Sides of a Right Triangle Calculator

Pythagorean Theorem Formulas:

\[ a = \sqrt{c² - b²} \] \[ b = \sqrt{c² - a²} \] \[ c = \sqrt{a² + b²} \]

Calculated Side a:

Calculated Side b:

Calculated Side c:

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is a Right Triangle Calculator?

Definition: This calculator computes the missing side of a right triangle when two sides are known using the Pythagorean theorem.

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

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Pythagorean theorem formulas:

\[ a = \sqrt{c² - b²} \] \[ b = \sqrt{c² - a²} \] \[ c = \sqrt{a² + b²} \]

Where:

\( a \) and \( b \) — Legs of the right triangle (meters)
\( c \) — Hypotenuse of the right triangle (meters)

Explanation: Enter any two known sides to calculate the third unknown side. The calculator automatically determines which formula to apply.

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 any two known sides (leave the one you want to calculate blank). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What units does this calculator use?
A: The calculator uses meters by default, but any consistent unit of length can be used.

Q2: Can I calculate angles with this calculator?
A: No, this calculator only computes side lengths. Use a trigonometry calculator for angles.

Q3: What if I enter all three sides?
A: The calculator will verify if they satisfy the Pythagorean theorem (a² + b² = c²).

Q4: How precise are the results?
A: Results are displayed to 3 decimal places for precision.

Q5: Does this work for non-right triangles?
A: No, this calculator only works for right-angled triangles. Use the Law of Cosines for other triangles.