What is the unknown leg length? Pythagorean theorem:a2+b2=c2 122+b2 = 152 %3D 144 +b2 = 225 b2 = 81 %3D b = cm

Algebra and Trigonometry (6th Edition)
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ChapterP: Prerequisites: Fundamental Concepts Of Algebra
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Problem 1MCCP: In Exercises 1-25, simplify the given expression or perform the indicated operation (and simplify,...
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# Calculating the Length of a Right Triangle's Leg

To determine the length of an unknown leg in a right triangle, you can use the Pythagorean theorem. The Pythagorean theorem states that in a right triangle:

\[ a^2 + b^2 = c^2 \]

where:
- \( a \) is one leg of the triangle,
- \( b \) is the other leg of the triangle,
- \( c \) is the hypotenuse of the triangle.

### Example Problem:

**What is the unknown leg length?**

Given:
- One leg (\( a \)) = 12 units
- Hypotenuse (\( c \)) = 15 units

Using the Pythagorean theorem:

\[ 12^2 + b^2 = 15^2 \]

First, calculate the squares:

\[ 144 + b^2 = 225 \]

Now, solve for \( b^2 \):

\[ b^2 = 225 - 144 \]
\[ b^2 = 81 \]

Finally, take the square root to find \( b \):

\[ b = \sqrt{81} \]
\[ b = 9 \]

**Therefore, the unknown leg length is 9 units.**

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### Diagram/Graph Explanation:
There is no diagram or graph in the provided image. The educational content is focused on the step-by-step algebraic solution of finding the unknown leg of a right triangle using the Pythagorean theorem.

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Transcribed Image Text:--- # Calculating the Length of a Right Triangle's Leg To determine the length of an unknown leg in a right triangle, you can use the Pythagorean theorem. The Pythagorean theorem states that in a right triangle: \[ a^2 + b^2 = c^2 \] where: - \( a \) is one leg of the triangle, - \( b \) is the other leg of the triangle, - \( c \) is the hypotenuse of the triangle. ### Example Problem: **What is the unknown leg length?** Given: - One leg (\( a \)) = 12 units - Hypotenuse (\( c \)) = 15 units Using the Pythagorean theorem: \[ 12^2 + b^2 = 15^2 \] First, calculate the squares: \[ 144 + b^2 = 225 \] Now, solve for \( b^2 \): \[ b^2 = 225 - 144 \] \[ b^2 = 81 \] Finally, take the square root to find \( b \): \[ b = \sqrt{81} \] \[ b = 9 \] **Therefore, the unknown leg length is 9 units.** --- ### Diagram/Graph Explanation: There is no diagram or graph in the provided image. The educational content is focused on the step-by-step algebraic solution of finding the unknown leg of a right triangle using the Pythagorean theorem. ---
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