Pythagorean Theorem Calculator
Calculate sides of a right triangle using the Pythagorean theorem: a² + b² = c²
Calculate Triangle Sides
Choose what you want to calculate
Formula: c = √(a² + b²)
Find the hypotenuse when you know both sides
How to Use
What is the Pythagorean Theorem?
The Pythagorean theorem states that in a right triangle, the square of the hypotenuse (the side opposite the right angle) is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides. Formula: a² + b² = c²
Examples:
Classic 3-4-5 Triangle:
a = 3, b = 4 → c = √(3² + 4²) = √(9 + 16) = √25 = 5
Finding a side:
b = 6, c = 10 → a = √(10² - 6²) = √(100 - 36) = √64 = 8
Use Cases:
- Construction and carpentry (ensuring right angles)
- Navigation and distance calculations
- Computer graphics and game development
- Architecture and engineering design
- Surveying and mapping