SOLUTION: The hypotenuse of a right triangle is 15 cm, and the shorter leg is 9 cm. Find the length of the other leg.

Algebra ->  Pythagorean-theorem -> SOLUTION: The hypotenuse of a right triangle is 15 cm, and the shorter leg is 9 cm. Find the length of the other leg.       Log On


   

Question 373713: The hypotenuse of a right triangle is 15 cm, and the shorter leg is 9 cm. Find the length of the other leg.
Answer by ewatrrr(24785) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!


Hi,

Let x represent the length of the 'other leg'

The hypotenuse of a right triangle is 15 cm, and the shorter leg is 9 cm

Applying the Pytahgorean Theorem

x^2 + 9cm^2 = 15cm^2

x^2 + 81cm^2 = 225cm^2

x^2 = 225cm^2 - 81Cm^2

x^2 = 144cm^2

x = +-sqrt%28144cm%5E2%29 

x = +-12cm, negative solution is not appropropriate

x = 12cm, length of the 'other leg'