Enter the known sides or angles into the calculator to determine the missing side of the right triangle.

Right Triangle Calculation Formula

The following formulas are used to calculate the sides of a right triangle:

c = √(a² + b²) 
a = √(c² - b²) 
b = √(c² - a²)

Variables:

  • a is one of the legs of the triangle
  • b is the other leg of the triangle
  • c is the hypotenuse of the triangle

To calculate the missing side, use one of the formulas above depending on which sides you already know.

What is Right Triangle Calculation?

Right triangle calculation involves finding the lengths of the sides or the measure of the angles of a right triangle using the Pythagorean theorem or trigonometric ratios. Knowing the properties of right triangles is essential in various fields including engineering, physics, and architecture.

How to Calculate a Missing Side of a Right Triangle?

The following steps outline how to calculate the missing side of a right triangle:

  1. First, determine which sides or angles you already know.
  2. Next, choose the appropriate formula based on the known values.
  3. Use the formula from above: c = √(a² + b²) or a = √(c² – b²) or b = √(c² – a²).
  4. Finally, calculate the missing side by plugging in the values.
  5. After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.

Example Problem:

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge:

Side A = 3

Side B = 4

Calculate the hypotenuse:

c = √(3² + 4²) = √(9 + 16) = √25 = 5

FAQ

1. What is the hypotenuse?

The hypotenuse is the longest side of a right triangle, opposite the right angle.

2. How do I use the right triangle calculator?

Simply enter the known side lengths or angles into the calculator fields and click “Calculate” to find the missing side.

3. Can this calculator be used for non-right triangles?

No, this calculator is specifically designed for right triangles. For non-right triangles, other methods such as the Law of Sines or the Law of Cosines are used.

4. How accurate is this calculator?

The calculator provides a precise calculation based on the inputs provided. For exact figures, ensure that measurements are accurate.

5. Can I calculate angles using this calculator?

Yes, you can calculate angles using trigonometric ratios if at least one angle and one side are known.