Stumped on a Crossword? Discover the Longest Side of a Right Triangle

Certainly! As an expert in the field of geometry, I’d be happy to explain the answer to the crossword clue ‘Longest side of a right triangle,’ which is ‘HYPOTENUSE.’

First, let’s start with a simple definition: a right triangle is a triangle with one angle measuring 90 degrees. This is also known as the ‘right angle.’ The longest side in a right triangle is always opposite this right angle. This longest side is called the hypotenuse.

Now let’s talk about why the hypotenuse is important. The hypotenuse is critical in the Pythagorean theorem, which is a fundamental relationship between the sides of a right triangle. In short, the Pythagorean theorem states that the sum of the squares of the two shorter sides of a right triangle equals the square of the hypotenuse. This formula is expressed as a^2 + b^2 = c^2, where ‘a’ and ‘b’ represent the lengths of the two shorter sides, and ‘c’ represents the length of the hypotenuse.

The Pythagorean theorem is used in many applications, such as in architecture and construction to ensure that buildings and structures are safe, stable, and meet building codes. It is also used in trigonometry, which is a branch of mathematics that deals with the relationships between the sides and angles of triangles.

In summary, the hypotenuse is the longest side of a right triangle, and it plays a critical role in the Pythagorean theorem, which is a fundamental relationship in geometry and trigonometry.