Question

Which side lengths form a right triangle?

Answer 1

Answer: choice B

Explanation: Go through each answer choice and try the Pythagorean theorem to see if it works. This is because a right triangle’s side lengths are described by the Pythagorean theorem. one side^2 + second side^2 = longest side^2. In a right triangle, this equation will be true. Let me show you what I mean

For answer choice A:

(root 2)^2 + (root 3)^2 = (root 4)^2

2 + 3 = 4

5 = 4

5 does not equal 4. Therefore it cannot be A.

For answer choice B:

(root 8)^2 + (3)^2 = (root 17)^2

8 + 9 = 17

17 = 17

this is true! therefore this is a right triangle and it’s B