Find, correct to the nearest whole number, the value of h in the diagram above.
Attached Figure / Diagram
A
15 m
B
22 m
C
23 m
D
18 m
Verified Correct Answer: C.
Step-by-Step Mathematical Solution
From the diagram on the right-hand side above,
x\(^2\) = 20\(^2\) - 19\(^2\) = 39 ( from Pythagoras theorem)
x = \(\sqrt{39}\) = 6.245m
As can be seen from the diagram on the right-hand side above,
h = x + 17 = 6.245 + 17 = 23.245 m ≈ 23 m(to the nearest whole number)
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #71828)