Let's assume that each square has a side length of "x" inches. Since the diagonal of the square forms the hypotenuse of the resulting triangle, we can apply the Pythagorean theorem to solve for the side length of each triangular piece.
The Pythagorean theorem states that for any right triangle, the sum of the squares of the two legs (the sides adjacent to the right angle) is equal to the square of the hypotenuse.
In this case, one leg of the right triangle is x inches (the side length of the square), and the hypotenuse is 40 inches. Let's call the other leg "y" inches.
Applying the Pythagorean theorem:
x^2 + y^2 = 40^2
x^2 + y^2 = 1600
We can rearrange this equation to solve for y:
y^2 = 1600 - x^2
y = sqrt(1600 - x^2)
So, the side length of each triangular piece is given by the value of "y".
Blanket Squares are cut on the diagonal to form triangular blanket pieces. The hypotenuse of the resulting triangles is 40 inches long. What is the side length of each piece?
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