Word Problem

Question

A Ladder is resting against a wall.  The top of the ladder touches the wall at a height of 18ft.  Find the length of the ladder.  The Ladder is 6 ft. more than its distance from the wall. 

Answer 1

Tommy, this makes a right triangle.

 

Let x = the distance from the wall.

 

x² + 18² = (x + 6)²

x² + 324 = x² + 12x + 36

12x = 288

x = 24

 

So, the ladder is 24 + 6 = 30 feet tall.