Triangle sides in fractional ratio — find the smallest side from perimeter: The sides of a triangle are in the ratio 1/3 : 1/4 : 1/5 and its perimeter is 94 cm. Find the length of the smallest side.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 24 cm

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Ratios can be fractional; you can scale them by a common factor to obtain actual sides. The perimeter ties down the scale.



Given Data / Assumptions:
Side ratios: 1/3 : 1/4 : 1/5; Perimeter = 94 cm.



Concept / Approach:
Let the sides be k/3, k/4, k/5. Then sum = k*(1/3 + 1/4 + 1/5) = k*(47/60). Set this equal to 94 to solve k, then select the smallest side.



Step-by-Step Solution:
k*(47/60) = 94 ⇒ k = 94*60/47 = 120Sides: 120/3 = 40, 120/4 = 30, 120/5 = 24Smallest side = 24 cm



Verification / Alternative check:
Sum 40 + 30 + 24 = 94 ✓ and the ratio reduces back to 1/3 : 1/4 : 1/5 when scaled by 120.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
They do not match the computed side lengths from the ratio and perimeter.



Common Pitfalls:
Inverting the fractional ratios or using 1:3:4:5 erroneously.



Final Answer:
24 cm

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