MATH CALCULATOR
Missing Side of a Right Triangle Calculator
Calculate the missing side length of a right triangle using the Pythagorean theorem.
What is the Missing Side of a Right Triangle Calculator & How does it work?
A right triangle is a triangle with one angle equal to 90 degrees. The Pythagorean theorem states that in a right triangle, the square of the length of the hypotenuse (the side opposite the right angle) is equal to the sum of the squares of the lengths of the other two sides. This can be written as:This theorem allows us to find the length of any missing side if we know the lengths of the other two sides.
c^2 = a^2 + b^2
c = hypotenuse, a and b = other two sides
Parameters
Result—
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find the hypotenuse of a right triangle?
To find the hypotenuse, use the formula c = √(a² + b²), where ‘c’ is the hypotenuse and ‘a’ and ‘b’ are the other two sides.
Can I use this calculator if I know one side and the hypotenuse?
Yes, you can find the missing side by rearranging the Pythagorean theorem: a = √(c² – b²) or b = √(c² – a²).
What is the Pythagorean theorem?
The Pythagorean theorem states that in a right triangle, c² = a² + b², where ‘c’ is the hypotenuse and ‘a’ and ‘b’ are the other two sides.
How accurate is this calculator?
This calculator provides accurate results based on the Pythagorean theorem for right triangles.
Can I use this calculator for non-right triangles?
No, this calculator is specifically designed for right triangles. For other types of triangles, different formulas are needed.
What units should I use when entering the side lengths?
You can use any consistent unit (e.g., meters, inches) as long as you use the same unit for all sides.
Is there a limit to how large the numbers can be?
There is no specific limit, but very large numbers might result in rounding errors depending on your device or browser.
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.