Consequences of the Pythagorean Theorem

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the consequences and uses of the Pythagorean theorem, specifically addressing its implications in various mathematical contexts. Key consequences identified include Pythagorean triples and incommensurable lengths, while uses encompass complex numbers, Euclidean distance in coordinate systems, the Pythagorean trigonometric identity, and the relation to the cross product. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the theorem's significance rather than relying solely on definitions from sources like Wikipedia.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic geometry concepts
  • Familiarity with Pythagorean triples
  • Knowledge of Euclidean distance
  • Basic grasp of complex numbers
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties of Pythagorean triples
  • Explore the concept of incommensurable lengths in mathematics
  • Learn about the Pythagorean trigonometric identity and its applications
  • Investigate the relationship between the Pythagorean theorem and the cross product
USEFUL FOR

Students studying geometry, mathematics educators, and anyone interested in the foundational principles of the Pythagorean theorem and its applications in various mathematical fields.

Perlita
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Hello!
I have a homework for tomorrow. The question is: What are the consequences of the Pythagorean theorem??
On Wikipedia, they mixed the consequences and the uses of the theorem in one paragraph:

5.1 Pythagorean triples
5.2 Incommensurable lengths
5.3 Complex numbers
5.4 Euclidean distance in various coordinate systems
5.5 Pythagorean trigonometric identity
5.6 Relation to the cross productI assume that the first two are the consequences, and the rest are the uses of the theorem, but I want to be 100% sure.
Any help?
 
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I think this question is "too vague" to have a definitive answer. In particular, there is no "firm line" in mathematics between "consequence" and "use" of ANY theorem.

I suspect what your instructor wanted you to do is RESEARCH this, and arrive at some understanding of how the Pythagorean theorem came to be regarded as so important. "Copypasta" from Wikipedia isn't really doing that, is it?
 
Are you perhaps asking in what situations the Pythagorean theorem can be used and in what situations it cannot?
 

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