Similar Triangles Analysis: Finding Similarity Ratio Among Three Given Triangles

Question

In the figure below there is a pair of similar triangles and a triangle that is not similar to the others.

Determine which are similar and calculate their similarity ratio.

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Step-by-Step Solution

To solve the problem, we proceed with the following steps:

  • Identify the given side lengths for each triangle.
  • Compare the side ratios of each triangle pair to check for similarity.
  • Verify the side ratios to affirm the similarity ratio.
  • Select the correct multiple-choice answer based on the analysis.

Given side lengths:
Triangle C: 6 6 , 3 3 , 3 3 (perpendicular and base, as seen in figure).
Triangle B: 4.5 4.5 , 3 3 , 2 2 (perpendicular and base, as seen in figure).
Triangle A: 6 6 , 4 4 , 3.5 3.5 (perpendicular and base, as seen in figure).

Calculating the ratios:

  • For triangles C and B:
    64.5=32\frac{6}{4.5} = \frac{3}{2} which simplifies to 32=1.5\frac{3}{2} = 1.5, indicating that triangles C and B are similar.
  • Comparison for other pairs: Triangle A with Triangle B or C reveals no common proportionality.

Therefore, the only pair of similar triangles is C and B with a similarity ratio of 32\frac{3}{2} or 1.5.

The correct choice is, therefore, C + B are similar with a ratio of 1.5.

Answer

C + B are similar with a ratio of 1.5.