SOLUTION: The ratio of the length of the hypotenuse to the length of the shorter leg in a right triangle is 8:5. The hypotenuse measures 144 meters. Find the length of the longer leg.

Question 194937: The ratio of the length of the hypotenuse to the length of the shorter leg in a right triangle is 8:5. The hypotenuse measures 144 meters. Find the length of the longer leg.
I really have no idea where to even begin. Thanks for the help.
Answer by Alan3354(69443) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
The ratio of the length of the hypotenuse to the length of the shorter leg in a right triangle is 8:5. The hypotenuse measures 144 meters. Find the length of the longer leg.
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a = length of the shorter leg
8:5::144:a
8a = 720
a = 90
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The other side, b, is sqrt(144^2 - 90^2)
b = sqrt(12636)
b =~ 111.6 meters

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