An empty lot is 500 ft by 1,200 ft. How many feet would you save by walking diagonally across the lot instead of walking the length and width?

Question

An empty lot is 500 ft by 1,200 ft. How many feet would you save by walking diagonally across the lot instead of walking the length and width? ​

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To find the diagonal distance, use the Pythagorean theorem: $ \sqrt{500^2 + 1200^2} = \sqrt{250000 + 1440000} = \sqrt{1690000} = 1300 $ ft. Walking the length and width is 1700 ft (500 + 1200). The difference is 1700 - 1300 = 400 ft saved.

An Empty Lot Is 500 Ft by 1,200 Ft