How do you use Pythagoras' Theorem?

Pythagoras' Theorem states that h2 = a+ b2 . This is where you have a right angled triangle, with sides a, b and h where h is the hypotenuse. For example, if we had a triangle with sides of length 3 and 4, and we are trying to find the hypotenuse we would first find h2. This means that h2 = 3+42so h2 = 9 + 16so h2 = 25therefore the hypotenuse is the square root of 25, so in this case, the hypotenuse would be 5.

RB
Answered by Ryan B. Maths tutor

4963 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

factorise and hence solve x^2 + 10x +18 = -3


find the gradient of the line y=2x^2-12x+16 at the coordinates (5,6)


Expand and simplify 3(m + 4) – 2(4m + 1)


The width of a rectangle is X cm.
 The length is 1·5 cm more than the width.
 The perimeter of the rectangle is 17 cm. Write down an equation satisfied by X
 and solve it to find X.


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