Question

kat is painting the edge of a triangular stage prop with reflective orange paint. the lengths of the edges of the triangle are \\( (3x - 4) \\) feet, \\( (x^2 - 1) \\) feet, and \\( (2x^2 - 15) \\) feet. what is the perimeter of the triangle if \\( x = 4 \\)?

• 16 feet
• 40 feet
• 76 feet
• 80 feet

Explanation:

Define the perimeter expression

$$ P(x) = (3x - 4) + (x^2 - 1) + (2x^2 - 15) $$

Simplify the polynomial

$$ P(x) = 3x^2 + 3x - 20 $$

Evaluate the perimeter at x = 4

$$ P(4) = 3(4)^2 + 3(4) - 20 = 48 + 12 - 20 = 40 $$

Answer:

• (A) 16 feet
• (B) 40 feet (Correct answer)
• (C) 76 feet
• (D) 80 feet