SOLUTION: I am having trouble figuring this problem. Please help. Woody Woodpecker pecked at a 17-m wooden pole until it cracked and the upper part fell, with the top hitting the ground

Algebra ->  Pythagorean-theorem -> SOLUTION: I am having trouble figuring this problem. Please help. Woody Woodpecker pecked at a 17-m wooden pole until it cracked and the upper part fell, with the top hitting the ground       Log On


   

Question 123305This question is from textbook Geometry for Enjoyment and Challenge New Edition
: I am having trouble figuring this problem. Please help.
Woody Woodpecker pecked at a 17-m wooden pole until it cracked and the upper
part fell, with the top hitting the ground 10 m from the foot of the pole.
Since the upper part had not completely broken off, Woody pecked away where
the pole had cracked. How far was Woody above the ground? This question is from textbook Geometry for Enjoyment and Challenge New Edition

Answer by scott8148(6628) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Woody's height up the pole, the broken top portion, and the 10 m form a right triangle

let x=height __ by Pythagoras, x^2+10^2=(17-x)^2 __ x^2+100=289-34x+x^2

-189=-34x