4

Set 3: Triangles (Intermediate)

Explanation

Answer: C

PROBLEM

Recent studies show that a right triangle has legs of length 12 and 16. What is the length of the hypotenuse?

A right triangle has legs of length 12 and 16. What is the length of the hypotenuse?

A.

17

B.

21

C.

20

✓ Correct
D.

23

Detailed Explanation

[Variation 1] Choice C is the best answer. c squared = 12 squared + 16 squared = 144 + 256 = 400. c = 20

Why others are wrong:
A: 17 is incorrect because it does not satisfy the equation.
B: 21 is incorrect because it does not satisfy the equation.
D: 23 is incorrect because it does not satisfy the equation.