Consider a right-angled triangle, AB = 8 cm and AC = 6 cm.
Calculate the length of side BC.
We have hundreds of course questions with personalized recommendations + Account 100% premium
Consider a right-angled triangle, AB = 8 cm and AC = 6 cm.
Calculate the length of side BC.
To find the length of the hypotenuse BC in a right-angled triangle where AB and AC are the other two sides, we use the Pythagorean theorem: .
Here, and .
Plugging the values into the Pythagorean theorem, we get:
.
Calculating further:
.
Taking the square root of both sides gives:
.
10 cm
Consider a right-angled triangle, AB = 8 cm and AC = 6 cm.
Calculate the length of side BC.
The hypotenuse is always the longest side and sits opposite the right angle (90°). In this triangle, BC is opposite the right angle at A, so BC is the hypotenuse we need to find.
The Pythagorean theorem describes a square relationship, not a linear one! Think of it as areas of squares built on each side. The area relationship is .
Many triangles don't have nice whole number answers! Use a calculator to find the decimal approximation, or leave your answer as if it's not a perfect square.
Only for right triangles! The Pythagorean theorem only works when one angle is exactly 90°. For other triangles, you need different formulas like the Law of Cosines.
The letter c is always the hypotenuse (longest side). Letters a and b can be either of the two shorter sides called legs. It doesn't matter which leg you call a or b!
Get unlimited access to all 18 Pythagorean Theorem questions, detailed video solutions, and personalized progress tracking.
Unlimited Video Solutions
Step-by-step explanations for every problem
Progress Analytics
Track your mastery across all topics
Ad-Free Learning
Focus on math without distractions
No credit card required • Cancel anytime