Pythagorean Theorem

Right Triangles

The Pythagorean theorem is a formula that relates the three sides of a right triangle. A right triangle is any triangle with one angle that is exactly 90 degrees.

The formula is: a² + b² = c²

Here, 'a' and 'b' are the lengths of the two shorter sides (the legs), and 'c' is the length of the longest side, called the hypotenuse, which is always opposite the right angle.

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Check Your Understanding

Question 1

Which side of a right triangle is the 'hypotenuse'?

Question 2
Hint
Use the formula a² + b² = c². So, 3² + 4² = c².

If a right triangle has legs of length 3 and 4, what is the length of the hypotenuse?

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