Assessment and Learning in Knowledge Spaces (ALEKS) Basic Math Placement Practice Test

What is the side known as "adjacent" in a right triangle?

1. The side opposite the angle you are evaluating

2. The longest side

3. The side forming the angle with the hypotenuse

4. The shortest side

The correct answer is: The side forming the angle with the hypotenuse

In a right triangle, the term "adjacent" refers to the side that is directly next to the angle you are evaluating, excluding the hypotenuse. When considering a specific angle, the adjacent side is one of the two sides that form that angle. The other side, which is opposite the angle, does not touch the angle itself and therefore cannot be classified as adjacent. The hypotenuse, which is the longest side of the triangle, lies opposite the right angle and does not serve as the adjacent side to any of the acute angles. The shortest side is not a relevant factor in defining the adjacent side; instead, it is used when considering the lengths of the triangle's sides. Thus, the adjacent side is accurately identified as the side that forms the angle with the hypotenuse, making option C the correct choice.