Question

In triangle JKL, angle JKL is a right angle, line KM is an altitude, JL=20, ML=4. Find KM

Answer 1

9514 1404 393

Answer:

KM = 8

Explanation:

The ratio of long side to short side is the same for all of the triangles in this geometry:

KM/ML = JM/KM

KM² = ML·JM = 4(20-4) = 64

KM = √64 = 8

The length of KM is 8 units.