Historic Facts
Who is believed to have discovered the Pythagorean Theorem?
- Ancient Greek mathematician Pythagoras
- Ancient Greek mathematician Euclid
- Indian Mathematician Baudhayana
What is the Pythagorean Theorem?
The Pythagorean theorem helps us determine the missing side lengths of a right triangle. It explains that the sum of the squares of the lengths of the two sides of any right triangle equals the square of the length of the hypotenuse.
When was Pythagoras born?
He was said to be born around 569 B.C. - 500 B.C.
When was the Pythagorean Theorem founded?
The Pythagorean theorem was founded around 580 B.C. - 500 B.C.
What type of triangle is the only kind that works with the Pythagorean theorem?
A right triangle
What do a, b, and c mean in the Pythagorean Theorem formula? (a2 + b2 = c2)
a and b= the lengths of the other sides of the triangle
c= the length of the hypotenuse
Who was Pythagoras?
Pythagoras was an Ancient Greek Mathematician and philosopher who was believed to be the first to prove the Pythagorean theorem.
What is the formula for the Pythagorean Theorem
a2 + b2 =c2
What was the first recorded use of the Pythagorean Theorem named?
In China: the "Gougu Theorem"
In India: the "Bhaskara Theorem"
How was the Pythagorean Theorem used historically?
Egyptian hieroglyphics contain one of the oldest recorded usage of the Pythagorean Theorem. Egyptian workers created a tool for forming right triangles by measuring the distance of each side of the triangle.
What shape can be used to prove the Pythagorean Theorem?
Square
What are the Pythagorean triples?
A Pythagorean triple consists of three positive integers a, b, and c.
Example: a=3, b=4, c=5
*Fun fact: Ancient Egyptians used this group of Pythagorean triples to measure out right angles. They would tie knots in a piece of rope to create 3, 4, and 5 equal spaces!*
Where did the Pythagorean Theorem get its name?
It is named after Pythagoras
What type of math does the Pythagorean Theorem combine?
It combines both geometry and algebra
Why was the Pythagorean Theorem created?
To find the missing side length of a right triangle.