Question

Solve for x in the diagram below.

Answer 1

Explanation:

Use the triangle bisector theorem:

"The angle bisector of a triangle divides the opposite side into two parts proportional to the other two sides of the triangle."

so 12 is to 16 as x is to 20

12/ 16 = x/20

20 * 12/16 = x = 15 units

Answer 2

x = 15

Explanation:

the segment inside the triangle is an angle bisector and divides the side opposite the angle into segments that are proportional to the other two sides , that is

`(12)/(16)` =
`(x)/(20)` ( cross- multiply )

16x = 12 × 20 = 240 ( divide both sides by 16 )

x = 15