Question

solve each of the real - world scenarios using literal equations: if the hypotenuse of a right triangle is 17 cm and a leg is 8 cm, what is the length of the other leg? (a² + b² = c², with c being the hypotenuse and a and b being the legs) 9 cm 12 cm 15 cm 225 cm

Explanation:

Step1: Substitute values into Pythagorean theorem

Given \(a^{2}+b^{2}=c^{2}\), let \(a = 8\), \(c = 17\). Then \(8^{2}+b^{2}=17^{2}\).
So \(64 + b^{2}=289\).

Step2: Solve for \(b^{2}\)

Subtract 64 from both sides: \(b^{2}=289 - 64\).
\(b^{2}=225\).

Step3: Solve for \(b\)

Take square root of both sides: \(b=\sqrt{225}\).
\(b = 15\).

Answer:

15 cm