Question #0ff05

1 Answer
Jim G.
Dec 12, 2016

#8" and " 13" inches"#

Explanation:

If we let x, be the length of the second part, then.

the length of the first part is x + 5

The 2 parts must total to 21

#rArrx+5+x=21rArr2x+5=21#

subtract 5 from both sides of the equation.

#2xcancel(+5)cancel(-5)=21-5#

#rArr2x=16#

To solve for x, divide both sides by 2

#(cancel(2) x)/cancel(2)=16/2#

#rArrx=8#

#rArr"first part " =x+5=8+5=13" inches"#

#"and second part " =x=8" inches"#

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