Math Problem Statement

The square and equilateral triangle have the same perimeter. The square has side lengths 2x - 3, and the triangle has side lengths 2x - 2. Find the value of x.

Solution

The problem asks to find the value of xx, given that the square and equilateral triangle have the same perimeter.

Step-by-step solution:

  1. Square Perimeter: Each side of the square is given as 2x32x - 3. Since a square has four equal sides, the perimeter of the square is: Psquare=4(2x3)=8x12P_{\text{square}} = 4(2x - 3) = 8x - 12

  2. Equilateral Triangle Perimeter: Each side of the equilateral triangle is given as 2x22x - 2. Since an equilateral triangle has three equal sides, its perimeter is: Ptriangle=3(2x2)=6x6P_{\text{triangle}} = 3(2x - 2) = 6x - 6

  3. Set the Perimeters Equal: We know that the perimeters of the square and the triangle are equal, so: 8x12=6x68x - 12 = 6x - 6

  4. Solve for xx:

    • Subtract 6x6x from both sides: 8x6x12=68x - 6x - 12 = -6 2x12=62x - 12 = -6
    • Add 12 to both sides: 2x=62x = 6
    • Divide both sides by 2: x=3x = 3

Final Answer:

The value of xx is 33.

Would you like further details or explanations?


Here are some related questions:

  1. What would happen if the square had different side lengths?
  2. How can you check if your value of xx is correct by using the perimeter?
  3. How do perimeters change when a figure’s side lengths involve variables?
  4. What are other properties of an equilateral triangle besides equal sides?
  5. How do you find the area of both shapes given the value of xx?

Tip: Always recheck your algebraic steps, especially when solving equations with variables on both sides!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Geometry
Equations

Formulas

Perimeter of a square: P = 4(side)
Perimeter of an equilateral triangle: P = 3(side)

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 7-9