Question

The legs of a triangle measure 13 centimeters and 17 centimeters. Which of

the following is the measure for the longest side of the triangle?

I’m not crazy, this doesn’t make sense...right?

Answer 1

Explanation:

Answer 2

C. 29 cm

Explanation:

• We need to use The Triangle Inequality Theorem, which states that the sum of any 2 sides of a triangle must be greater than the measure of the third side.

Now let's compare the given measures vs answer choices.

So, we have legs of 13 cm and 17 cm

Sum of two legs equal to 13 cm+ 17 cm= 30 cm

Now, the answer options:

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• A. 31 cm

No, as 31 cm> 30 cm, one leg is greater than sum of other two legs, which is not possible

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• B. 4 cm

No, as 13 cm + 4 cm = 17 cm, sum of two legs equal to third leg

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• C. 29 cm

Yes, as 29 cm < 30 cm and the other pairs of legs, when summed up give greater number than the remaining leg.

• 1. 13+17 > 29
• 2. 13+29 > 17
• 3. 17+29 > 13

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• D. 30 cm

No, as 30 cm is equal to sum of other legs

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As we found out, the answer is C. 29 cm

Hope it makes sense now