Answer:

The value of x = 3.

Step-by-step explanation:

The ratio between length and width is given by:

[tex]\frac{L}{W}=\frac{5}{3}[/tex]

Where:

• L represents the new length
• W represents the new width

Now, we know that each dimension is reduced by x inches, it means:

[tex]L=18-x[/tex]

[tex]W=12-x[/tex]

Then, we will have:

[tex]\frac{18-x}{12-x}=\frac{5}{3}[/tex]

Finally, we just need to solve it for x.  

[tex]3(18-x)=5(12-x)[/tex]

[tex]5x-3x=60-54[/tex]

[tex]2x=6[/tex]

[tex]x=3[/tex]

Therefore, the value of x = 3.

I hope it helps you!