Sections A – Data Interpretation and Quantitative Ability

8. Two poles, of height 2 meters and 3 meters, are 5 meters apart. The height of the point of intersection of the lines joining the top of each pole to the foot of the opposite pole is,

A. 1.2 meters B. 1.0 meter C. 5.0 meters

D. 3.0 meters E. None of the above

Solution:

Let the two poles be P₁A and P₂B where P₁A = 2m and P₂B = 3m

We have to find the length XY

Now triangles XAY and P₂ AB are similar

--------- (1)

Again DXBY and DP₁BA are similar, which gives --------- (2)

Adding equations (1) and (2), we get

ÞXY = 1

Þ XY = 1.2

Therefore the length of XY is 1.2 metres. Choice (A)