How to Use Pythagorean Theorem Converse: Is This a Right Triangle?
TL;DR: The converse of the Pythagorean theorem lets you test whether a triangle is a right triangle. If the three side lengths satisfy \(a^2 + b^2 = c^2\) (with \(c\) the longest), it’s a right triangle. If not, it’s acute (\(\)). Key takeaways: Pythagorean theorem: in a right triangle, \(a^2 + b^2 = c^2\) (with […]
How to Solve the Ambiguous Case (SSA) in Trigonometry
TL;DR: SSA — side-side-angle — is famously the ambiguous case in trigonometry, and for good reason. When you’re handed two sides and an angle that isn’t between them, there might be zero valid triangles, exactly one, or two completely different valid triangles that fit. Your job is to use the Law of Sines, then carefully […]
