Answer:
- the triangle must be assumed to be a right triangle
- AB = 148.4 yards
- segment AB is shorter than the curved path
Explanation:
Part 1: The main assumption required is the one required to use the hint. The triangle must be assumed to be a right triangle.
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Part 2: The approximate distance AB is the hypotenuse of the assumed right triangle, so will satisfy the Pythagorean theorem. For distances in yards, ...
AB² = 80² +125² = 22025
AB = √22025 ≈ 148.4 . . . . . yards
The approximate length across the pond is 148.4 yards.
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Part 3: A straight line is the shortest path between two points. Segment AB is a straight line path, so the length of segment AB will be shorter than any curved path between A and B.