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Calculate the area of triangles

Area of a triangle is understood as half the product of a chosen base and its corresponding perpendicular height, A=12bhA=\frac{1}{2}bh, with results expressed in square units. The base and height may be represented in different orientations, including for right, acute, and obtuse triangles; the height is not generally a slanted side, and methods requiring trigonometry, Heron’s formula, or other advanced cases are not included.

Detailed Explanation: Calculate the area of triangles

To find the area of a triangle, use:

A=12bhA=\frac{1}{2}bh

Here:

  • bb is the length of the chosen base.
  • hh is the perpendicular height to that base. The height must meet the base at a right angle; it is not always a slanted side.
  • The answer is written in square units.

Example: A triangle has a base of 8 cm8\text{ cm} and a perpendicular height of 5 cm5\text{ cm}. Find its area.

  1. Identify the base and height:

b=8 cm,h=5 cmb=8\text{ cm}, \qquad h=5\text{ cm}

  1. Substitute into the formula:

A=12(8)(5)A=\frac{1}{2}(8)(5)

  1. Multiply:

A=12(40)=20A=\frac{1}{2}(40)=20

  1. Write the answer in square units:

20 cm2\boxed{20\text{ cm}^2}

The area of the triangle is 20 square centimeters\boxed{20\text{ square centimeters}}.

Learn by doing: Calculate the area of triangles

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    Area of an Obtuse Triangle - On Grid - Image to Area

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