Question

Please help, what is x?

Answer 1

x = 18

Explanation:

Since the triangles are similar then the ratios of corresponding sides are equal, that is

`(x+x+3)/(x+3)` =
`(14+12)/(14)`

`(2x+3)/(x+3)` =
`(26)/(14)` ( cross- multiply )

14(2x+3) = 26(x + 3) ← distribute both sides

28x + 42 = 26x + 78 ( subtract 26x from both sides )

2x + 42 = 78 ( subtract 42 from both sides )

2x = 36 ( divide both sides by 2 )

x = 18