a²+b²=c²
Where a=leg, b=base, and c=hypotenuse.
So, because we are given the side lengths of c and a, we simply plug everything in, and try to find b.
a²+b²=c²
8² + b² = 17²
Simplify.
64 + b² = 289
Subtract 64 from both sides.
b² = 289 - 64
Simplify.
b² = 225
b = [tex] \sqrt{225} [/tex]
So, b = 15 inches
~Hope I helped!~
