Geometry · interactive lab
Pythagorean calculator
Find the hypotenuse or a missing leg, then see the area and both acute angles.
Pythagorean calculatorLIVE EXPLORATION
Change a value to see the connection
Your measurements
In missing-leg mode, the second measurement is the hypotenuse c. Lengths use the same arbitrary unit.
Why it works
a² + b² = c²
A little question. A clearer picture.
Pythagorean calculator: common questions
Wondering about the why? Start here.
When can I use the Pythagorean theorem?
Use a² + b² = c² only for a right triangle. The legs a and b meet at 90°, and the hypotenuse c is opposite that right angle. For a triangle without a right angle, use the general triangle solver.
Solve a general triangleHow do I calculate a missing leg?
Subtract the square of the known leg from the square of the hypotenuse, then take the square root: b = √(c² − a²). A hypotenuse of 13 and a known leg of 5 give a missing leg of 12. The hypotenuse must be longer than either leg.
See the Pythagorean method