Final answer:
To find the length of the ladder, we can use the Pythagorean theorem and set up an equation with the given distances. Solving the equation gives us a length of approximately 26.4 feet, which is closest to option B 22.6 feet.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the length of the ladder, we can use the Pythagorean theorem. The ladder, the vertical wall, and the ground form a right triangle. The distance from the base of the ladder to the wall is one side of the triangle, and the length of the ladder is the hypotenuse. The other side of the triangle represents the distance from the top of the ladder to the ground. Let's say the distance from the base of the ladder to the wall is x feet, and the distance from the top of the ladder to the ground is y feet. According to the Pythagorean theorem, x^2 + y^2 = L^2, where L represents the length of the ladder. We can plug in the values given for x and y into this equation and solve for L. In this case, the distance from the base of the ladder to the wall is 18.4 feet, and the distance from the top of the ladder to the ground is 20.4 feet. Plugging these values into the equation gives us 18.4^2 + 20.4^2 = L^2. Solving this equation, we find that L is approximately 26.4 feet. Since we're looking for the length of the ladder to the nearest tenth, the answer is 26.4 feet, which is closest to option B 22.6 feet.