Question

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

Explanation:

Step1: Apply Pythagorean theorem

For a right triangle, \( a^2 + b^2 = c^2 \), where \( c \) is hypotenuse, \( a,b \) are legs. Here, \( c = 6 \), \( a = 4 \), find \( b \). So \( b^2 = c^2 - a^2 \).
\( b^2 = 6^2 - 4^2 = 36 - 16 = 20 \)

Step2: Solve for \( b \)

Take square root: \( b = \sqrt{20} \approx 4.5 \) (rounded to nearest tenth)

Answer:

\( 4.5 \)