Pythagorean Theorem Working Model – Science Exhibition

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Pythagorean Theorem Working Model – Science Exhibition

Introduction

The Pythagorean Theorem is one of the most important concepts in mathematics and geometry. It states that:

a2+b2=c2

a^2 + b^2 = c^2

a2+b2=c2

Here, a and b are the lengths of the two perpendicular sides of a right-angled triangle, and c is the hypotenuse (the side opposite the right angle).

This theorem has practical applications in navigation, construction, radar systems, aviation, and surveying. For a science exhibition, we can build a working model using an aeroplane, radar system, scale, and protractor to demonstrate how the theorem is applied in real life.

Materials Required

  • Cardboard sheet (base)
  • Toy aeroplane (plastic or paper)
  • Small radar model (can be made with cardboard and a rotating stick)
  • Scale (ruler)
  • Protractor
  • Colored markers, thread, and pins
  • Glue and tape

Video Construction Steps

  1. Base Setup – Use cardboard as the platform. Place a radar station at one corner.
  2. Airplane Placement – Suspend or fix a toy airplane at some height using a stick or thread to represent its flying position.
  3. Right Triangle Formation –
    • From the radar, draw a horizontal line to represent the ground distance (side ‘a’).
    • Draw a vertical line from the airplane down to the ground (side ‘b’).
    • Connect the airplane to the radar with a diagonal line (side ‘c’ – hypotenuse).
    • This forms a right-angled triangle.
  4. Measuring – Use the scale to measure ‘a’ and ‘b’, then calculate ‘c’ using the theorem.
  5. Verification – Compare the calculated ‘c’ with the actual measured hypotenuse line using the scale.
  6. Protractor Use – Show how angles (altitude angle of the airplane) can also be measured to enhance understanding.

Example 1 – Airplane and Radar

  • Suppose the airplane is flying at a height of 3 km (vertical side ‘b’).
  • The radar detects that the airplane is 4 km away horizontally (side ‘a’).
  • By Pythagoras: c2=a2+b2=42+32=16+9=25
  • c^2 = a^2 + b^2
  • = 4^2 + 3^2
  • = 16 + 9 = 25
  • c2=a2+b2
  • =42+32
  • =16+9=25
  • c=5 km
  • So, the radar finds the direct distance to the airplane is 5 km.

https://www.youtube.com/@howtofunda

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