GRE Math Problem 25

Paul is standing 180 yards due north of point P. Franny is standing 240 yards due west of point P. What is the shortest distance between Franny and Paul?
(A) 60 yards
(B) 300 yards
(C) 420 yards
(D) 900 yards
(E) 9,000 yards

Solution for GRE Math Problem 24:

According to the Pythagorean theorem, a²+b²=d², where a and b are the sides of the rectangular closet, and d is its diagonal. Also, there is a famous Egyptian triangle with sides 3, 4 and 5: 3²+4²=5² For the given triangle, hypotenuse is and the shorter side is . So, the other side will be feet. So, the area of the closet is square feet.
Answer: (B)27

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