Math Problem Statement

Using Pythagoras' theorem, calculate the length of the hypotenuse in this right-angled triangle. Give your answer to 1 d.p.

Solution

To calculate the hypotenuse of this right-angled triangle using Pythagoras' theorem, we follow these steps:

Pythagoras' Theorem:

c2=a2+b2c^2 = a^2 + b^2 Where:

  • cc is the hypotenuse,
  • aa and bb are the two shorter sides.

Here:

  • a=3cma = 3 \, \text{cm}
  • b=1.6cmb = 1.6 \, \text{cm}

Step-by-Step Calculation:

  1. Square each side: a2=32=9a^2 = 3^2 = 9 b2=1.62=2.56b^2 = 1.6^2 = 2.56

  2. Add the squares: c2=a2+b2=9+2.56=11.56c^2 = a^2 + b^2 = 9 + 2.56 = 11.56

  3. Take the square root to find cc (the hypotenuse): c=11.563.4c = \sqrt{11.56} \approx 3.4


Final Answer:

The length of the hypotenuse is 3.4 cm (to 1 decimal place).


Would you like a more detailed explanation or further clarification?

Related Questions:

  1. How do you rearrange Pythagoras' theorem to find a shorter side?
  2. What are real-life applications of Pythagoras' theorem?
  3. Can Pythagoras' theorem be used for non-right-angled triangles?
  4. How can I calculate the area of this triangle?
  5. What happens if I scale both sides of a triangle proportionally?

Tip:

Always check if the triangle is right-angled before applying Pythagoras' theorem.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Right-Angled Triangles
Pythagoras' Theorem

Formulas

c² = a² + b²
c = √(a² + b²)

Theorems

Pythagoras' Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8