Learn step-by-step how to calculate the length of the hypotenuse (C) in a right triangle when given two side lengths of 12 cm and 5 cm using the Pythagorean theorem.
The Pythagorean theorem is a formula used to find the length of a side in a right triangle. It states that:
a2 + b2 = c2
Here, c is the hypotenuse (the longest side opposite the right angle), and a and b are the other two sides.
Given:
Step 1: Square both sides:
122 = 144
52 = 25
Step 2: Add the squares:
144 + 25 = 169
Step 3: Find the square root of the sum to get c:
c = √169 = 13
Therefore, the length of side C (the hypotenuse) is 13 cm.