Math Problem Statement

A rectangle has a length of (5 + 2x) inches and a width of 10 inches. A triangle has a base of 30 inches and a height of (4x – 10) inches. The area in square inches of the rectangle is equal to the area in square inches of the triangle.

What is the value of x?

Solution

We are given that the area of the rectangle is equal to the area of the triangle, and we need to find the value of xx.

Step 1: Calculate the area of the rectangle

The formula for the area of a rectangle is:

Area of rectangle=length×width\text{Area of rectangle} = \text{length} \times \text{width}

Given:

  • Length of the rectangle = 5+2x5 + 2x inches
  • Width of the rectangle = 10 inches

Area of rectangle=(5+2x)×10=50+20x\text{Area of rectangle} = (5 + 2x) \times 10 = 50 + 20x

Step 2: Calculate the area of the triangle

The formula for the area of a triangle is:

Area of triangle=12×base×height\text{Area of triangle} = \frac{1}{2} \times \text{base} \times \text{height}

Given:

  • Base of the triangle = 30 inches
  • Height of the triangle = 4x104x - 10 inches

Area of triangle=12×30×(4x10)=15×(4x10)=60x150\text{Area of triangle} = \frac{1}{2} \times 30 \times (4x - 10) = 15 \times (4x - 10) = 60x - 150

Step 3: Set up the equation

Since the areas are equal, we equate the two expressions:

50+20x=60x15050 + 20x = 60x - 150

Step 4: Solve for xx

First, subtract 20x20x from both sides:

50=40x15050 = 40x - 150

Next, add 150 to both sides:

200=40x200 = 40x

Now, divide both sides by 40:

x=20040=5x = \frac{200}{40} = 5

Step 5: Conclusion

The value of xx is 5\boxed{5}.

Would you like further details or have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions to expand on this topic:

  1. What happens to the area of the rectangle as xx increases?
  2. How would you solve if the width of the rectangle was also variable?
  3. Can you find the perimeter of the rectangle for x=5x = 5?
  4. What is the area of the triangle when x=5x = 5?
  5. How would the equation change if the triangle had a different base?

Tip: Always verify your solution by plugging the value of xx back into the original expressions to check for consistency!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Geometry
Linear Equations

Formulas

Area of rectangle = length × width
Area of triangle = (1/2) × base × height

Theorems

Equation balancing for equality of areas

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 7-9