MathCastle
GeometrySuperchallengeWhy the Formulas Work

Why the Formulas Work · Superchallenge problem

60°45°2

A ladder leans against a vertical wall and makes a 60∘60^\circ angle with the level ground. Its top slides 22 m down the wall, and the ladder then makes a 45∘45^\circ angle with the ground. How long is the ladder, in metres? Give an exact answer in the form a3+b2a\sqrt{3} + b\sqrt{2}.