Right Triangle Calculator Side Length

Missing Side Formula:

\[ \text{missing side} = \sqrt{\text{hypotenuse}^2 - \text{known side}^2} \]

Missing Side Length (meters):

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1. What is a Right Triangle Side Length Calculator?

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

Purpose: It helps students, engineers, and construction professionals quickly solve right triangle problems without manual calculations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Pythagorean theorem:

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

Where:

\( a \) — Missing side length (meters)
\( c \) — Hypotenuse length (meters)
\( b \) — Known side length (meters)

Explanation: The square of the hypotenuse minus the square of the known side equals the square of the missing side.

3. Importance of Right Triangle Calculations

Details: Accurate side length calculations are essential in construction, navigation, and various engineering applications where right angles are involved.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the hypotenuse and one known side length in meters. The hypotenuse must be longer than the known side.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: What units does this calculator use?
A: The calculator uses meters, but any consistent unit can be used (feet, inches, etc.).

Q3: Why does my calculation show an error?
A: Ensure the hypotenuse is longer than the known side and all values are positive numbers.

Q4: How accurate are the results?
A: Results are accurate to three decimal places, sufficient for most practical applications.

Q5: Can I use this for non-right triangles?
A: No, this calculator only works for right triangles. For other triangles, use the Law of Cosines.