How to Find the Hypotenuse Using the Pythagorean Theorem with Sides 3.9 in and 4.4 in

Step-by-step explanation on how to use the Pythagorean theorem to solve for the hypotenuse when given two sides measuring 3.9 inches and 4.4 inches.

The Pythagorean Theorem states that in a right triangle, the square of the hypotenuse c is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides (called a and b):

c² = a² + b²

Given:

  • a = 3.9 inches
  • b = 4.4 inches

Step 1: Square each side:

  • a² = (3.9)² = 15.21
  • b² = (4.4)² = 19.36

Step 2: Add the squares together:

15.21 + 19.36 = 34.57

Step 3: Take the square root of that sum to find c:

c = √34.57 ≈ 5.88 inches

Answer: The length of side c is approximately 5.88 inches.

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