Bunuel wrote:
In right triangle, ABC, the ratio of the longest side to the shortest side is 5 to 3. If the area of ABC is between 50 and 150 (50 and 150 not inclusive), which of the following could be the length of the shortest side?
I. 9
II. 12
III. 15
A. I only
B. II only
C. III only
D. I and II only
E. I, II and III
Since triangle ABC is a right triangle with ratio of the longest side to the shortest side of 5 to 3, it must be a 3-4-5 right triangle. Let’s analyze the Roman numerals now (keep in mind that the area of a right triangle is ½ of the product of the length of the two legs).
I. 9
If the shortest side (or leg) is 3 x 3 = 9, then the other leg is 4 x 3 = 12. Therefore, the area of the triangle would be ½(9)(12) = 54. This works since 54 is between 50 and 150.
II. 12
If the shortest side (or leg) is 3 x 4 = 12, then the other leg is 4 x 4 = 16. Therefore, the area of the triangle would be ½(12)(16) = 96. This works since 96 is between 50 and 150.
III. 15
If the shortest side (or leg) is 3 x 5 = 15, then the other leg is 4 x 5 = 20. Therefore, the area of the triangle would be ½(15)(20) = 150. This doesn’t work since 150 is NOT between 50 and 150.
Answer: D
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