Answer:
16
Step-by-step explanation:
We can solve for a missing side using the Pythagorean Theorem
a² + b² = c²
where a and b = the legs and h = hypotenuse
Looking at the triangle created, we notice we are given a leg ( which has a measure of 12t ) and the hypotenuse ( which has a measure of 12ft )
That being said, we plug in what we are given into the Pythagorean theorem and solve for the missing side length ( aka b )
12² + b² = 20²
step 1 simplify
12² = 144
20² = 400
we now have 144 + b² = 400
step 2 subtract 144 from each side
144 - 144 cancels out
400 - 144 = 256
we now have 256 = b²
step 3 take the square root of each side
√b² = b
√ 256 = 16
we're left with b = 16
So we can conclude that the length from the ground directly over point x to the stake is 16 feet.
( important note: The Pythagorean theorem can only be used in right triangle. )
