The slant height \(l\) of a right circular cone can be calculated using the Pythagoras theorem, as it forms a right triangle with the height and radius:
\[ l = \sqrt{r^2 + h^2} \]
Substitute the given values \(r = 7 \, \text{cm}\) and \(h = 24 \, \text{cm}\):
\[ l = \sqrt{7^2 + 24^2} = \sqrt{49 + 576} = \sqrt{625} = 25 \, \text{cm} \]
Thus, the slant height is 25 cm.