By applying Pythagorean's theorem to the triangle, the length of the zipper (x) is equal to 15 feet.
In Mathematics and Geometry, Pythagorean's theorem is an Euclidean postulate that can be modeled or represented by the following mathematical equation:
Where:
- a is the opposite side of a right-angled triangle.
- b is the adjacent side of a right-angled triangle.
- c is the hypotenuse of a right-angled triangle.
Note: Adjacent side = 16/2 = 8 ft.
In order to determine the length of the missing side (x), we would have to apply Pythagorean's theorem as follows;
x = 15 feet.