Topics · Edexcel GCSE Maths (1MA1)
Pythagoras finds a missing side of a right-angled triangle. Which side is missing decides whether you add or subtract.
A ladder 5.2 m long leans against a vertical wall.
The foot of the ladder is on horizontal ground.
The top of the ladder is 4.8 m above the ground.
How far is the foot of the ladder from the wall?
See why
Where must the foot of the ladder be for the top to reach 4.8 m?
Foot to wall: 3.5 mHeight reached: 3.85 m3.5² + 3.85² = 5.2² = 27.04
The top is below 4.8 m. Move the foot closer to the wall.
Now a fresh one
Point A has coordinates (1, 2).
Point B has coordinates (7, 10).
Work out the length of AB.
Learn it properly
Where it comes up in the exam
- Specification G20: know the formula for Pythagoras' theorem and apply it to find lengths in right-angled triangles.
- Two-dimensional problems are on both tiers; Higher also uses it in three dimensions.
- Pythagoras can sit inside longer problems: a perimeter, a distance between coordinates, or a step before trigonometry.