Subject Code Mathematics 4

Module Code 7.0 (Triangle Similarity)

Lesson Code 7.1.2 (Definition of Similar Triangles Part 2)
Time Limit 30 minutes

By the end of this lesson, the student will have been able to define and identify similar triangles.

Recall (Time allotment: 1 minute)

From the previous lesson, we learned that two triangles are similar if and only if corresponding angles
are congruent and corresponding sides are proportional. As we go along with the topic on similarity, we
will use these concepts to solve problems.

You will be asked to find the heights of trees, flagpoles, and buildings by measuring shadows and
by using similar right triangles. Similarity is important in industry; it is used in the field of film,
photography, optics, architecture, and integrated circuits. (Serra, 1997)

Applications of Similar Triangles (Time allotment: 15 minutes)

For this lesson, we will have direct applications of similar triangles. Consider the following examples.

Example 1
Given Figure 1, with 4PSH ∼ 4EVC. Find the numerical value of x and y.

x 20
P

y
7

S V
5 H 10
C

Figure 1

Solution.

Since the triangles are similar, then their corresponding sides are proportional. Therefore,
7 5 y
= =
x 10 20
(7)(10) (5)(20)
From this, we have x = 5 = 14 and y = 10 = 10.

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Example 2
Given the figure as marked, prove that 4T RU ∼ 4LIE.

T
20 12
5 3

R 6 U I 24 E

Figure 2

Proof. Since ∠T ∼ = ∠L and ∠R ∼ = ∠I, as a consequence of the Triangle Sum Theorem, the third pair
of angles are also congruent. Thus, the corresponding angles are congruent. Verifying the ratio of the
corresponding sides, we have:

TR 5 1 RU 6 1 UT 3 1
= = = = = =
LI 20 4 IE 24 4 EL 12 4
TR RU
By transitivity, we get LI = IE = UT
EL . Hence, corresponding sides are proportional.

The two conditions of the definition of similar triangles are satisfied. Therefore, 4T RU ∼ 4LIE.

Example 3
Near a 30-ft light pole is a woman 6 feet tall. How long is the shadow cast by the woman if she is
standing 8 feet from the pole? (Assume that the triangles formed are similar.)

Solution.
C
Refer to Figure 3 on the right for the diagram. The woman ED
and the pole CA are both perpendicular to the ground AB. 4CAB
are 4EDB are two similar right triangles. To find the length of the
shadow, we apply the proportion of the sides:

30 8 + x 30
=
6 x
8
5 = +1 E
x
8
=4 6
x
x=2 A DB
8 x
Therefore, the woman’s shadow has a length of 2 feet.
Figure 3

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Practice Exercises (Time allotment: 12 minutes)

Even-numbered items are graded. Odd-numbered items have answers at the end of the lesson.

1. Two triangles are similar and their corresponding sides are in the ratio 3:5. What is the measure of
a side in the larger triangle that corresponds to a side that measures 15 centimeters in the smaller
triangle? (Burrill et al., 1995)

2. Given two triangles that are similar. One pair of proportional sides measure 10 cm and
3 cm. If another side of the larger triangle measures 5 cm, find the measure of the corresponding
side of the smaller triangle. (Burrill et al., 1995)

3. A vertical wall 20 feet high casts a shadow 8 feet long on the ground. If Jhonard is 5 feet 5 inches
tall, up to how far can he go away from the wall to still be standing entirely under its shade?
(Assume that the triangles formed are similar.)

4. Two cables support a pole at the same angle as shown in the figure below. The two cables are 4 m
and 10 m in length while the shorter cable reaches 3 m up the pole. Find the height of the pole.
(Assume that the triangles formed are similar.)

3m

5. Given that 4NPQ ∼ 4RST . The side lengths of 4NPQ are 6 inches, 8 inches, and 10 inches.
The shortest side of 4RST is 8 inches long. Find the lengths of the other two sides of 4RST .
(Chua et al., 2014)

6. Refer to the figure below. If 4PQM ∼ 4STV , find the perimeter of 4PQM. (Burrill et al., 1995)

10 T
4 3
S V
6x + 1
P M
2x + 9

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Lesson Summary (Time allotment: 2 minutes)

Two triangles are similar if and only if

• all three pairs of corresponding angles are congruent; and

• all three pairs of corresponding sides are proportional.

Guide in Solving Problems Involving Similar Triangles

1. Draw a diagram and label it with the given information.

2. Identify similar triangles satisfying the two conditions of the definition.
3. Write an equation and solve the the unknown.
4. When necessary, apply certain theorems, such as Pythagorean Theorem and Triangle Sum Theorem.

References

Albarico, J.M. (2013). THINK Framework. Based on Ramos, E.G. and Apolinario, N. (n.d.). Science
LINKS. Quezon City: Rex Bookstore Inc.
Bass, L. E., et al. (1998). Geometry (Tools for a Changing World). Massachusetts: Prentice Hall.
Burrill, G. F., et al. (1995). Geometry (Applications and Connections. Westerville, OH: Merrill
Publishing Company.
Chua, S. L., et al. (2014). 21st Century Mathematics (A Vision for a Better Future). Quezon City,
Philippines: Phoenix Publishing House, Inc.
Moise, E. E., & Downs, F. L., Jr. (1991). Geometry. Addison-Wesley Publishing Company.
Serra, M. (1997). Discovering Geometry (An Inductive Approach). San Francisco, California: Key
Curriculum Press.

Prepared by: Joseph L. Guadayo Reviewed by: Mary Gay Antonette G. Magpantay
Position: Special Science Teacher IV Position: Special Science Teacher III
Campus: PSHS-EVC Campus: PSHS-MC

c 2020 Philippine Science High School System. All rights reserved. This document may contain proprietary
information and may only be released to third parties with approval of management. Document is uncontrolled
unless otherwise marked; uncontrolled documents are not subject to update notification.

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Answer Key

Practice Exercises

1. 25 cm
35
3. 6 ft or 5 feet 10 inches
32 40
5. 3 in, 3 in

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