How Is the Pythagorean Theorem Used in Everyday Life?

By Staff WriterLast Updated April 03, 2020

Daily life makes use of the Pythagorean theorem in various ways, such as determining the viewing size of a television, which is sometimes a factor used in purchasing decisions. Given the length and height of the screen, the diagonal viewing area can be determined with the theorem.

Repairing a window on a house can also make use of the Pythagorean theorem. A ladder may need to be used to reach the window, but bushes or obstructions may force setting it at a certain distance from the house. The Pythagorean theorem helps determine how tall the ladder must be to reach the window successfully.