Let’s solve this step by step using the Pythagorean Theorem.
We are told that for a right triangle, if the two shorter sides (called legs) are labeled
a and
b, and the longest side (the hypotenuse) is labeled
c, then:
>
a² + b² = c²
In this problem, we’re given:
- a = 3
- b = 4
We need to find
c, the length of the hypotenuse.
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Step 1: Plug in the values into the formula.
→ 3² + 4² = c²
Step 2: Calculate the squares.
→ 9 + 16 = c²
Step 3: Add them together.
→ 25 = c²
Step 4: Find what number squared equals 25.
→ c = √25
→ c = 5
(We only take the positive square root because length can’t be negative.)
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Final Answer:
5
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of pythagorean theorem using graphs worksheet.