SOLUTION: I've already asked two that are similar to this, but I don't feel like I get it 100% yet, because when I go to move to the next problem I still get confused. The perimeter of a

Algebra ->  Rectangles -> SOLUTION: I've already asked two that are similar to this, but I don't feel like I get it 100% yet, because when I go to move to the next problem I still get confused. The perimeter of a       Log On


   



Question 514619: I've already asked two that are similar to this, but I don't feel like I get it 100% yet, because when I go to move to the next problem I still get confused.
The perimeter of a triangular plot of land is 2400 ft. The longest side is 200 ft less than twice the shortest. The middle side is 200 ft less than the longest side. Find the lengths of the three sides of the triangular plot.
So far I have:
P=a+b+c
2400=
...And that's where I'm stuck.

Answer by solver91311(24713) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!


Since the labels on the sides are arbitrary, you can assume any one of them to be the longest side and then either of the remaining sides to be the shortest.

Let represent the measure of the longest side. Let represent the measure of the middle length side, and let represent the measure of the shortest side. But we are given that the longest side is 200 feet less than twice the shortest side. Twice the measure of the shortest side must be and 200 feet less than that must be . Hence, . The middle side is 200 feet less than that, so: .

The perimeter is the sum of the measures of the sides, so:



becomes



Now all you have to do is solve for , then calculate and

John

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