Question

a telephone pole breaks and falls as shown. to the nearest foot, what was the original height of the pole?
f. 16 ft
g. 18 ft
h. 12 ft
j. 6 ft

Explanation:

Step1: Define broken pole length

Let $x$ = length of broken pole part. Use Pythagorean theorem:
$$x^2 = 6^2 + 10^2$$

Step2: Calculate squared length

Compute the right-hand side:
$$x^2 = 36 + 100 = 136$$

Step3: Solve for x

Take square root and round:
$$x = \sqrt{136} \approx 12$$

Step4: Find original height

Add remaining pole height:
$$\text{Original height} = 6 + 12 = 18$$

Answer:

G. 18 ft