Chapter 11 - Similarity

Mathscape 10 ext.
- Ch11 Page 423 Friday, October 14, 2005 8:24 AM
Similarity
11
This chapter at a glance
Stage 5.1/5.2/5.3
After completing this chapter, you should be able to:
enlarge or reduce a figure using a given scale factor
explain the difference between congruent figures and similar figures
determine the scale factor for a pair of similar figures
determine whether two polygons are similar
identify the matching sides and angles in similar figures
calculate dimensions of similar figures using the enlargement or reduction factor
name a pair of similar triangles, giving their vertices in matching order
use the tests for similar triangles to prove that two triangles are similar
apply geometrical facts, properties and relationships to find sides and angles in
diagrams containing similar triangles
solve practical problems that involve similar triangles
write formal deductive proofs involving the tests for similar triangles
Similarity
prove and apply similarity theorems involving the midpoints of sides of triangles.
423
Mathscape 10 ext. - Ch11 Page 424 Saturday, September 24, 2005 11:29 AM
424 Mathscape 10 Extension
11.1 Similar figures

■ Enlargement Q'
Figures can be enlarged or reduced by choosing a

fixed point O, called the centre of enlargement. Q
If all of the sides in a figure are doubled, then we
say that the scale factor is 2. This is often written
as k = 2. The new figure resulting from the R'
O R
enlargement is called the image.
P
P'
When a figure PQR is enlarged or reduced by a factor of k,

the resulting image is P′Q′R′.
In the previous diagram, the figure PQR has been enlarged by a factor of 2 by doubling the
distances OP, OQ and OR. That is, OP′ = 2 × OP, OQ′ = 2 × OQ and OR′ = 2 × OR. It then
follows that P′Q′ = 2 × PQ, Q′R′ = 2 × QR and P′R′ = 2 × PR.
If k > 1, then the figure will be enlarged. The scale factor in this case is an
enlargement factor.
If 0 < k < 1, then the figure will be reduced. The scale factor in this case is a
reduction factor.
For example, if k = 3, the figure will be enlarged and all lengths on the image will be 3 times
1
the corresponding lengths on the original figure. If k = --- , then the figure will be reduced and
3
1
all lengths on the image will be --- of the corresponding lengths on the original figure.
3
■ Similar figures
Similar figures are figures that have the same shape but not necessarily the same size. For
example, when a picture is enlarged or reduced on a photocopier, the picture that results is
similar to the original. If one figure is an enlargement or reduction of another, then the two
figures are similar.
Similar figures have the same shape but not necessarily the same size.
Chapter 11 : Similarity 425
Angles are not affected by the enlargement S

transformation. Consider, for example, a triangle
with sides 5 cm, 7 cm and 8 cm. The angles in this
triangle are approximately 60°, 82° and 38°. 10 Q 14
From the diagram it follows that: 5 82° 7

• ∠PST = ∠PQR (Corresponding angles, QR || ST) 60° 38°
• ∠PTS = ∠PRQ (Corresponding angles, QR || ST) P R T
• ∠P is a common angle. 8
16
While the lengths of the sides have doubled, the sizes of the angles have not changed. The angle
sum of any triangle is 180°, no matter its shape or size. Therefore, the angle sum cannot
increase or decrease if the sides are extended to, say, twice their original length. That is,
doubling the lengths of the sides does not result in a doubling of the individual angles in the
triangle.
In similar figures, all pairs of matching sides are in the same ratio and all pairs of
matching angles are equal.
Example 1
EG i State the enlargement or reduction factor for these similar figures.
+S
ii Use the scale factor to find the value of the pronumeral.
a b 15 cm p cm
3 cm x cm
4 cm 6 cm
9 cm
20 cm
Solutions
20 6
a Enlargement factor = ------ b Reduction factor = ---
4 9
2
=5 = ---
3
2
∴x=5×3 ∴ p = --- × 15
3
= 15 = 10
Example 2 16 mm 12 mm
A B W X
EG Find the ratios of the matching
+S
sides of these rectangles. 20 mm
Are the rectangles similar? 25 mm
Z Y
D C
Solution
WX 12 XY 20 WX XY
--------- = ------ -------- = ------ --------- ≠ --------
AB 16 BC 25 AB BC
3 4
= --- = --- ∴ The rectangles are not similar.
4 5
Exercise 11.1
1 The quadrilaterals shown are similiar.
A B P Q
D C
S R
a State the lengths of the sides in each figure in mm.

b Find the following ratios in simplest form.
i AB:PQ ii BC:QR iii CD:RS iv DA:SP
c What can you say about the ratios of the matching sides?
d What is the scale factor?
2 The triangles shown are similar.
X Z L N
Y
M
a Measure the angles in each triangle.

b Are the angles in ∆XYZ equal to the matching angles in ∆LMN?
3 The figures in each pair are similar. Write down all pairs of matching sides.
a A P b F
K
N E
D
C S
B R
L M
Q H G
4 The figures in each pair are similar. Write down all pairs of matching angles.
a D b T U H
Y G
K
I
X V
Z
C S W J
E
■ Consolidation
5 State whether the following figures are always similar.
a equilateral triangles b isosceles triangles c squares
d rectangles e parallelograms f rhombuses
6 State the enlargement factor for these similar figures.
a b
24
14
9 cm 21 36
15 cm
c d
20 18 8
32
7 Find the scale factor for each pair of similar figures. Hence find the value of the
pronumeral. All lengths are in cm.
a 6 12 b 7 21
4 5 15
3 4 6 x p
10
30
c d
6 6 t
10 12
8 20 4
4 8
9 6
9 a
e f 28
22
c
8 9 e
18 32 20
4
7 3
14 11
12
8
8 a Are all circles similar?

b Are all semicircles similar?
9 Find the scale factor for each pair of circles.

a b
10
12 cm cm
m
8c
14 cm
10 Find the scale factor for each pair of semicircles.

a b 28 cm
21 cm
15 cm 6 cm
11 a Are all congruent figures similar?

b Are all similar figures congruent?
12 For each pair of rectangles below, find the ratios of the matching sides (figure A : figure B).
Hence determine whether the rectangles are similar. All lengths are in metres.
a 9 b 7
A 2
4
B 15
B 8 12 A
36
c d
4 B
B 8 A
40
4 A 15 5
16
10
13 Find the similar figures in each set.

a
10 2
6 C
A 3
B 8 D 20
15
8
b 10
2.5 A 130°
50° 15 D
B
4.5 16 50°
C
130° 18 21
6
c 12 7.5 20 36
22 6 B 16
15 A 4 24 C D 30
45
5
18 32
24
■ Further applications
14 a Prove that PQRS ||| TQVU. b Prove that ABCD ||| EFGD.
P 2 T 6 Q A 10 B
2
E 5
3 F
2
U V D 4 8
1 3
S R G
3
C
TRY THIS Investigation

1 For each of the following sets of measurements:
i construct ∆ABC and ∆PQR
ii state whether the triangles are equiangular
iii state whether the triangles are similar.
a In ∆ABC, AB = 3 cm, BC = 4 cm, AC = 6 cm.
In ∆PQR, PQ = 6 cm, QR = 8 cm, PR = 12 cm.
b In ∆ABC, AB = 4 cm, ∠ABC = 70°, BC = 6 cm.
In ∆PQR, PQ = 8 cm, ∠PQR = 70°, QR = 12 cm.
c In ∆ABC, ∠ABC = 90°, AB = 3 cm, AC = 5 cm.
In ∆PQR, ∠PQR = 90°, PQ = 6 cm, PR = 10 cm.
2 Make a summary of your findings about similar triangles from this investigation.
11.2 Tests for similar triangles

Two triangles are said to be similar if they have the same shape but not necessarily the same
size. One triangle can be obtained from the other by either an enlargement or a reduction
transformation. The matching sides in the triangles are in proportion (in the same ratio) and the
matching angles are equal. The symbol ||| is used to mean ‘is similar to’.
If two triangles are similar, then:

the matching sides are in proportion
the matching angles are equal.
As is the case with congruent triangles, it is not necessary to know the measurements of every
side and every angle in a pair of triangles in order for us to be certain that the triangles are
similar. Having completed the previous investigation, you should have deduced the following
four tests for similar triangles. These tests represent the minimum amount of information that is
needed to prove that two triangles are similar.
1 If the three sides of one triangle are respectively proportional to the three sides
of another triangle, then the triangles are similar.
For example, 10
3 6
12
5 6
2 If two sides of one triangle are respectively proportional to two sides of another
triangle, and the included angles are equal, then the triangles are similar.
For example, 9
110°
15
5
110°
3
3 If two angles of one triangle are respectively equal to two angles of another
triangle, then the triangles are similar.
For example,
80° 40°
60°
60°
40°
80°
4 If the hypotenuse and a second side of a right-angled triangle are respectively

proportional to the hypotenuse and a second side of another right-angled
triangle, then the triangles are similar.
For example,
9 cm
12 cm
6 cm
8 cm
NOTE: (1) If in two triangles, two pairs of matching angles are equal, then the third pair
of angles must also be equal, because the angle sum of each triangle is 180°.
Therefore, in order to prove that two triangles are similar, it is sufficient to show
that two pairs of angles are equal.
(2) When naming similar figures, the vertices must be given in matching order.
That is, for the triangles below, we would write ∆ABC ||| ∆XYZ.
(3) By convention, abbreviations such as SSS, SAS, AA and RHS are not used in
proofs involving similar triangles.
Y
B
5 9 10 18
A C
8 X Z
16
Example 1
EG Show that each pair of triangles are similar.
+S
a X 16 I b Q L M
5 60°
J
7 Z 70°
14 70°
10
8
60° N
Y K P R
c T 8 cm U Q d E H
I
100°
4 cm 5
6 cm
O 100° 30 12
V 12 cm P
F 2 G
J
Solutions
a In ∆XYZ and ∆IJK b In ∆PQR and ∆LMN
XZ 5 1
• ------- = ------ = --- • ∠P = ∠M
JK 10 2 • ∠Q = ∠N
XY 7 1 ∴ ∆PQR ||| ∆MNL
• ------- = ------ = ---
IK 14 2 (two pairs of matching angles
YZ 8 1 are equal)
• ------- = ------ = ---
IJ 16 2
∴ ∆XYZ ||| ∆KIJ
(three pairs of matching sides
are in proportion)
c In ∆TUV and ∆OPQ d In ∆EFG and ∆HIJ

TU 8 2 FG 2 1
• -------- = ------ = --- • -------- = ------ = ---
OP 12 3 IJ 12 6
UV 4 2 EG 5 1
• -------- = --- = --- • -------- = ------ = ---
OP 6 3 HJ 30 6
• ∠TUV = ∠OPQ • ∠EFG = ∠HIJ = 90°
∴ ∆TUV ||| ∆OPQ ∴ ∆EFG ||| ∆HIJ
(two pairs of matching sides (the hypotenuse and a second
are in proportion and the side of each right-angled triangle
included angles are equal) are in proportion)
Exercise 11.2
The questions in this exercise are designed to be done without formal proofs. These will be
covered in exercise 11.4.
1 The triangles in each pair are similar. Write down all pairs of matching sides.
a F b L C E
X
70°
70°
50° 60° Y 50° 60° Z
E G M
N D
2 The triangles in each pair are similar. Write down all pairs of matching angles. All lengths
are in metres.
a U b D
L K
10 7 5 8 12 36
5.5 24
V C
K M 5 I
11 3.5 15 J
T E
3 Determine whether the triangles below are similar by first finding the missing angles.
a b α
β
50° β 42° 58°
60°
50°
70° α
c d
47° 63° β
30° 30°
β 47°
120° α 30° α
70°
4 Find the ratio of the matching sides in each pair of triangles. Hence determine whether the
triangles are similar.
a b
4 12 39
10 13 36
5 8
6
11 24
8
c 18 d
3 21
10 2.5
12 28 5.2
4.5 5
25
5.6
5 Find the ratio of the matching sides in each pair of triangles. Hence determine whether the
triangles are similar.
a b
4
12 10
75° 5
7 75°
21 6 4
c d 6
36° 12
7 28 9
100° 44°
6 24
9
6 Find the ratio of the matching sides in these right-angled triangles. Hence determine
whether the triangles are similar.
a b
5
10 15 26
39
4 10
8
c 3 9 d
10 15
7.5
22.5 15
20
■ Consolidation
7 The triangles in each pair are similar. Find the value of the pronumeral. Give your answers
as fractions or mixed numerals where necessary. All lengths are in mm.
a 20 b
42
x 24
6 7 14
14
9
c
10 8
c d
21
12
g 56 96
42
10
k
e f
f 24
28
77 q
40
12 21
8 Explain why the triangles in each figure are similar. Hence find the value of all pronumerals.
a b c
28 21
12
38° 8 15 37° 35 x° 46°
p°
y° 53° 29
q°
77° 14.5 f °
9 6 40 30
e° 44°
9 Explain why the triangles in each figure are similar. Hence find the value of the pronumeral.
a b
m
3 15
12 12
2
20 x
10 8
c d
24 15
u
30 27
g
20 18
36
32
10 Show by marking equal angles that the triangles in each figure are similar. Hence find the
value of the pronumeral.
a b 7 21
5 k
6 12
5
x
c d 15
5
9
9 35
h
48
t
e f
d
42 15
n
20
18 10
14
11 Find the value of all pronumerals in the similar triangles below. All measurements are
in cm.
a 4 b
3 2 10
20
a b 6
d 4 c
16
c d
y
12 p
9
x 18 28
18
10 27 12
q
e v f n
10
13.5 8
u
9 15 22
m
3 24
12 Find the value of all pronumerals in the similar triangles below. All measurements are in
metres.
a 22 b c
20
x
6
11 8 30 45
p 16
a
10
13 In each of the following:

i redraw the triangles separately in the same orientation, showing the equal angles and
any sides marked
ii verify that the triangles are similar by marking the equal angles
iii use the scale factor to find the value of all pronumerals.
a A b c L
P a 24.5 18
12 T
x 22 K
24 17.5 R
D
20 26 e
15 E S J
24
C b f
3.5 M N
B y 39
Q
TRY THIS Similar triangles 1

PQRS is a parallelogram, with SP produced to T.
T
If TP = 2 cm, QR = 3 cm and SR = 8 cm, find the
length of UQ.
U Q
P
S R
11.3 Solving problems that involve

similar triangles
The practical problems in this exercise can be solved by using the properties of similar triangles.
In each question you need to determine the scale factor between the triangles, then use it to find
the required length or distance. You are not required to prove that the triangles are similar.
Example
EG A building 20 m tall casts a shadow of length 5 m
+S
when the sun is almost directly overhead. At the
same time, a tree of height 12 m casts a shadow in
20 m
12 m the same line as the shadow cast by the building.
Find the length of the shadow cast by the tree.
xm
5m
Solution
x 12
--- = ------
5 20
12 m
×5 ×5
20 m
∴x=3
xm
∴ The tree casts a shadow of length 3 m.
5m
Exercise 11.3
1 Annaleis used a tree and its shadow to

measure her height. The tree of height
12 m casts a shadow of length 16 m.
Annaleis stands 2 m from the end of the
12 m
shadow so that her shadow finishes at the
same point as that of the tree. How tall is
Annaleis? hm
2m
16 m
2 A telegraph pole is 10 m high. At 4 pm the pole

casts a shadow of length 24 m. A small cherry
tree of height 2.5 m casts a shadow in the same
10 m line as that made by the pole. What is the length
2.5 m
of the shadow cast by the cherry tree?
xm
24 m
3 A flagpole of height 3.5 m casts a shadow of length

3 m. At the same time, the clubhouse which is 15 m
away, casts a shadow in the same line as that of the
flagpole. Find the height of the clubhouse. hm
3.5 m
15 m 3m
■ Consolidation
4 A surveyor needed to calculate the width of a
river. He was unable to cross it and so made the
wm
measurements shown in the diagram. Find the
11 m width of the river.
44 m
18 m
5 A conveyor belt of length 25 m carries bricks from

the ground to the top of a building that is under
construction. When the bricks have travelled 10 m 25 m
along the conveyor belt, they are 6 m above the hm
ground. Find the height of the building. m 6m
10
6 A cable car travels from a village up to a ski resort at

the top of a mountain. When the cable car has
travelled 500 m, it is 350 m above the ground. To
3 km
reach the resort, the car must travel 3 km along the
hm cable. How high is the mountain?
0m
50 350 m
m
2.5
7 The legs of a 6 m ladder are supported by a strut of length
80 cm at a point 2.5 m from the top. Find the maximum 6m
distance between the feet of the ladder. (Watch the units!) 80 cm
54 cm xm
8 A cone of height 48 cm is filled to a height of 40 cm.
x cm If the cone has a diameter of 54 cm, find the diameter
48 cm
of the cone at the surface of the water.
40 cm
9 Two trees on a street have heights of 3 m and 9 m respectively.
At a certain time of day the shorter tree casts a shadow of 9m
3m
length 5 m. How far apart are the trees?
xm 5m
10 xm 24 m A railway bridge across a gorge is supported by a

number of concrete pylons. The first pylon has a height
30 m of 30 m and is 24 m from the edge of the gorge. The
50 m
second pylon has a height of 50 m. How far apart are the
pylons?
11 A cone with diameter 28 cm is filled with

28 cm
water to a point 4 cm from the top of the cone.
The surface of the water has an area of 36π cm2. 4 cm
Find the height of the water.
36π cm2
h cm
TRY THIS Similar triangles 2

A
In the triangle ABC, AX and BY are medians. Use the
fact that X and Y are the midpoints of BC and AC Y
respectively to prove ∆AOB ||| ∆XOY. Hence prove O
that O divides AX and BY in the ratio 2 : 1.
B C
X
11.4 Proofs involving similar

triangles
Proofs involving similar triangles should be set out in the same format as proofs involving
congruent triangles.
Example 1 24
E G
EG Prove that ∆LMN ||| ∆GFE. M
+S 4 7
Solution
L N
In ∆LMN and ∆GFE 21 8 12
LM 4 1
• -------- = ------ = --- (given)
GF 12 3
MN 7 1 F
• --------- = ------ = --- (given)
EF 21 3
LN 8 1
• -------- = ------ = --- (given)
EG 24 3
∴ ∆LMN ||| ∆GFE (three pairs of matching sides are in proportion)
Example 2 P S
EG a Prove that ∆PQR ||| ∆TSR.
+S b Hence, find the value of n.
15 12
R
Solutions
a In ∆PQR and ∆TSR 10
• ∠PQR = ∠RST (alternate angles, PQ || ST) n
T
• ∠PRQ = ∠SRT (vertically opposite angles)
Q
∴ ∆PQR ||| ∆TSR (two pairs of matching angles are equal)
QR PR
b -------- = ------- (matching sides of similar ∆s are in proportion)
SR TR
n 15
------ = ------
12 10
× 12 × 12
∴ n = 18
Example 3 D
F
EG a Prove that ∆CDE ||| ∆GFE. x° 18
+S 15
b Hence, find the value of x. 47°
Solutions E
a In ∆CDE and ∆GFE 20
24
DE 18 6 G
• -------- = ------ = --- (given)
EF 15 5
C
CE 24 6
• -------- = ------ = --- (given)
EG 20 5
• ∠DEC = ∠FEG (vertically opposite angles)
∴ ∆CDE ||| ∆GFE
(two pairs of matching sides are in proportion and the included angles are equal)
b ∠CDE = ∠GFE (matching angles in similar ∆s are equal)
∴ x = 47
Example 4 S 12 V
EG a Prove that ∆SVW ||| ∆UTS.
+S b Hence, prove that SV || TU. 16
Solutions
a In ∆SVW and ∆UTS
W 4
• ∠SVW = ∠UTS = 90° (given)
SV 12 4 T 15 U
• -------- = ------ = --- (given)
TU 15 5
SW 16 4
• -------- = ------ = --- (given)
SU 20 5
∴ ∆SVW ||| ∆UTS (the hypotenuse and one side of a right-angled triangle are respectively
proportional to the hypotenuse and one side of another right-angled triangle).
b ∠VSW = ∠TUS (matching angles in similar ∆s are equal)
∴ SV || TU (alternate angles are equal).
Exercise 11.4
1 Prove that the triangles are similar in each of the following. Hence, find the value of each
pronumeral.
a A x B b T
Q 8
10 6
20
C m
24 12
y R
9 12
D E P
18 S
c V d J
4
20 Y 14 Z 25
a° M N
8 10
10 3
44° X
U 35 W K L
k
e G f R 42 T
15 56°
20 12
E g° 21
27 V
15 r°
10 24
18 S U
110°
D 12 F
g x h Q i G
Y W 36 Z 3
10 u° 25
S
27 36 30 H 18 I
30 F
15 e
V
40 16
X P 110°
20 T 4 R
J
■ Consolidation
2 a Prove that ∆APQ ||| ∆ABC. A
b Hence find PQ, AQ, QC.
10
22.5
P Q
8
B C
27
3 Q R a Prove that ∆QTR ||| ∆STP.

b Hence prove that PQRS is a trapezium.
7.2 4.8
T
6 9
P S
20
A G B
4 ABCD is a parallelogram.
a Prove that ∆DEF ||| ∆AEG. 8
b Hence find AG.
D 3
F C
4
5 U
5 E
V
3
a Prove that ∆WUX ||| ∆WYV.
W b If UX = 7, find VY.
4
X
2
Y M
21
24
6 a Prove that ∆LMN ||| ∆YMX. 32 X
b Hence find MN and YN. 30 Y
L N
7 40
Q
3
S
a Show that ∆PQS ||| ∆RQP.
9 6 b Hence prove that ∠PSQ = ∠RPQ.
R P E
4
8 a Prove that ∆ABC ||| ∆EDC. B

C D
b Find BC and CD.
5
A
9 M 18
20 a Prove that ∆KLM ||| ∆MLN.

b Hence find LN and KN.
L N
16 K C
10 ABC is any triangle with D the

midpoint of AC and DE || AB. D E
Prove CE = EB.
A B
11 P
A and B are the midpoints of PQ and PR respectively.
a Prove that ∆APB ||| ∆QPR.
A B b Hence prove that QR is parallel to AB and twice its
length.
Q R
12 In the diagram shown, AB ⊥ BC and BD ⊥ AC. B

a Prove that ∠BAD = ∠CBD.
b Prove that ∆ABD ||| ∆CDB.
c Show that BD2 = AD . DC.
d If AD = 16 cm and DC = 9 cm, find BD.
A C
D
13 C AD || XZ || BC and X is the midpoint of AB.

Z AD = 6 cm and BC = 10 cm.
D a Prove that ∆AXY ||| ∆ABC.
Y b Show that Y is the midpoint of AC.
c Find XY.
d Prove that ∆CZY ||| ∆CDA.
A X B e Find YZ.
f Hence find XZ.
A
14 In the diagram shown, AB = AC.
a Show that EH = EC. F
b Prove that ∆BFD ||| ∆HED. E
c Hence find the ratio FB : EC.
B H C D
15 B ABCD is any quadrilateral with midpoints

W
A W, X, Y, Z as shown. Prove that WXYZ is a
parallelogram.
X
Z
D Y C
L P M
16 KLMN is a parallelogram. P and Q are Y
the midpoints of LM and KN respectively. X
Prove that LQ and PN trisect KM at X and Y.
K Q N
TRY THIS Ratio in triangles

In the diagram PQ || BC and RQ || PC. A
If AR = 4 and RP = 6:
R
1 show that ∆RPQ ||| ∆PBC
2 show that ∆APQ ||| ∆ABC P Q
RP PQ
3 show that ------ = -------
PB BC
AP PQ
4 show that ------ = ------- B C
AB BC
5 hence, find the length of PB
11.5 Area of similar figures

Consider two similar rectangles with matching sides in the ratio a : b.
kb
ka
Area 1 a Area 2 b
Area 1 = ka × a Area 2 = kb × b Area 1 : Area 2

= ka2 = kb2 = ka2 : kb2
= a2 : b2
That is, if the matching sides of the figures are in the ratio a : b, then their corresponding areas
are in the ratio a2 : b2. This is the case for all similar figures.
In any similar figures, if:

the ratio of the matching sides is a : b,
then the ratio of the corresponding areas is a2 : b2.
Example 1
EG Two similar pentagons have sides of length
+S 10 cm and 14 cm.
a Find the ratio of the corresponding areas.
b If the area of the smaller pentagon is 100 cm2,
find the area of the larger pentagon. 10 cm 14 cm
Solutions
Area 1 25
a i The ratio of the sides ii ---------------- = ------
Area 2 49
= 10 : 14
100 25
= 5:7 ---------------- = ------
Area 2 49
The ratio of the corresponding areas
Area 2 49
= 52 : 72 ---------------- = ------
100 25
= 25 : 49 49
∴ Area 2 = ------ × 100
25
= 196 cm2
Example 2
EG Two similar triangles have areas of 108 cm2 and 48 cm2.
+S The hypotenuse of the smaller triangle is 22 cm. x cm
a Find the ratio of the matching sides. 22 cm
b Hence, find the value of x.
Solutions
Area 1 108 x 3
i ---------------- = --------- ii ------ = ---
Area 2 48 22 2
9 3
= --- ∴ x = --- × 22
4 2
32 = 33
= ----2-
2
∴ the sides are in the ratio 3 : 2.
Exercise 11.5
1 The figures in each pair below are similar. Find, in simplest form, the ratio area of
figure A : area of figure B.
a b
B
A 4 cm
3 cm A 8 cm
5 cm B
c d
10 cm
15 cm B
A
A
B
21 cm
28 cm
e 40 cm f
28 cm
A B
B
A 27 cm 18 cm
2 a The perimeters of two regular decagons are in the ratio 6 : 5. In what ratio are the
corresponding areas?
b The areas of two kites are in the ratio 9 : 16. In what ratio are the corresponding
perimeters?
c The circumferences of two circles are in the ratio 9 : 5. In what ratio are the
corresponding areas?
d The areas of two similar sectors are in the ratio 100 : 169. In what ratio are the
corresponding perimeters?
3 The figures in each pair below are similar.
a b
5 cm
8 cm
3 cm 7 cm
The area of the larger rhombus is The area of the smaller triangle is
128 cm2. Find the area of the smaller 36 cm2. Find the area of the larger
rhombus. triangle.
c d 20 cm
15 cm
6 cm 4 cm
The area of the larger pentagon is The area of the smaller trapezium is
117 cm2. Find the area of the smaller 67.5 cm2. Find the area of the larger
pentagon. trapezium.
e f 7 cm
15 cm 4 cm
18 cm
The area of the smaller sector is The area of the larger parallelogram
115 cm2. Find the area of the larger is 306.25 cm2. Find the area of the
sector. smaller parallelogram.
■ Consolidation
4 The figures in each pair below are similar. Find the ratio of the sides and hence find the
value of the pronumeral.
a b
20 cm p cm
d cm
22 cm
Area = 175 cm2 Area = 112 cm2 Area = 54 cm2 Area = 726 cm2
c d
17.5 cm
n cm
7.5 cm
z cm
Area = 210.6 cm2 Area = 65 cm2 Area = 73.5 cm2 Area = 216 cm2
e 28.8 cm f
t cm
k cm
9 cm
Area = 245 cm2 Area = 320 cm2 Area = 126.75 cm2 Area = 27 cm2
5 The sectors shown are similar.

a If the radii of the sectors are 5 cm and 12.5 cm, and
the smaller sector has an area of 20π cm2, find the
area of the larger sector.
b If the sectors have areas of 196π cm2 and
400π cm2, and the radius of the larger sector
is 15 cm, find the radius of the smaller sector.
6 A framed print has a length of 24 cm and a perimeter of 80 cm. A similar print has a length
of 42 cm. Find its area.
7 A painting with dimensions 55 cm × 45 cm is surrounded 5 cm
by a frame of width 5 cm. 5 cm
a Find the ratio of the area of the unframed painting to 45 cm
the area of the framed painting.
b Is the unframed painting similar to the framed painting? 55 cm
8 The area of the inner ellipse is 27π m2 and the
shaded area is 48 π m2. Find values for x and y
12 m
xm 15 m if the inner and outer ellipses are similar.
ym
9 The ratio of the shaded area to the area of the larger pentagon is
21 : 25. If the larger pentagon has sides of length 22.5 cm, find the
length of the sides of the smaller pentagon. (The pentagons are regular.)
TRY THIS Area ratio in triangles

A
ABC is an equilateral triangle of side length 3 cm.
BX = BY = 2 cm.
X
What fraction is AXYC of ∆ABC?
B Y C
11.6 Volume and surface area of

similar solids
Similar solids have the same shape, their matching angles are equal and the lengths of their
matching edges are in proportion.
■ Surface area of similar solids

Consider two cubes with sides in the ratio a : b.
Surface area1 Surface area2
=a ×6
2 = b2 × 6
= 6a 2 = 6b2
Surface area1 : Surface area2
= 6a2 : 6b2
a cm
= a2 : b2 b cm
That is, if the matching sides of the solid are in the ratio a : b, then their corresponding surface
areas are in the ratio a2 : b2. This is the case for all similar solids.
In any similar solids, if:

then the ratio of the corresponding surface areas is a2 : b2.
■ Volume of similar solids

Consider the cubes in the previous example.
Volume1 = a × a × a Volume2 = b × b × b Volume1 : Volume2
= a3 = b3 = a3 : b3
That is, if the matching sides of the solid are in the ratio a : b, then the corresponding volumes
are in the ratio a3 : b3. This is the case for all similar solids.
In any similar solids, if:

then the ratio of the corresponding volumes is a3 : b3.
Example 1
EG Two similar square pyramids have base
+S edges of length 6 cm and 9 cm.
a Find the ratio of the corresponding
surface areas.
b Find the ratio of the corresponding volumes. 6 cm 9 cm
c If the larger pyramid has a surface area of
45 cm2, find the surface area of the smaller pyramid.
d If the smaller pyramid has a volume of 56 cm3, find the volume of the larger pyramid.
Solutions
a The ratio of the sides = 6 : 9 b The ratio of the volumes = 23 : 33
= 2:3 = 8 : 27
The ratio of the surface areas = 22 : 32
= 4:9
Area 1 4 Volume 1 8
c -------------- = --- d --------------------- = ------
Area 2 9 Volume 2 27
Area 1 4 56 8
-------------- = --- --------------------- = ------
45 9 Volume 2 27
4 Volume 2 27
∴ Area1 = --- × 45 --------------------- = ------
9
56 8
= 20 cm2 27
∴ Volume2 = ------ × 56
8
= 189 cm3
Example 2
EG Two similar cylinders have volumes of 750 cm3
+S and 162 cm3.
a Find the ratio of the corresponding heights.
x cm
b Hence, find the value of x. 21 cm
Volume = 750 cm3 Volume = 162 cm3

Solutions
Volume 1 750 x 5
a --------------------- = --------- b ------ = ---
Volume 2 162 21 3
125 5
= --------- ∴ x = --- × 21
27 3
53
= ----3- = 35 cm2
3
∴ The ratio of the corresponding heights is 5 : 3.
Exercise 11.6
1 The solids in each pair below are similar. Find the following ratios, in simplest form.
i Surface area of solid A : surface area of solid B.
ii Volume of solid A : volume of solid B.
a b
A B
12 cm
A
3 cm 5 cm B 6 cm
c d
B 15 cm
A
4 cm 6 cm 12 cm
A B
e f
A
B
18 cm 14 cm
A
24 cm
B 10 cm
2 The solids in each pair below are similar.

a b
14 cm
8 cm
4 cm 3 cm
The area of the top face of the larger The area of the base of the smaller
prism is 80 cm2. Find the area of the cone is 48 cm2. Find the area of the
top face of the smaller prism. base of the larger cone.
c 18 cm
d
10 cm
24 cm
21 cm
The surface area of the larger pyramid The surface area of the smaller prism
is 364.5 cm2. Find the surface area of is 122.5 cm2. Find the surface area of
the smaller pyramid. the larger prism.
3 Two cylinders A and B are such that cylinder A

has twice the diameter of cylinder B and A
cylinder B has twice the height of cylinder A. B
Are the two cylinders similar?
4 a Two similar rectangular prisms have matching heights 2 cm and 5 cm. The smaller
prism has a volume of 104 cm3. Find the volume of the larger prism.
b Two similar rectangular pyramids have perpendicular heights of 12 cm and 9 cm. The
larger pyramid has a volume of 236.8 cm3. Find the volume of the smaller pyramid.
c Two similar trapezoidal prisms have matching edges of 19 cm and 11.4 cm. The smaller
prism has a volume of 178.2 cm3. Find the volume of the larger prism.
d Two similar cylinders have diameters of 17.6 cm and 19.2 cm. The larger cylinder has
a volume of 2592 cm3. Find the volume of the smaller cylinder.
■ Consolidation
5 Two similar cones have surface areas in the ratio 49 : 4.
a What is the ratio of the corresponding slant heights?
b What is the ratio of the corresponding volumes?
6 Two similar chocolate teddy bears have volumes in the ratio 512 : 729. What is the ratio of
the corresponding surface areas?
Mathscape 10 ext. - Ch11 Page 453 Tuesday, October 4, 2005 2:48 PM
7 The solids in each pair below are similar. Find the value of each pronumeral.
a b
18 cm
27 cm
w cm
h cm Curved surface area
Curved surface area = 92 cm2
Surface area Surface area
= 150 cm2 = 1127 cm2
= 486 cm2
c d c cm 48 cm
24 cm
y cm
Volume = 205.8 cm3
Volume Volume
= 562.5 cm3 = 288 cm3
Volume = 1036.8 cm3
8 Two similar cones have base radii of 7.5 cm and 9 cm. The larger cone has a volume of
198π cm3. Find the volume of the smaller cone correct to the nearest cm 3.
9 The two soft toys shown are similar. One toy is three times
the height of the other.
a How much more material is required to make it?
b How much more filling is required?
10 A lead ball of radius 6 cm is melted down and re-cast into ball bearings of radius 1.5 cm.
How many ball bearings can be produced?
11 A small cube is cut from a large cube, as shown. The ratio of
the remaining volume to the original volume is 19 : 27. If the
small cube has sides of length 14 cm, find the length of the
sides of the large cube (before the small cube was removed).
12 The corresponding dimensions of figure B are approximately

10% larger than those of figure A.
a What is the percentage increase in body area?
b What is the percentage increase in body volume?
TRY THIS Volume ratio A B
1
A square-based pyramid has the top --- (height) removed
3
to form a pedestal. What fraction is the pedestal of the
original pyramid?
Mathscape 10 ext. - Ch11 Page 454 Friday, October 14, 2005 8:25 AM
0FF OCUS ON
O R K I N M I CAAL LL LYY
O C U S O N W 0 R K I N G M AATTHHEEMMAATTI C
WG
MATHEMATICALLY
USINGSIMILAR TRIANGLES TO SOLVE A

CONSTRUCTION PROBLEM
The midpoint theorem
A
P Q
MATICALLY
B C
In triangle ABC, P is the midpoint of AB, and Q is the
midpoint of AC. It can be proved that PQ is parallel to
BC and is half its length.
Introduction
F O C U S O N W O R K I HNE G
In this chapter you have been learning about similar triangles and developing your skills in
deductive reasoning. The theorem above is a good example of how useful similar triangles can
MAT
be in establishing proof.
In working mathematically our aim is to fine tune these skills, by giving you an opportunity
to make, refine and test conjectures. Another aim is to enable you to think about possible
WORKING
converses of a known result and examine whether or not they are true. Finally, we get you
to apply your knowledge of a theorem and its converse to solve a problem.
In the challenge activities dynamic geometry software such as Cabri or Geometer’s Sketchpad
are highly recommended. However if they are not available, geometrical instruments can be
used.
The mid-points of a triangle theorem

ON
An important theorem from the syllabus states that:

FOCUS
The interval joining the midpoints of two sides of a triangle

is parallel to the third side and equal to half its length.
We will use this as our starting point for the activities to follow. If you are not familiar with this
theorem please check with your teacher.
2L EARNING ACTIVITIES
1 Draw a diagram and write the above theorem using an “if—then” format. Copy and
FOCUS ON WORKING MATHEMATICALLY

complete the following “If an interval is drawn to join the mid-points of two sides of a
triangle, then ….”
2 State a possible converse of this theorem using an if … then format. Draw a diagram to
show the data.
3 See if you can prove your converse (rough outline of the proof only).
4 Now consider this possible converse “If a line is drawn through the midpoint of one side
of a triangle parallel to another side then it bisects the third side”.
5 See if you can prove this statement. Draw a diagram and use similar triangles.
6 Deduce that the line drawn through the midpoint of one side of a triangle parallel to another
side, is indeed half the length of the third side.
7 In mathematics we use the phrase “if and only if” to indicate when a theorem and its
ICALLY
converse are both true. Discuss in class the truth of the following statement:
A line drawn through the midpoint of one side of a triangle bisects another side if and only
if it is parallel to the third side.
8C
MATHEMAT
HALLENGE ACTIVITIES
Here is a construction problem. It begins with an A

acute angle ABC say and a point D which lies
anywhere between the arms of the angle. We
wish to construct two points E and F on the arms
BA and BC such that D is the midpoint of EF.
Make a rough copy of the figure in your book. WORKING
The points E and F are to determined. EF has E
been joined to make the task clear.
D
B F C
Constructing the points E and F
ON
Construct the figure above using dynamic geometry software, or geometrical instruments,
showing only the angle ABC and any point D between the arms.
FOCUS
1 Using your knowledge of the midpoint theorem and/or its converse, see if you can construct
the points E and F. Feel free to use any other geometrical knowledge you have to solve the
problem. There are many ways to do it.
2 Write out a proof to justify your answer.
3 Now consider the following proof. Draw the construction lines on a rough diagram as you
go. Compare it with your proof in questions 1 and 2.
a Construct a line parallel to BA passing through D. Let it cut BC at G.
b Construct a line parallel to BC passing through D. Let it cut BA at H.
MATHEMATICALLY
c According to the converse of the midpoint theorem, a line drawn parallel to BA through
D will bisect BF at G. Similarly, a line drawn parallel to BC through D will bisect BE
at H. Therefore to construct the points E and F, mark off HE = BH on BA, and GF = BG
on BC.
d As an alternative to the last step, could you simply join HG and construct the parallel
through D to find E and F? What difference would this make to your proof?
4 Complete an accurate construction using A
Geometer’s Sketchpad or Cabri. One
solution is shown below. Select D and the
segment BA and construct the parallel
through D. Repeat to draw the line
through D parallel to BC. Select D and E
MATICALLY
the segment BA and construct the

intersection point. Label it H. Repeat to H D
find and label G. To construct E and F,
select H and B and construct the circle B G F C
centre H radius HB. Repeat with G and B
to find and label F. Drag the point D
F O C U S O N W O R K I HNE G
anywhere between the arms and note the

result. You could also drag A and C to
vary the size of the angle.
MAT
E L ET’S COMMUNICATE
WORKING
Discuss in class what you have learned about deductive reasoning from this activity. How did
you start the construction? What theorem(s) did you use? How did you justify your solution?
%R EFLECTING
ON
It has been claimed that “geometry is a central part of mathematics and that geometrical
thinking is a fundamental way to engage with mathematics” (from Teaching and learning
geometry 11–19, Report to the Royal Society, London 2001). Would you agree? Why?
FOCUS
1 In a short sentence explain proof noun 1. something that shows a thing is true:
a Similar triangles Can you give me any proof that you were at home at the
b Similar polygons time of the robbery?
c Deductive reasoning –adjective 2. strong enough to resist: It is proof
d How does a conjecture differ from a against fire.
–verb 3. to treat or coat something to make it
proof? resistant to damage, etc.: This carpet has been
2 The Macquarie Learners Dictionary proofed against stains.
defines the word proof as follows: How does the concept of proof in a court of
law differ from mathematical proof?
1 Find the scale factor for each pair of 3 The triangles below are similar. Find the
similar figures. Hence, find the values of value of each pronumeral.
VIEW
the pronumerals. All lengths are in cm. a t
a p 4
u
12
5 15
18 7
q 9
3
b q
CHAPTER RE
4 12
36
b 10 a 10
p 40
b 11 9
18 6
5
c
26 16
2 Find the scale factor for these circles. 18 n m
7.5 cm 10
18
cm 24
CHAPTER REVIEW

CHAPTER RE
4 Are the triangles in each pair similar? If a E

they are, give a reason.
a
× 21
p
H
12
×
G 27
14 q
b F I
15 5
b P
21 6
R
7 15 10
18
c T 12
c 6
56° d°
9 6
VIEW
3
S Q
8
4 c 27
B C
d 14 51° 42°
m°
18
7 21
9 A n°
21 12
27 D
d X
e
12 4
15 37°
P 10
8 4 v° 5
10 53° u°
Y Q Z
f 7.5
e A
10
7 10.5 y 3
16
5 20 D E
3.5
5 Prove that the triangles in each pair are 9
similar. Hence find the value of all B C
pronumerals. x
CHAPTER REVIEW
VIEW
f b Hence, prove that T is the midpoint
V Y v of PR.
18
X 8 In ∆KLM, KL ⊥ LM and LN ⊥ KM.
u L
40 15
Z
10
CHAPTER RE
W
g E
K N M
21 82°
15
a Prove that ∆KLN ||| ∆LMN.
38° 60° b Hence, show that LN2 = KN . NM.
D 8 H 16 d° F c If KN = 25 cm and NM = 9 cm,
find LN.
10 c° 14
9 Two similar sectors A, B have radii 12 cm
G and 21 cm respectively.
h P a In what ratio is area of sector A to area
25
of sector B?
30 b If sector A has an area of 80 cm2, find
T the area of sector B.
S 40 m 10
n A B
Q R 45 cm d cm
64
Area = 275 cm2 Area = 99 cm2
6
28 cm
The ellipses above are similar.
9 cm a Find the ratio of the major diameters
16 cm (A : B).
h cm
b Hence, find the diameter of B.
11 Two similar square pyramids A and B
A cone with diameter 28 cm is partially have perpendicular heights of 25 cm and
filled with water to a point 9 cm from the 30 cm respectively.
top. The surface of the water has a a If the surface area of A is 200 cm2,
diameter of 16 cm. Find the height of the find the surface area of B.
water, h cm. b If the volume of B is 864 cm3, find the
P volume of A.
7 In ∆PQR, S is the
midpoint of PQ and 12 Two similar solids have surface areas
ST || QR. of 128 cm2 and 72 cm2. Find the
S T
a Prove that corresponding ratio of their volumes.
∆PST ||| ∆PQR. Q R
CHAPTER REVIEW

Chapter 11 - Similarity

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Mathscape 10 ext.

- Ch11 Page 423 Friday, October 14, 2005 8:24 AM

424 Mathscape 10 Extension

11.1 Similar figures

Figures can be enlarged or reduced by choosing a

When a figure PQR is enlarged or reduced by a factor of k,

Chapter 11 : Similarity 425

Angles are not affected by the enlargement S

From the diagram it follows that: 5 82° 7

426 Mathscape 10 Extension

1 The quadrilaterals shown are similiar.

a State the lengths of the sides in each figure in mm.

2 The triangles shown are similar.

a Measure the angles in each triangle.

Chapter 11 : Similarity 427

428 Mathscape 10 Extension

8 a Are all circles similar?

9 Find the scale factor for each pair of circles.

10 Find the scale factor for each pair of semicircles.

11 a Are all congruent figures similar?

13 Find the similar figures in each set.

Chapter 11 : Similarity 429

TRY THIS Investigation

430 Mathscape 10 Extension

11.2 Tests for similar triangles

If two triangles are similar, then:

Chapter 11 : Similarity 431

4 If the hypotenuse and a second side of a right-angled triangle are respectively

432 Mathscape 10 Extension

c In ∆TUV and ∆OPQ d In ∆EFG and ∆HIJ

Chapter 11 : Similarity 433

434 Mathscape 10 Extension

Chapter 11 : Similarity 435

436 Mathscape 10 Extension

Chapter 11 : Similarity 437

13 In each of the following:

TRY THIS Similar triangles 1

11.3 Solving problems that involve

438 Mathscape 10 Extension

1 Annaleis used a tree and its shadow to

2 A telegraph pole is 10 m high. At 4 pm the pole

3 A flagpole of height 3.5 m casts a shadow of length

Chapter 11 : Similarity 439

5 A conveyor belt of length 25 m carries bricks from

6 A cable car travels from a village up to a ski resort at

10 xm 24 m A railway bridge across a gorge is supported by a

11 A cone with diameter 28 cm is filled with

440 Mathscape 10 Extension

TRY THIS Similar triangles 2

11.4 Proofs involving similar

Chapter 11 : Similarity 441

442 Mathscape 10 Extension

3 Q R a Prove that ∆QTR ||| ∆STP.

Chapter 11 : Similarity 443

8 a Prove that ∆ABC ||| ∆EDC. B

20 a Prove that ∆KLM ||| ∆MLN.

10 ABC is any triangle with D the

444 Mathscape 10 Extension

12 In the diagram shown, AB ⊥ BC and BD ⊥ AC. B

13 C AD || XZ || BC and X is the midpoint of AB.

15 B ABCD is any quadrilateral with midpoints

Chapter 11 : Similarity 445

TRY THIS Ratio in triangles