Question

The backboard of the basketball hoop forms a right triangle with the supporting rods, as shown. Use the

Pythagorean Theorem to approximate the distance between the rods where they meet the backboard. Round your answer to the nearest

hundredth.

Answer 1

9.14 inches.

Explanation:

From the question,

Assuming the diagram attached, is similar to diagram required to support the question,

From the diagram,

Applying pythagoras theorem

a² = b²+c²...................... Equation 1

Where a = 13.4 in, b = x in, c = 9.8 in.

Substitute these values into equation 1

13.4² = x²+9.8²

x² = 13.4²-9.8²

x² = 179.56-96.04

x² = 83.52

x = √(83.52)

x = 9.14 inches

Hence the distance between the rods is 9.14 inches