Final answer:
Using the Pythagorean theorem, the length of the rope needed to support the volleyball post is calculated to be 10 feet, with the pole being 8 feet tall and the stake placed 6 feet from the base of the pole.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the length of the rope needed for Alicia to support the volleyball post, we can apply the Pythagorean theorem, which is a mathematical principle used to find the lengths of sides in a right-angled triangle. In this scenario, the volleyball pole and the ground form a right angle, and the rope creates the hypotenuse of the triangle. Hence, the rope's length can be calculated using the formula:
c = √(a^2 + b^2)
where:
- a = 8 feet (the height of the volleyball post)
- b = 6 feet (the distance from the post to the stake)
To solve for c, the length of the rope:
c = √(8^2 + 6^2) = √(64 + 36) = √100 = 10 feet
Therefore, the rope needs to be 10 feet long to reach from the top of the volleyball post to the stake.