Similarity
M7G3.a Understand the meaning of similarity, visually compare
geometric figures similarity, and describe similarities by listing
corresponding parts.
What is Similarity?
Not Similar
Similar
Similar
Not Similar
Ratios
A ratio is a way to compare two numbers. The ratio of x to y can be written in three ways:
x to y, x:y, x/y
Ratios are expressed in simplified form:The ratio of 6:8 is simplified to 3:4
Ratios that have different units of measure, must be converted to like units before they are simplified.
A
C
B
F
ED
3 inches
8 inches
The ratios of the sides lengths of DEF to the corresponding sides lengths of ABC are 2:1. Find the unknown lengths
DF= AB=
Similar Figures
Similar Polygons
Similarity between two polygons: symbol is ~• Corresponding angles are equal (marked with arcs)
• Lengths of the sides of the polygon are proportional
List all of the pairs of the equal
(congruent ) angles.
Similar Polygons
What is the measure of angle b?
List the ratio of side lengths:
is called the scale factor
What is the scale factor?• Since these two polynomials are similar,
calculate the scale factor.
10 15
4 6
W
X Y
B
P
Q R
S
Proportions
10
415x
A proportion is an equation stating that two ratios (written as fractions) are equal.
You can check to see if two ratios form a proportion using their cross product.
Since we know that cross products work for proportions, we can use them to solve for a variable.
10
15
4x
x = 6
Example using a proportion
15
6
10
x
M
K
L
J
SR
Q P10
156
x
Quadrilateral JKLM is similar to quadrilateral PQRS. Find the value of x.
15
106 x x = 4
3.5
5
16
x
Real Life Application:Photographic Enlargements
You have been asked to create a poster to advertise a CD for Chris Brown You have a 4 inch by 5 inch photo for you to enlarge. You want the enlargement to be 16 inches wide. How long will it be?
4
16