Forgetting to multiply both sides by 2

Oct 13, 2025 by talynt.org 118 views

Introduction

The attic of Lillian's house boasts a unique feature - a large triangular window that lets in an abundance of natural light. The window's dimensions are quite intriguing, with a length of 8 feet and an area of 36 square feet. As we delve into the world of mathematics, we are faced with the task of determining the height of this triangular window. In this article, we will explore the mathematical concepts and equations that will help us unravel the mystery of the attic window's height.

Understanding the Problem

To find the height of the triangular window, we need to use the formula for the area of a triangle. The formula for the area of a triangle is given by:

Area = (base × height) / 2

In this case, the area of the triangular window is given as 36 square feet, and the base (length) is 8 feet. We are asked to find the height of the window, denoted by h.

Formulating the Equation

Using the formula for the area of a triangle, we can set up an equation to solve for the height h. We know that the area is 36 square feet, and the base is 8 feet. Plugging these values into the formula, we get:

36 = (8 × h) / 2

To simplify the equation, we can multiply both sides by 2 to get rid of the fraction:

72 = 8h

Now, we can solve for h by dividing both sides by 8:

h = 72 / 8

h = 9

Therefore, the height of the triangular window is 9 feet.

Conclusion

In this article, we have used the formula for the area of a triangle to find the height of the triangular window in Lillian's attic. By setting up an equation and solving for the height h, we have successfully unraveled the mystery of the attic window's height. This problem serves as a great example of how mathematical concepts can be applied to real-world problems, and how the use of equations can help us solve complex problems.

Discussion

What other mathematical concepts can be applied to find the height of the triangular window?
How can we use the formula for the area of a triangle to solve other problems involving triangles?
What are some real-world applications of the formula for the area of a triangle?

Additional Resources

For more information on the formula for the area of a triangle, visit Math Open Reference.
To learn more about mathematical concepts and equations, visit Khan Academy.
For a comprehensive guide to mathematical problem-solving, visit MIT OpenCourseWare.

References

Math Open Reference
Khan Academy
MIT OpenCourseWare
The Attic Window: Unraveling the Mystery of the Triangular Shape ===========================================================

Q&A: The Attic Window

Q: What is the formula for the area of a triangle?

A: The formula for the area of a triangle is given by:

Area = (base × height) / 2

Q: How can we use the formula for the area of a triangle to find the height of the triangular window?

A: To find the height of the triangular window, we can set up an equation using the formula for the area of a triangle. We know that the area is 36 square feet, and the base is 8 feet. Plugging these values into the formula, we get:

36 = (8 × h) / 2

To simplify the equation, we can multiply both sides by 2 to get rid of the fraction:

72 = 8h

Now, we can solve for h by dividing both sides by 8:

h = 72 / 8

h = 9

Therefore, the height of the triangular window is 9 feet.

Q: What if the base of the triangle is not given? How can we find the height of the triangular window?

A: If the base of the triangle is not given, we can use the formula for the area of a triangle to find the height. We know that the area is 36 square feet, and the base is unknown. Let's call the base b. We can set up an equation using the formula for the area of a triangle:

36 = (b × h) / 2

To simplify the equation, we can multiply both sides by 2 to get rid of the fraction:

72 = b × h

Now, we can solve for h by dividing both sides by b:

h = 72 / b

Therefore, the height of the triangular window is h = 72 / b.

Q: What if the area of the triangle is not given? How can we find the height of the triangular window?

A: If the area of the triangle is not given, we can use the formula for the area of a triangle to find the height. We know that the base is 8 feet, and the height is unknown. Let's call the height h. We can set up an equation using the formula for the area of a triangle:

Area = (8 × h) / 2

To simplify the equation, we can multiply both sides by 2 to get rid of the fraction:

2 × Area = 8 × h

Now, we can solve for h by dividing both sides by 8:

h = (2 × Area) / 8

Therefore, the height of the triangular window is h = (2 × Area) / 8.

Q: What are some real-world applications of the formula for the area of a triangle?

A: The formula for the area of a triangle has many real-world applications, including:

Architecture: The formula is used to calculate the area of triangular roofs, walls, and other architectural features.
Engineering: The formula is used to calculate the area of triangular beams, columns, and other structural elements.
Physics: The formula is used to calculate the area of triangular surfaces, such as the surface area of a triangle-shaped object.
Computer Graphics: The formula is used to calculate the area of triangular polygons, such as the surface area of a 3D object.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when using the formula for the area of a triangle?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when using the formula for the area of a triangle include:

Forgetting to multiply both sides by 2: When simplifying the equation, it's easy to forget to multiply both sides by 2 to get rid of the fraction.
Not using the correct formula: Make sure to use the correct formula for the area of a triangle, which is Area = (base × height) / 2.
Not checking units: Make sure to check the units of the base and height to ensure that they are consistent.

Conclusion

In this article, we have answered some common questions about the formula for the area of a triangle and how it can be used to find the height of a triangular window. We have also discussed some real-world applications of the formula and common mistakes to avoid when using it. By following these tips and using the formula correctly, you can confidently solve problems involving triangles and find the height of triangular windows.