Question

what is the length of the missing leg? if necessary, round to the nearest tenth.
b = \boxed{} feet

Explanation:

Step1: Recall Pythagorean theorem

For a right triangle, \(a^2 + b^2 = c^2\), where \(c\) is hypotenuse, \(a\) and \(b\) are legs. Here, \(c = 8.8\) ft, \(a = 8.3\) ft, find \(b\). Rearrange formula: \(b=\sqrt{c^2 - a^2}\).

Step2: Substitute values

Calculate \(c^2 - a^2\): \(8.8^2 - 8.3^2=(8.8 - 8.3)(8.8 + 8.3)=0.5\times17.1 = 8.55\).

Step3: Take square root

\(b=\sqrt{8.55}\approx2.9\) (rounded to nearest tenth).

Answer:

\(2.9\)