The Pythagorean Theorem
Grade 8 · Math · Geometry and the Pythagorean Theorem · Montana, USA
Lesson Summary
Learn the relationship between the sides of a right triangle.
Explanation
The Pythagorean theorem says that in a right triangle, the square of the longest side (the hypotenuse) equals the sum of the squares of the other two sides. Written as a formula: a² + b² = c², where c is the hypotenuse. This only works for right triangles—triangles with one 90-degree angle. It is one of the most useful relationships in all of math.
Practice Questions
Q1: A right triangle has legs of 3 and 4. What is the hypotenuse?
Answer: c² = 3² + 4² = 9 + 16 = 25, so c = 5.
Q2: Can the Pythagorean theorem be used on a triangle with no right angle?
Answer: No. The Pythagorean theorem only applies to right triangles.
Q3: A right triangle has a hypotenuse of 13 and one leg of 5. What is the other leg?
Answer: a² + 5² = 13², so a² = 169 − 25 = 144, and a = 12.
People Also Ask
What is The Pythagorean Theorem in Grade 8 Math?+
The Pythagorean Theorem is a lesson in the Geometry and the Pythagorean Theorem chapter of Grade 8 Math. It is part of the Montana, USA school curriculum and covers key concepts that students need to understand at this level.
What grade level covers The Pythagorean Theorem?+
The Pythagorean Theorem is taught in Grade 8 as part of the Math curriculum in Montana, USA.
How can I help my child with Geometry and the Pythagorean Theorem in Math?+
Start with the lesson summary and explanation on this page. Practice the questions provided, then use TutorTom for personalized, step-by-step help with Geometry and the Pythagorean Theorem topics.