A rectangular field measures 350 feet by 400 feet. If you wish to go from one corner to the opposite corner, how much shorter is the trip if you walk along the diagonal rather than the edges?

Question

A rectangular field measures 350 feet by 400 feet.  If you wish to go from one corner to the opposite corner, how much shorter is the trip if you walk along the diagonal rather than the edges?

Ms. Sue · Answer

This is a right angle triangle. Use the Pythagorean Theorem, substituting 350 and 400 for a and b. a^2 + b^2 = c^2

James · Answer

sqrt(350^2+400^2)=531.5ft 350+400= 750ft 750-531.5= 218.5ft The trip is 218.5ft shorter if you walk diagonally.

Ms. Sue · Answer

James -- why do you think that Neka couldn't figure this out herself from the information I posted?