SOLUTION: A 45-foot ladder is leaning against the top of building. The bottom of the ladder is 27 feet away from the building. How tall is the building?

Algebra ->  Test  -> Lessons -> SOLUTION: A 45-foot ladder is leaning against the top of building. The bottom of the ladder is 27 feet away from the building. How tall is the building?      Log On


   

Question 134793: A 45-foot ladder is leaning against the top of building. The bottom of the ladder is 27 feet away from the building. How tall is the building?
Answer by vleith(2983) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
use Pythagorean theorem
a%5E2+%2B+b%5E2+=+c%5E2
in this case, you are given the hypotenuse and one leg.
So, c = 45 and a = 27.
Plug in and solve for b and that is your answer
b%5E2+=+c%5E2+-+a%5E2
b%5E2+=+45%5E2+-+27%5E2
b+=+sqrt%2845%5E2-27%5E2%29
b = 36
notice the ratio of the sides --> 3:4:5 that is a common ratio in these types of problems. Keep an eye out for them :)