Trapezoid RSTV had median UK. If VT= 4x-6 and UK = 3x+2 and RS = x+12, find x?

1 Answer
Jan 3, 2016

x=2

Explanation:

The median of any trapezoid is equal to the average of the bases.

The average of the bases can also be written as the sum of the bases over two.

Thus, since the bases are VT and RS, and the median UK,

(VT+RS)/2=UK

Substitute in the lengths.

((4x-6)+(x+12))/2=3x+2

Multiply both sides by 2.

4x-6+x+12=6x+4

Simplify.

5x+6=6x+4

x=2

We can check by plugging in 2.

VT=2
UK=8
RS=14

8 indeed is the average of 2 and 14, so x=2.