Answer:
a = 8 m.
Step-by-step explanation:
This is a right triangle, so the Pythagorean Theorem applies.
The Pythagorean Theorem states that the legs of a triangle, squared, equals the hypotenuse, squared.
The legs of a triangle are the sides that make the right angle.
The hypotenuse is the longest side of a right triangle.
Here, I am solving for one of the legs.
[tex]formula=a^2+b^2=c^2[/tex]
[tex]a, b = legs[/tex]
[tex]c=hypotenuse[/tex]
[tex]a^2+15^2=17^2[/tex]
[tex]a^2+225=289[/tex]
[tex]289 - 225 = 64[/tex]
[tex]a^2=64[/tex]
[tex]a=8[/tex]
