Pythagorean Theorem Worksheet Word Problems

48 Pythagorean Theorem Worksheet with Answers [Word + PDF] from templatelab.com

Introduction

The Pythagorean Theorem is a fundamental concept in geometry that relates to the sides of a right triangle. It states that the square of the hypotenuse (the side opposite the right angle) is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides. This theorem is widely used in various real-life applications, and understanding how to apply it to word problems is crucial. In this article, we will explore some sample Pythagorean Theorem worksheet word problems and provide solutions to help you grasp the concept.

Sample Word Problems

1. The Fence

You are planning to build a fence around a rectangular garden. The length of the garden is 12 meters, and the width is 5 meters. What is the length of the diagonal of the garden?

Solution:

To find the length of the diagonal, we can use the Pythagorean Theorem. Let’s call the length of the diagonal “d”. Using the given length and width, we can form a right triangle. The length of one side is 12 meters, the length of the other side is 5 meters, and the hypotenuse is the diagonal “d”. Applying the Pythagorean Theorem:

d² = 12² + 5²

d² = 144 + 25

d² = 169

d = √169

d = 13 meters

The length of the diagonal of the garden is 13 meters.

2. The Ladder

A ladder is leaning against a wall. The base of the ladder is 8 feet away from the wall, and the ladder reaches a height of 10 feet. What is the length of the ladder?

Solution:

Let’s call the length of the ladder “l”. Using the given base and height, we can form a right triangle. The base of the triangle is 8 feet, the height is 10 feet, and the hypotenuse is the length of the ladder “l”. Applying the Pythagorean Theorem:

l² = 8² + 10²

l² = 64 + 100

l² = 164

l = √164

l ≈ 12.81 feet

The length of the ladder is approximately 12.81 feet.

3. The TV Screen

You are buying a new TV, and the screen size is given as 55 inches diagonally. The width of the TV is 48 inches. What is the height of the TV screen?

Solution:

Let’s call the height of the TV screen “h”. Using the given diagonal and width, we can form a right triangle. The width of the triangle is 48 inches, the hypotenuse is the diagonal of 55 inches, and the height is “h”. Applying the Pythagorean Theorem:

55² = 48² + h²

3025 = 2304 + h²

h² = 721

h = √721

h ≈ 26.86 inches

The height of the TV screen is approximately 26.86 inches.

4. The Roof

You are planning to build a roof for a shed with a rectangular base. The width of the shed is 6 meters, and the height is 8 meters. What is the length of the roof?

Solution:

Let’s call the length of the roof “r”. Using the given width and height, we can form a right triangle. The width is 6 meters, the height is 8 meters, and the hypotenuse is the length of the roof “r”. Applying the Pythagorean Theorem:

r² = 6² + 8²

r² = 36 + 64

r² = 100

r = √100

r = 10 meters

The length of the roof is 10 meters.

5. The Flagpole

A flagpole is standing vertically on level ground. The shadow of the flagpole is 15 meters long, and the angle of elevation from the tip of the shadow to the top of the flagpole is 30 degrees. What is the height of the flagpole?

Solution:

Let’s call the height of the flagpole “h”. Using the given shadow length and angle of elevation, we can form a right triangle. The length of the shadow is 15 meters, the height is “h”, and the angle of elevation is 30 degrees. Applying the Pythagorean Theorem:

h² = 15² – (15 * sin(30))²

h² = 225 – (15 * 0.5)²

h² = 225 – 56.25

h² = 168.75

h = √168.75

h ≈ 12.99 meters

The height of the flagpole is approximately 12.99 meters.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do you solve Pythagorean Theorem word problems?

To solve Pythagorean Theorem word problems, identify the sides of the right triangle and apply the Pythagorean Theorem, which states that the square of the hypotenuse is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides. Set up the equation, solve for the unknown side, and don’t forget to include the appropriate units in your answer.

2. What are some real-life applications of the Pythagorean Theorem?

The Pythagorean Theorem is used in various real-life applications, such as calculating distances, finding the shortest path between two points, determining the height of buildings or trees, measuring diagonals, and designing structures.

3. Can the Pythagorean Theorem be used for any triangle?

No, the Pythagorean Theorem can only be applied to right triangles, which have one angle equal to 90 degrees. It does not work for other types of triangles.

4. What if the given triangle is not a right triangle?

If the given triangle is not a right triangle, you cannot directly apply the Pythagorean Theorem. However, you can use the Law of Cosines or the Law of Sines to solve for the unknown sides or angles.

5. How can I practice more Pythagorean Theorem word problems?

You can practice more Pythagorean Theorem word problems by using worksheets or online resources that provide a variety of exercises. Additionally, you can create your own word problems and solve them using the Pythagorean Theorem.