How so you prove the pythagorean thereom

Question

hero · Answer

Using geometry and algebra

anonymous · Answer

there are two classic proofs.  The similar triangle proof and the Euclidean proof.  Which one did you need?

hero · Answer

I do my own proofs

anonymous · Answer

Congratulations, Hero, for putting on your big boy pants today.

I'm guessing that this person isn't at the level of math where you write your own proofs, and his professor is looking for one of the classical proofs.  

I could be wrong though, I readily admit that.  But you might try to be helpful and act like a tutor and give some direction.

hero · Answer

Now where in the question did the OP say anything about "classic proof". Sounds like an assumption you're making

anonymous · Answer

When you set out to prove a basic mathematical theorum, one always begins at the basics.  You don't rewrite Distributive Properties, you use them.  The basic proof of the Pythagorean Theorum relies on similar triangles or similar rectangles, while applying basic trigonometric properties, i.e., sine, cosine.  

Because the two classic proofs are there, they are a good place to start.  Hence, why I suggested them.

hero · Answer

I do begin at the basics