Hypotenuse Formula:
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The hypotenuse is the longest side of a right-angled triangle, opposite the right angle. This calculator determines the hypotenuse length when given the opposite side and the angle α using trigonometric principles.
The calculator uses the trigonometric formula:
Where:
Explanation: The sine function relates the ratio of the opposite side to the hypotenuse in a right triangle, allowing calculation of the hypotenuse when the opposite side and angle are known.
Details: Calculating the hypotenuse is fundamental in geometry, engineering, architecture, and various scientific fields where right triangle relationships are used to solve spatial problems and distance measurements.
Tips: Enter the opposite side length in meters and the angle α in degrees (must be between 0° and 90°). All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: Why use the sine function for this calculation?
A: The sine function specifically relates the ratio of the opposite side to the hypotenuse (sin(α) = opposite/hypotenuse), making it ideal for solving for the hypotenuse when the opposite side is known.
Q2: What angle range is valid for this calculation?
A: The angle α must be between 0° and 90° (exclusive) as these are the valid angles for a right triangle's non-right angles.
Q3: Can this formula be used for any right triangle?
A: Yes, this trigonometric relationship holds true for all right triangles, regardless of their specific dimensions.
Q4: What if I know the adjacent side instead of the opposite side?
A: If you know the adjacent side and angle α, you would use the cosine function instead: Hypotenuse = Adjacent/cos(α).
Q5: Are there practical applications of this calculation?
A: Yes, this calculation is used in construction, navigation, physics, computer graphics, and many other fields where distance and angle measurements are required.