Finding the Length of the Hypotenuse with the Pythagorean Theorem

This lesson teaches how to find the hypotenuse of a right triangle using the Pythagorean theorem. It covers two formulas, common mistakes in identifying the hypotenuse, and provides examples such as calculating the length of a ladder and the diagonal of a TV. The lesson concludes with a summary of the key points.

What is the formula for the Pythagorean theorem?

• a^2 + b^2 = c^2

• a^2 - b^2 = c^2

• a^2 = b^2 + c^2

• a^2 + b^2 = 2c

In a right triangle, where is the hypotenuse located?

• Next to the smallest angle

• Between the two legs

• Opposite the 90-degree angle

• Adjacent to the longest side

If a house is 24 feet tall and the space between the house and the ladder is 7 feet, what is the length of the ladder?

• 20 feet

• 25 feet

• 30 feet

• 35 feet

How do you determine the length of the diagonal of a TV that is 15 inches tall and 36 inches wide?

• By using the Pythagorean theorem

• By multiplying the height and width

• By adding the height and width

• By subtracting the height from the width

What is the length of the diagonal of a TV that is 15 inches tall and 36 inches wide?

• 50 inches

• 30 inches

• 39 inches

• 45 inches