What is the path of the point (x,y) as the painting falls?

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The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving a painting falling from a wall, specifically focusing on the path of a point (x,y) as the painting descends. Participants express confusion regarding the diagram provided, questioning its accuracy and clarity in representing the scenario. There is a lack of clear definitions for the variables involved, particularly what (x,y) signifies in the context of the problem. The conversation highlights the need for a more precise problem statement and accurate visual representation to facilitate understanding. Overall, the thread emphasizes the importance of clarity in both mathematical representation and problem description.
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Homework Statement



An art museum worker leaves an 8-foot-tall painting leaning against a wall. Later, the top of that painting slides down the wall, and the painting falls to the floor. Use the diagram to find an equation of the path of the point (x,y) as the painting falls.

Homework Equations



-None-

The Attempt at a Solution



All work is shown in the picture, but I am not sure if it is right or wrong...

http://tinypic.com/r/1tq2pf/5

It shows (0,y), (0,x) and shows that the painting is 6ft tall plus 2ft tall...

I still don't quite understand why and how the answer comes down to this...
 
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Your picture is impossible. The point (2,6) cannot possibly be on the ladder as you have pictured. The little upper triangle has both hypotenuse = 2 and leg = 2 as you have the picture drawn.

You haven't stated the problem clearly either. What does (x,y) represent in the first place?
 

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