A triangular pennant has two sides the same length. The third side is 9 in. shorter than either of the equal sides. The perimeter of the pennant is 57 in. How long is the shortest side?

2 answers

Let x = a longer side

2x + x - 9 = 57

3x = 57 + 9

3x = 66

x = 22
Let x = a longer side

2x + x - 9 = 57

3x = 57 + 9

3x = 66

x = 22

22 - 9 = 13

The shorter side is 13 inches long.