Math Problem Statement

Using Pythagoras' theorem, calculate the length of YZ. Give your answer to 1 d.p.

Solution

The problem involves calculating the length of YZYZ in a right triangle using Pythagoras' theorem. Here’s the solution step-by-step:

Given:

  • The length of XY=9cmXY = 9 \, \text{cm}
  • The length of XZ=16cmXZ = 16 \, \text{cm}
  • YZYZ is the hypotenuse.

Pythagoras' theorem states: YZ2=XY2+XZ2YZ^2 = XY^2 + XZ^2

Step 1: Square the given sides

XY2=92=81XY^2 = 9^2 = 81 XZ2=162=256XZ^2 = 16^2 = 256

Step 2: Add the squares

YZ2=81+256=337YZ^2 = 81 + 256 = 337

Step 3: Take the square root

YZ=33718.4cmYZ = \sqrt{337} \approx 18.4 \, \text{cm}

Final Answer:

The length of YZYZ is approximately 18.4 cm to 1 decimal place.


Would you like further clarification or more details on any step? Here are some related questions you might explore:

  1. How can Pythagoras' theorem be applied to real-life problems?
  2. What happens when one of the sides is missing and not the hypotenuse?
  3. How does Pythagoras’ theorem relate to the distance formula in coordinate geometry?
  4. Can Pythagoras' theorem be used in 3D problems?
  5. What are some proofs of Pythagoras’ theorem?

Tip: Always double-check the units of measurement to avoid confusion!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Pythagoras' theorem
Right triangle geometry

Formulas

YZ^2 = XY^2 + XZ^2

Theorems

Pythagoras' theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8