Pythagoras Theorem Basics
Ever wondered how to find a missing side in a right-angled triangle? Pythagoras theorem has got you covered with the formula a² + b² = c², where c is always the longest side (called the hypotenuse).
Here's how it works in practice: if you've got a triangle with sides of 3cm and 4cm, you can find the hypotenuse by substituting into the formula. So 3² + 4² = c² becomes 9 + 16 = c², which gives you c² = 25.
The final step is taking the square root of 25, which equals 5cm. Remember, the hypotenuse is always the side opposite the right angle - that's your 'c' in the formula!
Top Tip: Always identify which side is the hypotenuse first - it's the longest side and sits opposite the right angle.