In a Right Triangle, Hypotenuse Is Longer Than Legs

Longer Hypotenuse

The the following triangle, the hypotenuse, in this case CA, is longer than both CB and BA.

Why is this so?

As you've probably know, the Pythagorean Theorem is a formula in which $a^2+b^2=c^2$, with $a^2$ and $b^2$ being the legs of the triangle, and $c^2$ the hypotenuse, the longest side of any triangle.

So if you apply this formula to any triangle, such as this one;

Therefore, $5^2+12^2=13^2$.

1. $5^2=25$

2. $12^2=144$

3. $13^2=169$

25 + 144 = 169

Indeed, the hypotenuse is the longest side in a triangle.

Let's try a few problems to see if you know which side is the hypotenuse :)