Pythagoras' theorem

published: Thursday 22 August
Edited: Monday 26 August

In math we have been learning about Pythagoras' theorem. Basically it is a way to figure out a side of a right angle triangle. Pythagoras said the A2 + B2 = C2. The letters represent a side of the triangle. C is always the hypotenuse. The Hypotenuse is the longest side of the triangle and is the side opposite the right angle. Sides A and B are the other two sides but it does not matter which is which.

Let's use this triangle as an example

On way you can lay out your workings is to first draw your diagram. Done. Next label it, done. Now write out what you are given 

A = 18

B = 10

C = ? = hypotenuse 

Ok now write out the proof,
A2 + B2 = C2

Add you numbers into the equation
182 + 102 = C2

start working it out. Squaring a number (122) means timing the number by the number, (12 x 12.)
182 = 18 x 18 = 324
102 = 10 x 10 = 100
324 + 100 = 424

Now the equation says
182 + 102 = 424 = C2

Now because it equals C2 we need to square root it. Which means finding the number that when times together will make the number. basically square rooting is the opposite of squaring, (number times the number,) So,

√424= 20.591

So side C is 20.591 cm long.

How easy was that. What? It wasn't!? I know. I made it very hard to understand. I'm not one to explain things easily.

Ok and if you're thinking 'ok this is all good and all but, WHEN THE HELL AM I TO USE THIS!?' well first calm down and second let me tell you. If, say, you were building a building and you were not sure if the corner was at 90o then you could use this, if... you have a triangle that is at a right angle and If you only knew the lengths of  two sides of it, you can then apply the Pythagorean Theorem to find the length of the third side.

Well you now know Pythagoras theorem, even if I still can't spell it.  Hope this was useful. If not.... then.... go on someone else's blog from Ay they might have it better. No they probably will have it better. 

GOODA BYEA!