If V is the midpoint of YZ and m∠VWZ = 90°, find VW. (Hint: Draw XV.)

Question

In right triangle XYZ, XY = 6 and YZ = 8.

If V is the midpoint of YZ

 and m∠VWZ = 90°, find VW. (Hint: Draw XV.)

Answer 1

The big triangle is a 3-4-5 right triangle, i.e. the sides are 6, 8 and 10.

The hypotenuse of the small triangle is 4.

The triangles are similar since they are right triangles with one common angle.

Therefore 4/10 = wv/6

You could have followed the hint, but I think this way is quite simple.