Question

these are similar figures. solve for x. 3 in. 2\frac{1}{2} in. 1 in. 1\frac{1}{2} in. 5\frac{1}{2} in. 7\frac{1}{2} in.

Explanation:

Step1: Set up proportion

For similar figures, the ratios of corresponding sides are equal. So we have the proportion $\frac{1}{2\frac{1}{2}}=\frac{3}{x}$.

Step2: Cross - multiply

$1\times x = 3\times2\frac{1}{2}$.

Step3: Calculate the right - hand side

$3\times2\frac{1}{2}=3\times\frac{5}{2}=\frac{15}{2}=7\frac{1}{2}$. So $x = 7\frac{1}{2}$.

Answer:

$7\frac{1}{2}$ in.