Question

find the length of the third side. if necessary, round to the nearest tenth.
answer attempt 1 out of 2
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Explanation:

Step1: Apply Pythagorean theorem

For a right - triangle, \(a^{2}+b^{2}=c^{2}\), where \(c\) is the hypotenuse. Let the unknown side be \(x\). Here \(c = 17\), \(a=8\), then \(x^{2}+8^{2}=17^{2}\).

Step2: Rearrange the formula

\(x^{2}=17^{2}-8^{2}\).

Step3: Calculate the squares

\(17^{2}=289\), \(8^{2}=64\). So \(x^{2}=289 - 64\).

Step4: Subtract

\(x^{2}=225\).

Step5: Take the square root

\(x=\sqrt{225}\).

Answer:

15