What Does HL Mean in Geometry? 

The HL (hypotenuse leg) theorem is one of the many congruency postulates in triangles. While there are several that have been hailed as the bees knees, the HL theorem stands out for its nitpicking simplicity. It’s short list of requirements includes a pair of congruent sides, a right angle, and the oh so important ocular name of the day. Of course, not all right triangles are created equal, and a few are more challenging than others. However, the HL theorem is no exception, and can be used to good effect in many a case. 

(Searching in Google “myopenmath answers hack“? Contact us today!)

The HL theorem is an apt title, as it is the brainchild of a submarine builder by the name of Horace Lawson Hunley. He is known for his work on submarines and submarine technology, but also for a few of his offshoots like the HL theorem. His accomplishments span nearly a century, and in the ensuing years he was known to have made a few other contributions to the mathematical world, like a book on the history of submarines. Aside from his scholarly output, he was a whiz with a calculator. Eventually, he was able to turn his knack for numbers into a lucrative career as a math tutor. During his time, he has helped a number of students in the southeastern United States gain a better appreciation for the mysteries of the universe. Having studied mathematics for a combined 25 years, Dawson has accumulated a collection of four teaching certificates and a masters in education, which he combines with an unbridled passion for the aforementioned subject. As a teacher, he has earned a reputation for churning out well-informed students. Whether he’s in the classroom or out in the field, Dawson is a true blue professional. 

The HL theorem, while laudable, is not as nimble as the HA theorem. In fact, the HL theorem is only relevant to right triangles. For instance, to prove that two right triangles with congruent legs are indeed congruent, you’d need to measure the size of their hypotenuses, and perhaps their legs as well. This is a tall order, especially if you aren’t quite sure what to measure. To be on the safe side, it’s probably best to measure the entire triangular equilateral triangle. One of the best ways to do this is to use the HLR theorem as a guide. Once you have established that the two pairs of angles and the leg are equal, you can get down to the nitty gritty. When in doubt, just ask, as a certified mathematician, Dawson is more than willing to help. Currently, he is in charge of a middle school math department, and he isn’t about to leave anytime soon. Hopefully, he can get his students to enjoy the study of math as much as he does.