Hypotenuse Formula:
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Definition: This calculator computes the hypotenuse length in a right-angled triangle using the Pythagorean theorem.
Purpose: It helps students, engineers, and construction professionals quickly determine the longest side of a right triangle when the other two sides are known.
The calculator uses the Pythagorean theorem formula:
Where:
Explanation: The squares of the two shorter sides are added together, and the square root of this sum gives the hypotenuse length.
Details: Accurate hypotenuse calculation is essential in construction, navigation, computer graphics, and various fields of engineering and physics.
Tips: Enter the lengths of both perpendicular sides (a and b) in meters. Both values must be greater than 0.
Q1: Can I use this for non-right triangles?
A: No, this calculator only works for right-angled triangles. For other triangles, use the Law of Cosines.
Q2: What units should I use?
A: The calculator uses meters by default, but you can use any unit as long as both sides use the same unit.
Q3: How accurate is the result?
A: The result is mathematically precise based on your inputs, displayed to 3 decimal places.
Q4: What if I know the hypotenuse and one side?
A: Rearrange the formula to \( b = \sqrt{c^2 - a^2} \) to find the missing side.
Q5: Why is this theorem important?
A: It's fundamental in geometry with applications in construction, navigation, physics, and computer science.