Math Problem Statement

Which set of numbers could be the unit side lengths of a right triangle?

Solution

The question asks which set of numbers could be the unit side lengths of a right triangle. To determine this, we can use the Pythagorean Theorem, which states:

a2+b2=c2a^2 + b^2 = c^2

Where aa, bb, and cc are the lengths of the sides of the right triangle, with cc being the hypotenuse (the longest side). Let's check each option:

Option A: 2,3,42, 3, 4

22+32=424+9=16(False, 1316)2^2 + 3^2 = 4^2 \quad \Rightarrow \quad 4 + 9 = 16 \quad (\text{False, } 13 \neq 16) This is not a right triangle.

Option B: 4,4,64, 4, 6

42+42=6216+16=36(False, 3236)4^2 + 4^2 = 6^2 \quad \Rightarrow \quad 16 + 16 = 36 \quad (\text{False, } 32 \neq 36) This is not a right triangle.

Option C: 5,7,125, 7, 12

52+72=12225+49=144(False, 74144)5^2 + 7^2 = 12^2 \quad \Rightarrow \quad 25 + 49 = 144 \quad (\text{False, } 74 \neq 144) This is not a right triangle.

Option D: 7,24,257, 24, 25

72+242=25249+576=625(True, 625=625)7^2 + 24^2 = 25^2 \quad \Rightarrow \quad 49 + 576 = 625 \quad (\text{True, } 625 = 625) This is a right triangle.

Thus, the correct answer is D: 7, 24, 25.

Would you like any more details or explanations?

Here are 5 related questions to expand your understanding:

  1. How do you identify Pythagorean triples?
  2. Can you derive the Pythagorean theorem using geometric methods?
  3. What are some other common Pythagorean triples?
  4. How can you generalize the Pythagorean theorem to 3D space?
  5. How do irrational numbers affect the Pythagorean theorem?

Tip: Pythagorean triples are sets of three positive integers that fit the Pythagorean theorem, and they can be generated using simple formulas!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Right Triangle Properties

Formulas

Pythagorean Theorem (a^2 + b^2 = c^2)

Theorems

Pythagorean Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Middle School (Grades 6-8)