In a right triangle, what is the value of one of its angles?

Study for the Geometry Regents Exam. Enhance your skills with flashcards and multiple choice questions, including hints and explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your test!

In a right triangle, one of the angles is defined to be exactly 90 degrees. This is fundamental to the definition of a right triangle; it distinguishes right triangles from other types of triangles, such as acute and obtuse triangles. The right angle is the reference point that enables the application of various theorems and properties in geometry, such as the Pythagorean theorem, which relates the lengths of the sides of the triangle.

The other angles in a right triangle must sum to 90 degrees, since the total sum of the angles in any triangle is always 180 degrees. Therefore, if one angle is 90 degrees, the other two angles must be complementary (adding up to 90 degrees).

Understanding this property is crucial when solving problems involving right triangles, as it helps to clarify the relationships between the angles and sides of the triangle, and it serves as the basis for further exploration of trigonometric ratios and their applications.

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