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

3327 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

You are told that y is proportional to x^2 and that y=75, x=5. Find a formula for y in terms of x.


Make x the subject of the following equation: 2x-4=2y.


Solve 3x² + 6x – 2 = 0. Give your solutions correct to 2 decimal places [calculator paper]


What is the square root of (2^6 + 6^2)


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