Question

what is the length of the missing leg? if necessary, round to the nearest tenth.
b = \square yards

Explanation:

Step1: Apply Pythagorean theorem

Let the hypotenuse $c=34$ yd, one leg $a=16$ yd, missing leg $b$. The theorem is $a^2 + b^2 = c^2$, rearrange to solve for $b$:
$$b = \sqrt{c^2 - a^2}$$

Step2: Substitute values into formula

$$b = \sqrt{34^2 - 16^2}$$

Step3: Calculate squares

$$34^2 = 1156, \quad 16^2 = 256$$

Step4: Compute difference inside root

$$1156 - 256 = 900$$

Step5: Take square root

$$b = \sqrt{900} = 30$$

Answer:

30 yards