Lesson 1
1. Lesson 1
1.9. Explore 5
Module 5: Geometry
In Try This 3, you may have been able to determine the lengths of the sides of the right triangle that was formed by using the Pythagorean theorem: a2 + b2 = c2.
View Calculating Distances Using Right Triangles to see how you could determine distances using right triangles.

To see another example of how to calculate distances using right triangles, read “Example 2” on page 184 of the textbook. As you read, notice that when there is a right triangle within the problem, the Pythagorean theorem can be used to determine the length of any side of the right triangle.
Self-Check 2
- Firefighters, construction workers, and many others rely on the use of ladders in their lines of work. For example, the height to a second-storey building is 20 ft, and a construction worker needs to put the ladder 5 ft away from the building to make the ladder safe. What is the minimum length the ladder needs to be in order to reach the top of the building? Answer
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The length of a ramp used to load and unload trucks is 20 ft. The horizontal distance along the ground from the bottom edge of the ramp to the truck is 19.75 ft. How high is the truck? Answer
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Answer “Build Your Skills” questions 3 and 6 on pages 188 and 189 of the textbook. Answer

Add the following terms to your copy of Glossary Terms:
- equilateral triangle
- isosceles triangle
- scalene triangle
- acute triangle
- obtuse triangle
- right triangle

Add the following formula to your copy of Formula Sheet:
- Pythagorean theorem: a2 + b2 = c2