For a right triangle, a² + b² = c², where a and b are the legs and c is the hypotenuse. The hypotenuse is opposite the 90° angle and is the longest side.
To find the hypotenuse, square both legs, add, then take the square root.
Example: legs 6 cm and 8 cm give c² = 6² + 8² = 36 + 64 = 100, so c = √100 = 10 cm.
To find a missing leg, subtract: if c = 13 and a = 5, then b² = 13² − 5² = 169 − 25 = 144, so b = 12.
Your free topic allowance is shared across Reading, Math, Science and English. This first section is a preview. Unlock every study-guide
topic — full lessons, inline checks, the complete practice bank +
timed exam simulation — with a free trial.
Your one free topic stays free, always.
$0 today — card required to start your trial. Cancel anytime before day 3.
Already subscribed? Log in.