What is the first step in determining if three side lengths form a right triangle using the Pythagorean theorem?

Label the side lengths with a, b, and c, where c is the longest side.

According to the video, can the labels 'a' and 'b' be switched when labeling the sides of a triangle? Explain why or why not.

Yes, the labels 'a' and 'b' can be switched because the Pythagorean theorem involves adding the squares of these sides, and addition is commutative.

The triangle is not a right triangle.

Yes, it is a right triangle because 6² + 8² = 36 + 64 = 100, and 10² = 100. Since both sides are equal, it is a right triangle.

No, it is not a right triangle because 4² + 5² = 16 + 25 = 41, and 6² = 36. Since both sides are not equal, it is not a right triangle.

Grade 9th Grade · Math · 45 min

I can determine if a triangle is a right triangle using the Pythagorean theorem.

Kayla Jones · 3:01

Is it a Right Triangle?

3 key concepts

1
To determine if three side lengths form a right triangle, first label the side lengths a, b, and c, where c is the longest side.
2
Next, plug the side lengths into the Pythagorean theorem, which is a² + b² = c².
3
If both sides of the equation are equal after simplifying, then it is a right triangle; if they are not equal, then it is not a right triangle.

11 questions · Multiple choice & Short answer

Quick comprehension check

“The sides of a triangle are 7, 24, and 25. Determine if this is a right triangle, showing all steps.”

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