Find PR using the Pythagorean theorem. Given PQ = 5 units and QR = 8 units, calculate PR.

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Understand the Problem

The question involves finding the distance PR using the Pythagorean theorem. We know the lengths PQ and QR, and we need to derive PR by determining the missing lengths in the right triangle formed by points P, Q, and R.

Answer

$PR = \sqrt{89}$
Answer for screen readers

The length of $PR$ is $\sqrt{89}$ units.

Steps to Solve

  1. Identify the lengths given

From the problem, we have:

  • Length of $PQ = 5$ units
  • Length of $QR = 8$ units
  1. Apply the Pythagorean theorem

In a right triangle, the Pythagorean theorem states:

$$ PR^2 = PQ^2 + QR^2 $$

Substituting the known lengths:

$$ PR^2 = 5^2 + 8^2 $$

  1. Calculate the squares of the lengths

Calculating the squares:

$$ 5^2 = 25 $$

$$ 8^2 = 64 $$

  1. Add the squares together

Now, add the results:

$$ PR^2 = 25 + 64 $$

This yields:

$$ PR^2 = 89 $$

  1. Find the square root to get PR

To find the length $PR$, we take the square root:

$$ PR = \sqrt{89} $$

The length of $PR$ is $\sqrt{89}$ units.

More Information

The Pythagorean theorem is a fundamental principle in geometry that allows us to calculate the lengths of sides in a right triangle. In this case, we found that the length from point P to R is approximately 9.43 units, since $\sqrt{89} \approx 9.43$.

Tips

  • Forget to square the values: Always remember to square the lengths before adding them.
  • Incorrect application of the theorem: Ensure you apply the Pythagorean theorem correctly by using the right triangle's side lengths.

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