SOLUTION: i get the Pythagorean theorem, but the variables confuse me. I tried a guess and check, but that confused me even more. sincerely, Forrest Balman

Algebra ->  Algebra  -> Triangles -> SOLUTION: i get the Pythagorean theorem, but the variables confuse me. I tried a guess and check, but that confused me even more. sincerely, Forrest Balman       Log On

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Question 106980This question is from textbook
: i get the Pythagorean theorem, but the variables
confuse me. I tried a guess and check, but that confused me even more.
sincerely, Forrest Balman This question is from textbook

Answer by checkley75(3666) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
recognize that this only works for RIGHT triangles.
try the following:
3^2+4^2=c^2
9+16=c^2
25=c^2
sqrt25=c
5=c
proof
3^2+4^2=5^2
9+16=25
25=25
-----------------------------------
5^2+12^2=c^2
25+144=c^2
169=c^2
sqrt169=c
13=c
proof
5^2+12^2=13^2
25+144=169
169=169