SOLUTION: Hi, I am trying to solve what should be a simple problem, but can't figure it out. I would appreciate some help. The Hypotenuse of a right triangle measures 13 cm. Find the leng

Algebra ->  Customizable Word Problem Solvers  -> Geometry -> SOLUTION: Hi, I am trying to solve what should be a simple problem, but can't figure it out. I would appreciate some help. The Hypotenuse of a right triangle measures 13 cm. Find the leng      Log On

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Question 70894: Hi, I am trying to solve what should be a simple problem, but can't figure it out. I would appreciate some help.
The Hypotenuse of a right triangle measures 13 cm. Find the lengths of the legs if their sum is 17 cm.
I tried setting one side to x, and the other to 17-x and setting them up in the pythagorean theorem, but had no luck, so I know I am doing something wrong.
Thank you,
Jodi
Answer by checkley75(3666) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
I BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MISTAKE IN YOUR PRESENTATION OF THE PROBLEM.
THE SUM OPF THE OTHER TWO SIDES OF THIS TRIANGLE MUST BE GREATER THAN THE HYPOTENUSE HOWEVER 17-13=4 WHICH IS NOT GREATER THAN THE HYPOTENUSE.
TRY AGAIN ONCE YOU'VE CORRECTED THE PROBLEM ITEMS.