What is a Pythagorean Triple?
Three whole numbers that fit the Pythagorean Theorem
A Pythagorean triple is a set of three whole numbers, usually denoted by a, b, and c, that fit the Pythagorean Theorem:
a2 + b2 = c2
Here, a and b are the legs of a right triangle, and c is the hypotenuse (the longest side).
So, what does a Pythagorean triple look like? Let’s look at some examples:
If a = 3 and b = 4, c would be:
a2 + b2 = c2
32 + 42 = 9 + 16
32 + 42 = 25
c2 = √25
c = 5
Our Pythagorean triple in this case is: 3, 4, and 5.
When Do Students Learn About Pythagorean Triples?
Students learn about Pythagorean triples while studying the Pythagorean Theorem in geometry.
Grades 8+ – Exploring Pythagorean Triples
Students use Pythagorean triples to quickly identify right triangles and check their work when applying the Pythagorean Theorem.
