The length of each side of an equilateral triangle is decreased by 5 inches, so the perimeter is now 45 inches. What is the original length of each side of the equilateral triangle?

(45 / 3) + 5 = ?

To solve this problem, we need to work through the given information step by step. Let's break it down:

1. Let's assume the original length of each side of the equilateral triangle is "x" inches.
2. The problem states that the length of each side is decreased by 5 inches. Therefore, the new length of each side is "x - 5" inches.
3. We know that the perimeter of the smaller triangle is 45 inches.
4. Since the triangle is equilateral, all three sides are equal in length.
5. To find the perimeter of an equilateral triangle, we can multiply the length of one side by 3.
6. Therefore, the equation for the perimeter of the smaller triangle can be written as: (x - 5) + (x - 5) + (x - 5) = 45.
7. Simplifying the equation, we have: 3x - 15 = 45.
8. Adding 15 to both sides of the equation, we get: 3x = 60.
9. Finally, dividing both sides of the equation by 3, we find: x = 20.

Therefore, the original length of each side of the equilateral triangle is 20 inches.