Pythagorean Theorem Unit 7 Part 1
The Pythagorean Theorem The sum of the squares of the legs of a right triangle is equal to the square of the hypotenuse. a 2 + b 2 = c 2
Purpose The Pythagorean Theorem is used to find the missing length of one side of a right triangle when the other two sides are known.
Use to Find the Hypotenuse
Use to Find a Leg - -
Example
Baseball and the Pythagorean Theorem
Other Shapes Show the Pythagorean Relationship
Converse of the Pythagorean Theorem
The Pythagorean Theorem In a right triangle, the sum of the squares of the lengths of the legs is equal to the square of the length of the hypotenuse. a b c a 2 + b 2 = c 2
Converse of the Pythagorean Theorem If a, b, and c are the lengths of the sides of a triangle, and a 2 + b 2 = c 2 then then triangle is a right triangle. a b c If a 2 + b 2 > c 2 then acute. If a 2 + b 2 < c 2 then obtuse.
Entering into the calculator If you are looking for a missing leg then, Leg = ( hyp² - leg²) If you are looking for the hypotenuse then, Hyp. = (leg² + leg²)