Answer:
a = 25
Explanation:
First lets identify the formula
a^2 + b^2 = c^2
C would be the hypotenuse, across from the right angle. a is already labeled for us so be would be the bottom side.
Since we don't know the value of a we keep that as a variable
would would substitute b and c with the given values
a^2 + 72^2 = 97^2
Now, you could solve the squares but we are not going to. We are going to square root all the values to get rid of the squares so there is no point squaring it when your just going to end up with the same value just without the little square symbol at the top.
![\sqrt{a^(2) } + \sqrt{72^(2) } = \sqrt{97^(2) }](https://img.qammunity.org/2022/formulas/mathematics/high-school/m7rawnvkn4vvpedrx6s8wfhkozaks8r3x5.png)
a + 72 = 97
Now its just the basic solving of get the variable on one side.
Subtract 72 from 97
a + 72 (-72) = 97 (-72)
a = 25
a is 25 feet
I hope this helps you, don't be afraid to reach out with further questions!