Math Problem Statement

Solve for x. Leave your answer in simplest radical form. (The image shows two right triangles. One triangle has legs of x and 8, and the hypotenuse is 10. The other triangle has legs 7 and 10.)

Solution

The image shows two right triangles. To solve for xx, we can apply the Pythagorean theorem twice, once for each triangle.

  1. First triangle (the smaller one):

    • The legs are xx and 88.
    • The hypotenuse is 1010.

    Using the Pythagorean theorem: x2+82=102x^2 + 8^2 = 10^2 Simplifying: x2+64=100x^2 + 64 = 100 x2=10064=36x^2 = 100 - 64 = 36 x=36=6x = \sqrt{36} = 6

The value of xx is 6.

Would you like further details or have any questions about the process? Here are some related questions to explore:

  1. How can the Pythagorean theorem be applied to non-right triangles?
  2. What is the geometric significance of simplifying radical expressions?
  3. Can the Pythagorean theorem be extended to 3D shapes, like in three-dimensional space?
  4. How would the answer change if one of the sides was a decimal or a radical number?
  5. How does the concept of distance apply in the context of coordinate geometry?

Tip: Always check the conditions for applying the Pythagorean theorem, such as ensuring that you are working with a right triangle.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Pythagorean Theorem
Algebra
Radical Expressions

Formulas

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

Theorems

Pythagorean Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10