How to Calculate the Missing Side of an Isosceles Triangle Using the Pythagorean Theorem

Learn how to find the missing side of an isosceles triangle with our step-by-step guide using the Pythagorean theorem.

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To find the missing side of an isosceles triangle, use the Pythagorean theorem if you know the lengths of one leg and the base's half. For a triangle with two equal sides ('a') and base ('b'), halve the base: half_b = b / 2. Apply the formula a² = (half_b)² + h², where 'h' is the height. Solve for the missing side.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What are the properties of an isosceles triangle? An isosceles triangle has two equal sides and two equal angles opposite these sides.
  2. How do I apply the Pythagorean theorem? The Pythagorean theorem states that in a right triangle, the square of the length of the hypotenuse is equal to the sum of the squares of the lengths of the other two sides.
  3. Can the Pythagorean theorem be used for all triangles? No, the Pythagorean theorem is specifically applicable to right triangles.
  4. What is the height of an isosceles triangle? The height of an isosceles triangle can be calculated using the formula derived from the Pythagorean theorem, depending on the lengths of the equal sides and the base.

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