Answer:
208.8 mi
Step-by-step explanation:
Form a triangle with the centre of the Earth (C) at one point, the horizon (H) as a second point, and the top of Mt. Everest (O) as the third (see diagram).
Let
r = Earth’s radius
h = height of Mt Everest
d = distance to horizon
∆CHO is a right triangle.
d² + r² = (r+h)²
d² + 3959² = (3959+5.5)²
d² + 15 673 681 = 3964.5²
d² + 15 673 681 = 15 717 260 Subtract 15 673 681 from each side
d² = 43 579 Take the square root of each side
d = 208.8 mi
The distance from the top of Mt Everest to the horizon is 208.8 mi.
