Question

The lengths of two sides of a right triangle are 5 inches and 8 inches . What is the difference between two possible lengths of the third side of the triangle? Round your answer to the nearest tenth.

Answer 1

by using Pythagoras theorem,

third side will be either 8^2+5^2=sqrt(64+25)=sqrt(89)=9.43 or

8^2-5^2=sqrt(64-25)=sqrt(39)=6.24

the difference is=9.43-6.24=3.19inches    i think this is it i may have messed up

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,

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,

Assume that P=8 inches and B = 5 inches

Substitute the value in the formula,

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

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

So, Option 2 is correct.