Question

K, M, and P are collinear points with P between Kand M.

PM = 3x + 5
PK = x + 16
and MK = 11x - 41
Solve for x.

Answer 1

`x=(62)/(7)\approx8.86`

Explanation:

Since P is between K and M, this means that:

`PM+PK=MK`

Substitute them for the equations:

`(3x+5)+(x+16)=(11x-41)`

Combine like terms:

`4x+21=11x-41`

Subtract 4x from both sides:

`21=7x-41`

Add 41 to both sides:

`62=7x`

Divide both sides by 7:

`x=(62)/(7)\approx8.86`

And we're done!