Isosceles triangle from symbolic perimeter:\nThe base of an isosceles triangle is B = 2x + 2y + 4z and the perimeter is P = 4x + 2y + 6z (expressions in the same units). Find the length of each equal side.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: x+z

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
For an isosceles triangle with base B and equal sides s, perimeter P satisfies P = B + 2s. Rearranging gives s = (P − B)/2. Here B and P are algebraic expressions in x, y, z that represent like units (e.g., centimetres).


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Base B = 2x + 2y + 4z.
  • Perimeter P = 4x + 2y + 6z.
  • All symbols represent nonnegative measures in the same unit.


Concept / Approach:
Apply s = (P − B)/2 algebraically and simplify the expression; this yields the length of each congruent side in terms of x and z only, since the y-terms cancel here.


Step-by-Step Solution:

P − B = (4x + 2y + 6z) − (2x + 2y + 4z) = 2x + 2z.s = (P − B)/2 = (2x + 2z)/2 = x + z.


Verification / Alternative check:
Perimeter re-formed: B + 2s = (2x + 2y + 4z) + 2(x + z) = 4x + 2y + 6z = P, consistent.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Options involving y do not reflect the cancellation; 2(x + y) doubles the wrong combination; x + y is not supported by P − B reduction.


Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting the factor 1/2 in s = (P − B)/2; algebraic sign mistakes.


Final Answer:
x+z

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