Math

Pythagorean Theorem Calculator

Use the Pythagorean theorem to find the missing side of a right triangle. Calculate hypotenuse or legs with step-by-step solutions.

Pythagorean Theorem Calculator

Calculate any missing side of a right triangle using the Pythagorean theorem (a² + b² = c²). Enter two sides to find the third, with step-by-step solutions, area, perimeter, and angles included.

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) equals the sum of the squares of the other two sides. This fundamental relationship, discovered by ancient Greek mathematician Pythagoras, is expressed as a² + b² = c², where c is the hypotenuse.

Pythagorean Formula

a² + b² = c²

How to Use This Calculator

1

2

3

4

5

Pythagorean Theorem Applications

Construction

Ensure walls are perpendicular using the 3-4-5 rule.

Distance Calculation

Find straight-line distance between two points.

Ladder Safety

Calculate safe ladder placement angles.

Screen Size

Calculate TV or monitor diagonal measurements.

Frequently Asked Questions

A Pythagorean triple is a set of three positive integers a, b, and c that satisfy a² + b² = c². Common examples include (3, 4, 5), (5, 12, 13), and (8, 15, 17). These triples create right triangles with whole number sides.