Open AccessGeometry of the 3D Pythagoras' Theorem
Author(s) -
Luis Teia
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
journal of mathematics research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1916-9809
pISSN - 1916-9795
DOI - 10.5539/jmr.v8n6p78
Subject(s) - mathematics , pythagorean theorem , geometry , rotation (mathematics) , transformation (genetics) , kelvin–stokes theorem , pure mathematics , brouwer fixed point theorem , fixed point theorem , danskin's theorem , biochemistry , chemistry , gene
This paper explains step-by-step how to construct the 3D Pythagoras' theorem by geometric manipulation of the two dimensional version. In it is shown how $x+y=z$ (1D Pythagoras' theorem) transforms into $x^2+y^2=z^2$ (2D Pythagoras' theorem) via two steps: a 90-degree rotation, and a perpendicular extrusion. Similarly, the 2D Pythagoras' theorem transforms into 3D using the same steps. Octahedrons emerge naturally during this transformation process. Hence, each of the two dimensional elements has a direct three dimensional equivalent. Just like squares govern the 2D, octahedrons are the basic elements that govern the geometry of the 3D Pythagoras' theorem. As a conclusion, the geometry of the 3D Pythagoras' theorem is a natural evolution of the 1D and 2D. This interdimensional evolution begs the question -- Is there a bigger theorem at play that encompasses all three?