An equilateral triangle has area 9√3 square centimetres.\nFind the exact height (altitude) of the triangle.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 3√3 cm

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Converting between area and altitude in an equilateral triangle relies on two linked formulas: A = (√3/4)a^2 and h = (√3/2)a. Use one to find side length, then compute the altitude.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Area A = 9√3 cm^2.


Concept / Approach:
First find the side a from A = (√3/4)a^2. Then use h = (√3/2)a to get the altitude.


Step-by-Step Solution:

9√3 = (√3/4) * a^2 ⇒ a^2 = 36 ⇒ a = 6 cmh = (√3/2) * a = (√3/2) * 6 = 3√3 cm


Verification / Alternative check:
Compute A from a=6: (√3/4)*36 = 9√3 cm^2; consistent.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 6 cm, 9 cm: These are side-length-like numbers, not the altitude for A = 9√3.
  • 6√3 cm: Overshoots by a factor of 2.


Common Pitfalls:
Mixing up the area and altitude formulas or skipping the square on a.


Final Answer:
3√3 cm

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