Let's begin by modeling the Pythagorean Theorem numerically.

In your notes, copy and paste the table below.

Length
of AC
Length
of BC
Length
of AB
Area of Square
AC
Area of Square
BC
Area of Square AC +
Area of BC
Area of
Square AB
             
             
             
             
             
This activity might not be viewable on your mobile device.Interactive exercise. Assistance may be required.

Use this link to fill in the table. Drag the sliders to adjust the lengths of the legs of triangle ABC. The interactive will calculate the lengths and areas for you.

How does the length of AC compare to the area of Square AC?

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Check Your Answer

Area = (AC)2Close Pop Up

How does the length of BC compare to the area of Square BC?

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Check Your Answer

Area = (BC)2Close Pop Up

How does the length of AB compare to the area of Square AB?

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Check Your Answer

Area = (AB)2Close Pop Up

How does the area of Square AB compare to the sum of the areas of Square AC and Square BC?

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Check Your Answer

The area of Square AB is equal to the sum of the areas of Square AC and Square BC.Close Pop Up

Write an algebraic equation to show the relationship between the length of AC, the length of BC, and the length of AB.

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Hint

Combine the information from the previous three questions.
Your equation should be in the form ( )2 + ( )2 = ( )2.Close Pop Up
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Check Your Answer

AB2 = AC2 + BC2 Close Pop Up