Right Angle Triangle Calculator with Degrees
This right angle triangle calculator helps you determine missing sides and angles when you know at least two values in a right-angled triangle. The calculator works with degrees and provides a visual representation of the triangle.
How to Use This Calculator
To use the right angle triangle calculator with degrees:
- Enter at least two known values in the triangle (two sides or one side and one angle).
- Select the units for each measurement (degrees for angles, units for sides).
- Click "Calculate" to compute the missing values.
- Review the results and chart visualization.
- Use the "Reset" button to clear all fields and start over.
Note: The calculator assumes the triangle is right-angled. For non-right-angled triangles, use our general triangle calculator.
Formulas Used
The calculator uses these fundamental trigonometric relationships for right-angled triangles:
Sine Rule: sin(θ) = opposite/hypotenuse
Cosine Rule: cos(θ) = adjacent/hypotenuse
Tangent Rule: tan(θ) = opposite/adjacent
Pythagorean Theorem: a² + b² = c² (where c is the hypotenuse)
The calculator automatically selects the appropriate formula based on which values you provide.
Worked Examples
Example 1: Find the Hypotenuse
Given two legs of 3 units and 4 units, the hypotenuse is calculated as:
c = √(3² + 4²) = √(9 + 16) = √25 = 5 units
Example 2: Find an Angle
Given one leg of 1 unit and hypotenuse of 2 units, the angle θ opposite the leg is:
θ = arcsin(1/2) ≈ 30°
Interpreting Results
The calculator provides:
- All three sides of the triangle (a, b, c)
- All three angles (α, β, γ)
- A visual chart showing the triangle proportions
Always verify that the sum of angles equals 180° and that the Pythagorean theorem holds true for your specific triangle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a right angle triangle?
A right angle triangle is a triangle with one 90° angle, formed by two perpendicular sides (legs) and the hypotenuse (the side opposite the right angle).
Can I use this calculator for non-right triangles?
No, this calculator is specifically designed for right-angled triangles. For other triangle types, use our general triangle calculator.
What if I don't know any angles?
You can calculate angles if you know at least one side and the hypotenuse, or two sides (using the Pythagorean theorem).