Final answer:
To find the missing side of a triangle with sides measuring 36 ft and 85 ft, we use the Pythagorean theorem. After calculation, the missing side's length is found to be 77 feet.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question refers to finding the length of the missing side in a triangle when two sides are given. To solve for the missing side, which we can assume is the hypotenuse since it is the longest side, we will use the Pythagorean theorem. The theorem states that in a right-angled triangle, the square of the hypotenuse (c) is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides (a and b). If the given sides are b = 36 ft and c = 85 ft, the formula becomes:
c2 = a2 + b2
We know c = 85 ft, and b = 36 ft, so let's calculate for a:
852 = a2 + 362
7225 = a2 + 1296
7225 - 1296 = a2
5929 = a2
a = √5929
a = 77 ft
Therefore, the length of the missing side a is 77 feet.