How do I use Pythagoras' Theorem to calculate the hypotenuse of a triangle?

[use of board] So, Pythagoras' theorem states that a^2+b^2=c^2. Therefore, we need to mark the triangle with a, b &c. a and b do not matter, c must be the longest edge, that creates the diagonal. Put the lengths a and b into the theorem. According to BIDMAS, you must square the numbers first, then add them together afterwards. This will give you a value for c^2. Use a calculator (or your brain) to find the square root of this number... This will leave you with c, the hypotenuse.

Answered by Cathy T. Maths tutor

2901 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Factorise the equation x^2 + 5x+6 = 0


Solve the simultaneous equations, 2x-3y=14 and 3x+4y=4


Ship A is 7.5km North of a lighthouse. Ship B is 3.4km East of the same lighthouse. What is the distance between these two ships?


What is (2/3)^(-1/3)?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences