Pythagoras Theorem — How to Calculate
The Pythagorean theorem is one of the most famous formulas in mathematics, relating the three sides of a right-angled triangle.
Pythagorean Theorem
c² = a² + b²
Where:
- c = Hypotenuse (longest side)
- a = One leg of the right triangle
- b = Other leg of the right triangle
Step-by-Step:
- 1
Identify the sides
Determine which sides you know and which you need to find.
- 2
Square the known sides
Calculate a² and b².
- 3
Add or subtract
For hypotenuse: c = √(a² + b²). For a leg: a = √(c² - b²).
Worked Examples:
Classic 3-4-5
a: 3b: 4
Result: c = 5
c = √(9 + 16) = √25 = 5
Distance
a: 6b: 8
Result: c = 10
c = √(36 + 64) = √100 = 10