Question 204235
Ankor failed to correctly algebraically define the word problem, and also failed to do correct math.


HypatiaLeigh is correct - Fish is 72" long.

Using the same solve/substitute methods, we got the same answer when instead first solving for Body  (as opposed to Hypatia starting solve for tail first).


H = head length  H = 9
T = tail length  T = H + (1/2)B
B = body length  B = H + T 


Starting with B, substitute the values for H & T
B = 9 + 9 + (1/2)B
B = 18 + (1/2)B
(1/2)B = 18 
2/1 x (1/2)B = 18 x 2/1
Body = 36 inches


Tail = H + (1/2)B
T = 9 + (1/2)36
T = 9 + 18
T = 27 inches


The total length = H +  B  +  T 
                 = 9 +  36 +  27 
                 = 72 inches