Question

A ladder is sliding on a wall. Fig 1 is an intermediate stage before it hits the ground. The value $a^2+b^2$ depends on

• A. Speed at which the ladder is falling
• B. Height of the end which is leaning on the wall from ground.
• C. $a^2+b^2$ is a constant.
• D. The position of the mid-point of the ladder.

Answer 1

The correct option is C $a^2+b^2$ is a constant.

We know that the length of the ladder remains the same.

$\Rightarrow \sqrt{a^2+b^2}$ remains constant.
$\Rightarrow a^2+b^2$ is a constant.