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In triangle ABC, angle BAC = 120 degrees, AB = x, AC = 2x + 1, BC = 3x + 5.  Find x.

 Jun 7, 2024
 #1
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We can use the law of cosines to solve this problem. 

 

First,let's say

AB=a=xAC=b+2x+1BC=c=3x+5BAC=120°

 

The law of cosine states that 

 

From the problem, we can write cos(120)=(3x+5)2+(2x+1)2x22(2x+1)(3x+5)

 

Expanding out everything and simplifying, we get 18x2+47x+31=0

 

Using the quadratic formula, we have x=47±47241831218

 

We get x=4736±23(136i)

 

So x=4736+23(136i)

 

Thanks! :)

 

Edit: THIS IS MY 200th answer! Not flexing...but noice :)

 Jun 7, 2024
edited by NotThatSmart  Jun 7, 2024

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