Calculating the Hypotenuse Length

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 74 views

Introduction

In geometry, a 45-45-90 triangle is a special right triangle with two 45-degree angles and one 90-degree angle. This type of triangle has several unique properties that make it an essential concept in mathematics. In this article, we will explore the properties of a 45-45-90 triangle and use it to solve a problem involving the length of the hypotenuse.

Properties of a 45-45-90 Triangle

A 45-45-90 triangle has several key properties that make it easy to work with. The two legs of the triangle are equal in length, and the hypotenuse is equal to the leg length multiplied by the square root of 2. This can be expressed mathematically as:

Leg length = x
Hypotenuse length = x√2

Solving the Problem

Now that we have a good understanding of the properties of a 45-45-90 triangle, let's use it to solve the problem presented in the question. We are given that each leg of the triangle measures 14 cm, and we need to find the length of the hypotenuse.

Using the properties of a 45-45-90 triangle, we can set up the following equation:

Hypotenuse length = Leg length × √2 Hypotenuse length = 14 cm × √2

To solve for the hypotenuse length, we can multiply the leg length by the square root of 2.

Calculating the Hypotenuse Length

To calculate the hypotenuse length, we can use a calculator to find the value of √2 and then multiply it by the leg length.

√2 ≈ 1.414 Hypotenuse length ≈ 14 cm × 1.414 Hypotenuse length ≈ 19.796 cm

However, we can simplify this expression by multiplying the leg length by √2.

Hypotenuse length = 14 cm × √2 Hypotenuse length = 14 cm × 1.414 Hypotenuse length = 14√2 cm

Conclusion

In conclusion, we have used the properties of a 45-45-90 triangle to solve a problem involving the length of the hypotenuse. We have shown that the hypotenuse length is equal to the leg length multiplied by the square root of 2. This is a fundamental concept in geometry and is essential for solving problems involving right triangles.

Final Answer

$The final answer is: $\boxed{14 \sqrt{2}}$<br/> **Frequently Asked Questions: 45-45-90 Triangles**$

Q: What is a 45-45-90 triangle?

A: A 45-45-90 triangle is a special right triangle with two 45-degree angles and one 90-degree angle. This type of triangle has several unique properties that make it an essential concept in mathematics.

Q: What are the properties of a 45-45-90 triangle?

A: A 45-45-90 triangle has several key properties that make it easy to work with. The two legs of the triangle are equal in length, and the hypotenuse is equal to the leg length multiplied by the square root of 2.

Q: How do I calculate the length of the hypotenuse in a 45-45-90 triangle?

A: To calculate the length of the hypotenuse in a 45-45-90 triangle, you can use the following formula:

Hypotenuse length = Leg length × √2

Q: What is the relationship between the leg length and the hypotenuse length in a 45-45-90 triangle?

A: The relationship between the leg length and the hypotenuse length in a 45-45-90 triangle is that the hypotenuse length is equal to the leg length multiplied by the square root of 2.

Q: Can I use a calculator to find the value of √2?

A: Yes, you can use a calculator to find the value of √2. The value of √2 is approximately 1.414.

Q: How do I simplify the expression for the hypotenuse length?

A: To simplify the expression for the hypotenuse length, you can multiply the leg length by √2.

Q: What is the final answer to the problem presented in the question?

A: The final answer to the problem presented in the question is 14√2 cm.

Q: What are some real-world applications of 45-45-90 triangles?

A: 45-45-90 triangles have several real-world applications, including:

Building design: 45-45-90 triangles are used in building design to create strong and stable structures.
Engineering: 45-45-90 triangles are used in engineering to design and build bridges, roads, and other infrastructure.
Architecture: 45-45-90 triangles are used in architecture to design and build buildings, homes, and other structures.

Q: Can I use 45-45-90 triangles to solve other types of problems?

A: Yes, you can use 45-45-90 triangles to solve other types of problems, including:

Right triangle problems: 45-45-90 triangles can be used to solve right triangle problems involving the length of the hypotenuse.
Trigonometry problems: 45-45-90 triangles can be used to solve trigonometry problems involving the sine, cosine, and tangent of an angle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 45-45-90 triangles are a fundamental concept in mathematics that have several unique properties. By understanding these properties, you can use 45-45-90 triangles to solve a variety of problems, including right triangle problems and trigonometry problems.