Pythagorean Theorem Calculator
Calculate the missing side of a right triangle using the Pythagorean theorem (a² + b² = c²) with step-by-step solutions.
Calculator
Select which side to find and enter the known values to calculate the missing side using the Pythagorean theorem.
Result
0
Triangle Sides
Detailed Results
Step-by-Step Solution
Complete User Guide
What is the Pythagorean Theorem?
The Pythagorean theorem states that in a right triangle, the square of the hypotenuse (c) equals the sum of squares of the other two sides (a and b).
a² + b² = c²
Calculation Types
- Find Hypotenuse (c): c = √(a² + b²)
- Find Side a: a = √(c² - b²)
- Find Side b: b = √(c² - a²)
Key Points
- The theorem only applies to right triangles (triangles with a 90° angle)
- The hypotenuse (c) is always the longest side
- The hypotenuse is opposite the right angle
- Sides a and b are the legs of the right triangle
Examples
Example 1: Find Hypotenuse
Given: a = 3, b = 4
Calculate: c = √(3² + 4²) = √(9 + 16) = √25
Result: c = 5
Example 2: Find Side
Given: b = 4, c = 5
Calculate: a = √(5² - 4²) = √(25 - 16) = √9
Result: a = 3