to a statue in the

park. If Mei is 5 feet tall, her shadow is 3 feet long,
and the statue’s shadow is feet long, how tall is Let x be the statue’s height and substitute given
values into the proportion:
the statue?
SOLUTION:
Make a sketch of the situation. 4 feet 6 inches is
equivalent to 4.5 feet.

So, the statue's height is 17.5 feet tall.

23. SPORTS When Alonzo, who is tall, stands

next to a basketball goal, his shadow is long, and
the basketball goal’s shadow is long. About
how tall is the basketball goal?
SOLUTION:
eSolutions Manual - Powered by Cognero Page 9
Make a sketch of the situation. 4 feet 6 inches is
equivalent to 4.5 feet.
 23. SPORTS When Alonzo, who is tall, stands
next to a basketball goal, his shadow is long, and
9-3 Similar Triangles
the basketball goal’s shadow is long. About
how tall is the basketball goal?
SOLUTION: 24. FORESTRY A hypsometer, as shown, can be used
Make a sketch of the situation. 4 feet 6 inches is to estimate the height of a tree. Bartolo looks through
equivalent to 4.5 feet. the straw to the top of the tree and obtains the
readings given. Find the height of the tree.

SOLUTION:
Triangle EFD in the hypsometer is similar to triangle
GHF.

In shadow problems, you can assume that the angles

formed by the Sun’s rays with any two objects are
congruent and that the two objects form the sides of
two right triangles.

Since two pairs of angles are congruent, the right

triangles are similar by the AA Similarity Postulate. Therefore, the height of the tree is (9 + 1.75) or
So, the following proportion can be written: 10.75 meters.

PROOF Write a two-column proof.

25. Theorem 9.3
SOLUTION:
Let x be the basketball goal’s height. We know that 1 A good way to approach this proof is to consider
ft = 12 in.. Convert the given values to inches. how you can get by AA Similarity.
You already have one pair of congruent angles (
) , so you just need one more pair. This
can be accomplished by proving that
and choosing a pair of
corresponding angles as your CPCTC. To get those
Substitute. triangles congruent, you will need to have proven that
but you have enough information in
the given statements to do this. Pay close attention to
how the parallel line statement can help. Once these
triangles are similar, you can create a proportion
statement and combine it with the given statements
to create the
relationship that .
24. FORESTRY A hypsometer, as shown, can be used
to estimate the height of a tree. Bartolo looks through
the straw to the top of the tree and obtains the
readings
eSolutions given.
Manual Findbythe
- Powered height of the tree.
Cognero Given: , Page 10

Prove:
 12.
Therefore, the height of the tree is (9 + 1.75) or 13. (CPCTC)
9-3 Similar Triangles
10.75 meters. 14. (Trans. Prop.)
15. (AA Similarity)
PROOF Write a two-column proof.
25. Theorem 9.3
26. Theorem 9.4
SOLUTION:
SOLUTION:
A good way to approach this proof is to consider
This is a three-part proof, as you need to prove three
how you can get by AA Similarity.
different relationships - that Reflexive, Symmetric,
You already have one pair of congruent angles (
and Transitive properties are true for similar
) , so you just need one more pair. This triangles. For each part of this proof, the key is to
can be accomplished by proving that find a way to get two pairs of congruent angles
and choosing a pair of which will allow you to use AA Similarity
corresponding angles as your CPCTC. To get those Postulate.As you try these, remember that you
triangles congruent, you will need to have proven that already know that these three properties already hold
but you have enough information in for congruent triangles and can use these
the given statements to do this. Pay close attention to relationships in your proofs.
how the parallel line statement can help. Once these
triangles are similar, you can create a proportion
statement and combine it with the given statements
to create the
relationship that .

Given: ,
Prove: Reflexive Property of Similarity
Given:
Prove:
Proof:
Statements (Reasons)
1.
Proof: 2. , (Refl. Prop of .)
Statements (Reasons) 3. (AA Similarity)
1.
2. , (Corr. 's Post.)
Transitive Property of Similarity
3. (Trans. Prop.)
Given:
4. (AA Similarity)
Prove:
5. Statements (Reasons)
1.
6. AB · QP = AQ · BC; AB · EF = DE · BC (Cross 2. (Def. of
products)
polygons)
7. QP = EF (Def. of segs.)
3. (Trans. Prop.)
8. AB · EF = AQ · BC (Subst.)
9. AQ · BC = DE · BC (Subst.) 4. (AA Similarity)
10. AQ = DE (Div. Prop.)
11.
Symmetric Property of Similarity
12.
Given:
13. (CPCTC) Prove:
14. (Trans. Prop.) Statements (Reasons)
15. (AA Similarity) 1.
eSolutions Manual - Powered by Cognero
2. (Def. of polygons) Page 11
26. Theorem 9.4 3. (Symm. Prop of.)
SOLUTION: 4. (AA Similarity)
 Symmetric Property of Similarity 3. (All rt. angles are .)
Given: 4. (Given)
Prove:
9-3 Similar Triangles 5. (SAS Similarity)
Statements (Reasons)
1.
2. (Def. of polygons) 28. Given: ABCD is a trapezoid.
3. (Symm. Prop of.)
Prove:
4. (AA Similarity)

PROOF Write a two-column proof.

27. Given: and are right triangles;

Prove:
SOLUTION:
Think backwards when attempting this proof. In
order to prove that , we need to show that
. To prove triangles are similar, you
need to prove two pairs of corresponding angles are
SOLUTION:
congruent. Think about what you know about
The given information in this proof is almost all you trapezoids and how that can help you get
need to prove by SAS Similarity .
theorem. You already have two pairs of proportional
corresponding sides. You just need to think about Proof:
how to get the included angles congruent to each Statements (Reasons)
other. 1. ABCD is a trapezoid. (Given)
2. (Def. of trap.)
3. (Alt. Int. angle
Proof: Thm.)
Statements (Reasons) 4. (AA Similarity)
1. and are right triangles. (Given)
2. and are right angles. (Def. of rt. 5. (Corr. sides of s are proportional.)
)
3. (All rt. angles are .) 29. CCSS MODELING When Luis’s dad threw a
bounce pass to him, the angles formed by the
4. (Given) basketball’s path were congruent. The ball landed
5. (SAS Similarity) of the way between them before it bounced back
up. If Luis’s dad released the ball 40 inches above
28. Given: ABCD is a trapezoid. the floor, at what height did Luis catch the ball?
Prove:

SOLUTION:
SOLUTION:
Think backwards when attempting this proof. In Since the ball landed of the way between them,

order to prove that , we need to show that the horizontal line is in the ratio of 2:1.
By AA Similarity, the given two triangles are similar.
. To prove triangles are similar, you
need to prove two pairs of corresponding angles are Form a proportion and solve for x. Assume that Luis
congruent.
eSolutions Manual -Think about
Powered what you know about
by Cognero will catch the ball at a height of x inches. Page 12
trapezoids and how that can help you get
.
 3. (Alt. Int. angle
Thm.) determine if the ratios of corresponding sides are
4. (AA Similarity) equal and use SSS Similarity theorem to prove the
triangles are similar.
9-3 Similar
5. Triangles
(Corr. sides of s are proportional.)

29. CCSS MODELING When Luis’s dad threw a

bounce pass to him, the angles formed by the
basketball’s path were congruent. The ball landed
of the way between them before it bounced back
up. If Luis’s dad released the ball 40 inches above
the floor, at what height did Luis catch the ball?

The lengths of the sides of are:

XY =
SOLUTION:

Since the ball landed of the way between them, YZ =

the horizontal line is in the ratio of 2:1.
By AA Similarity, the given two triangles are similar. ZX = 6 – (–9) = 15;

Form a proportion and solve for x. Assume that Luis The lengths of the sides of are:
will catch the ball at a height of x inches.
VW = 5 – (–5) = 10;

WY =

YV =

Now, find the ratios of the corresponding sides:

So, Luis will catch the ball 20 inches above the floor.

COORDINATE GEOMETRY and

have vertices X(–1, –9), Y(5, 3), Z(–1,
6), W(1, –5), and V(1, 5).
30. Graph the triangles, and prove that
SOLUTION:
We can prove that by using the
distance formula to determine the lengths of each Since by
side of the triangles. Then, we can set up ratios to
SSS Similarity.
determine if the ratios of corresponding sides are
equal and use SSS Similarity theorem to prove the
31. Find the ratio of the perimeters of the two triangles.
triangles are similar.
SOLUTION:
We can prove that by using the
distance formula to determine the lengths of each
side of the triangles. Then, we can set up ratios to
determine if the ratios of corresponding sides are
eSolutions Manual - Powered by Cognero equal and use SSS Similarity theorem to provePagethe 13
triangles are similar.
 SOLUTION:
We can prove that by using the
distance formula to determine the lengths of each
9-3 Similar Triangles
side of the triangles. Then, we can set up ratios to
determine if the ratios of corresponding sides are
equal and use SSS Similarity theorem to prove the 32. BILLIARDS When a ball is deflected off a smooth
triangles are similar. surface, the angles formed by the path are
congruent. Booker hit the orange ball and it followed
the path from A to B to C as shown below. What
was the total distance traveled by the ball from the
time Booker hit it until it came to rest at the end of
the table?

SOLUTION:
The lengths of the sides of are: By AA Similarity, the given triangles are similar.
Form a proportion and solve for BC. Convert the
fractions to decimals.
XY =

YZ =

ZX = 6 – (–9) = 15;

The lengths of the sides of are:

VW = 5 – (–5) = 10;
So, the total distance traveled by the ball is about 61
in..
WY =
33. PROOF Use similar triangles to show that the slope
YV = of the line through any two points on that line is
constant. That is, if points A, B, and are on
Now, find the perimeter of each triangle: line use similar triangles to show that the slope of
the line from A to B is equal to the slope of the line
from to

SOLUTION:
In this proof, it is important to recognize that and
32. BILLIARDS When a ball is deflected off a smooth
surface, the angles formed by the path are are both vertical lines and are, therefore,
congruent. Booker hit the orange ball and it followed parallel to each other. Using this relationship, along
the path from A to B to C as shown below. What with the fact that line is a transversal of these
was the total distance traveled by the ball from the segments, we can prove that
timeManual
eSolutions Booker hit it until
- Powered it came to rest at the end of
by Cognero Once this is proven, you can use a proportion Page 14
the table? statement to complete the proof.
 So the slope of line

through points A and B, is equal to the

9-3 Similar Triangles
So, the total distance traveled by the ball is about 61
in.. slope of line through points and .

33. PROOF Use similar triangles to show that the slope 34. CHANGING DIMENSIONS Assume that
of the line through any two points on that line is
constant. That is, if points A, B, and are on a. If the lengths of the sides of are half the
line use similar triangles to show that the slope of length of the sides of and the area of
the line from A to B is equal to the slope of the line is 40 square inches, what is the area of
from to How is the area related to the scale factor
of to
b. If the lengths of the sides of are three
times the length of the sides of and the area
of is 63 square inches, what is the area of
How is the area related to the scale factor
of to
SOLUTION:
SOLUTION:
a. Let b and h be the base and height of the triangle
In this proof, it is important to recognize that and ABC respectively.
are both vertical lines and are, therefore,
parallel to each other. Using this relationship, along
with the fact that line is a transversal of these
segments, we can prove that
Once this is proven, you can use a proportion
statement to complete the proof.

since all rt. angles are . Line is a

transversal of || segments and so
since corresponding angles of || Thus, the area of the triangle JKL is 10 square
lines are . Therefore, by AA Similarity, inches.
The ratio of the areas is the square of the scale
So the slope of line factor.
b. Let b and h be the base and height of the triangle
through points A and B, is equal to the ABC respectively.

slope of line through points and .

34. CHANGING DIMENSIONS Assume that

a. If the lengths of the sides of are half the

length of the sides of and the area of
is 40 square inches, what is the area of
How is the area related to the scale factor
of to
b. If the lengths of the sides of are three Thus, the area of the triangle JKL is 7 square inches.
times the length of the sides of and the area The ratio of the areas is the cube of the scale factor.
of is 63 square inches, what is the area of
How is the area related to the scale factor 35. MEDICINE Certain medical treatments involve
of to laser beams that contact and penetrate the skin,
forming similar triangles. Refer to the diagram. How
SOLUTION: far apart should the laser sources be placed to ensure
a. Let b and h be the base and height of the triangle that the areas treated by each source do not overlap?
eSolutions Manual - Powered by Cognero Page 15
ABC respectively.
 SOLUTION:
a. The triangle you draw doesn't have to be
9-3 Similar Triangles
Thus, the area of the triangle JKL is 7 square inches. congruent to the one in the text. However, measure
The ratio of the areas is the cube of the scale factor. carefully so that is parallel to side .
Sample answer:
35. MEDICINE Certain medical treatments involve
laser beams that contact and penetrate the skin,
forming similar triangles. Refer to the diagram. How
far apart should the laser sources be placed to ensure
that the areas treated by each source do not overlap?

b. When measuring the side lengths, it may be

easiest to use centimeters. Fill in the table with the
corresponding measures.

Sample answer:

SOLUTION:
For 100 cm, it covers an area that has a radius of 15
cm. It penetrates and go inside the skin for 5 cm. so,
the total height is 105 cm. Assume that for 105 cm,
laser source covers an area that has a radius of x
cm.
Form a proportion.

c. Observe patterns you notice in the table that are

formed by the ratios of sides of a triangle cut by a
So, the laser beam covers 15.75 + 15.75 or 31.5 cm.
parallel line.
36. MULTIPLE REPRESENTATIONS In this
problem, you will explore proportional parts of Sample answer: The segments created by a line || to
triangles. one side of a triangle and intersecting the other two
sides are proportional.
a. GEOMETRIC Draw a with parallel
to as shown. 37. WRITING IN MATH Compare and contrast the
b. TABULAR Measure and record the lengths AD, AA Similarity Postulate, the SSS Similarity Theorem,
and the SAS similarity theorem.
DB, CD, and EB and the ratios and in a
SOLUTION:
table.
Sample answer: The AA Similarity Postulate, SSS
c. VERBAL Make a conjecture about the segments Similarity Theorem, and SAS Similarity Theorem are
created by a line parallel to one side of a triangle and all tests that can be used to determine whether two
intersecting the other two sides. triangles are similar.

The AA Similarity Postulate is used when two pairs

of congruent angles of two triangles are given.

SOLUTION:
a. The triangle you draw doesn't have to be
congruent to the one in the text. However, measure
carefully so that is parallel to side .
The SSS Similarity Theorem is used when the
Sample answer:
corresponding side lengths of two triangles are
eSolutions Manual - Powered by Cognero
given. Page 16
 parallel line.

Sample answer: The segments created by a line || to

one sideTriangles
9-3 Similar of a triangle and intersecting the other two
sides are proportional.
SOLUTION:
37. WRITING IN MATH Compare and contrast the
AA Similarity Postulate, the SSS Similarity Theorem,
and the SAS similarity theorem.
SOLUTION:
Sample answer: The AA Similarity Postulate, SSS
Similarity Theorem, and SAS Similarity Theorem are
all tests that can be used to determine whether two
triangles are similar. Both are isosceles right
triangles, so by AA Similarity postulate, we know
The AA Similarity Postulate is used when two pairs that they are similar. This allows us to set up a
of congruent angles of two triangles are given. proportion of corresponding side lengths to find YW:

First, we need to find the length of XZ.

The SSS Similarity Theorem is used when the

corresponding side lengths of two triangles are
given.

The SAS Similarity Theorem is used when two Now, substitute the side lengths you know into the
proportional side lengths and the included angle of proportion .
two triangles are given.

38. CHALLENGE is an altitude of Find

YW.

Therefore, YW= .

SOLUTION:
39. REASONING A pair of similar triangles has angle
measures of 45°, 50°, and 85°. The sides of one
triangle measure 3, 3.25, and 4.23 units, and the sides
of the second triangle measure x – 0.46, x, and x +
eSolutions Manual - Powered by Cognero 1.81 units. Find the value of x. Page 17

SOLUTION:
 Therefore, YW= .
9-3 Similar Triangles

39. REASONING A pair of similar triangles has angle 40. OPEN ENDED Draw a triangle that is similar to
measures of 45°, 50°, and 85°. The sides of one shown. Explain how you know that it is
triangle measure 3, 3.25, and 4.23 units, and the sides similar.
of the second triangle measure x – 0.46, x, and x +
1.81 units. Find the value of x.

SOLUTION:
Using the given information, sketch two triangles and
label the corresponding sides and angles. Make sure
you use the Angle- Sides relationships of triangles to SOLUTION:
place the shortest sides across from the smallest When making a triangle similar to , keep in
angles, etc. mind the relationships that exist between the angles
of similar triangles, as well as the sides. We know
Form a proportion and solve for x. that the corresponding sides of similar triangles are
proportional and the corresponding angles are
congruent.

Sample answer:

because the measures of each

side are half the measure of the corresponding side
and the measures of corresponding angles are equal.

41. WRITING IN MATH How can you choose an

40. OPEN ENDED Draw a triangle that is similar to appropriate scale?
shown. Explain how you know that it is
similar. SOLUTION:
Sample answer: You could consider the amount of
space that the actual object occupies and compare it
to the amount of space that is
available for the scale model or drawing. Then, you
could determine the amount of detail that you want
the scale model or drawing to have, and you could
use these factors to choose an appropriate scale.
SOLUTION:
When making a triangle similar to , keep in
mind the relationships that exist between the angles 42. PROBABILITY
of similar triangles, as well as the sides. We know
A 3.0
that the corresponding sides of similar triangles are
B 0.33
proportional and the corresponding angles are 2
congruent. C x – 3x + 2
D x3 – 3x2 + 2x
Sample answer:
SOLUTION:

eSolutions Manual - Powered by Cognero Page 18

because the measures of each So, the correct option is D.

 to the amount of space that is
available for the scale model or drawing. Then, you
could determine the amount of detail that you want
the scaleTriangles
9-3 Similar model or drawing to have, and you could
use these factors to choose an appropriate scale. So, the correct option is D.

43. EXTENDED RESPONSE In the figure below,

42. PROBABILITY

A 3.0
B 0.33
2
C x – 3x + 2
D x3 – 3x2 + 2x
SOLUTION:
a. Write a proportion that could be used to find x.
b. Find the value of x and the measure of
SOLUTION:

So, the correct option is D. Since we know , and

because they are corresponding
43. EXTENDED RESPONSE In the figure below, angles formed by parallel lines. Therefore,
and corresponding sides are
proportional.

a.

b.
a. Write a proportion that could be used to find x.
b. Find the value of x and the measure of Solve for x.

SOLUTION:

Since we know , and

because they are corresponding
angles formed by parallel lines. Therefore,
Substitute x = 9.5 in AB.
and corresponding sides are
AB = x – 2
proportional.
= 9.5 – 2
= 7.5
a.
44. ALGEBRA Which polynomial represents the area
of the shaded region?
b.

Solve for x.

F π r2
G π r2 + r2
H π r2 + r
J π r2 – r2
Substitute x = 9.5 in AB.
AB = x – 2 SOLUTION:
= 9.5 – 2 The area of the circle is .
= 7.5
eSolutions Manual - Powered by Cognero Page 19

44. ALGEBRA Which polynomial represents the area The area of one white triangle is , because the
of the shaded region?
 The volume of a rectangular solid with dimensions x,
Substitute x = 9.5 in AB. y, and z is given by xyz. So xyz = 16. Since all
AB = x – 2 dimensions are integers, and since lengths must be
= 9.5 – 2Triangles
9-3 Similar positive, the least possible value of x and y is 1. In
= 7.5 that case, z = 16. So the correct answer is B.

44. ALGEBRA Which polynomial represents the area List all pairs of congruent angles, and write a
of the shaded region? proportion that relates the corresponding sides
for each pair of similar polygons.
46.

F π r2
G π r2 + r2
H π r2 + r
J π r2 – r2 SOLUTION:
The order of vertices in a similarity statement
SOLUTION: identifies the corresponding angles and sides. Since
The area of the circle is . we know that , we can take the
corresponding angles of this statement and set them
congruent to each other. Then, since the
The area of one white triangle is , because the
corresponding sides of similar triangles are
proportional to each other, we can write a proportion
radius of the circle is both the height and the base of that relates the corresponding sides to each other.
the triangle.

The area of two white triangles would be

.

47.
To find the area of the shaded region, you can
subtract the area of the two white triangles from the
circle's area.

SOLUTION:
So, the correct option is J.
The order of vertices in a similarity statement identifi
45. SAT/ACT The volume of a certain rectangular solid corresponding angles and sides. Since we know that
is 16x cubic units. If the dimensions of the solid are , we can take the corresponding a
integers x, y, and z units, what is the greatest possible this statement and set them congruent to each other.
value of z? the corresponding sides of similar triangles are propor
A 32 each other, we can write a proportion that relates the
B 16 corresponding sides to each other.
C8
D4
E2
SOLUTION: 48.
The volume of a rectangular solid with dimensions x,
y, and z is given by xyz. So xyz = 16. Since all
dimensions are integers, and since lengths must be
positive, the least possible value of x and y is 1. In
that case, z = 16. So the correct answer is B.

List all pairs of congruent angles, and write a SOLUTION:

proportion that relates the corresponding sides
eSolutions Manual - Powered by Cognero The order of vertices in a similarity statement identifi
Page 20
for each pair of similar polygons. corresponding angles and sides. Since we know that
46. , we can take the corresponding
 each other, we can write a proportion that relates the
Solve for x.
corresponding sides to each other.

9-3 Similar Triangles

48.
50.

SOLUTION:

SOLUTION:
Cross multiply.
The order of vertices in a similarity statement identifi
corresponding angles and sides. Since we know that
, we can take the corresponding
statement and set them congruent to each other. The
Solve for x.
corresponding sides of similar polygons are proportio
other, we can write a proportion that relates the corr
sides to each other.

51.

SOLUTION:
Solve each proportion.
49.

SOLUTION: Cross multiply.

Cross multiply. Solve for x.

Solve for x.
52.

SOLUTION:

50.
Cross multiply.
SOLUTION:

Solve for x.
Cross multiply.

Solve for x.
53. TANGRAMS A tangram set consists of seven
eSolutions Manual - Powered by Cognero pieces: a small square, two small congruent rightPage 21
triangles, two large congruent right triangles, a
51. medium-sized right triangle, and a quadrilateral. How
can you determine the shape of the quadrilateral?
 We are given one pair of congruent angles and one
pair of congruent sides ( by Reflexive property).
However, it not possible to prove these triangles
9-3 Similar Triangles congruent because we can't prove any other pair of
sides or angles congruent.

53. TANGRAMS A tangram set consists of seven

pieces: a small square, two small congruent right
triangles, two large congruent right triangles, a
medium-sized right triangle, and a quadrilateral. How 56.
can you determine the shape of the quadrilateral? SOLUTION:
Explain. We are given that two pairs of sides are congruent
and can prove the third pair of sides is, as well, by
using Reflexive property. Therefore, these triangles
can be proven congruent with SSS.

SOLUTION: Write a two-column proof.

Consider the properties of different quadrilaterals 57. Given:
when answering this question. The shape appears to Prove:
be a parallelogram, therefore you can test the
conditions of a parallelogram to see if they are true
for this shape.

Sample answer: If one pair of opposite sides are

congruent and parallel, the quadrilateral is a SOLUTION:
parallelogram. There are many angles in this diagram, so it is easy
Determine which postulate can be used to to get confused by which ones to use. Notice how
prove that the triangles are congruent. If it is the given statement guides you to using and .
not possible to prove congruence, write not Because they have different transversals, they are
not related to the same set of parallel lines. However,
possible .
they are both related to . If you can think about
how to get supplementary to , then you can
prove that .
54.
SOLUTION:
We are given two pairs of congruent sides and a pair
of congruent angles. However, the congruent angles Given:
are not the include angle between the two sides. Prove:
Therefore, it is a SSA relationship, not a SAS
relationship and it is not possible to prove these
triangles congruent.

Proof:
55. Statements (Reasons)
SOLUTION: 1. (Given)
We are given one pair of congruent angles and one 2. (Consecutive Interior Angle
pair of congruent sides ( by Reflexive property). Theorem)
However, it not possible to prove these triangles 3. (Definition of supplementary
congruent because we can't prove any other pair of angles)
sides or angles congruent. 4. (Definition of congruent angles)
5. (Substitution)
6. (Definition of supplementary)
7. (If cons. int. s are suppl., then lines are
56. ||.)
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SOLUTION:
We are given that two pairs of sides are congruent
 SOLUTION:
We are given that two pairs of sides are congruent
and can prove the third pair of sides is, as well, by
9-3 Similar Triangles
using Reflexive property. Therefore, these triangles
can be proven congruent with SSS.

Write a two-column proof.

57. Given:
Prove:

SOLUTION:
There are many angles in this diagram, so it is easy
to get confused by which ones to use. Notice how
the given statement guides you to using and .
Because they have different transversals, they are
not related to the same set of parallel lines. However,
they are both related to . If you can think about
how to get supplementary to , then you can
prove that .

Given:
Prove:

Proof:
Statements (Reasons)
1. (Given)
2. (Consecutive Interior Angle
Theorem)
3. (Definition of supplementary
angles)
4. (Definition of congruent angles)
5. (Substitution)
6. (Definition of supplementary)
7. (If cons. int. s are suppl., then lines are
||.)

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