SOLUTION: How do you determine the minimum and maximum limits for the length of a third side of a triangle if you know the lengths of the other two sides?

Algebra ->  Triangles -> SOLUTION: How do you determine the minimum and maximum limits for the length of a third side of a triangle if you know the lengths of the other two sides?      Log On


   

Question 527390: How do you determine the minimum and maximum limits for the length of a third side of a triangle if you know the lengths of the other two sides?
Answer by josmiceli(19441) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
It's easy if you can picture this situation:
The 2 sides that you are given are connected
with a hinge that has complete freedom.
With the ends in constant contact with a table, start spreading them
until both sides are flat on the table.
You can see that the maximum length of the 3rd side
is the sum of the 2 given sides.
----------------------------------
Now bring the ends toward eachother while keeping them
touching the table. What you will find is the 3rd side
is the difference of the 2 given sides.
----------------------------------
What if the given sides are equal?
Then as you draw them together, you end up with zero for
the 3rd side, which is exactly the difference of the given sides.