Final answer:
Using the Pythagorean theorem, the length of the hypotenuse of a right triangle with sides measuring 9 cm and 12 cm is calculated as 15 cm.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the length of the hypotenuse of a right triangle when the lengths of the other two sides are known, you can use the Pythagorean theorem. This theorem states that in a right triangle, the square of the length of the hypotenuse (c) is equal to the sum of the squares of the lengths of the other two sides (a and b).
The formula is expressed as: a² + b² = c².
In this case, the lengths of the two sides are 9 cm (a) and 12 cm (b). By applying the Pythagorean theorem:
c = √(9² + 12²)
c = √(81 + 144)
c = √225
c = 15 cm
Therefore, the length of the hypotenuse is 15 cm.