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Pythagorean Theorem
THEORY & MATHEMATICSbeginner
Definition
The mathematical principle that in a right-angled triangle, the square of the hypotenuse equals the sum of the squares of the other two sides (a² + b² = c²). Used constantly in construction — for setting out right-angle corners on site, calculating rafter lengths, and checking that structures are square.
Example
The 3-4-5 triangle — a right triangle with sides of 3, 4, and 5 units — is the most practical application of the Pythagorean theorem on a building site. Measuring these distances confirms a true right angle without instruments.