To determine the total length [tex]\( h \)[/tex] of Josh's hike, we are given that 17 km is 2 km short of being half the total hike. Let's break down the information step-by-step and formulate the equation.
1. We know Josh has hiked 17 km so far.
2. He is 2 km short of being halfway done with his hike. Therefore, if we add 2 km to the 17 km, we get the distance that is exactly half of the total hike length.
3. Adding 17 km and 2 km gives us 19 km.
This distance of 19 km represents half of the entire hike. Using this information, we can set up the equation as follows:
[tex]\[ \frac{1}{2}h = 19 \][/tex]
To find the total length [tex]\( h \)[/tex], we need to solve for [tex]\( h \)[/tex] by isolating it on one side of the equation. We do this by multiplying both sides of the equation by 2:
[tex]\[ h = 2 \times 19 \][/tex]
Now, calculate the product:
[tex]\[ h = 38 \][/tex]
Thus, the total length of Josh's hike is
[tex]\[ \boxed{38} \][/tex] km.
