Question

While installing a sprinkler system, Ethel wants to cut a 20-foot length of plastic tubing into two pieces. The longer piece is to be 2 feet longer than twice the shorter piece. Find the length of each piece.

Answer 1

2x+2+x=20
3x+2=20
3x+2-2=20-2
3x=18

18/3=6
So x=6
So the shorter one is 6ft and the longer piece is 14ft. (Additional work to help support answer more) 14+6=20 and 6*2+2=14.