SOLUTION: I have a real life question that came up during a hot air balloon competition. The task was to fly over a map grid line (Point A), their location after flying for 10 min would be P

Algebra ->  Surface-area -> SOLUTION: I have a real life question that came up during a hot air balloon competition. The task was to fly over a map grid line (Point A), their location after flying for 10 min would be P      Log On


   

Question 767183: I have a real life question that came up during a hot air balloon competition. The task was to fly over a map grid line (Point A), their location after flying for 10 min would be Point B, then after 10 more minutes their final location would be Point C. The pilot with a triangle having the largest AREA, scores the highest.
So the debate.... Is there an optimal angle to maximize the greater AREA or does having a smaller angle but longer legs optimal?? And is there a point of limiting returns??
I understand this is not a normal question, and realize it may not be answered.
Thank you for considering it.
J. Adams

Answer by fcabanski(1391) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
90 degrees (a right triangle) optimizes the area of the triangle. Either the angle between AB and AC should be 90, or the angle between AB and BC should be 90.