California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) Math Practice Exam 2026 - Free CAASPP Math Practice Questions and Study Guide

A triangle with a hypotenuse specifically refers to a right triangle. By definition, a hypotenuse is the longest side of a right triangle, which is opposite the right angle. In a right triangle, this unique angle measures exactly 90 degrees, allowing for the identification of the hypotenuse as the side opposite that angle.

The other types of triangles do not possess this characteristic. An isosceles triangle has two equal sides and angles but does not require a right angle to exist. Likewise, an equilateral triangle has three equal sides and angles all measuring 60 degrees, which means it has no right angle and, consequently, no hypotenuse. A scalene triangle, characterized by having all sides of different lengths and no equal angles, may or may not include a right angle; if it does not, it similarly lacks a hypotenuse. Therefore, the defining feature of having a hypotenuse is exclusive to right triangles.