Question

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

Explanation:

Step1: Apply Pythagorean theorem

Let hypotenuse $c=9$, leg $a=5$, missing leg $b$.
$$a^2 + b^2 = c^2$$

Step2: Rearrange to solve for $b$

$$b^2 = c^2 - a^2$$

Step3: Substitute known values

$$b^2 = 9^2 - 5^2 = 81 - 25 = 56$$

Step4: Calculate square root of 56

$$b = \sqrt{56} \approx 7.5$$

Answer:

7.5 kilometers