A triangle and a parallelogram are constructed on the same base and have equal areas.\nIf the altitude of the parallelogram is 100 m, find the altitude of the triangle.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 200m

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
When a triangle and a parallelogram share the same base, comparing their areas reduces to comparing altitudes. This classic relation helps convert one altitude to the other directly.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Same base length b for both shapes.
  • Parallelogram altitude h_p = 100 m.
  • Areas are equal.


Concept / Approach:
Area of triangle: A_t = (1/2) * b * h_t. Area of parallelogram: A_p = b * h_p. With A_t = A_p and same base b, the altitudes relate by (1/2) * b * h_t = b * h_p, hence h_t = 2 * h_p.


Step-by-Step Solution:

A_t = (1/2) * b * h_tA_p = b * h_pEquate: (1/2) * b * h_t = b * 100Cancel b: (1/2) * h_t = 100Therefore h_t = 200 m


Verification / Alternative check:
Pick b = 10 m. Then A_p = 10 * 100 = 1,000 m^2. For triangle to have 1,000 m^2: (1/2) * 10 * h_t = 1,000 ⇒ h_t = 200 m. Confirms result.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 300m, 400m: Would make the triangle area larger than the parallelogram.
  • 100m: Would make the triangle area half of the parallelogram area, not equal.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Forgetting that the triangle area has the 1/2 factor while the parallelogram does not.
  • Assuming altitudes are equal when areas are equal.


Final Answer:
200m

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