To solve this problem, we need to determine the value of x, which represents the factor by which Tom needs to increase his reading speed.
We know that Tom can read 12 pages in 1 hour. Therefore, his reading speed is 12 pages per hour.
If he could increase his reading speed by a factor of x, his new reading speed would be 12x pages per hour.
During 2 hours, Tom would be able to read 12x * 2 = 24x pages.
We are given that Tom would be able to read 72 pages during 2 hours.
We can set up the equation as follows:
24x = 72
To solve for x, we divide both sides of the equation by 24:
24x / 24 = 72 / 24
x = 3
The value of x is 3.
#### 3
The answer is: 3
Below is a math problem. Provide a detailed, step-by-step solution.

### Problem:
During one hour, Tom can read 12 pages of a book. He would be able to read 72 pages during 2 hours if he could increase his reading speed by a factor of x. What is the value of unknown variable x?

### Answer:
