How do you find b in pythagorean theorem given a=3, c=4?

1 Answer
Jun 1, 2016

Plug in, and solve!

Explanation:

The Pythagorean theorem is: #a^2 + b^2 = c^2#.
So, we can plug in the given values (a = 3, c = 4), and solve for b.

#3^2 + b^2 = c^2#
#9 + b^2 = 16#
#b^2 = 7#
#b = sqrt7#

It's straightforward, plug in the numbers you know, then solve!

If you are asked to give answers in square root form, make sure you completely rationalize your solution . If you are told to give your solution in decimal form, make sure to round to the appropriate place, if required.