SOLUTION: Could someone please help me with this? I believe I am doing it correct, however have a final exam and want to be certain. In a right triangle , find the length of the side not

Algebra ->  Radicals -> SOLUTION: Could someone please help me with this? I believe I am doing it correct, however have a final exam and want to be certain. In a right triangle , find the length of the side not       Log On


   

Question 468785: Could someone please help me with this? I believe I am doing it correct, however have a final exam and want to be certain.
In a right triangle , find the length of the side not given
b=1, c=square root 10.
I know to use the Pythagorean Theorem but I am coming up with an answer that is not a single digit number.
Thanks again!!
Answer by Tatiana_Stebko(1539) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
the Pythagorean Theorem a%5E2%2Bb%5E2=c%5E2
then a%5E2=c%5E2-b%5E2
a%5E2=%28sqrt%2810%29%29%5E2-1%5E2=10-1=9
the length of the side not given is a=sqrt%289%29=3
Answer: 3