SOLUTION: Find the value of x in this diagram. http://imgur.com/IbkSbNZ Please explain the steps. Thanks

Algebra ->  Pythagorean-theorem -> SOLUTION: Find the value of x in this diagram. http://imgur.com/IbkSbNZ Please explain the steps. Thanks       Log On


   

Question 1003128: Find the value of x in this diagram.
http://imgur.com/IbkSbNZ
Please explain the steps. Thanks
Answer by mananth(16946) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
There are two triangles
The two triangles are similar
Therefore
x%2F%28x%2B2%29+=1%2Fx ratios of sides of similar triangles
x^2= x+2
x^2-x-2=0
x^2-2x+x-2=0
x(x-2)+1(x-2)=0
(x-2)(x+1)=0
x = OR -1
ignore negative
x= 2