A 3' cube sits on level ground against a vertical wall. A 12' ladder on the same ground leans against the wall such that it touches the top edge of the box.

How far from the wall must the foot of the ladder be, if it is to reach maximum height whilst meeting the foregoing conditions?

Depending on what the question means by "leans against the wall" one could argue that the foot of the ladder should be 0' 0" away from the wall. All you need to do is put the ladder vertically on the side of the cube perpendicular to the wall. One edge of the ladder is touching (if not leaning on) the wall and the height of ladder on the wall is 12'.

Posted by Scott on 2003-12-09 15:27:34