Squares with diagonals in the ratio 2:5\nThe diagonals of two squares are in the ratio 2:5. Find the ratio of their areas.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 4:25

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Area comparisons for similar figures depend on the square of a linear scale factor. For squares, side and diagonal are linearly related, so area is proportional to the square of the diagonal as well.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Diagonal ratio = 2 : 5
  • Two perfect squares


Concept / Approach:
If a linear dimension scales by k, the area scales by k^2. Hence, Area ratio = (Diagonal ratio)^2.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Area ratio = (2/5)^2 = 4/25 ⇒ 4 : 25


Verification / Alternative check:
Let diagonals be 2d and 5d. Sides are (2d)/√2 and (5d)/√2. Their area ratio is ( (2d)^2 / 2 ) : ( (5d)^2 / 2 ) = 4d^2/2 : 25d^2/2 = 4 : 25.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
2:25, 3:25, and 6:25 are not squares of 2:5; the correct square ratio is 4:25.


Common Pitfalls:
Using the ratio directly (2:5) instead of squaring it is a frequent error in similarity-based problems.


Final Answer:
4:25

More Questions from Area

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion