What is Pythagoras' Theorem and how do I use it?

Pythagoras' Theorem is used to find the length of the hypotenuse (longest side, opposite the 90 degree angle) of a right angled triangle when the length of the other 2 sides are known.The equation is a2+b2=c2For example, if a triangle has sides of 4 cm and 3 cm.Say a = 4cm and b = 3cm. Then, c2 =42+33 = 16 + 9 = 25and c = 5
4cm |\ |_\ 3cm

ST
Answered by Sophie T. Maths tutor

3201 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Solve 7x+6>1+2x


When do we add and when do we multiply probabilities?


Make X the subject of the equation (9x-7)/3 = 8y


Find the value(s) of x which satisfies the equation 3x^2 + 6x + 3 = 0


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning