Math Problem Statement

A kite flying in the air has a 12-ft line attached to it. Its line is pulled taut and casts a 9-ft shadow. Find the height of the kite.

Solution

This problem involves a right triangle, where the kite, its line, and the shadow form the sides. We can use the Pythagorean theorem to find the height of the kite.

The Pythagorean theorem states: a2+b2=c2a^2 + b^2 = c^2 Where:

  • aa is the height of the kite (unknown),
  • b=9b = 9 ft is the length of the shadow,
  • c=12c = 12 ft is the length of the kite's line.

Now we solve for the height aa: a2+92=122a^2 + 9^2 = 12^2 a2+81=144a^2 + 81 = 144 a2=14481=63a^2 = 144 - 81 = 63 a=637.9fta = \sqrt{63} \approx 7.9 \, \text{ft}

Thus, the height of the kite is approximately 7.9 feet.

Would you like further details on this, or do you have any questions? Here are 5 related questions:

  1. How do we solve problems involving right triangles with different given dimensions?
  2. What happens when we change the length of the shadow?
  3. How would the answer change if the kite's line was longer than 12 ft?
  4. How does the Pythagorean theorem relate to real-life applications?
  5. What tools can be used to measure such dimensions in practice?

Tip: Always make sure to verify that a problem involves a right triangle before applying the Pythagorean theorem!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Right Triangles

Formulas

Pythagorean Theorem (a^2 + b^2 = c^2)

Theorems

Pythagorean Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10