PLAY PODCASTS
A groundbreaking new proof for Pythagoras’ Theorem?

A groundbreaking new proof for Pythagoras’ Theorem?

Two high school students say they’ve discovered a new trigonometric proof for the theorem

More or Less · BBC Radio 4

April 1, 202310m 25s

Show Notes

Pythagoras’ Theorem, explaining the relationship between the three sides of a right angled triangle, is one of the most famous in maths. It’s been studied and put to use for thousands of years. Now two US high school students say they’ve found a new trigonometric proof for the theorem, something many in the mathematical community believe to be impossible. We discuss Pythagoras’ Theorem, the importance of proofs in maths and the chances of this being a real breakthrough with mathematician, author and YouTuber Matt Parker.