a and b are the lengths of the legs of a right triangle, and c is the hypotenuse. Find the missing length if a=15 and c=39... How to do this?

Question

anonymous · Answer

Using the Pythagorean Theorem, of course :)
The hypotenuse c of any right triangle can be calculated using a pretty nifty formula $$\huge a^2 + b^2 = c^2$$

Where a and b are the legs...

anonymous · Answer

So would it be 225 + b2 = 1521 after plugging it in and the work?

anonymous · Answer

Yes, now just work out b^2 and consequently, work out b :)

anonymous · Answer

Ok but this is where im a little confused, how would i "work out b"? lol I dont plug anything into that right? Lol

anonymous · Answer

You don't.  think of it as a variable that you're solving for.

anonymous · Answer

Ok thanks for the help!

anonymous · Answer

^.^