The Pythagorean theorem is a formula used to find the length of a side in a right triangle. It states that:
a² + b² = c²
where 'c' is the hypotenuse (the side opposite the right angle), and 'a' and 'b' are the other two sides.
Given two sides, 9 km and 8 km, let's assume:
- Side a = 9 km
- Side c = 8 km (or vice versa)
However, the hypotenuse (c) is always the longest side. Since 9 km is longer than 8 km, 9 km is likely the hypotenuse.
If side 'c' = 9 km (hypotenuse), and side 'a' = 8 km, find side 'b' as follows:
b² = c² - a²
Substitute the values:
b² = 9² - 8² = 81 - 64 = 17
Now, take the square root:
b = √17 ≈ 4.12 km
Therefore, side B is approximately 4.12 kilometers long.
Summary:
- Identify the hypotenuse (longest side) c = 9 km
- Plug values into the formula: b² = c² - a²
- Calculate b = √(81 - 64) = √17 ≈ 4.12 km