Answer:
2
Explanation:
Given in the question,
a + b = √17
(a+b)² = 17
a² + b² +2ab = 17
a² + b² = 17 - 2ab
Area of triangle
1/2 (h)(b)
here h is perpendicular height of triangle = a
b is the base of triangle = b
Use pythagorus theorem:
hypotenuse² = base² + height²
3² = a² + b²
9 = a² + b²
9 = 17 - 2ab
9 - 17 = -2ab
-8 = -2ab
cancel minus on both sides
8 = 2ab
ab = 8/2
ab = 4
Plug ab in the formula of area
1/2 (h)(b)
1/2 (a)(b)
1/2 (4)
4/2
2