Question

The length of the hypotenuse of an isosceles right triangle is the square root of 6 inches. How long, in inches, are the legs of the triangle?

Answer 1

I really need help

Answer 2

Ok, what next?

Answer 3

You have a right triangle. And you know it's an isosceles right triangle, meaning the two legs have the same length (i.e. the little marks on it signify this). And the hypotenuse is the side opposite to the right angle. Can you think of an equation/formula that can help you find the side length?

Answer 4

No.....

Answer 5

I just do't understand

Answer 6

Have you used the Pythagorean Theorem before?
\[(leg1)^{2}+(leg2)^{2}=(hypotenuse)^{2}\]

Answer 7

Ya

Answer 8

Let a=Leg 1

Answer 9

Then if the other two legs are the same length, then I have to find a number that I can plug into the equation to equal the square root of 6 squared?

Answer 10

but you know that Leg 1=Leg 2 so plugging this into the pythagorean theorem:
\[a ^{2}+a ^{2}=(hypotenuse)^{2}\]
but hypotenuse=sqrt(6)

Answer 11

Ok, I got you

Answer 12

\[2a ^{2}=(\sqrt{6})^{2}\]
Now solve for a, which is the length of the side of your leg

Answer 13

Ok, give me a minute..

Answer 14

Thanks! @marybel01.

Answer 15

You are welcome!

Answer 16

If you have any other question please feel free to ask. Remember understanding definitions like right triangle, isosceles, and knowing the Pythagorean Theorem are very important.

Answer 17

Ok. Thanks again!