In a right triangle, what is the longest side called?

In a right triangle, what is the longest side called?

• A. Adjacent
• B. Hypotenuse
• C. Opposite
• D. Base

Answer: (B)

In a right triangle, the longest side is called the hypotenuse. This side is always opposite the right angle and is longer than either of the other two sides, which are referred to as the adjacent and opposite sides, depending on their position relative to a given angle in the triangle. The hypotenuse plays a crucial role in trigonometry and is fundamental to various applications in geometry. When considering geometric relationships, the hypotenuse is essential for applying the Pythagorean theorem, which states that in a right triangle, the square of the length of the hypotenuse is equal to the sum of the squares of the lengths of the other two sides. This theorem shows that the hypotenuse's length is not only the longest side in a right triangle but also a key factor in calculating distances and angles within the triangle itself.

In a right triangle, the longest side is called the hypotenuse. This side is always opposite the right angle and is longer than either of the other two sides, which are referred to as the adjacent and opposite sides, depending on their position relative to a given angle in the triangle. The hypotenuse plays a crucial role in trigonometry and is fundamental to various applications in geometry.

When considering geometric relationships, the hypotenuse is essential for applying the Pythagorean theorem, which states that in a right triangle, the square of the length of the hypotenuse is equal to the sum of the squares of the lengths of the other two sides. This theorem shows that the hypotenuse's length is not only the longest side in a right triangle but also a key factor in calculating distances and angles within the triangle itself.