Math Problem Statement

Find the length of the third side of a right triangle with one leg measuring 3 units and the hypotenuse measuring 7 units. If necessary, round to the nearest tenth.

Solution

To find the length of the third side in this right triangle, we can use the Pythagorean theorem:

a2+b2=c2a^2 + b^2 = c^2

where aa and bb are the lengths of the two legs, and cc is the length of the hypotenuse (the side opposite the right angle).

Given:

  • One leg (aa) = 3
  • The hypotenuse (cc) = 7

Substituting these values:

32+b2=723^2 + b^2 = 7^2

9+b2=499 + b^2 = 49

Now, isolate b2b^2:

b2=499b^2 = 49 - 9

b2=40b^2 = 40

Taking the square root of both sides:

b=406.3b = \sqrt{40} \approx 6.3

So, the length of the third side is approximately 6.3 (rounded to the nearest tenth).

Would you like further details, or do you have any questions?


Here are five related questions to explore this concept further:

  1. How would the solution change if the hypotenuse were 10 instead of 7?
  2. What if both legs were given, but the hypotenuse was missing?
  3. How can the Pythagorean theorem be used in three-dimensional space?
  4. What are some real-life applications of the Pythagorean theorem?
  5. How does trigonometry relate to the Pythagorean theorem?

Tip: In a right triangle, the hypotenuse is always the longest side, directly opposite the right angle.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Right Triangles
Algebra

Formulas

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

Theorems

Pythagorean Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10