SOLUTION: The sum of the lengths of the two legs of a right triangle is 7 inches. If the length of the hypotenuse is 5 inches, find the length of each leg.

Click here to see ALL problems on Pythagorean-theorem

Question 679032: The sum of the lengths of the two legs of a right triangle is 7 inches. If the length of the hypotenuse is 5 inches, find the length of each leg.
Answer by jsmallt9(3758) (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
First of all, this problem has nothing to do with Trigonometry. You are more likely to get a faster response to your posts when you post in an appropriate category.

This problem can be solved with...
Two variables:
Let x = one leg
Let y = the other leg
Then
x + y = 7
And the three sides must fit the Pythagorean equation:

Now just solve this system of equations. (I suggest the Substitution Method.
One variable:
Let x = one leg
Then the other leg is: 7-x
And the equation we will use is the Pythagorean equation:

Now just simplify and solve.