8th Grade · Geometry
Hypotenuse
8.G.B.6
Definition
The longest side of a right triangle, located opposite the right angle. In the Pythagorean theorem it is the side labeled c.
Examples
- In a²+b²=c², the hypotenuse is always c.
- It's always the side directly across from the 90° angle.
Key rule
The hypotenuse is always the longest side and always opposite the right angle.
Memory hook
The longest side, across from the right angle.