Question

Find the value of x in the isosceles triangle 20 20 8

Answer 1

The value of x (which is height) is 2 units. x = 2

Answer 2

x = 2

Explanation:

The picture helps.

the line is an altitude. It is found with the Pythagorean Theorem.

hypotenuse^2 = x^2 + (8/2)^2

hypotenuse = sqrt(20)

8/2 = 4

sqrt(20)^2 = x^2 + 4^2

20 = x^2 + 16 Subtract 16 from both sides

20 - 16 = x^2

4 = x^2 Take the square root of both sides

sqrt(4) = sqrt(x^2)

x = 2