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Hypotenuse
See It in Action
Two examples of the idea done right—and one common look-alike that is not right.
EXAMPLE
EXAMPLE
NON-EXAMPLE
Definition
The hypotenuse is the longest side of a right triangle. It’s the side that is across from the right angle, and it connects the two shorter sides. In other words, if you see a right triangle, the hypotenuse is the side that doesn't touch the square corner!
Example
In a right triangle with sides a, b, and hypotenuse c, the relationship is given by the Pythagorean theorem:
So, the hypotenuse c is the side that satisfies this equation.
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