Question

Solve for x. Then find the side lengths of the triangle. If needed, round to the nearest tenth of a foot.

(Check image)

Answer 1

The sides are:

`s_(1)=3x=3(6.0)=18 \:ft`

`s_(2)=6x=6(6.0)=36 \:ft`

Explanation:

We have a right triangle, so we can use the Pythagoras theorem.

`40^(2)=(6x)^(2)+(3x)^(2)`

Let's solve it for x.

`40^(2)=36x^(2)+9x^(2)`

`1600=45x^(2)`

`x^(2)=35.56 \:ft^(2)`

`x=6.0 \:ft`

Therefore, the lengths will be:

First side:
`s_(1)=3x=3(6.0)=18 \:ft`

Second side:
`s_(2)=6x=6(6.0)=36 \:ft`

I hope it helps you!