The Pythagorean Theorem is a² + b² = c². Since the hypotenuse is 10 ft, c=10. The other leg is 8 ft, so b=8. Plug 10 into c, and 8 into b.
a² + 8² = 10²
Square 8 and 10.
= a² + 64 = 100
Subtract 64 from both sides.
= a² = 36
Find the square root of 36.
a = 6
