What is the Pythagorean theorem?

The Pythagorean theorem is a fundamental principle in geometry that relates to right-angled triangles. It states that in a right triangle, the square of the length of the hypotenuse (the side opposite the right angle) is equal to the sum of the squares of the lengths of the other two sides. This is expressed mathematically as (a² + b² = c²), where (c) represents the length of the hypotenuse, and (a) and (b) represent the lengths of the other two sides.

This theorem is crucial in various applications within HVAC, including calculating the direct distance between points or determining the optimal duct routing in systems that might form right triangles. Understanding the theorem allows professionals to efficiently plan and implement HVAC installations. The other choices do not reflect this relationship or the correct formula of the theorem, thereby failing to represent the correct mathematical relationship that Pythagorean theorem outlines.