type the correct answer in the box. a flight of stairs is supported by two columns, as shown in the diagram…
type the correct answer in the box. a flight of stairs is supported by two columns, as shown in the diagram. the distance from the base of the stairs to the taller column is feet.
Answer
Explanation:
Step1: Identify similar triangles
The two right - angled triangles formed by the columns and the stairs are similar.
Step2: Set up proportion
Let the distance from the base of the stairs to the taller column be $x$. The ratio of the corresponding sides of similar triangles gives $\frac{6}{12}=\frac{4}{x}$.
Step3: Cross - multiply and solve
Cross - multiplying gives $6x = 4\times12$, so $6x=48$. Then $x=\frac{48}{6}=8$.
Answer:
8