Two triangles – one has base 15 cm and height 12 cm; find height of a second triangle with double the area and base 20 cm:
Aptitude
Area
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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A16
-
B17
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C18
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D20
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ENone of these
Answer
Correct Answer: 18
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Relate triangle areas via A = (1/2) * base * height. If the second triangle has double the area of the first, scale accordingly.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Triangle 1: base = 15 cm, height = 12 cm ⇒ A₁ = (1/2)*15*12 = 90 cm².
- Triangle 2: A₂ = 2*A₁ = 180 cm²; base₂ = 20 cm; height₂ = ?
Concept / Approach:height₂ = 2*A₂ / base₂ (rearranging A₂ = (1/2) * base₂ * height₂).
Step-by-Step Solution:
height₂ = (2*180)/20 = 360/20 = 18 cm.Verification / Alternative check:Check: (1/2)*20*18 = 180 cm², which is twice 90.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:16, 17, 20 do not satisfy the area condition with base 20 cm.
Common Pitfalls:Forgetting the 1/2 factor when solving for height.
Final Answer:18.