Math Problem Statement

Find the length of x in a right triangle where the hypotenuse is 25 and one leg is 15.

Solution

From the image provided, it looks like you're working with a right triangle. Here's a breakdown:

  • The hypotenuse is labeled as 2525.
  • One of the legs is labeled as 1515.
  • The other leg is labeled as xx.
  • There is a right angle at PP.

To solve for xx, we can use the Pythagorean Theorem:
a2+b2=c2a^2 + b^2 = c^2 where:

  • cc is the hypotenuse,
  • aa and bb are the legs of the triangle.

Solution:

Let a=xa = x, b=15b = 15, and c=25c = 25.

Substitute into the Pythagorean Theorem: x2+152=252x^2 + 15^2 = 25^2

Simplify: x2+225=625x^2 + 225 = 625

Subtract 225225 from both sides: x2=400x^2 = 400

Take the square root of both sides: x=400x = \sqrt{400} x=20x = 20

Final Answer:

The length of xx is 20 units.


Do you have any questions or need further details? Here are some related questions to explore:

  1. How do we verify the solution for xx using the Pythagorean Theorem?
  2. What happens if one leg is missing instead of the hypotenuse?
  3. How can trigonometry (sine, cosine, or tangent) be used to solve problems like this?
  4. What are real-world applications of the Pythagorean Theorem?
  5. How does the Pythagorean Theorem apply to non-right triangles?

Tip: Always double-check if the triangle is a right triangle before using the Pythagorean Theorem!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Pythagorean Theorem

Formulas

a^2 + b^2 = c^2

Theorems

Pythagorean Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 7-9