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Area of a triangle question

Three points

0,0 22,0 4,12

They make up a triangle the area of the traingle is = 1/2 * 12 * 22

Why is this and why can't you use the 4 instead of the 12?
Draw a sketch. The area of a triangle is half the base multiplied by the perpendicular height.

The height is the y value.
Reply 2
Avatar for .raiden.
.raiden.
10
Original post by IShouldBeRevising_
Three points

0,0 22,0 4,12

They make up a triangle the area of the traingle is = 1/2 * 12 * 22

Why is this and why can't you use the 4 instead of the 12?

If you plot the triangle on a set of axis, you'll find the base is on the x axis, since area = 1/2 x base x height, the height is 12 not four as 12 is y coordinate :smile:
If you take (0,0) and (22, 0) to be the base, then the perpendicular co-ordinate will be parallel to the y-axis. Have you tried a sketch?
Reply 4
Avatar for the bear
the bear
20
if you sketch the triangle you will find that the horizontal base is 22, the vertical height is 12.
Original post by Mr M
sketch


Original post by raiden95
plot


Original post by Savvy Sage
sketch


Original post by the bear
sketch


A theme appears to be emerging ...
Reply 6
Avatar for .raiden.
.raiden.
10
Original post by Mr M
A theme appears to be emerging ...


Damn it I'm the odd one out :frown:

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