Question

The lengths of two sides of a right triangle are 5 inches and 8 inches. What is the difference between the two possible

Answer 1

Answer: B. 3.2 inches

Step-by-step explanation: I took the test and i got it right

Answer 2

Answer:

Option 2 - 3.2 inches.                      

Step-by-step explanation:

Given : The lengths of two sides of a right triangle are 5 inches and 8 inches.

To find : What is the difference between the two possible  lengths of the third side of the triangle?

Solution :

According to question, it is a right angle triangle

Applying Pythagoras theorem,

$H^2=P^2+B^2$

Where, H is the hypotenuse the longer side of the triangle

P is the perpendicular

B is the base

Assume that H=8 inches and B = 5 inches

Substitute the value in the formula,

$8^2=P^2+5^2$

$64=P^2+25$

$P^2=64-25$

$P^2=39$

$P=\sqrt{39}$

$P=6.24$

Assume that P=8 inches and B = 5 inches

Substitute the value in the formula,

$H^2=8^2+5^2$

$H^2=64+25$

$H^2=89$

$H=\sqrt{89}$

$H=9.43$

Therefore, The possible length of the third side of the triangle is

$L=H-P$

$L=9.43-6.24$

$L=3.19$

Therefore, The difference between the two possible  lengths of the third side of the triangle is 3.2 inches.

So, Option 2 is correct.