Question 240691
Let x = length of the body, since that is at the end of the sentence.

Now, the tail = length of the head plus half the length of the body.
tail = 10 + 1/2*x


The equation is that the body = head + tail
x= 10 + 10+ 1/2x


Subtract 1/2x from each side:
1/2x= 20


Multiply both sides by 2:
x=40 inches = Body

Tail = 10 + 1/2x
Tail = 10 + 20 = 30 inches


Total fish = Head + Body + Tail
Total fish = 10+40+30 = 80 inches!  (BIG FISH!!)


Check:  
Body = Head + Tail 
40=10+30


It checks!!


Dr. Robert J. Rapalje, Retired
Seminole State College of Florida
Altamonte Springs Campus