Trigonometry Tutorial
Pythagorean Theorem
Intro
Pythagorean theorem introduces the key equation to solving lengths of a right triangle’s side. (A right triangle being one that has a 90 degree angle). With the givens of two side lengths (denoted as a, b, and c, in the respective order of lengths) the equation a^2 + b^2 = c^2 can be used.
Sample Problem
A right triangle has side lengths of 3 and 4. Solve for the length of the hypotenuse (the side opposite of the 90 degree angle) using Pythagorean theorem.
Solution
Side length a = 3
Side length b = 4
The equation is:
a^2 + b^2 = c^2
Plug in a and b:
3^2 + 4^2 = c^2
Solve for c:
c = sqrt( 3^2 + 4^2 )
c = sqrt( 9 + 16 )
c = sqrt( 25 )
c = 5
The length of the hypotenuse is 5.
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