SOLUTION: find the missing length in a right triangle whose hypotenuse =20 and height=15

Algebra ->  Triangles -> SOLUTION: find the missing length in a right triangle whose hypotenuse =20 and height=15       Log On


   



Question 8163: find the missing length in a right triangle whose hypotenuse =20 and height=15
Found 2 solutions by Earlsdon, CharStar:
Answer by Earlsdon(6294) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
You can use the Pythagorean theorem to find the missing length.
c%5E2+=+a%5E2+%2B+b%5E2 C is the hypotenuse (20), a is the height (15) and b is the missing length.
20%5E2+=+15%5E2+%2B+b%5E2
b%5E2+=+400+-+225
b+=+sqrt%28175%29 = sqrt%2825%2A7%29
b+=+5sqrt%287%29 The exact answer.
b+=+5%282.64575%29 = 13.228756... The approximate answer.

Answer by CharStar(110) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
a%5E2%2Bb%5E2=c%5E2
a%5E2%2B15%5E2=20%5E2
a%5E2%2B225=400
a%5E2=175
You have to square 175 = 13.228
I hope that helps you
CharStar