Pythagorean Theorem Calculator
Calculate the sides of a right triangle using the Pythagorean theorem formula (a² + b² = c²) with our free online calculator.
Category: Calculator
Pythagorean Theorem Calculator
Pythagorean Theorem
Formula
a² + b² = c²
In a right triangle, the square of the length of the hypotenuse (c) equals the sum of the squares of the lengths of the other two sides (a and b).
Solving for Each Variable
• a = √(c² - b²)
• b = √(c² - a²)
• c = √(a² + b²)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Pythagorean theorem?
The Pythagorean theorem states that in a right triangle, the square of the length of the hypotenuse (the side opposite the right angle) equals the sum of the squares of the other two sides. Expressed as: a² + b² = c², where c is the hypotenuse.
How do you use the Pythagorean theorem?
To use the Pythagorean theorem, square the lengths of the two legs of the right triangle, add them together, and then take the square root of that sum to find the hypotenuse. If you know the hypotenuse and one leg, you can solve for the unknown leg by subtracting the square of the known leg from the square of the hypotenuse and taking the square root.
Can the Pythagorean theorem be used for any triangle?
No, the Pythagorean theorem only applies to right triangles (triangles that have one 90-degree angle). For non-right triangles, other formulas like the law of cosines must be used.