FTCE General Knowledge Math Practice Test

Which theorem is used to relate the sides of a right triangle?

1. Pythagorean Theorem

2. Newton's Theorem

3. Euler's Theorem

4. Triangle Inequality Theorem

The correct answer is: Pythagorean Theorem

The Pythagorean Theorem is the correct answer because it specifically relates the lengths of the sides of a right triangle. According to the theorem, in a right triangle, the square of the length of the hypotenuse (the side opposite the right angle) is equal to the sum of the squares of the lengths of the other two sides. This relationship can be expressed mathematically as \( a^2 + b^2 = c^2 \), where \( c \) represents the length of the hypotenuse, and \( a \) and \( b \) are the lengths of the triangle's other two sides. This theorem is foundational in geometry and is widely applied in various mathematical contexts involving right triangles, making it a crucial tool for solving problems related to triangle dimensions, distances, and even in coordinate geometry. The other options listed pertain to different mathematical concepts that do not specifically address the relationship of the sides of right triangles.