<PRE><B>Question 889962</B>
A = 1/2 times base times height

Let b = base

8 = 1/2 times b times b - 6

8 = (b/2)(b-6)

8 = (b^2-6b)/2

8 * 2 = b^2-6b

16 = b^2-6b

b^2 -6b - 16 = 0

Solve the quadratic equation for b to find your answer.

(b - 8)(8 + 2) = 0


Set each factor to zero and solve for b individually.

b - 8 = 0

b = 8

b + 2 = 0 

b = -2

Reject b = -2 because distance cannot be NEGATIVE.

Answer: Base = 8 meters.




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