Geometry · Similarity & Right Triangles
Hypotenuse
HSG-SRT.C.8
Definition
The side of a right triangle opposite the right angle; it is the longest side.
Examples
- In a 3-4-5 right triangle, the side of length 5 is the hypotenuse.
- The hypotenuse is always across from the 90 degree angle, never adjacent to it.
Key rule
The hypotenuse is always the longest side of a right triangle.
Memory hook
The longest side — always across from the right angle.