SOLUTION: Let x be the shorter leg of a right triangle. The longer leg is 9 cm less than 3 times the shorter leg, and the hypotenuse is 1cm more than twice the shorter leg. How do I find a

Algebra ->  Angles -> SOLUTION: Let x be the shorter leg of a right triangle. The longer leg is 9 cm less than 3 times the shorter leg, and the hypotenuse is 1cm more than twice the shorter leg. How do I find a      Log On


   

Question 1036239: Let x be the shorter leg of a right triangle. The longer leg is 9 cm less than 3 times the shorter leg, and the hypotenuse is 1cm more than twice the shorter leg. How do I find all three side lengths?
Answer by josgarithmetic(39617) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Start using assigning a variable, and literal translation.

Given x is the shorter leg. 
SEGMENT OR SIDE          NUMBER
short leg                  x
long leg                 -9+3x
hypotenuse                1+2x


If legs of a right triangle are a and b, and if hypotenuse is c, then we have a relationship among them, a%5E2%2Bb%5E2=c%5E2, Pythagorean Theorem Right Triangle Formula.
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Make the substitutions and solve for x.....