Question

If RS=3x + 1, ST= 2x - 2, and RT=64 find the value of x

Answer 1

For this question, we can assume that RS + ST = RT.  So now, we just have to plug in the expressions for these lengths, and solve the equation.

(3x+1) + (2x-2) = 64

Because we are only dealing with one operation, the parentheses aren't necessary.

3x + 1 + 2x - 2 = 64

Next, we should combine like terms on the left side of the equation. We know that 3x + 2x = 5x, and that 1 - 2 = -1.

5x - 1 = 64

The goal of an equation is to get the variable alone.  To do this, we have to get rid of the -1 on the left side of the equation.  So, we are going to add 1 to both sides of the equation, to cancel out the -1 on the left side.

5x = 65

Finally, we are going to divide both sides by 5, as this is the inverse operation of multiplication, which is how the 5 and the x are connected.

x = 13

Therefore, the value of x is 13.