In the accompanying diagram...

i think maybe use Pythagorean Theorem :

call Kite is K

all state is S

we have KS²= KX²+ SX²

400=144+ SX²

so SX = 16, so that distance in feet between the stake and X is 16 feet

16

Step-by-step explanation:

We can solve for a missing side using the Pythagorean Theorem

a² + b² = c²

where a and b = the legs and h = hypotenuse

Looking at the triangle created, we notice we are given a leg ( which has a measure of 12t ) and the hypotenuse ( which has a measure of 12ft )

That being said, we plug in what we are given into the Pythagorean theorem and solve for the missing side length ( aka b )

12² + b² = 20²

step 1 simplify

12² = 144

20² = 400

we now have 144 + b² = 400

step 2 subtract 144 from each side

144 - 144 cancels out

400 - 144 = 256

we now have 256 = b²

step 3 take the square root of each side

√b² = b

√ 256 = 16

we're left with b = 16

So we can conclude that the length from the ground directly over point x to the stake is 16 feet.

( important note: The Pythagorean theorem can only be used in right triangle. )

add an image

step-by-step explanation: