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.

CT
Answered by Cathy T. Maths tutor

3944 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Three points have coordinates A(-8, 6), B(4, 2) and C(-1, 7). The line through C perpendicular to AB intersects AB at the point P. Find the equations of the line AB and CP.


Prove that 2^(80)+2^(n+1)+2^n is divisible by 7 for n belongs to the natural number.


solve 15x = 6x^3 + 8x^2


Salika travels to school by train every day. The probability that her train will be late on any day is 0.3. If salika is late on 4 consecutive days she gets a detention. what is the probability she will get a detention during a week?


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