Right Triangle Word Problems
Solve word problems involving right triangles and the Pythagorean theorem for Grade 6 math.
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Right Triangle Word Problems
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Read each word problem carefully. Draw a diagram for each problem to help visualize the right triangle. Use the Pythagorean theorem (a² + b² = c²) to solve for the missing side. Round your answers to the nearest tenth if necessary.
1. A ladder is leaning against a wall. The bottom of the ladder is 5 feet away from the wall, and the top of the ladder reaches a window 12 feet high. How long is the ladder?
2. A sailboat has a mast that is 16 feet tall. A support wire runs from the top of the mast to the deck, 12 feet away from the base of the mast. How long is the support wire?
3. A rectangular park is 8 miles long and 6 miles wide. If you walk diagonally across the park, how far do you walk?
4. A television screen is 20 inches wide and 15 inches high. What is the diagonal length of the screen?
5. A ramp is placed from the ground to the top of a 3-foot high platform. If the base of the ramp is 4 feet from the platform, what is the length of the ramp?