How to Use the Pythagorean Theorem to Find the Hypotenuse with Sides 8cm and 15cm

Step-by-step guide to solve for the hypotenuse (C) in a right triangle when the other two sides are 8cm and 15cm using the Pythagorean theorem.

The Pythagorean theorem is a fundamental principle in geometry that states:

For a right-angled triangle, the square of the hypotenuse (C) is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides (A and B).

The formula is:
C² = A² + B²

Given two sides:
A = 8cm
B = 15cm

We want to find the hypotenuse, C.

  1. Square both sides:
    A² = 8² = 64
    B² = 15² = 225
  2. Add the squares:
    64 + 225 = 289
  3. Take the square root to find C:
    C = √289 = 17

Therefore, the length of the hypotenuse (C) is 17 cm.

Ask a followup question