Math Problem Statement

In the figure, ABC is a straight line. AC = 3.75 cm, BC = 4.25 cm, BC = 2.5 cm and BAC = 90 degrees. Find AB. The answer is 2 cm.

In the figure, ABC is a straight line. AC = 3.75 cm, BC = 4.25 cm, BC = 2.5 cm and BAC = 90 degrees. Find AB. The answer is 2 cm.

Solution

To solve for ABAB, we use the Pythagorean theorem, as ABC\triangle ABC is a right triangle with BAC=90\angle BAC = 90^\circ.

Steps:

  1. Pythagorean Theorem: BC2=AB2+AC2BC^2 = AB^2 + AC^2 Substituting the known values: (4.25)2=AB2+(3.75)2(4.25)^2 = AB^2 + (3.75)^2

  2. Square the lengths: 4.252=18.0625,3.752=14.06254.25^2 = 18.0625, \quad 3.75^2 = 14.0625

  3. Simplify the equation: 18.0625=AB2+14.062518.0625 = AB^2 + 14.0625 AB2=18.062514.0625=4AB^2 = 18.0625 - 14.0625 = 4

  4. Solve for ABAB: AB=4=2cmAB = \sqrt{4} = 2 \, \text{cm}

Final Answer:

AB=2cmAB = 2 \, \text{cm}

Would you like a step-by-step diagram or further clarification?


Related Questions:

  1. What is the length of the hypotenuse of a triangle with different dimensions?
  2. Can the Pythagorean theorem be used for non-right triangles?
  3. How would you calculate ABAB if the angle BAC\angle BAC were not 9090^\circ?
  4. What is the significance of a right triangle in geometry?
  5. How would errors in measurements affect the calculation?

Tip:

Always verify if the triangle is right-angled before applying the Pythagorean theorem!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Right Triangles
Pythagorean Theorem

Formulas

Pythagorean theorem: a^2 + b^2 = c^2

Theorems

Pythagorean Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 7-9