Two sides of a right triangle have lengths of √10 units and √6 units. There are two possible side lengths. What are the possible lengths?

The answer is 2 and 4. To get 4, you use the Pythagorean theorem; a^2 x b^2 = c^2. How would you find 2? Please explain. :)

Question

Two sides of a right triangle have lengths of √10 units and √6 units. There are two possible side lengths. What are the possible lengths?

The answer is 2 and 4. To get 4, you use the Pythagorean theorem; a^2 x b^2 = c^2. How would you find 2? Please explain. :)

btaylor · Answer

You could have $\sqrt{10}$ be the hypotenuse and $\sqrt{6}$ be a leg. Then, by the Pythagorean theorem, 2 would be your other leg.

anonymous · Answer

You just blew my mind. XD Thanks so much!

btaylor · Answer

You're welcome!