We will use the following diagram as a reference to solve the problem:
Using the Pythagorean theorem we get:
[tex](x-2)^2+6^2=x^2.[/tex]
Solving the above equation for x we get:
[tex]\begin{gathered} x^2-2x+4+36=x^2, \\ -4x+40=0. \\ 4x=40. \\ x=10. \end{gathered}[/tex]
Answer: The length of the wire is 10 ft.
