SOLUTION: The base angles of an isosceles triangle are congruent. If the measure of each of the base angles is twice the measure of the third angle, find the measure of all three angles.

Algebra ->  Triangles -> SOLUTION: The base angles of an isosceles triangle are congruent. If the measure of each of the base angles is twice the measure of the third angle, find the measure of all three angles.      Log On


   

Question 231168: The base angles of an isosceles triangle are congruent. If the measure of each of the base angles is twice the measure of the third angle, find the measure of all three angles.
Answer by unlockmath(1688) About Me  (Show Source):
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Hello,
Let's write down the facts we know.
Let x be the number of degrees for the top angle of the triangle.
Let 2x be the degrees for one of the base angles.
Since we know all triangles equal 180 degrees we can make an equation.
x + 2x + 2x = 180
Combine like terms.
5x = 180
Divide both sides by 5.
x = 36
Now we know the top angle is 36 degrees and the two base angles are each 72 degrees.
Add up the angles 36 + 72 + 72 should equal 180.
RJ Toftness
Author "Unlock the Mystery to Math"
www.math-unlock.com