Question

what is the missing side length of this right triangle? type the answer in the box.
13 in.
5 in.

Explanation:

Step1: Recall Pythagorean theorem

For a right triangle, \(a^2 + b^2 = c^2\), where \(c\) is hypotenuse, \(a,b\) are legs. Let the missing leg be \(x\), hypotenuse \(c = 13\), one leg \(b = 5\). So \(x^2 + 5^2 = 13^2\).

Step2: Solve for \(x^2\)

Calculate \(13^2 = 169\), \(5^2 = 25\). Then \(x^2 = 169 - 25 = 144\).

Step3: Find \(x\)

Take square root: \(x = \sqrt{144} = 12\).

Answer:

12