To find the missing side $x$ of the right triangle, we can apply the Pythagorean theorem, which states:

$a^2 + b^2 = c^2$

Where $c$ is the hypotenuse (the longest side), and $a$ and $b$ are the other two sides. In this case:

• The hypotenuse $c = 5.9$ (since it's the side opposite the right angle),
• One leg $a = 5.3$,
• We need to solve for the other leg $x$.

Using the Pythagorean theorem:

$5.3^2 + x^2 = 5.9^2$

Now solve for $x$:

1. $5.3^2 = 28.09$
2. $5.9^2 = 34.81$
3. Subtract $28.09$ from $34.81$:

$x^2 = 34.81 - 28.09 = 6.72$

4. Take the square root of both sides:

$x = \sqrt{6.72} \approx 2.59$

So, the missing side $x$ is approximately 2.6 (rounded to the nearest tenth).

Would you like any more details on this calculation or have any questions?

Related Questions:

1. How would the solution change if both given sides were known?
2. Can the Pythagorean theorem be used for non-right triangles?
3. What if the hypotenuse were unknown and we needed to solve for it instead?
4. How do you handle rounding when solving for triangle sides?
5. What are some practical uses of the Pythagorean theorem in real-world problems?

Tip:

Always double-check which side is the hypotenuse, as it directly affects the application of the Pythagorean theorem.