Using the Pythagorean Theorem Calculator
Make sure the two values entered are the legs that meet at the right angle. The longest side is the hypotenuse and should not be entered as one of those two legs for this calculation.
Worked example
Use the example inputs below to reproduce this result. These are the form's starting values, not recommended targets. Changing your inputs updates your result above; this worked example stays fixed for comparison. Results are rounded for display.
Example inputs
- Leg a
- 3
- Leg b
- 4
Example result
- Hypotenuse
- 5
- Area
- 6
- Angle A (degrees)
- 36.869898
- Angle B (degrees)
- 53.130102
Method and assumptions
c² = a² + b². Angles are obtained with the inverse tangent.
Match the measurements to the shape
Sketch the shape and label each input before calculating. A radius, diameter, perpendicular height and sloping edge can have similar-looking measurements while playing different roles in a formula. Use one consistent length unit. Area will then be in its square units and volume in its cubic units, rather than the original length unit.
Common question
Why is the hypotenuse always longer than either leg?
Its square is the sum of two positive squared leg lengths. It is therefore greater than either individual leg length after taking the positive square root.
Guide updated .