Pythagoras' Theorem can be used to calculate the length of the third side of a right angled triangle when given the lengths of the other two sides.
Part of Application of MathsGeometric skills
Watch this video to understand how Pythagoras Theorem can be used to calculate the length of any side in a right-angled triangle.
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Before doing this section revise the National 4 Lifeskills Maths section on Pythagoras.
In a right-angled triangle there is a relationship among the three sides. This relationship is shown below.
In National 5 Lifeskills Maths it is likely that you will have to use Pythagoras' Theorem as one step in a bigger question.