Math Problem Statement

Which set of side lengths can be used to form a right triangle?

Solution

To determine which set of side lengths can be used to form a right triangle, we apply the Pythagorean theorem. The theorem states that in a right triangle, the square of the hypotenuse (the longest side) is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides:

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

where aa, bb, and cc are the side lengths, with cc being the hypotenuse (the largest value).

Let's check each option:

  1. 30, 40, 50: 302+402=50230^2 + 40^2 = 50^2 900+1600=2500900 + 1600 = 2500 2500=25002500 = 2500 This is a right triangle.

  2. 4, 5, 6: 42+52=624^2 + 5^2 = 6^2 16+25=3616 + 25 = 36 413641 \neq 36 This is not a right triangle.

  3. 2, 3, 4: 22+32=422^2 + 3^2 = 4^2 4+9=164 + 9 = 16 131613 \neq 16 This is not a right triangle.

  4. 10, 20, 30: 102+202=30210^2 + 20^2 = 30^2 100+400=900100 + 400 = 900 500900500 \neq 900 This is not a right triangle.

Conclusion:

The set that forms a right triangle is 30, 40, 50.

Would you like further details or have any questions?


Here are 5 related questions to explore further:

  1. How can we derive the Pythagorean triples?
  2. What are the properties of similar triangles in terms of side lengths?
  3. Can side lengths of a non-right triangle still satisfy other mathematical properties?
  4. How can we generalize the Pythagorean theorem to higher dimensions?
  5. Are there real-world applications of the Pythagorean theorem?

Tip: Always verify the largest side as the hypotenuse when using the Pythagorean theorem.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Pythagorean Theorem
Right Triangles

Formulas

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

Theorems

Pythagorean Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8