The perimeter of an isosceles triangle = 22cm, and one of its sides is 5cm less than the other.

The perimeter of an isosceles triangle = 22cm, and one of its sides is 5cm less than the other. Find the sum of the sides of this triangle

In an isosceles triangle, the sides are equal. Let’s solve the problem using the equation, where:

x cm – the base of the triangle;

Then:

(5 + x) cm – the side of the triangle;

Let’s compose and solve the equation, knowing the perimeter of the triangle:

x + (5 + x) + (5 + x) = 22;

x + 5 + x + 5 + x = 22;

3x + 10 = 22;

3x = 22 – 10;

3x = 12;

x = 12/3;

x = 4 cm – the base of an isosceles triangle;

(5 + x) = 5 + 4 = 9 cm – lateral side of an isosceles triangle;

9 + 9 = 18 cm – the sum of the sides of the triangle.

Answer: 18 cm