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What Is Pythagoras Theorem

The document discusses the Pythagorean theorem, which states that in a right triangle, the square of the hypotenuse is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides. It provides examples of different proofs of the theorem and discusses applications in fields like construction, vectors, and calculating distances.

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49 views

What Is Pythagoras Theorem

The document discusses the Pythagorean theorem, which states that in a right triangle, the square of the hypotenuse is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides. It provides examples of different proofs of the theorem and discusses applications in fields like construction, vectors, and calculating distances.

Uploaded by

g-ipgp23311396
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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1. What is Pythagoras Theorem?

The Pythagoras Theorem is a fundamental principle in mathematics that describe


the relationship between the sides of a right-angled triangle.This theorem is
applicable only for the right-angled triangle.It states that the square of the length of
hypotenuse (the side opposite the right angle) is equal to the sum of the squares of
the length of the two other sides.In mathematical terms,if a and b are the lengths of
the two shorter sides,then c is the length of the hypotenuse because the side
opposite to the greatest angle is the longest.

2. Provide briefly each of the proof of Pythagoras Theorem (Proof by


arrangement, Geometric Proof, Algebraic Proof).

A) Arrangement
The proof of the Pythagoras theorem can be derived using the arrangement. For
example, let us use the values a, b, and c as shown in the following figure and follow
the steps given below:

Step 1: This method is also known as the 'proof by rearrangement'. Take 4 congruent
right-angled triangles, with side lengths 'a' and 'b', and hypotenuse length 'c'. Arrange
them in such a way that the hypotenuses of all the triangles form a tilted square. It
can be seen that in the square PQRS, the length of the sides is 'a + b'. The four right
triangles have 'b' as the base, 'a' as the height and, 'c' as the hypotenuse.

Step 2: The 4 triangles form the inner square WXYZ as shown, with 'c' as the four
sides.

Step 3: The area of the square WXYZ by arranging the four triangles is c2.

Step 4: The area of the square PQRS with side (a + b) = Area of 4 triangles + Area of
the square WXYZ with side 'c'. This means (a + b) 2 = [4 × 1/2 × (a × b)] + c2.This
leads to a2 + b2 + 2ab = 2ab + c2. Therefore, a2 + b2 = c2. Hence, the Pythagoras
theorem formula is proved.

B) Geometric Proof (similar triangle)

C) Algebraic Proof
3. What is the use of Pythagoras Theorem?
The most direct application of the Pythagorean theorem is in solving problems
related to right triangles. It allows for the calculation of unknown side lengths or
angles in right triangles, making it a foundation tool in geometric calculations.The
theorem can be used to find the steepness of the hills or mountains. To find the
distance between the observer and a point on the ground from the tower or a building
above which the observer is viewing the point. It is mostly used in the field of
construction.

4. What is the real-life application of Pythagoras Theorem Formula?


One fundamental application of the Pythagorean theorem in vectors is in determining
the magnitude or length of a vector. In a two-dimensional Cartesian coordinate
system, a vector can be represented by its components along the x and y axes. By
considering these components as the two sides of a right triangle, the magnitude of
the vector can be calculated using the Pythagorean theorem.

For example, if we have a vector v = (3, 4), representing a displacement of 3 units


along the x-axis and 4 units along the y-axis, then the magnitude | v| of this vector
can be found using the formula:

|v| = √(3² + 4²) = √(9 + 16) = √25 = 5


= 5 units

5. What is the significance of this theorem?


The Pythagorean Theorem holds immense significance in mathematics and various
fields due to its fundamental nature and wide-ranging applications. The Pythagorean
Theorem is a cornerstone of Euclidean geometry, providing a fundamental
relationship between the sides of a right triangle. It forms the basis for understanding
geometric concepts related to triangles, squares, and circles.

This theorem has numerous practical applications in various fields such as


architecture, engineering, physics, computer graphics, and navigation. It is used to
calculate distances, determine angles, design structures, and solve real-world
problems involving right triangles.

The Pythagoras Theorem has been proven using diverse methods throughout
history, showcasing the richness and versatility of mathematical reasoning. These
proofs range from geometric constructions to algebraic manipulations, demonstrating
different approaches to solving mathematical problems.

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