How this calculation works
The altitude is the geometric mean of the two segments because the three right triangles are similar.
THE FORMULA
h = √(pq)A worked example
Segments 4 and 9 give an altitude √36 = 6 and a total hypotenuse of 13.
Good to know
This relation applies to the altitude from the right-angle vertex.
Reference: OpenStax Algebra and Trigonometry, Trigonometric Applications (opens in a new tab) ↗
Read the result
Recover the perpendicular altitude drawn from the right angle using the two hypotenuse segments.
The primary result is labeled “Altitude”. Keep the input definitions in view when comparing this result with another method.
Try a related calculation
This relation applies to the altitude from the right-angle vertex.
For a related exercise, try the circle calculator.
A few questions, answered
How can I check the default inputs by hand?
Segments 4 and 9 give an altitude √36 = 6 and a total hypotenuse of 13.
Which rule does this calculator apply?
h = √(pq)