Mathématiques · Glossaire
What is Pythagorean Theorem?
Définition rapide
In a right triangle, the square of the hypotenuse equals the sum of the squares of the two legs: a² + b² = c².
Explication complète
The Pythagorean Theorem states that in a right triangle (one with a 90° angle), the relationship between the three sides is a² + b² = c², where c is the hypotenuse (longest side, opposite the right angle) and a, b are the two legs. Attributed to the Greek mathematician Pythagoras (~570–495 BC), though Babylonians knew it earlier. The theorem has thousands of proofs and is the foundation of trigonometry, distance formulas, and 3D geometry. It only works for Euclidean (flat) space — not on spheres or curved surfaces. Generalizations exist: the Law of Cosines for non-right triangles, and the metric tensor in general relativity.
Calculatrices liées
Calculators that use or explain Pythagorean Theorem.
Termes liés
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Last reviewed: June 15, 2026 • Category: Mathématiques