1. What is a Hypotenuse Calculator?

Definition: This calculator computes the length of the hypotenuse (c) in a right-angled triangle using the lengths of the other two sides (a and b).

Purpose: It helps students, engineers, and construction professionals quickly determine the longest side of a right triangle.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Pythagorean theorem:

Where:

• \( c \) — Hypotenuse (longest side, opposite the right angle)
• \( a \) — Length of one perpendicular side
• \( b \) — Length of the other perpendicular side

Explanation: The squares of the two shorter sides are added together, and the square root of this sum gives the hypotenuse length.

3. Importance of Hypotenuse Calculation

Details: Accurate hypotenuse calculation is essential in construction, navigation, engineering, and various fields requiring precise measurements in right-angled configurations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the lengths of both perpendicular sides in meters (or any consistent unit). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Does this work for any triangle?
A: No, only for right-angled triangles where one angle is exactly 90 degrees.

Q2: What units should I use?
A: Any consistent unit (meters, feet, inches), but both sides must use the same unit.

Q3: What if I know the hypotenuse and one side?
A: Rearrange the formula to calculate the unknown side: \( a = \sqrt{c^2 - b^2} \).

Q4: How accurate is the calculation?
A: The calculator provides results to 3 decimal places, sufficient for most practical applications.

Q5: Can I use this for 3D calculations?
A: For 3D space, you would need to extend the formula to include the third dimension.