Question

Use the Pythagorean theorem to prove whether or not each set of numbers represent the side lengths of a right triangle.

In your final answer, include your proof.
A. 6, 12, and 15
B. 5, 12, and 13

Answer 1

Answer: A does NOT have lengths of a right triangle. 6²+12²≠15²

B does have lengths of a right triangle.

5²+12²=15²

Explanation:

the Pythagorean Theorem is "The square on the hypotenues is the sou of the squares on the opposite sides or a²+b²=c²

So square the numbers given and see if they add up

36 + 144 = 180. The square of 15 is 225. The classic Pythagorean triple has

values of 3,4 & 5 12 & 15 are multiples of 4 & 5. ( 9 would be a good fit here.

5, 12, qnd 13 is another classic Pythagorean triple.

Go at it backwarda just for fun: 13² = 169 12² = 144.

169 - 144 = 25 That's the Square of 5.

Voila! Proof!