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Pythagorean Theorem

Also known as a² + b² = c² · hypotenuse formula · right triangle sides

a2+b2=c2a^{2} + b^{2} = c^{2}

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The Pythagorean theorem says that in any right triangle, the square of the hypotenuse (the side opposite the right angle) equals the sum of the squares of the other two sides. Known to Babylonian surveyors a thousand years before Pythagoras, it remains the working tool of carpenters, pipefitters, and navigators: the 3–4–5 triangle is still how a layout crew squares a foundation.

It only applies to right triangles. If your triangle has no 90° angle, reach for the law of cosines instead.

Pythagorean Theorem
a2+b2=c2a^{2} + b^{2} = c^{2}
Where
  • aa= Leg a
  • bb= Leg b
  • cc= Hypotenuse c
Missing one of these? Work it out first, then come back