Math Problem Statement

Find AC if B is the midpoint. AB = 3x and BC = 4x - 6.

Solution

The problem asks to find the length of ACAC given that BB is the midpoint of ACAC. The segment is divided into two parts: AB=3xAB = 3x and BC=4x6BC = 4x - 6.

Step-by-Step Solution:

  1. Understand the Problem: Since BB is the midpoint of ACAC, the length of ABAB must be equal to the length of BCBC.

    AB=BCAB = BC

  2. Set Up the Equation: Given AB=3xAB = 3x and BC=4x6BC = 4x - 6, we set them equal to each other:

    3x=4x63x = 4x - 6

  3. Solve for xx: To find xx, subtract 3x3x from both sides:

    0=x60 = x - 6

    Then, add 6 to both sides:

    x=6x = 6

  4. Find ACAC: Since BB is the midpoint, AC=AB+BCAC = AB + BC.

    Substitute x=6x = 6 back into the expressions for ABAB and BCBC:

    AB=3x=3(6)=18AB = 3x = 3(6) = 18 BC=4x6=4(6)6=246=18BC = 4x - 6 = 4(6) - 6 = 24 - 6 = 18

    Therefore, the length of ACAC is:

    AC=AB+BC=18+18=36AC = AB + BC = 18 + 18 = 36

Final Answer:

The length of ACAC is 36 units.

Would you like further details or have any questions about this problem? Here are some related questions to consider:

  1. What is the significance of a midpoint in geometry?
  2. How would the problem change if BB were not the midpoint?
  3. Can this method be applied to any linear equation involving a midpoint?
  4. What are other ways to verify that the solution is correct?
  5. How would the answer change if AB=2xAB = 2x and BC=3x+4BC = 3x + 4?

Tip: When solving equations, always double-check your arithmetic to ensure accuracy.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Midpoint Formula

Formulas

AB = BC because B is the midpoint
AC = AB + BC

Theorems

Midpoint Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10