What's Pythagoras Theorem and how can I use it?

Pythagoras theorem is: A^2 + B^2 = C^2. This might look confusing but it is actually quite simple. Pythagoras can only be used on a RIGHT ANGLED TRIANGLE! Then what you do is that the side of the triangle OPPOSITE to the RIGHT ANGLE is the hypotenuse, and you label this C (from the equation) the other two sides can be either A or B depending on what you fancy, but the hypotenuse must always by C. The simply square the sides and the equation will work. You need to have 2 of the sides of the triangle to work out the third.

GS
Answered by Gabrielle S. Maths tutor

3349 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Solve the following simultaneous equations. x^2+y^2=25. y-3x=13


Solve this pair of simultaneous equations: 3x + y= 7 and 3x - y = 5


Find x when 2x^2-4x-6=0


There are 31 days in January. January 21st 2015 was a Wednesday. What day of the week was February 8th 2015?


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