Math Problem Statement

ΔABC is a right triangle. If AB = 3 and AC = 7, find BC. Leave your answer in simplest radical form.

Solution

The problem is about finding the length of BC in a right triangle ABC\triangle ABC, where AB=3AB = 3, AC=7AC = 7, and the answer must be in simplest radical form.

We will use the Pythagorean theorem:

AC2=AB2+BC2AC^2 = AB^2 + BC^2

Steps:

  1. Substitute the given values: 72=32+BC27^2 = 3^2 + BC^2

  2. Simplify: 49=9+BC249 = 9 + BC^2

  3. Solve for BC2BC^2: BC2=499=40BC^2 = 49 - 9 = 40

  4. Find BCBC by taking the square root: BC=40=410=210BC = \sqrt{40} = \sqrt{4 \cdot 10} = 2\sqrt{10}

Final Answer:

BC=210BC = 2\sqrt{10}

The correct answer is not in the choices, so there might be an issue in the problem setup. Please confirm if you'd like further clarification or check for any inconsistencies in the data. Would you like me to revisit any steps?

Here are 5 related questions you might consider:

  1. How can the Pythagorean theorem be used in different types of triangles?
  2. What does it mean to simplify a square root?
  3. How do you verify calculations in geometric problems like this one?
  4. How can we determine if a triangle is right-angled from its side lengths?
  5. What are some common errors when solving radical equations?

Tip: Always double-check square root simplifications to ensure they are fully simplified.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Right Triangles
Radical Simplification

Formulas

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

Theorems

Pythagorean Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10