SOLUTION: The perimeter of an equilateral triangle is 45 centimeters. Find the length of an altitude of the triangle

Algebra ->  Pythagorean-theorem -> SOLUTION: The perimeter of an equilateral triangle is 45 centimeters. Find the length of an altitude of the triangle      Log On


   

Question 292965: The perimeter of an equilateral triangle is 45 centimeters. Find the length of an altitude of the triangle
Answer by tutor_paul(519) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
- For the equilateral triangle with perimeter 45, each side is length 15.
- The altitude, when drawn, bisects the base, forming 2 right triangles.
To find the length of the altitude, use the pythagorean theorem. Let A be the length of the altitude that you are looking for:
A%5E2%2B7.5%5E2=15%5E2
Solve for A:
A%5E2%2B56.25=225
A%5E2=168.75
highlight%28A=12.99%29
==============
Good Luck,
tutor_paul@yahoo.com