If 

*KL* = *x* + 8

, 

*LM* = 9

, and 

*KM* = 3*x* + 7

, what is *KL*?


To find the value of \( KL \), we can use the triangle inequality in a similar manner as before.

Given:
\[
KL = x + 8
\]
\[
LM = 9
\]
\[
KM = 3x + 7
\]

Let's apply the triangle inequality:

1. \( KL + LM > KM \)
2. \( KL + KM > LM \)
3. \( LM + KM > KL \)

### Inequality 1: \( KL + LM > KM \)
\[
(x + 8) + 9 > 3x + 7
\]
\[
x + 17 > 3x + 7
\]
\[
17 - 7 > 3x - x
\]
\[
10 > 2x
\]
\[
x < 5
\]

### Inequality 2: \( KL + KM > LM \)
\[
(x + 8) + (3x + 7) > 9
\]
\[
4x + 15 > 9
\]
\[
4x > -6 \quad (\text{which is always true})
\]

### Inequality 3: \( LM + KM > KL \)
\[
9 + (3x + 7) > x + 8
\]
\[
3x + 16 > x + 8
\]
\[
2x > -8 \quad (\text{which is also always true})
\]

The only constraint from the inequalities is \( x < 5 \).

Since we need a positive value of \( x \) that satisfies \( x < 5 \), \( x \) can be any value in the range \( 0 < x < 5 \).

Finally, the length \( KL \) is given by:
\[
KL = x + 8
\]

So, depending on the value of \( x \) (where \( 0 < x < 5 \)), \( KL \) can be any value between \( 8 \) and \( 13 \).

Would you like to explore a specific value of \( x \), or do you have any other questions?

---

Here are five related questions:
1. How can you find the range of possible values for \( x \) that satisfy the triangle inequality in general cases?
2. What happens if \( x \) is exactly equal to 5 in the context of this problem?
3. How does the triangle inequality affect the shape and properties of the triangle?
4. What would the triangle inequality imply if the sides were proportional to a certain factor?
5. How would changing one of the side lengths affect the other sides and the possible values of \( x \)?

**Tip:** Always double-check your inequalities when applying the triangle inequality, as it's essential to maintain the correct relationships between the sides of the triangle.

Explore how to apply the triangle inequality in geometric problems with a detailed example. This problem involves finding the length of a side in a triangle using given inequalities. Suitable for high school students studying geometry and algebra.

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