passwella.
Menu

WAEC Mathematics 2002 Question 11

Question 11

Triangles and Quadrilaterals

The lengths, in cm, of the sides of a right-angled triangle are x, (x + 2) and (x + 1) where x > 0. Find, in cm, the length of its hypotenuse.

  1. A.4
  2. B.5
  3. C.13
  4. D.17
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (5)

Explanation

x2 + (x + 1)2 = (x + 2)2 gives x2 − 2x − 3 = 0, so x = 3 and the hypotenuse x + 2 = 5 cm.