Question

What is the value of x

Answer 1

We know that the right triangle has one 90 degree angle and two acute (< 90 degree) angles. Since the sum of the angles of a triangle is always 180 degrees.

To find x:

(10x - 20) + (6x + 8) =  180

16x - 12 = 180

      +12     +12

16x = 192

-----    -----

16        16

x = 12

Check:

(10(12) - 20) + (6(12) + 8) = 180

(120 -  20) + (72 + 8) = 180

100 + 80 = 180

180 = 180

Angle (10x - 20):

(10(12) - 20)

(120 - 20)

100

Angle (6x + 8):

(6(12) + 8)

(72 + 8)

80