In triangle XYZ, m∠Z = (5m − 16)° and the exterior angle to ∠Z measures (3m + 12)°. Determine the value of m.

m = 3
m = 10.8
m = 18
m = 23

1 answer

To determine the value of \( m \) in triangle \( XYZ \), we start by using the property of exterior angles. The exterior angle to \( \angle Z \) is equal to the sum of the two remote interior angles. In this case, since \( \angle Z \) is given as \( (5m - 16)^\circ \) and the exterior angle is \( (3m + 12)^\circ \), we can set up the equation:

\[ \text{Exterior angle} = 180^\circ - \text{Interior angle} \]

To clarify, for triangle XYZ, the relationship we can use is:

\[ (3m + 12) = 180^\circ - (5m - 16) \]

Now, simplify the right side:

\[ (3m + 12) = 180 - 5m + 16 \]

Combine the constant terms on the right side:

\[ (3m + 12) = 196 - 5m \]

Next, we add \( 5m \) to both sides to get all \( m \) terms on the left:

\[ 3m + 5m + 12 = 196 \]

This simplifies to:

\[ 8m + 12 = 196 \]

Subtract \( 12 \) from both sides:

\[ 8m = 184 \]

Now, divide by \( 8 \):

\[ m = 23 \]

Thus, the value of \( m \) is \( \boxed{23} \).