Pythagorean Theorem Definition

Definition: It is believed that the statement of Pythagorean's Theorem was discovered on a Babylonian tablet circa 1900-1600 B.C. The Pythagorean Theorem relates to the three sides of a right triangle. It states that c²=a²+b², C is the side that is opposite the right angle which is referred to as the hypoteneuse. a and b are the sides that are adjacent to the right angle. In essence, the theorem simply stated is: the sum of the areas of two small squares equals the area of the large one.

You will find that the Pythagorean Theorem is used on any formula that will square a number. It's used to determine the shortest path when crossing through a park or recreation center or field. The theorem can be used by painters or construction workers, think about the angle of the ladder against a tall building for instance. There are many word problems in the classic math text books that require the use of the Pythagorean Theorem.

• Also Known As: a squared + b squared = c squared. Or c²=a²+b²
• Alternate Spellings: Phythagora's
• Examples: See full visual