SOLUTION: The area of a right triangle is 60 sq. in. The longer leg is 1 less than twice the shorter leg. Find the length of each leg

Algebra ->  Triangles -> SOLUTION: The area of a right triangle is 60 sq. in. The longer leg is 1 less than twice the shorter leg. Find the length of each leg      Log On


   

Question 773862: The area of a right triangle is 60 sq. in. The longer leg is 1 less than twice the shorter leg. Find the length of each leg
Answer by jim_thompson5910(35256) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
A = b*h/2

60 = x*(2x-1)/2

120 = 2x^2 - x

2x^2 - x - 120 = 0

(x - 8)(2x + 15) = 0

x - 8 = 0 or 2x+15 = 0

x = 8 or 2x = -15

x = 8 or x = -15/2

Toss out the negative result. The only answer left is x = 8

2x-1 = 2*8-1 = 15

So the legs are 8 inches and 15 inches