6

Set 3: Triangles (Intermediate)

Explanation

Answer: C

PROBLEM

Recent studies show that a right triangle has legs of length 8 and 15. What is the length of the hypotenuse?

A right triangle has legs of length 8 and 15. What is the length of the hypotenuse?

A.

19

B.

18

C.

17

✓ Correct
D.

16

Detailed Explanation

[Variation 1] Choice C is the best answer. c squared = 8 squared + 15 squared = 64 + 225 = 289. c = 17

Why others are wrong:
A: 19 is incorrect because it does not satisfy the equation.
B: 18 is incorrect because it does not satisfy the equation.
D: 16 is incorrect because it does not satisfy the equation.