Pythagorean Theorem
Hypotenuse (c)
5.00
a² + b² = c²
The Pythagorean Theorem is a fundamental principle in geometry that relates the three sides of a right-angled triangle. It states that the square of the hypotenuse (the side opposite the right angle) is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides.
a² + b² = c²
Always double-check that you are working with a right-angled triangle (one angle is exactly 90°). This theorem only works for right triangles. For other triangles, you'll need the Law of Cosines.
A classic error is calculating a² + b² and
thinking that's the answer. Remember, that equals c², not c! You must take
the square root of the sum to find the actual length of the hypotenuse.
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Professor of Mathematics
Alex Chen, Calcs.top ensures our mathematical tools are accurate and easy to understand.
The Pythagorean theorem states: a² + b² = c², where c is the hypotenuse of a right triangle.
Use c = √(a² + b²). Square both legs, add them, then take the square root.
No, only right triangles (triangles with a 90° angle).
Whole number sets that satisfy a²+b²=c², like (3,4,5), (5,12,13), (8,15,17).