Question

Using the Pytagorean Theorem, find the length of a leg of a right triangle if the other leg is 8 feet long and the hypotenuse is 10 feet long.

Answer 1

Recall that a right triangle has 2 legs and a hypotenuse. If the legs are a and b, and the hyp. is h, then a^2 + b^2 = h^2.

Here, a^2 + (8 ft)^2 = (10 ft)^2, so that a^2 = 100 ft^2 - 64 ft^2, or 36 ft^2.

Thus, the desired leg length is a = +√36 = 6 ft

Make the Pythagorean Theorem your friend. ;)

Answer 2

a^2 + 8^2 = 10^2

a^2 + 64 = 100

a^2 = 36

a = 6