Question

max has sticks of lengths 6, 7, 8, and 10 inches. he wants to make a right triangle for an art project. which 3 sticks should he use?
6 in., 7 in., and 8 in.
6 in., 7 in., and 10 in.
6 in., 8 in., and 10 in.
7 in., 8 in., and 10 in.

Explanation:

Step1: Recall Pythagorean theorem

For a right triangle, $a^2 + b^2 = c^2$, where $c$ is the longest side.

Step2: Test first option

Calculate $6^2 + 7^2 = 36 + 49 = 85$, $8^2 = 64$. $85
eq 64$.

Step3: Test second option

Calculate $6^2 + 7^2 = 85$, $10^2 = 100$. $85
eq 100$.

Step4: Test third option

Calculate $6^2 + 8^2 = 36 + 64 = 100$, $10^2 = 100$. $100 = 100$.

Step5: Verify fourth option (optional)

Calculate $7^2 + 8^2 = 49 + 64 = 113$, $10^2 = 100$. $113
eq 100$.

Answer:

6 in., 8 in., and 10 in.