Pythagoras' theorem - AQACalculating the length of one of the shorter sides

To calculate the length of one of the shorter sides, substitute any lengths into the Pythagoras' theorem formula and then rearrange to make \(a^2\) or \(b^2\) the subject.

Then take the square root to calculate the length of \(a\) or \(b\).

Calculate the length \(a\).

\(c^2 = a^2 + b^2\)

\(10^2 = a^2 + 8^2\)

\(100 = a^2 + 64\)

Subtract 64 from both sides to make \(a^2\) the subject:

\(100 - 64 = a^2\)

\(36 = a^2\)

\(a = \sqrt{36}\)

\(a = 6~\text{cm}\)