Question

what is the length of the missing leg? if necessary, round to the nearest tenth.
b = \boxed{} kilometers

Explanation:

Step1: Apply Pythagorean theorem

$$a^2 + b^2 = c^2$$
Here, $c=20$ km (hypotenuse), $a=16$ km, solve for $b$.

Step2: Rearrange to isolate $b^2$

$$b^2 = c^2 - a^2$$

Step3: Substitute known values

$$b^2 = 20^2 - 16^2 = 400 - 256 = 144$$

Step4: Calculate square root of $b^2$

$$b = \sqrt{144}$$

Answer:

12 kilometers