SOLUTION: I cannot find out how to solve for X when there is two sides with variables and one with a number. I need to solve the pythagorean theorem with the Hypotenus equal to 18, Leg 1 equ

Question 123434This question is from textbook CPM
: I cannot find out how to solve for X when there is two sides with variables and one with a number. I need to solve the pythagorean theorem with the Hypotenus equal to 18, Leg 1 equal to X and Leg 2 equal to 3X. This question is from textbook CPM

Answer by solver91311(24713) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Let's just plug the values you have into the Pythagorean Theorem and see what develops

a = x
b = 3x
c = 18
Substitute

Expand

Collect like terms

Take square root

Divide by and rationalize the denominator

Giving you the short leg

Multiply result by 3 to get long leg

Check the answer:

Q.E.D.
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