Home Back

Right Angle Triangle Side Calculator

Pythagorean Theorem:

\[ a = \sqrt{c² - b²} \]

meters
meters

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From: To:

1. What is a Right Angle Triangle Side Calculator?

Definition: This calculator computes the length of one side (a) of a right-angled triangle when you know the hypotenuse (c) and the other side (b).

Purpose: It helps students, engineers, and construction professionals quickly solve for missing sides in right-angled triangles.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Pythagorean theorem:

\[ a = \sqrt{c² - b²} \]

Where:

Explanation: The square of the hypotenuse equals the sum of the squares of the other two sides.

3. Importance of Right Angle Triangle Calculations

Details: These calculations are fundamental in geometry, construction, navigation, and various engineering applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the hypotenuse (c) and one side (b) in meters. Both values must be positive, and c must be greater than b.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What if I know sides a and b but need c?
A: Use the formula \( c = \sqrt{a² + b²} \) instead.

Q2: What units should I use?
A: The calculator uses meters, but any consistent unit will work as long as all inputs use the same unit.

Q3: Why does c have to be greater than b?
A: In a right triangle, the hypotenuse is always the longest side.

Q4: What if my result is imaginary?
A: This means your inputs don't form a valid right triangle (c ≤ b).

Q5: How accurate are the results?
A: Results are accurate to 3 decimal places for practical applications.

Right Angle Triangle Side Calculator© - All Rights Reserved 2025