8th Grade · Geometry
Leg
8.G.B.7
Definition
Either of the two sides of a right triangle that form the right angle. The legs are labeled a and b in the Pythagorean theorem.
Examples
- In a2+b2 = c2, a and b are the legs.
- To find a leg, rearrange: a2 = c2 − b2.
Key rule
The legs are the two shorter sides that meet at the right angle.
Memory hook
One of the two sides forming the right angle.