SOLUTION: Use the Pythagorean Theorem to find the lengths of the sides of the triangle. a=x+3 b=x c=15

Algebra ->  Pythagorean-theorem -> SOLUTION: Use the Pythagorean Theorem to find the lengths of the sides of the triangle. a=x+3 b=x c=15      Log On


   

Question 1043445: Use the Pythagorean Theorem to find the lengths of the sides of the triangle.
a=x+3
b=x
c=15
Answer by ikleyn(52781) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
.
Use the Pythagorean Theorem to find the lengths of the sides of the triangle.
a=x+3
b=x
c=15
~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 

a%5E2+%2B+b%5E2 = c%5E2  --->  %28x%2B3%29%5E2+%2B+x%5E2 = 15%5E2  --->

2x%5E2+%2B+6x+%2B+9 = 225  --->  2x%5E2+%2B+6x+-+216 = 0  --->

x%5E2+%2B+3x+-+108 = 0

Solve this quadratic equation. The roots are  x = 9  and/or  x = -12.

Reject the negative root. Hence, only x = 9 is the solution.

The legs are 9 and 12.

It is (3-4-5) Pythagorean triangle 9, 12, 15.