Class 8 Maths - WEST-BENGAL

The Baudhayana-Pythagoras Theorem

In this chapter of Class 8 West Bengal Board (WBBSE) mathematics, students explore the fascinating Baudhayana-Pythagoras Theorem. Long before Pythagoras, the ancient Indian mathematician Baudhayana stated this geometric rule in his Sulba Sutras. The chapter introduces right-angled triangles, identifying the hypotenuse, base, and perpendicular. Students will learn the famous relationship where the square of the hypotenuse equals the sum of the squares of the other two sides. Understanding this theorem helps solve complex geometric problems, find unknown side lengths, and builds a strong foundation for higher-grade geometry and trigonometry in board exams.

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Key Concepts

Right-Angled Triangle

A triangle in which one of the interior angles measures exactly 90 degrees.

Hypotenuse

The longest side of a right-angled triangle, located directly opposite to the 90-degree right angle.

Baudhayana's Contribution

The ancient Indian sage Baudhayana stated the geometric rule regarding right triangles in his text Sulba Sutra, predating Pythagoras.

Pythagoras Theorem Statement

In a right-angled triangle, the area of the square drawn on the hypotenuse is equal to the sum of the areas of the squares drawn on the other two sides.

Pythagorean Triplets

A set of three positive integers (a, b, c) that satisfy the relation a squared plus b squared equals c squared.

Important Formulas

Hypotenuse^2 = Perpendicular^2 + Base^2
c^2 = a^2 + b^2
Perpendicular = Square root of (Hypotenuse^2 - Base^2)
Base = Square root of (Hypotenuse^2 - Perpendicular^2)

Board Exam Info

In the WBBSE Class 8 annual examinations, this chapter typically carries around 5 to 8 marks. Questions usually include 1-mark objective questions, 2-mark short calculations to find an unknown side of a right triangle, and 3 or 4-mark descriptive or application-based word problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who discovered the Pythagoras theorem first, Baudhayana or Pythagoras?

Indian mathematician Baudhayana stated the theorem centuries before Pythagoras in his geometry text called the Sulba Sutra.

Can this theorem be applied to all types of triangles?

No, the Baudhayana-Pythagoras theorem is only applicable to right-angled triangles.

How do I know which side is the hypotenuse?

The hypotenuse is always the longest side and it is always directly opposite the 90-degree right angle.

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