As I see it, the key to this problem is finding the dimension of the square DRAG. To do this, we will set up a system of equations.
First let x = the dimension of the squares and y = the congruent sides of the isosceles triangles.
To get our first equation of the system, we look at the statement regarding the perimeter of DRAGONFLIES being equal to 127.. this implies the following equation: 9x + 2y = 127
To get the second equation, we need to know that the perimeter of an isosceles triangle is defined by: P = 2(length of the congruent sides) + base side. Or in our case, 55 = 2y + x
Now our system:
9x + 2y = 127
x + 2y = 55
You can use the substitution method or linear combination to solve this system. If you have questions about how to do that, let me know.
The solution of the system is: x = 9 and y = 23
Recall x = the dimension of each square, so the area of DRAG is 81
This is my best guess at how to do the problem.. :-) Let me know if I can answer any questions.
