Question

find the length of side x/ 16 20 x select one: a. 18 b. 4 c. 26 d. 12

Explanation:

Step1: Apply Pythagorean theorem

In a right - triangle, \(a^{2}+b^{2}=c^{2}\), where \(c\) is the hypotenuse. Here, \(c = 20\) and one side \(a = 16\), and we want to find \(b=x\). So \(x=\sqrt{20^{2}-16^{2}}\).

Step2: Calculate the squares

\(20^{2}=400\) and \(16^{2}=256\). Then \(20^{2}-16^{2}=400 - 256=144\).

Step3: Find the square - root

\(x=\sqrt{144}=12\).

Answer:

D. 12