Creating Art with the Generalized Pythagorean Theorem
Abstract
The Pythagorean Theorem and its generalizations have been widely studied. In this article we focus on one particular generalization that asserts that the area of a polygon with one side the hypotenuse of a right triangle is the sum of the areas of similar polygons whose corresponding sides are the other two sides [4]. Using this theorem together with interactive software or simply pencil and paper, we create some visually enticing artwork. This activity, we believe, can contribute positively to geometry teaching at all academic levels.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Mathematics and Applications
Mathematics Education and Teaching Techniques
History and Theory of Mathematics
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Journal of Humanistic Mathematics
- Volume
- 16
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- 310–318
- Publication date
- 1 January 2026
- Language
- EN