Circle Problem

Question

Three circles with centers at X, Y, and Z are mutually externally tangent. The radius of circle X is 7, the radius of circle Y is 10, and <XYZ is a right angle. Find the radius of circle Z.

Answer 1

Draw and label a diagram

 

XY = 17

YZ = 10 + x

ZX = 7 + x               This is the supposed hypotenuse. It must be larger than the sum of the other two. It is not.

 

Please review the problem for errors.