Painting Business
Standards Assessed: 1.2, 2.1, 2.5, 3.1
Name ________________________
Algebra 1
Directions: Elliot is starting a painting business to make
extra money for the summer. He will need to purchase an
extension ladder for painting in very high places. He
decided he needs a ladder that will reach 17 feet up the
house. He can then safely paint three feet above that while
standing on the ladder. The hardware store owner told him
that a ladder reaching that far up the house would have to
be placed a minimum of 6 feet from the wall, otherwise the
ladder could tip backwards.
What length of ladder should Elliot purchase? Make sure you include an explanation with
necessary computations, sketches, formulas, and notes.
If Elliot places the ladder 8 feet from the base, how far up the wall can he apply paint?