SOLUTION: The length of one of the equal legs of an isosceles triangle is 8 cm less than 4 times the length of the base. If the perimeter is 29 cm, find the length of one of the equal legs.

Algebra ->  Triangles -> SOLUTION: The length of one of the equal legs of an isosceles triangle is 8 cm less than 4 times the length of the base. If the perimeter is 29 cm, find the length of one of the equal legs.       Log On


   

Question 81682: The length of one of the equal legs of an isosceles triangle is 8 cm less than 4 times the length of the base. If the perimeter is 29 cm, find the length of one of the equal legs.
I am having the challenge of what formula to use to solve this word problem. Could you please assist me. I have came up with the answers 5cm, 4cm, and 11 cm. Thank you.
Answer by weepingwillowcats(10) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Okay, to set up a formula for this problem, you do the following:
Let "x" stand for the base.
4x+-+8 is the equation for one of the legs.
Now, add the sides to find the perimeter.
%284x+-+8%29+%2B+%284x+-+8%29+%2B+x+=+29
From there you simplify (combine like terms) and solve to find x.
9x+-+16+=+29
(Add 16 to both sides) 9x+=+45
(Divide by 9 on each side) x+=+5
Next, put your answer for x back into your equation for the leg.
4%285%29+-+8
Simplify.
20+-+8+=+12
The length of one of the equal sides of the triangle is 12.
Goodluck
-weepingwillowcats