How to Solve for C Using the Pythagorean Theorem with 6.1 ft and 1.3 ft

Learn step-by-step how to apply the Pythagorean theorem to find the length of side C when the other two sides are 6.1 ft and 1.3 ft.

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The Pythagorean theorem is a fundamental principle in geometry that relates the lengths of the sides of a right triangle. It states:

c² = a² + b²

where c is the hypotenuse (the side opposite the right angle), and a and b are the other two sides.

Step-by-step solution:

  1. Identify the given sides:
    a = 6.1 ft
    b = 1.3 ft
  2. Substitute the values into the formula:
    c² = (6.1)² + (1.3)²
  3. Calculate the squares:
    c² = 37.21 + 1.69
  4. Add the values:
    c² = 38.9
  5. Take the square root of both sides to find c:
    c = √38.9
  6. Calculate the square root:
    c ≈ 6.24 ft

Answer: The length of side C is approximately 6.24 feet.

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