You can
put this solution on YOUR website!Let x = smaller piece
5x= larger piece
x+5x=72
6x=72
x=12 cm smaller piece
5x=5(12)=60 cm larger piece
Check: 12 +60=72
It checks!
If you need additional help with Word Problems, check out my website by doing a "Bing" search for my last name "Rapalje". Look for "Rapalje Homepage" at the top of the search list, and choose the link on my homepage "Basic, Intermediate and College Algebra: One Step at a Time." Click on "Basic Algebra", and you will find a couple of sections near the end of Chapter 1 on "Word Problems". My non-traditional explanation should be easier to understand than your textbook!
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Dr. Robert J. Rapalje, Retired
Seminole Community College
Altamonte Springs Campus
Florida