The shortest distance they must travel to return to their starting point is the diagonal of the right-angled triangle formed by the 8 miles north, 5 miles west, and the shortest distance.
Using the Pythagorean theorem, we can calculate the shortest distance as follows:
Shortest distance = sqrt((8^2) + (5^2))
Shortest distance = sqrt(64 + 25)
Shortest distance = sqrt(89)
Shortest distance ≈ 9.43 miles
Therefore, the shortest distance they must travel to return to their starting point is approximately 9.43 miles.
Two joggers run 8 miles north and then 5 miles west. What is the shortest distance they must travel to return to their starting point?
Draw a picture:
Solve:
1 answer