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In a right triangle, which side is known as the hypotenuse?

  1. The side opposite the right angle

  2. The side adjacent to the right angle

  3. The longest side

  4. The shortest side

The correct answer is: The side opposite the right angle

The correct identification of the hypotenuse of a right triangle is crucial in understanding triangle properties. The hypotenuse is the side opposite the right angle. This is important because, in a right triangle, the right angle is where the two shorter sides meet, while the hypotenuse is the side that extends across from this angle. Additionally, since the hypotenuse is opposite the right angle, it is inherently the longest side of the triangle. This reinforces the understanding that, in any right triangle, the hypotenuse will always be longer than either of the two other sides, which are referred to as the legs of the triangle.