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Pythagoras' Theorem

Definition

Pythagoras' theorem states that for any right triangle, the square of the length of the hypotenuse (the side opposite the right angle) is equal to the sum of squares of the lengths of other two sides.

Analogy

Imagine you have a rectangular field and you want to find the shortest distance from one corner to the opposite corner. You can use Pythagoras' theorem to calculate this distance by measuring the lengths of the two sides and applying the formula.

Related terms

Right triangle: A triangle that has one angle equal to 90 degrees.

Hypotenuse: The side of a right triangle that is opposite the right angle.

Legs: The two sides of a right triangle that form the right angle.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.