What is the Pythagorean theorem and how do you use it?

Mathematics

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c²

The Pythagorean theorem states that in a right triangle, the square of the hypotenuse (the longest side, opposite the right angle) equals the sum of the squares of the other two sides:

a² + b² = c²

Where c is the hypotenuse and a, b are the legs.

Example: Find the hypotenuse when a = 3 and b = 4: 3² + 4² = c² 9 + 16 = c² 25 = c² c = 5

You can also use it to find a missing leg: if c = 13 and a = 5, then b² = 13² − 5² = 169 − 25 = 144, so b = 12.

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The Pythagorean theorem states that in a right triangle, the square of the hypotenuse (the longest side, opposite the right angle) equals the sum of the squares of the other two sides: a² + b² = c² Where c is the hypotenuse and a, b are the legs.

What is the Pythagorean theorem and how do you use it?
Mathematics

This mathematics problem involves applying core mathematical principles and formulas. Below you will find a complete step-by-step solution with detailed explanations for each step, helping you understand not just the answer but the method behind it.

ScanSolve AI Answer
The Pythagorean theorem states that in a right triangle, the square of the hypotenuse (the longest side, opposite the right angle) equals the sum of the squares of the other two sides: a² + b² = c² Where c is the hypotenuse and a, b are the legs. Example: Find the hypotenuse when a = 3 and b = 4: 3² + 4² = c² 9 + 16 = c² 25 = c² c = 5 You can also use it to find a missing leg: if c = 13 and a = 5, then b² = 13² − 5² = 169 − 25 = 144, so b = 12.