volume_mute
Find an Unknown Side Using the Pythagorean Theorem
publish date: 2026/05/15 20:40:51.317545 UTC
volume_mute
In rectangle RSTU, \(RS = 12\) ft and diagonal \(RT = 13\) ft. Find \(m(ST)\).
Hint: Triangle \(RST\) is a right triangle with the right angle at \(S\).
Correct Answer
5 ft
Explanation
Triangle \(RST\) is a right triangle (right angle at \(S\)). Apply the Pythagorean theorem: \[RT^2 = RS^2 + ST^2\]\[13^2 = 12^2 + ST^2\]\[169 = 144 + ST^2\]\[ST^2 = 25 \implies ST = 5 \text{ ft}\]Note: 5, 12, 13 is a Pythagorean triple.
Reference
Mathematics for college students