SOLUTION: A log 78 feet long is to be cut into 3 pieces varying lengths. The longest piece is to be 4 times the length of the shortest piece and the middle size piece is to be 6 feet less th

Algebra ->  Linear-equations -> SOLUTION: A log 78 feet long is to be cut into 3 pieces varying lengths. The longest piece is to be 4 times the length of the shortest piece and the middle size piece is to be 6 feet less th      Log On


   

Question 30746: A log 78 feet long is to be cut into 3 pieces varying lengths. The longest piece is to be 4 times the length of the shortest piece and the middle size piece is to be 6 feet less than twice the length of the shortest piece. How long is the shortest piece.
Answer by Paul(988) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Let the shortest piece be x
Let the middle piece be 2x-6
Let the longest piece be 4x
Equation:
(x)+(2x-6)+(4x)=78

7x=84

x=12



2(12)-6=18

4(12)=48





Hence, the 3 pieces are 12ft, 18ft, and 48ft.

Paul.