Question

Find the value of x in the triangle shown below.
13
5
X

Answer 1

A. x = 12

General Formulas and Concepts:

Pre-Algebra

Order of Operations: BPEMDAS

1. Brackets
2. Parenthesis
3. Exponents
4. Multiplication
5. Division
6. Addition
7. Subtraction

• Left to Right

Trigonometry

• [Right Triangles Only] Pythagorean Theorem: a² + b² = c²

Explanation:

Step 1: Define

We are given a right triangle. We can use PT to solve for the missing side.

Step 2: Identify Conversions

Leg a = x

Leg b = 5

Hypotenuse c = 13

Step 3: Solve for x

1. Substitute: x² + 5² = 13²
2. Isolate x term: x² = 13²- 5²
3. Exponents: x² = 169 - 25
4. Subtract: x² = 144
5. Isolate x: x = 12