Understanding Right Triangle Word Problems

The video tutorial explains how to solve word problems using right triangles and the Pythagorean theorem. It emphasizes the importance of drawing a triangle, identifying the right angle, and ensuring the hypotenuse is the largest number in the equation. Two examples are provided: calculating the length of a staircase railing and determining the length of a ladder. The tutorial concludes with a reminder to always check the logic of the solution.

What is the first step when solving a word problem involving right triangles?

• Calculate the hypotenuse

• Draw a right triangle and identify the right angle

• Solve the equation

• Label the hypotenuse

In the staircase example, what are the given measurements?

• Height: 5 feet, Distance: 12 feet

• Height: 12 feet, Distance: 5 feet

• Height: 5 feet, Distance: 13 feet

• Height: 13 feet, Distance: 12 feet

How do you calculate the hypotenuse in the staircase example?

• Use the formula a^2 + b^2 = c^2

• Subtract the height from the distance

• Add the height and distance

• Multiply the height and distance

What is the length of the railing in the staircase example?

• 18 feet

• 12 feet

• 13 feet

• 5 feet

In the ladder example, what is the distance from the bottom of the ladder to the building?

• 18 feet

• 8 feet

• 12 feet

• 5 feet

What is the total distance from the bottom of the building to where the ladder reaches?

• 5 feet

• 18 feet

• 12 feet

• 8 feet

How is the hypotenuse calculated in the ladder example?

• By multiplying the two distances

• By adding the two distances

• By using the formula a^2 + b^2 = c^2

• By subtracting the two distances

What is the approximate length of the ladder?

• 19.75 feet

• 18 feet

• 8 feet

• 12 feet

Why is it important to identify the hypotenuse in these problems?

• To avoid drawing the triangle

• To simplify the calculation

• To make sure the answer is logical

• To ensure the equation is balanced

What should you always do to ensure your answer is logical?

• Guess the answer

• Use a calculator

• Draw a triangle and identify the right angle

• Check the calculation