Right Triangle Calculator

Right Triangle Calculator - Missing Side

Pythagorean Theorem:

\[ a^2 + b^2 = c^2 \]

Missing side formula when hypotenuse is known:

\[ \text{missing} = \sqrt{c^2 - a^2} \]

Missing Side (b):

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1. What is the Right Triangle Missing Side Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the length of the missing side in a right triangle when the hypotenuse and one leg are known.

Purpose: It helps students, engineers, and construction professionals solve right triangle problems quickly and accurately.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Pythagorean theorem:

\[ a^2 + b^2 = c^2 \]

Rearranged to find the missing side (b):

\[ b = \sqrt{c^2 - a^2} \]

Where:

\( c \) — Hypotenuse (longest side, opposite the right angle)
\( a \) — Known leg length
\( b \) — Missing leg length

3. Importance of Right Triangle Calculations

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

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the hypotenuse and one leg length in meters. Both values must be positive numbers, and the hypotenuse must be longer than the leg.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What if I know two legs but not the hypotenuse?
A: Use the standard Pythagorean formula: \( c = \sqrt{a^2 + b^2} \).

Q2: Does this work for non-right triangles?
A: No, you would need to use the Law of Cosines for other triangles.

Q3: What units should I use?
A: The calculator uses meters, but any consistent unit will work as long as you use the same unit for all inputs.

Q4: What if my hypotenuse is shorter than the leg?
A: The calculator won't return a result as this violates the Pythagorean theorem (hypotenuse must be the longest side).

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