As it forms a right triangle as per given condition, the student was √2 mi far from the starting point.
What is right triangle?
"Right triangle is defined as the triangle which has one of the angle with measure 90°."
Formula used
Pythagoras theorem
(Hypotenuse)² = (adjacent side)² + (opposite side)²
According to the question,
Given,
Student walks west represents the adjacent side 1.0 mi
Student walks north represents the opposite side 1.0 mi
Distance between starting point and reaching point represents hypotenuse =‘ x’ mi
As shown in figure,
Substitute the value in Pythagoras theorem of a right triangle,
x² = 1² + 1²
—-> x² = 2
—-> x = √2 mi
Hence, the student was √2 mi far from the starting point.