ladder = x+6

therfore the ladder is 30 feet

x squared + 8squared =(x+6)squared

b = 18 ft. (height)

c = 6+a (length)

the pythagorean theorem formula is c^2 = a^2 + b^2

so…

(6+a) ^ 2 = a^2 + 18^2

36 + 12a + a^2 = a^2 + 324

36 + 12a + a^2 – a^2 = 324… then a^2 will be cancelled out

36 + 12a = 324

12a = 324 – 36

12a = 288

a = 288 / 12

a = 24 << then this would be the DISTANCE OF THE LADDER FROM THE WALL. c = 6 + a c = 6 + 24 c = 30 << then this would be the LENGTH OF THE LADDER. ------------------------------ to check if it's correct, replace the values on the formula. c^2 = a^2 + b^2 so, it'll be.. 30^ 2 = 24^2 + 18^2 900 = 576 + 324 900 = 900 🙂

use the pythagorean theorem:

x=distance ladder is from wall

x+6=ladder’s length

18=height of wall

x^2+18^2=(x+6)^2

x^2+324=x^2+12x+36

reduce, you get: 288=12x

x=24–the distance ladder is from wall

now, plug it in: x+6

(24)+6=30

so, 30 feet is your answer!

Hmmm. Sorry, I can’t be bothered to work it out. My calculator is in the other room.