Question

(10 points) Solve for x. Assume that the lines which appear to be tangent are tangent

Answer 1

The two tangent lines for each circle are the same length. Set the equations to equal and solve for x.

1. 4x + 3 = 3x +12

Subtract 3x from each side:

x +3 = 12

Subtract 3 from both sides:

x = 9

2. -2 + x = 2x -7

Subtract 2x from both sides:

-2 - x =  -7

Add 2 to each side:

-x = -5

Multiply both sides by -1:

x = 5