Question

question 15 of 25
the legs of a right triangle measure 9 feet and 12 feet. what is the length of the hypotenuse?
a. 21 feet
b. 225 feet
c. 15 feet
d. 18 feet

Explanation:

Step1: Recall Pythagorean theorem

Let \(a = 9\), \(b = 12\), and \(c\) be the hypotenuse. The Pythagorean theorem is \(a^{2}+b^{2}=c^{2}\).

Step2: Substitute values

\(9^{2}+12^{2}=c^{2}\), so \(81 + 144=c^{2}\), then \(c^{2}=225\).

Step3: Solve for \(c\)

\(c=\sqrt{225}=15\) (we take the positive square - root since length is non - negative).

Answer:

C. 15 feet