Question

Explain how to correctly find the missing side

Answer 1

Pythagorean Theorem

a² + b² = c²

c = 13

a = 4

(Missing side) = b

4² + b² = 13²

16 + b² = 169

16 - 16

169 - 16 = 153

Square Root of 153 = 12.369

b = 12.369

The missing side is 12.369 (rounded to 12 as a whole number)

Answer 2

Because it is a right triangle, you should use the Pythagorean theorem:

a^2 + b^2 = c^2


Due to the fact that you have the length of the hypotenuse and one leg, you need to slightly alter the equation:

a^2 = c^2 - b^2


Then, insert your variables:

a^2 = 13^2 - 4^2


Simplify:

a^2 = 169 -16

a^2 = 153


Finally, find the square root:

a = 12.4

Your missing leg is equivalent to 12.4