In the given figure, find the value of xx, if DE∥BCDE \parallel BC. **Figure description:** A triangle ABCABC with a line segment DEDE intersecting side ABAB at point DD and side ACAC at point EE, such that DE∥BCDE \parallel BC. Given lengths are: - AD=6 cmAD = 6\text{ cm} - DB=3 cmDB = 3\text{ cm} - AE=9 cmAE = 9\text{ cm} - EC=xEC = x

Answer: x=4.5 cmx = 4.5\text{ cm}

Step-by-step solution

Step 1: State the Basic Proportionality Theorem

According to the Basic Proportionality Theorem (Thales' Theorem), if a line is drawn parallel to one side of a triangle intersecting the other two sides in distinct points, then the other two sides are divided in the same ratio. Since DE∥BCDE \parallel BC in △ABC\triangle ABC, the ratio ADDB\frac{AD}{DB} must equal AEEC\frac{AE}{EC}.

Step 2: Substitute the given values

Substitute the given measurements into the proportionality equation: AD=6 cmAD = 6\text{ cm}, DB=3 cmDB = 3\text{ cm}, AE=9 cmAE = 9\text{ cm}, and EC=xEC = x.

Step 3: Solve for x

Simplify the fraction on the left side: 63=2\frac{6}{3} = 2. Then multiply both sides by xx to get 2x=92x = 9, which yields x=4.5 cmx = 4.5\text{ cm}.

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